Expedition Updates

Telegrams and reports documenting the progress of the explorers as they made their way towards the interior of Australia. These items are held in the Australian Manuscripts Collection, MS 13071.


Telegram

Telegram from Burke to the Exploration Committee

Sandhurst Augt 28th 1860

Telegram for: Dr MacAdam, Secy Exploration Committee, Royal Society

The exploration expedition encamped here last night and proceeds this morning en route to Swan Hill via Kennedy's Public House on the Campaspe and Glass' Station - all well. Letters and parcels to be forwarded to Swan Hill. None have yet been received - Letter of instructions and cheque book required immediately.

R. O'Hara Burke 

Handwritten report

Burke's despatch to the Exploration Committee: Cooper's Creek

13 December 1860
Read the transcript>

Telegram

Brahe's telegram sending first news of the expedition disaster

Sandhurst Nov 2 1861

Telegram for: the Hon the Post Master General

Bearer of despatches from Howitt - Burke crossed continent - Returned to Cooper's Creek with Wills and King and two camels. Attempted to get into South Australia. Camels knocked up. Compelled to fall back upon the Creek. Burke and Wills died on or about twenty eighth June. King found in a tribe of natives in good health. Left Howitt on his way to Menindie.

William Brahe

This page was found at: http://victoria.slv.vic.gov.auburkeandwills/archives/updates/updates.html

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