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We acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander custodians of the land and sea throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to Elders both past and present.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples please be aware this website includes images and names of deceased people. 

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Voyages and encounters

James Cook led three major voyages to the Pacific for the Royal Navy: the first voyage, in Endeavour (1768–71); the second voyage, in Resolution with Adventure (1772–75); and the third voyage, in Resolution with Discovery (1776–80), completed without Cook after his death in Hawaii in 1779.

Exploring thousands of miles of territory previously uncharted by Europeans, Cook was known for his seamanship, physical courage, ability to lead men and especially his navigation and cartographic skills.

Cook’s vessels were adapted North Sea coal ships (known as Whitby colliers). They were flat-bottomed, with a long body and a deep hold. This design was ideal for long voyages, but also well suited to shallow waters.

During these voyages, Cook circumnavigated the globe twice. Charting New Zealand and the east coast of Australia, he voyaged further south than any other man had sailed before, crossing into the Antarctic Circle.

Visiting Tahiti, the Pacific islands and Hawaii, he also went far into the cold north and entered the Bering Strait.

The voyagers experienced many encounters with local peoples, observing their customs, dances and rituals. Exchanges of gifts were made, and friendships were formed, although not all encounters were peaceful. The Europeans sometimes shot at or killed the local inhabitants they encountered. They killed several Maori in New Zealand, and Aboriginal people were fired upon and wounded at both Kamay (Botany Bay) and Walmbaal Birri (Endeavour River). 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples please be aware this website includes images and names of deceased people.
Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are oral traditions that have been recorded over time. There may be variations of particular words.
As with all languages, spellings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages have changed over time. Accordingly, some of the historical records included in this website will contain spellings not used today.

 

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