3-017-119 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Inauguration of the Burke and Wills Monument at Melbourne, Australia, 1865. 'The monument which has been erected...to the memory of Robert O'Hara Burke and William John Wills, who, in June, 1861, died in the bush from the sufferings and privations which they endured upon their return route in exploring the continent of Australia from south to north, was inaugurated on April 21...The site of the monument is in Collins-street...at its intersection with Russell-street...the day chosen for the inauguration of the monument was the fourth anniversary of the return of Burke and Wills from the Gulf of Carpentaria to Cooper's Creek, when they found that the depot party left by Burke at Cooper's Creek had gone away only a few hours before their arrival. The ceremony of unveiling the statue [designed by Charles Summers] was performed by his Excellency the Governor, Sir Charles Darling...that the event excited great interest was proved by the gathering together of thousands of citizens of all classes to witness the ceremony. John King, the sole survivor of the small and noble band of explorers who succeeded in crossing to the Gulf of Carpentaria, was present on the occasion, which to him must have been one of mingled pleasure and sorrow'. From "Illustrated London News", 1865.