E01 –Bound for South Australia – The Grand Plan

01/04/25 • 33 min

Discover the surprising irony behind South Australia's convict-free reputation as we unravel the story of how the colony was conceptualized by a convict whose radical ideas shaped its foundation. Explore the grim reality of early 1800s England, where overcrowding, poverty, and the quest for religious freedom drove many to seek new beginnings in the British colonies. Learn why South Australia emerged as a unique opportunity, offering hope and independence free from the constraints of convict labour and land grants, and how this promise set the stage for a distinctive settlement.

Meet Edward Gibbon Wakefield, a controversial figure with a criminal past, whose innovative ideas on systematic colonization left an indelible mark on South Australia's founding principles. We delve into the complex network of organizations, including the South Australian Association and the South Australian Colonisation Commission, that brought Wakefield's vision to life. Despite his notorious history, Wakefield's influence persisted even as he distanced himself from the project, with key followers like Robert Gouger advancing his ideals. Their stories paint a vivid picture of ambition and controversy that defined the early days of the colony's formation.

Witness the early struggles and triumphs of establishing South Australia, a colony striving for self-sufficiency amidst bureaucratic challenges and conflicting leadership. Hear about the dedication of figures like Governor Hindmarsh, Sir James Hertel Fisher, and Robert Gouger, who navigated the intricacies of the colonization process. Our narrative concludes with a teaser of the trials faced by founding individuals before leaving England, including the introduction of my ancestor, William Henry Neale. Join us on this fascinating historical journey as we continue to uncover the untold stories that shaped South Australia's origins.

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Have you ever wondered how your family's past could shape your identity today and our country’s future?
Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the annals of Australian history, unearthing long-hidden secrets and stories that have remained shrouded in mystery for generations. As amateurs in genealogy and history, we, Peter and Greg, have taken on the challenging task of tracing our family roots using tools like Ancestry.com and Trove to uncover our ancestors' tales. From their arrival in Australia between 1820s and 1870s to their roles in pivotal historical moments like the Black War in Tasmania and the Gold Rushes, their stories are woven into the fabric of the nation’s development.
This podcast is more than just a history lesson; it's a vibrant tapestry of personal anecdotes and historical narratives. We delve into the triumphs and challenges faced by our forebears, including the stories of resilience during the Great Depression and the groundbreaking achievements such as of Australia’s first registered female architect. Listen as we reflect on how these stories continue to shape our identities and communities and join us as we bring the past to life with humour, insight, and a few unexpected twists.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply love a good yarn, there’s something here for everyone. Tune in and discover the legacy of our ancestors in a way you’ve never heard before.

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E02 –Bound for South Australia – Preparations for Departure

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What if you found out that the city of Adelaide was meticulously designed by a visionary figure amidst a backdrop of poor strategic planning and unexpected challenges? Our latest episode of Today's Stories from Our Past reveals the intricate and ambitious blueprint laid out by the South Australian Company. We delve into the crucial roles of key officials and surveyors, particularly Colonel William Light, whose iconic layout of the city was well ahead of its time. Learn how Adelaide earned its name in honour of Queen Adelaide, as chosen by King William IV.
Join us on a rollercoaster journey through the life of William Henry Neale, a man who faced relentless financial struggles yet never gave up. From his beginnings as a corn chandler in Cheam, Surrey, to the collapse of his stagecoach business in Stratford, William's resilience is put to the test again and again. Despite facing debts of over £6,000 and legal battles that culminated in a significant court appearance in 1835, William's story is a testament to human endurance and the complexities of the Insolvent Debtors Act.
Our exploration doesn't stop there. We uncover the audacious escape and next reinvention of William Henry Neale, who left his debts behind in England to find a fresh start as an assistant surveyor in South Australia. Navigate the early challenges faced by Colonel William Light’s survey team, including wage disputes and labour strikes, and get to know competent surveyors like Boyle Travis Finnis and George Ormsby. We also touch on logistical hurdles experienced by Colonel Light, providing a vivid picture of the early, and often tumultuous, days of setting up the colony of South Australia.