Here are some facts for this day. You are welcome to log your interesting, quirky or fun fact/s with your log.
On This Day - January 20th
Australian History
1803 - Superintendent of public works, Charles Grimes, arrives at the Mornington Peninsula, now a popular holiday spot, where he pronounces it unsuitable for settlement.
In 1802, Governor King, governor of the colony of New South Wales, sent acting lieutenant John Murray to survey Port Phillip Bay. Murray explored some parts of the Bay and was responsible for the discovery of Corio Bay, where Geelong now stands. However, when it was discovered that Murray had not served the full six years required by regulation when he passed his examination for lieutenant, he was unceremoniously dumped in disgrace. King then appointed Charles Grimes, the superintendent of public works at the Hawkesbury River, to complete the survey.
Grimes entered Port Phillip Bay and arrived at Mornington Peninsula on 20 January 1803. He was turned off the thought of settlement in the area due to the sandy soil and lack of water, and his report to Governor King reflected his adverse reaction. It is ironic that the Mornington Peninsula is now one of Victoria's premier sites for both tourists and residents.