First Fleet Lands at Sydney Cove

Year 4 History Exploring Australia's Beginning January 26, 1788

What Was the First Fleet?

11 ships from England Over 1,400 people on board Convicts, marines, and officers 8 months journey across the ocean

Think About It

What do you think the people on the ships felt when they first saw Sydney Cove? What might they have been excited about? What might they have been worried about?

The Journey to Sydney Cove

Arrival at Sydney Cove - January 26, 1788

Captain Arthur Phillip chose Sydney Cove Better harbor than Botany Bay Fresh water stream nearby Protected from strong winds

First Impressions Activity

Look at this image of Sydney Cove in 1788 Write down 3 things you notice Share with a partner What challenges might the settlers face here?

Challenges the Settlers Faced

{"left":"No houses or shelter\nUnfamiliar plants and animals\nHot, humid summer weather\nHard, rocky ground","right":"Limited tools and supplies\nNo shops or farms\nDangerous wildlife\nGetting fresh water"}

Building the First Settlement

Cut down trees for timber Built temporary huts and tents Cleared land for gardens Set up a hospital tent Created a freshwater well

Captain Phillip's Words

"The finest harbour in the world, in which a thousand sail of the line may ride in the most perfect security." - Captain Arthur Phillip describing Sydney Cove

What We've Learned Today

The First Fleet arrived at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788 Captain Phillip chose Sydney Cove for its good harbor and fresh water Settlers faced many challenges in the unfamiliar land They worked together to build the first European settlement in Australia