EDUCATE, NOT ERADICATE
"THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO DESTROY PEOPLE IS TO DENY
AND OBLITERATE THEIR OWN UNDERSTANDING OF HISTORY"
- GEORGE ORWELL
The names and statues of these extraordinary individuals—our pioneers, leaders, and builders—are increasingly under attack. From Captain Cook to John Batman, and even Queen Victoria, their names are being erased from landmarks, streets, and institutions across Australia. This is not just a rewriting of history—it’s an assault on our Anglo-Celtic foundations.
Achievement:
Eliza Fraser survived a shipwreck in 1836 and months of enslavement and torment by local Aboriginal groups on what was until recently, Fraser Island. After witnessing the death of her husband and enduring extreme hardship, she was dramatically rescued by Lieutenant Charles Otter and John Graham. Her story captivated the public and left a lasting impression on Australian history.
Why She Matters:
Eliza Fraser’s ordeal symbolises the resilience and endurance of Anglo-Celtic settlers in the face of immense challenges.
Eliza Fraser
Shipwreck Survivor and
Symbol of Resilience
Achievement:
John Batman founded Melbourne in 1835, negotiating land agreements with local Aboriginal tribes to claim key areas around Port Phillip, including the future city site. His treaties marked the beginning of Melbourne’s settlement as a free colony.
Why He Matters:
Batman’s vision and leadership laid the foundations for Melbourne, embodying the ambition of Anglo-Celtic pioneers. His efforts to establish peaceful agreements and foster growth were instrumental in shaping one of Australia’s most important cities.
John Batman
Pioneer & Founder of Melbourne
Achievement:
Arthur Phillip led the First Fleet in 1788, establishing the first British colony in Australia at Port Jackson. As Governor, he implemented policies to ensure the colony’s survival, including innovative farming techniques, fair governance, and exploration of the hinterland.
Why He Matters:
Phillip laid the foundation for modern Australia, introducing British law and culture while fostering self-sufficiency. His leadership, fairness, and humane treatment of Indigenous peoples were pivotal to the colony’s success and the British Empire’s expansion.
Arthur Phillip
Founding Governor of NSW
Achievement:
Queen Victoria reigned during Australia’s formative years, overseeing its transition from a collection of colonies to a unified nation within the British Empire. Her era saw the establishment of self-governing colonies, economic growth, and the enduring influence of British law, governance, and culture in Australia.
Why She Matters:
As a symbol of the British Empire, Queen Victoria embodied the ideals of unity, stability, and progress that shaped Australia’s development. Her name and legacy are honoured in numerous Australian place names, reflecting the deep connection between the nation and its Anglo-Celtic heritage.
Queen Victoria
Monarch and Symbol of Empire
Achievement:
Benjamin Boyd was a prominent entrepreneur in 1840s Australia, establishing Boyd Town as a hub for shipping, wool processing, and whaling. He became one of the largest landholders, with over 2.5 million acres and 160,000 sheep, while also advocating for pastoralists in the Legislative Council.
Why He Matters:
Boyd’s ambition and innovation embodied the entrepreneurial spirit of Anglo-Celtic pioneers, driving Australia’s early economic development in pastoralism and maritime trade, despite his eventual financial setbacks.
Benjamin Boyd
Entrepreneur & Visionary
Achievement:
James Cook led the first recorded European voyage to chart the east coast of Australia in 1770 aboard the Endeavour, claiming the land as New South Wales for Britain. His precise mapping, scientific observations, and exploration established vital knowledge about the Pacific region and laid the groundwork for British colonisation.
Why He Matters:
Cook’s discoveries marked the beginning of Australia’s transformation into a part of the British Empire. His expeditions symbolized the spirit of exploration and scientific advancement that defined the Anglo-Celtic contribution to global progress, cementing his legacy as one of history’s greatest navigators.
Captain James Cook
Navigator & Pioneer of Discovery
KNOW THE FACTS
SINCE THE GOVERNMENT ISN'T KEEPING TRACK, WE'VE DONE IT OURSELVES
Our place names and monuments are under attack. These are more than just markers—they reflect the legacy of Australia's Anglo-Celtic foundations and the symbols of who we are as Australians. Erasing them, severs the crimson thread of kinship and disrespects the pioneers who built this country. Together, we can protect our shared heritage for future generations.
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