When Matthew Flinders set out in 1801 to carry out a 'complete examination and survey' of the coast of New Holland, little did he know that he would be away for over ten years. Although he did not coin the term 'Australia' he keenly advocated its use, rather than the clumsy 'Terra Australis' and will always be associated with its adoption. As well as his meticulous surveys and maps, he made many observations on ship-board life, flora and fauna, and the appearance and customs of the native peoples he encountered. Volume 1 starts with a thorough review of previous exploratory voyages to the great Southern continent, and then proceeds to describe the first part of his journey, from Portsmouth to Port Jackson (Sydney).

Matthew Flinders is Professor of Parliamentary Governance and Governance at the University of Sheffield.