Captain Sutherland describes the variety of fish to be found in Kangaroo Island waters, and the plentiful kangaroos which meant his men were never short of food. He had also planted cabbage seed and these matured during his stay and were a useful addition to the diet. Sutherland further describes the size of the harbour at Point Marsden which he estimated as capable of holding 20 ships inshore and the same number further out. He begins his description of the island's soil and its apparent fertility.

Captain George Sutherland was employed in 1819 by Mary Reiby, a Sydney trader, to collect sealskins and salt from Kangaroo Island. He stayed on the island for eight months from January to August and 12 years later provided a detailed report about the island.

Sutherland was an experienced captain, having made the voyage from England to Sydney a number of times. His report was made to the Committee formed in London for the purpose of establishing a colony in South Australia. This detailed report subsequently appeared in several publications which promoted settlement in South Australia. As well Sutherland was cross-examined by the Committee in 1831. South Australian Company officials subsequently considered that his reporting was inaccurate but it should be noted that the Australian climate was still poorly understood. Sutherland may have been on the island in an unusually good year.

South Australian Association

Kangaroo Island

State Library of South Australia: Mortlock Wing. Taking it to the edge August 2004-