Happy Friday Traces readers! We've uncovered another copy of "The Convict Valley" written by Mark Dunn and we'd love to share it with you! Check out our question, it may allow you to be featured in the upcoming edition of Traces!
In 1790, five convicts escaped Sydney by boat and were swept ashore near present-day Newcastle. They were taken in by the Worimi people, given Aboriginal names and started families. Thus began a long and at times dramatic series of encounters between Aboriginal people and convicts in the second penal settlement in Australia.
The fertile valley of the Hunter River was the first area outside the Sydney basin explored by the British, and it became one of the largest penal settlements.
Today manicured lawns and prosperous vineyards hide the struggle, violence and toil of the thousands of convicts who laid its foundations. The Convict Valley uncovers this rich colonial past, as well as the story of the original Aboriginal landholders. While there were friendships and alliances in the early years, in the later scramble for land in the 1820s - as the Valley was opened to free settlers - tensions rose and bloodshed ensued.
To enter: Like this post, tag a friend and in the comments section: Write a 50 - 70 word 'Letters to the Editor'! These will go in the running to be featured in the upcoming edition of Traces!
Entries close Monday 30 November 5pm AEST. Australian entrants only. Winner will be announced via Facebook on Wednesday 2 December.
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