About Volume 1

Volume 1 studies the pre-colinisation history of the Southern Pacific Oceanic area.  It includes the exploration by the Dutch and Portuguese as well as the discoveries of Cook and the arrival of the First Fleet.

The colony of New South Wales, its growth to Statehood and the development of a new Constitution are well covered.

The discoveries and growth in the areas of agriculture, commerce, transport, communications, mining, science and the flora and fauna of the regions are discussed.  As well as social and political growth, art and literature and never let us forget our passion for sport which has its roots well shown in this information.

The impact of settlement of the native peoples is seriously studied.  Not only the aborigines of Australia but also the impact of trade and settlement on the native peoples of many other Oceanic islands.

Volume 2 is dedicated to all the Australian States and Territories other than New South Wales.  There is comprehensive information on the geography and history of Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

The history and geography of New Zealand is equally well covered.  The images that were created show the enormous talents of the engravers who capture the beauty and enormity of the land.