Baron John Forrest Forrest

author

Baron John Forrest Forrest

1847–1918

An explorer-statesman who helped shape Western Australia in its early years, he crossed vast stretches of the continent before moving into public life. Later, he became the colony’s first premier and an important figure in Australia’s new federal government.

1 Audiobook

Explorations in Australia 1.-Explorations in search of Dr. Leichardt and party. 2.-From Perth to Adelaide, around the great Australian bight. 3.-From Champion Bay, across the desert to the telegraph and to Adelaide. With an appendix on the condition of Western Australia.

Explorations in Australia 1.-Explorations in search of Dr. Leichardt and party. 2.-From Perth to Adelaide, around the great Australian bight. 3.-From Champion Bay, across the desert to the telegraph and to Adelaide. With an appendix on the condition of Western Australia.

by Baron John Forrest Forrest

About the author

Born near Bunbury, Western Australia, in 1847, John Forrest trained as a surveyor and made his name through major expeditions into Australia’s interior. He led journeys in search of Ludwig Leichhardt, crossed from Perth to Adelaide, and later traveled east to west across the continent, earning a reputation for endurance, careful planning, and practical leadership.

Forrest then moved from exploration into politics. He became the first premier of Western Australia in 1890 and remained in the role until 1901, during a period of rapid development. He supported public works and stronger infrastructure, and he also played a part in bringing Western Australia into the Australian federation.

After federation, he served for many years in the national parliament and held senior ministerial posts, especially in finance and defence-related administration. Near the end of his life he was raised to the peerage as Baron Forrest of Bunbury, becoming the first Australian-born peer; he died in 1918 while traveling to Britain.