The social history of the Port Phillip District between 1839 and 1854 is explored by following in detail the lives of two early pioneers using genealogical research techniques.

These two men took up occupancy of the large Campaspe Plains Station in central Victoria. One was a rich, but eccentric land agent, Daniel Jennings; the other, a surgeon from Gloucestershire, Dr George Playne. Jennings remained a squatter and land investor until 1851, when he returned to England. Playne moved to Melbourne to practice medicine in 1844. He played important roles in efforts to improve tenure for squatters, to form a new colony separate from NSW, to establish a medical association and a hospital. He was a magistrate from 1843 until 1854. He returned to England in 1854. Their lives in England and Australia from birth to death and that of their families have been explored in depth.

This book explores the different roles that these two men had in the development of Victoria, and records their achievements, which, hitherto, have not been recognised. They epitomize many early settlers who made such contributions, but who have been barely recognised by historians. These were men who arose out of The Enlightenment. It is hoped that this small volume will go some way towards recording their contributions as Port Phillip pioneers during the critical period of 1839 to 1854.

432 pages, 16 chapters, 12 appendices, 85 illustrations with 10 in colour, extensive end notes and referencing, glossary and bibliography, fully indexed, paperback, A5

AUTHOR INFORMATION: Martin Playne is a retired research scientist who has written many scientific works, and has extensive editorial experience in publishing scientific journals and magazines. He has much experience in genealogical research. This background is being put to good use in writing this new book on Australian social history.