James Cullen chose a place out of Hobart Town along the Derwent River where many of the families from Norfolk Island were heading: The Hills. Lt Governor Collins wanted the families moved on as quickly as practicable.
Sailing up the Derwent with his wife and daughters and neighbours from Norfolk Island, Cullen allowed himself a moment to be impressed. The boat sliced through the dark water, hills reflecting either side, and the surrounding vegetation was lush and plentiful. The trees, like the ones he remembered from Port Jackson, towered over the river, offering welcome shade.
Catherine stood up in the boat pointing to the shore, ‘Papa, Papa, look at those hens over there.’
Elizabeth pulled her middle daughter back down to her seat, aware of the eyes watching.
‘Sit down, child. You ca
