John Pascoe Fawkner (1792-1869)

John Fawkner moved to Launceston in 1822 with his wife, and became a builder, building the Cornwall Hotel and becoming the Publican. He owned other holdings on Windmill Hill and ran a nursery.

In 1828 he entered the publishing business, with the Launceston Advertiser, a newspaper that catered to many tastes. He was editor for four years and delivered a mix of news, advice, poetry, shipping news and a balanced editorial approach. He was critical of officialdom, hating the brutal punishment given to both soldiers and convicts.

In 1835 he relinquished his interests in Launceston and sailed to Port Phillip Bay, arriving on the 16th of August 1835 and with John Batman, founded the Colony now known as Melbourne. Here he once again established a hotel and a newspaper. The paper was hand written at first, until a printing press was shipped from Tasmania.

He later entered politics, becoming a member of the first legislative council in 1851.

Article written by Phil Stephens of Stephens Creative