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65.06.00d

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Ferdinand von Mueller to Press release, 1865-06 [65.06.00d]. R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora, J.H. Voigt and Monika Wells (eds), Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, <https://vmcp.rbg.vic.gov.au/id//letters/1860-9/1865/65-06-00d-final.odt>, accessed June 13, 2026

1
Letter not found. The text given here is from 'News of the day', Age (Melbourne), 21 June 1865, p. 5 (B65.06.10); it also appeared in the Leader (B65.06.16). It is introduced by 'We have received the following communication from Dr. Mueller relative to the Leichhardt Search Committee:‑'.
A similar press release, in this edition as 65-06-00, was used by the Argus (B65.06.08) and other papers, many of which acknowledged the Argus as their source.
The ladies have so far progressed in their exertions to obtain from the Australian Governments and the colonists the means of sending out their party in search of Dr. Leichhardt, that the expedition is likely to leave the Darling River not later than the end of next month. To Mr M'Intyre the command has been entrusted, and ample latitude has been allowed him for the choice of his officers and men and their requirements. The expedition will be provided with fourteen dromedaries and a good many horses; and thus, when replenishing its rations on the sources of the Thomson River,
2
Western Qld.
will be in the position to hold the field for two years, should the search require it. Dr. Murray, well known as an able officer of Mr Howitt's party,
3
Burke & Wills relief expedition.
joins the ladies' expedition in the capacity of surgeon. The leader has in no way been ennarrowed in making his arrangements, in which he is aided by his uncle, Donald Campbell, Esq., of Glengower.
4
Vic. See Agreement with Duncan McIntyre, 20 July 1865.
A methodical search and a constant interrogation of the nomadic tribes will, it is hoped, secure full success for the primary object of the enterprise, and for this purpose two or three natives will be permanently attached to the party, and temporarily others as occasions may occur. The party will consist of not less than eight individuals throughout, and this number may possibly still be increased should contributions from private sources flow in so largely within the next week as to warrant augmenting the party, and its equipments and animals.