An Australian Story

2024 Revision

The story of an Australian Family beginning in 1808 and up to 1998.

"William Charker, for your part in the burglary of the dwelling of Thomas Evans at St. Mary Lambeth and stealing goods to the value of £33.60 you are hereby sentenced, along with your accomplice, to 7 years transportation in the colony of New South Wales."

And so, starts the saga of an Australian Family. Although this is the story of my ancestors it is also the story of Australia.

William Chalker arrived in Australia aboard the convict ship Perseus on 13th of July 1808 and became the first member of the family to become "Australian"

We follow the story of William and his descendants' right through to 1998. Their lives, their hardships, and the joys. A story like this would be incomplete without mentioning the events taking place around them. Wars, elections, disasters and celebrations, they are all there. This is not a history textbook, but the reader will gain an understanding of what makes Australia and Australians through the eyes of one family.

I am very proud of this book as I am proud of my journey in writing it. I am also willing to show that I was able to revise the book several times following constructive criticism from readers and I am sure that you will love the current edition.