Model replica of the ship L’ASTROLABE

Replica of the ship L’ASTROLABE.

In 1785 the French government sent an expedition to the Pacific, with King Louis XVI himself taking a hand in drafting the itinerary. With his two ships, LA BOUSSOLE and L’ASTROLABE, La Pérouse reached Botany Bay on 24 January 1788 but bad weather prevented his entering the bay for two days.

By then Governor Arthur Phillip had sailed to Port Jackson, but John Hunter had remained with the Sirius and the transports, and assisted La Pérouse to anchor. He established a camp on the northern shore, now called after him and maintained good relations with the English during his six-week stay.