Australia's First Newspaper
George Street, Eastern Side, Near Alfred Street, Curcular Quay
The First Jssue Of "The Gazette" Was Piblished On March 5th 1803.
Captain David Collins Wrote "In November, 1795, A Small Printing Press Which Had Been Brought Into The Settlement By Mr Phillip (Governor Phillip) .. Was Found Very Useful
The "Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser" holds the distinction of being Australia's first newspaper. Its establishment and subsequent history provide a glimpse into the early colonial period of New South Wales. Here's an overview of the history of the Sydney Gazette:
Establishment and First Issue:
- The "Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser" was first published on March 5, 1803.
- It was established by George Howe, who arrived in Australia as a convict and became the colony's first printer.
Purpose and Content:
- The newspaper served as a vital communication tool in the early colony, providing news, information, and announcements to the residents of New South Wales.
- The content of the Sydney Gazette included local and international news, official government announcements, shipping information, advertisements, and commentary.
Role in the Colony:
- In addition to disseminating news, the Sydney Gazette also played a role in shaping public opinion and conveying government policies and decrees.
- It was seen as a vehicle for disseminating information that would aid in the administration of the colony.
Government Influence:
- Given the newspaper's role and the early colonial context, it had close ties to the colonial administration.
- George Howe was officially appointed as the government printer, and the newspaper received financial support from the colonial government.
Expansion and Change:
- Over time, the Sydney Gazette expanded its coverage to include various topics, such as cultural events, literature, and societal issues.
- It also covered the challenges and developments of the early colony, including issues related to transportation, convicts, and exploration.
Competing Newspapers:
- While the Sydney Gazette held the distinction of being the first newspaper in Australia, it faced competition as other newspapers were established in the colony.
- The early colonial period saw the emergence of several other newspapers, each with its own editorial stance and readership.
Legacy and Influence:
- The Sydney Gazette holds immense historical significance as a primary source of information about the early colonial period of Australia.
- Its publications provide insights into the social, political, economic, and cultural landscape of the time.
Cessation:
- The Sydney Gazette continued to be published under various names and with different ownerships for many years.
- The newspaper ceased publication in 1842, marking the end of an era in Australian journalism.
The Sydney Gazette's role as Australia's first newspaper and its coverage of the early colonial period make it an invaluable resource for historians and researchers interested in understanding the origins of Australian media, society, and government.
