Tank Stream (1) - Water as life blood

The Supply, a First Fleet class ferry, entering Sydney Cove

The First Fleet settled into Sydney Cove at the end of January 1788. The Second Fleet did not arrive until June 1790. This island continent was a long way from the rest of the world, the Second Fleet taking about 150 days to make the journey – 5 months. The Third Fleet arrived variously between July and October 1791. The Third Fleet brought with it provisions.
The colony found survival during those initial years to be tortuous. The landscape was foreign. The seasons were reversed. The weather came from different directions. The populace lacked farming skills.

The furthest west wharf at Circular Quay. The Tank Street enters Sydney Cove at this point

Gardens were established on Garden Island on January 27, 1788. One gardener carved FM 1788. Checking through the First Fleet manifest it was concluded that FM was Frederick Meredith, steward to Captain John Marshall of HMS Sirius. Governor Phillip’s personal servant, Henry Edward Dodd, established a small grain farm at the site of the future Royal Botanic Gardens. The first grain was harvested in July 1788. However, most of the crop failed due to being planted out of season, being eaten by rats and poor soil quality.

Being connected by sea was crucial.

Also important was fresh water for drinking and general cleanliness. One of the attractions of Sydney Cove for Phillip was the small stream that entered the cove at its western headwater. As the water levels rapidly depleted, Phillip had two tanks dug into the bedrock of the stream near the site of the current Bridge Street.

A flowing Tank Stream was crucial.


I am down the South Coast, swimming and walking at Merry Beach, then to the Four Winds Music Festival at Bermagui. I return late Monday.