TW Cameron, Expedition party outside Victoria Barracks, Melbourne, 1898–1906, MS 13867/33

In 1860 the Royal Society of Victoria planned the Victorian Exploring Expedition as a scientific enterprise. Following the appointment of Robert O'Hara Burke as leader, the Argus published a call for men to join the exploration team under Burke's leadership. A strong response was received from bushmen, stockmen, amateur naturalists, scientists, surveyors, artists and doctors. State Library Victoria holds 593 of the original applications submitted to the exploration committee. Eighteen men were chosen to join the expedition, which set off from Royal Park on 20 August 1860, watched by around 15,000 spectators.