The Shipwreck: The True Story of the Dunbar, the Disaster That Broke the Colony's Heart and Forged a Nation's Spirit

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The narrative centers on the tragic wreck of the Dunbar, a celebrated 19th-century sailing ship, which met its fate near Sydney's South Head in 1857. Caught in a fierce storm, the ship was destroyed, resulting in the loss of 122 lives, with only one survivor, James Johnson. This maritime disaster not only marked one of Australia's worst tragedies but also prompted significant changes in navigation and safety protocols. Through rich contemporary accounts, the book vividly recounts the personal stories of those aboard and the profound impact on the young colony of Sydney.