In January and February 2007 I spent nearly two months in Australia and on Norfolk Island, and had a terrific time in both places. I saw the Endeavour Replica at Port Arthur, the former penal colony, just a couple of days before it sailed up to Hobart for its big event there.

However, while walking about downtown Hobart, I chanced upon the very fine City Hall building and was enticed by a plaque on its front wall.

Upon a closer examination, I discovered the dedication to Cook's "discovery of Australia" in 1770.

Can anyone tell me more about the history of this plaque?

Gary L. Holloway

Originally published in Cook's Log, page 43, volume 30, number 3 (2007).