Martin Islet (New South Wales) facts for kids
Martin Islet is a small island located off the coast of Red Point, Port Kembla in New South Wales, Australia. It's one of a group of islands known as the Five Islands Nature Reserve.
Why is it Called Martin Islet?
This island, along with the other Five Islands, was named "Martins Isles" by two famous explorers, Matthew Flinders and George Bass. They named it after Bass's navy servant, William Martin. This happened on March 25, 1796, when their small boat, the Tom Thumb, was swept off course and they anchored near the island.
Who Was William Martin?
William Martin was born on December 31, 1770. Not much is known about his early life. In 1794, he started working for the navy as a personal servant, called a "loblolly boy," for George Bass. Bass was a surgeon on a ship called HMS Reliance.
William Martin's Journey to Australia
William Martin sailed with George Bass on HMS Reliance from England to Port Jackson, New South Wales. They arrived in Australia on September 8, 1795. Martin was still with Bass in 1799. After this time, records of William Martin become scarce. It's not known if he returned to England with George Bass later on.
