Page "Arthur Phillip" Paragraph 16

Phillip had a very difficult time assembling the fleet which was to make the eight-month sea voyage to Australia.

Everything a new colony might need had to be taken, since Phillip had no real idea of what he might find when he got there.

There were few funds available for equipping the expedition.

His suggestion that people with experience in farming, building and crafts be included was rejected.

Most of the 772 convicts ( of whom 732 survived the voyage ) were petty thieves from the London slums.

Phillip was accompanied by a contingent of marines and a handful of other officers who were to administer the colony.