How did Ludwig Leichhardt reach Port Essington?

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Ludwig Leichhardt reached Port Essington by leading an overland expedition that he organized himself through public subscription.1

After departing from Sydney in August 1844 with six companions, the party collected four additional members before setting out from the Darling Downs in October 1844. Despite facing significant hardships—including the death of one member at the hands of Aboriginals and the departure of two others—the remaining group successfully completed the journey, arriving at Port Essington in December 1845. Their survival was unexpected, as the party had been presumed dead by the public.1