The somewhat awkward figure of the Rev. L.E. Threlkeld occupied the attentions of Your Amateur Researcher for several years, in connection with the Aboriginal language to the northward of Sydney, Awabakal , also known as the Hunter River-Lake Macquarie language. Lancelot Edward Threlkeld was born in south London in 1788, and after a chequered start was ordained as a Congregational minister at the age of 27, beginning a career as a missionary. His first posting was to the isla

THE ANNUAL REPORT OF THE MISSION TO THE ABORIGINES, LAKE MACQUARIE, FOR MDCCCXXXVIII Ebenezer, Lake Macquarie, New South Wales, December 31, 1838 TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, E. DEAS THOMSON, Esquire, &c. &c. &c. SIR, During the present year I have attempted to carry into effect the plan contemplated in my last year’s Report, of endeavouring to meet the Aborigines in the neighbouring districts; but the numbers are now so very much reduced, that it is almost imposs