Massacre at Calvert River

Date: 1 Oct 1880 – 31 Dec 1880
Place: Calvert River
Event type: massacre
Direct violence: Yes
Roberts (2005, p 53) wrote: 'Another attack at about this time, at the Calvert River, was said to have been punished severely. Dick Moore was a brumby-hunter who made his living from trapping Price Cox's thoroughbred horses and their progeny. Moore and his Aboriginal "boy" were living in a bough and canvas camp on a lagoon near the west bank of the river. They had a clear view on all sides to prevent a surprise attack during the daylight, while cattle dogs guarded at night. One night, not long after Moore settled there, a spear pierced his tent fly. He decided to "get a blow in early that would teach the blacks a lesson", wrote Gordon Buchanan, and: "His Queensland black boy was a good tracker and rifle shot, and for months they followed up and dispersed, so it was said, numbers of natives, and captured and secured���a couple of young gins." Moore is alleged to have shot down "bush blacks" on sight, once killing thirteen while they were crossing a plain.'
Notes:
CorroborationRating: **
LanguageGroup: Garawa, Mara, Yanyuwa
Victims: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander People
VictimsDead: 30

People involved

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Sources

  • Roberts, 2005, p 53.

Event mentions

  • Massacre at Calvert River
    1 Oct 1880 – 31 Dec 1880 — Calvert River — massacre
    Roberts (2005, p 53) wrote: 'Another attack at about this time, at the Calvert River, was said to have been punished severely. Dick Moore was a brumby-hunter who made his living from trapping Price Cox's thoroughbred horses and their progeny. Moore and his Aboriginal "boy" were living in a bough and canvas camp on a lagoon near the west bank of the river. They had a clear view on all sides to prevent a surprise attack during the daylight, while cattle dogs guarded at night. One night, not long after Moore settled there, a spear pierced his tent fly. He decided to "get a blow in early that would teach the blacks a lesson", wrote Gordon Buchanan, and: "His Queensland black boy was a good tracker and rifle shot, and for months they followed up and dispersed, so it was said, numbers of natives, and captured and secured���a couple of young gins." Moore is alleged to have shot down "bush blacks" on sight, once killing thirteen while they were crossing a plain.'
    Source: Roberts, 2005, p 53.