Stroud 1826

Stroud 1826

What happens when an Englishman arrives in a new colony with a million acres to choose from - and finds himself caught between ambition, politics and the people who have called that land home for generations?

Stroud 1826 tells the compelling story of Robert Dawson, the first Chief Agent of the Australian Agricultural Company, and the man tasked with selecting one million acres of land for the production of wool and wheat.

Dawson’s journey brought him to the Karuah River valley and Carrington, with far-reaching consequences for the Worimi people whose land was dispossessed. While he developed a relationship with the Worimi community and achieved much during his time with the Company, conflict with the powerful local committee ultimately led to his unfair dismissal.

Through an engaging multimedia production, Stroud 1826 explores the man behind the history, the challenges he faced, his relationships and the lasting consequences of the decisions made during this pivotal period.

Written and directed by Anne Frost OAM, with historical input from Dr Jonathan King OAM, Geoff Dawson and Dr John Heath, the production brings together diverse perspectives, including those of Robert Dawson’s descendants and a Birrpai Traditional Owner and Senior Knowledge Holder.

Stroud 1826 is the second chapter in a two-part project, following Avarice, which explored the creation of the Australian Agricultural Company.

Discover the stories, the struggles and the people behind Stroud’s beginnings.