The material on this page is available to AustLit subscribers. If you are a subscriber or are from a subscribing organisation, please log in to gain full access. To explore options for subscribing to this unique teaching, research, and publishing resource for Australian culture and storytelling, please contact us or find out more.
Poem on the wreck of the paddle-steamer Sovereign, which foundered whilst negotiating the South Passage bar at Moreton Bay, on 11 March, 1847. Bound for Sydney, carrying 54 passengers and crew, and laden with a cargo of wool, the vessel suffered from engine failure whilst negotiating the outer breakers, before capsizing and breaking up. Only 10 of those on board survived the tragedy.