Alexander Macleay: From Scotland to Sydney by Derelie Cherry

Sydney's colonial society loved to ridicule the colourful and controversial figure of Alexander Macleay (1767-1848). Likewise, historians over the years have either criticised or completely ignored him. But when it came to serious matters, such as who would be Australia's first Speaker of the Legislative Council in 1843, public opinion changed. For there simply was no other person in the colony whose experience and skills matched those of Alexander Macleay.

This is the story of a man who introduced wisteria to Australia, as well as the stunning jacaranda whose mauve flowers adorn Sydney each October. He later traveled to London and the Linnean Society, and in his latter years in Sydney, took up the position of Colonial Secretary in 1826. He never returned to his homeland.

Dismissed from public office by Governor Bourke in 1836 amidst bitter intrigue, his life was filled with adventure, romance, a passion for natural history, and financial problems which ultimately resulted in personal calamity. Yet the Macleay Museum at the University of Sydney and Macleay Street in Kings Cross remind us of the significance of Alexander Macleay, whilst the Royal Botanic Gardens, the NSW State Library, the Australian Museum, and the Australia Club are just a few of Australia's early institutions that benefited from his active involvement. His magnificent house, Elizabeth Bay House, is still the finest colonial mansion in NSW.