Explorer AE Filby: His Own Account of His Extraordinary Australasian Adventures in 1921

In 1921, explorer AE Filby embarked on an extraordinary journey through Australasia, a vast and diverse region encompassing Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the islands of Melanesia, Polynesia, and Micronesia. His expedition, which lasted for over a year, was a remarkable undertaking that took him to remote and uncharted territories, where he encountered indigenous cultures, studied natural history, and witnessed the beauty and wonder of the region's landscapes.

Horizon Fever II: Explorer AE Filby's own account of his extraordinary Australasian Adventures, 1921-1931

by A E Filby

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2129 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	186 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Filby's account of his adventures, published in 1923, is a captivating narrative that provides a glimpse into the world of early 20th-century exploration. His writing is vivid and engaging, and his observations are insightful and thought-provoking. Through his words, we can experience the challenges and triumphs of his journey, and gain a deeper understanding of the people and places he encountered.

Arrival in Australia

Filby began his expedition in Australia, landing in Sydney in January 1921. He was immediately struck by the country's vastness and diversity, and he was eager to explore its many wonders. He traveled extensively throughout the continent, visiting the Blue Mountains, the Great Barrier Reef, and the outback. He also spent time with Aboriginal communities, learning about their culture and traditions.

New Zealand and the South Pacific

From Australia, Filby sailed to New Zealand, where he spent several months exploring the North and South Islands. He was particularly impressed by the country's natural beauty, and he praised its "magnificent scenery, its snow-capped mountains, its deep blue lakes, its rushing rivers, and its primeval forests." He also visited the Chatham Islands, a remote archipelago located east of New Zealand, where he encountered a unique culture and landscape.

From New Zealand, Filby continued his journey into the South Pacific, visiting the islands of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. He was fascinated by the region's diverse cultures and traditions, and he spent time studying the local languages and customs. He also visited the active volcano of Savai'i in Samoa, and he described the experience as "one of the most thrilling and awe-inspiring sights I have ever witnessed."

Papua New Guinea and Melanesia

After exploring the South Pacific, Filby sailed to Papua New Guinea, a vast and rugged land that was largely unknown to Europeans at the time. He spent several months traveling through the country's interior, visiting remote villages and studying the local cultures. He was particularly interested in the Sepik River, a major waterway that flows through the heart of Papua New Guinea. He described the river as "a vast and turbulent stream, its waters swirling and foaming as they rushed through the jungle."

From Papua New Guinea, Filby continued his journey into Melanesia, visiting the islands of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia. He was impressed by the region's natural beauty, and he praised its "lush forests, its white sandy beaches, and its azure waters." He also visited the active volcano of Mount Yasur on Tanna Island, and he described the experience as "a truly unforgettable sight."

Micronesia and the Return Home

The final leg of Filby's journey took him to Micronesia, a vast archipelago located north of Melanesia. He visited the islands of Palau, Yap, and Truk, and he was fascinated by the region's unique cultures and traditions. He also visited the ancient ruins of Nan Madol on Pohnpei Island, and he described the site as "a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Micronesians."

After spending over a year exploring Australasia, Filby returned to England in 1922. His expedition had been a remarkable success, and he had gained a wealth of knowledge about the region's geography, cultures, and history. His account of his adventures remains a valuable source of information for historians and explorers alike, and it is a testament to his courage, determination, and passion for discovery.

Explorer AE Filby's Australasian adventures were a pioneering undertaking that helped to expand our knowledge of the region and its people. His account of his journey is a captivating narrative that provides a glimpse into a world that has now largely disappeared. Through his words, we can experience the challenges and triumphs of his expedition, and we can gain a deeper understanding of the beauty and wonder of Australasia.

Horizon Fever II: Explorer AE Filby's own account of his extraordinary Australasian Adventures, 1921-1931

by A E Filby

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2129 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	186 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE