Daintree, Richard (1831–1878), geologist and photographer

Selling Queensland

“…First, he had no knowledge of the fraudulent practices carried out by two colleagues in the Queensland Government Emigration Office, the more senior of whom had worked in that capacity for twelve years. 97 The nature of the misdemeanours was sufficiently secretive that Daintree was unlikely to know about them, which proved the case, and he cannot really be blamed for their occurrence. They were only revealed after Macalister's comprehensive investigation.…”

“…There was also the suggestion that unsuitable passengers were recruited at the last minute to fill up empty berths. 82 Daintree defended himself against this accusation by arguing that he sought to reduce the number of unsatisfactory emigrants by arranging, for instance, that his principal agents in the eastern and Midland counties should accompany people to each ship to identify unsuitable passengers. 83 Daintree did not shy away from reporting difficulties in recruiting emigrants.…”

“…Macalister wanted to pursue a less expansionist immigration policy than Palmer, and one in which costs were reduced and strictly accounted for. 91 He telegrammed Daintree, bluntly stating that he entirely disapproved the 'extension on contract with Taylor Bethell & Co. Complaints against Vessels are such that tenders ought to have been called for.'…”