How did Mary Reibey contribute to her colony and future lifestyle of Australia?

Answer 1

Mary Reibey was transported to the colony of New South Wales for horse-stealing. Horses were a very valuable commodity, so the crime was considered serious, even though it is likely that she just borrowed the horse to run away. She was thirteen when she was convicted, and her parents had both died, so her circumstances were poor and uncertain.

Answer 2

Mary Reibey was a convict who found success, and became a leading figure in colonial Australia. Despite being sent to Australia as a 13 year old convict, Mary Reibey became a successful businesswoman. She partnered her husband in his trading business, showing herself to have an astute and shrewd business mind. Later, when he and his business partner died, she took over the business completely, despite having seven children to look after.

After a brief sojourn in England, she returned to Sydney, investing extensively in property, and was responsible for the construction of numerous buildings in Macquarie Place, near the King's Wharf, and in the centre of George Street.

Reibey was also keenly involved in charity work, particularly with regard to church and education. In 1825 she was given te appointment as one of the governors of the Free Grammar School in Sydney. In modern times, her work is commemorated through her portrait being on the Australian $20 note.