Matthew Flinders is important because he made a significant contribution to the exploration and mapping of the continent. He explored and charted the coast north and south of Sydney. Between December 1801 and June 1803, Flinders circumnavigated and charted the entire coastline of Australia, filling in the gaps of what was known about the continent. He was also the one who suggested the name Australia for the continent.
Some of his exploration and discoveries were as follows:
Flinders, together with Bass, proved that Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) was an island, and not connected to the mainland.
Flinders explored Moreton Bay in what is Queensland's southeast, naming several points of interest. He landed at, and named, Red Cliff Point, now Redcliffe, just north of Brisbane, as well as Coochiemudlo Island.
While circumnavigating Australia, Flinders spent three weeks exploring and charting King George's Sound, now Albany, in Western Australia.
He discovered and named Kangaroo Island off the South Australian coast.
He spent several days exploring and mapping Port Phillip Bay, where the city of Melbourne now stands.
The first Australian explorer, Matthew Flinders had determination and motivation as two of his most important qualities. Flinders is best known for his brave and impressing explorations.
Matthew Flinders's full name was simply Matthew Flinders.
Matthew Flinders' mum was Susanah.
Matthew Flinders was born in England.
Matthew Flinders was a sea explorer.
Matthew Flinders was born in Donington, Lincolnshire, England.
Matthew Flinders travelled by ship. He was a sea explorer.
Matthew Flinders' Cat was created in 2002.
Matthew Flinders - academic - was born in 1972.
Matthew Flinders' parents were Matthew (senior), who was a surgeon, and Sussanah (nee Ward).
Matthew Flinders did not create Flinders Hospital.
Matthew Flinders was born in England.