Geelong and Portland Bay Immigration Society.

The Geelong Immigration Society was formed in December 1844 with James Harrison, editor of the Geelong advertiser, as Secretary. It was renamed the Geelong and Portland Bay Immigration Society in April 1845. James C. Wallace, a Geelong solicitor, was Secretary and Treasurer and George Russell of Golf Hill was President. The Society's aim was to import agricultural labourers and shepherds from Van Dieman's Land using members' subscriptions to pay for the cost of chartering boats. The first boatload arrived at Port Phillip on the Lillias in January 1845. The Society continued until August 1847, transporting nearly 2000 workers in less than three years.

From the description of Records, 1844-1847. 1844-1847. (Libraries Australia). WorldCat record id: 298651037