Blankets are sent annually from Sydney to the Hunter Valley

From 1827, Blankets are sent annually from Sydney to the Hunter Valley to be distributed by local magistrates and police constables to Aboriginal people on the Queens Birthday (1 May). Governor Macquarie initiated the official distribution of blankets in 1814. Macquarie had hoped that the provision of blankets – with occasional “slop” clothing and foods – would encourage “civilised habits and cooperation” among Aborigines towards Europeans during the expansion of “settled districts”. Blankets and rations are sometimes provided to Aboriginal people directly by larger property owners such as the Ogilvie’s at Merton, the Scott’s at Glendon and George Wyndham at Dalwood. Aborigines begin to depend on government issued blankets and rations as settlers occupy their lands. This not only prevents them from traditional food gathering and hunting, but also the making of animal skin coats to protect them from the elements, particularly in winter. (Lucas, 39)