Convict Sydney: The real-life stories of 32 prisoners

Convict Sydney is a collection of biographies of the men, women and child convicts that were

transported to Port Jackson between 1788 and 1840. It’s not a compilation of the most

successful or the worst offenders, but a medley of the everyday citizens that lived and

breathed in Sydney town. Each character has been brought to life with glimpses into their

personalities and their social lives, their hopes and aspirations. Their individual experiences

offer a broader insight into the daily happenings of Sydney and the convict system. From

Elizabeth Sullivan, who was known about town as the ‘Fighting Hen of Cooks River’ with

her flamboyant dress and tough countenance, to Robert Sidaway who entertained local

residents by hosting dramatic performances in his theater.

We step into early Sydney as it was taking shape and learn about the types of work, routines,

punishments, rewards, uniforms, marriage restrictions and so much more by walking in a

convict’s shoes. Convict Sydney also explores what life was like after the prisoners had

completed their sentences. How they eked out a living and created their new identities in

their tight-knit but ever growing community. Their stories flesh out the living reality.

Thought provoking, sometimes shocking, poignant and often uplifting, Convict Sydney offers

both insight and entertainment as we become privy to the humanity of each convict, the highs

and the lows of their lives