History repeating

History repeated last month when historical figures James and Helen Gilbert came ashore in Docklands.

The Gilberts were one of Melbourne’s pioneer couples, having been among the first shipload of settlers who stepped from the Enterprize in 1835.

Like the corporates inhabiting modern-day Docklands, the Gilberts were looking for land and prosperity.  But unlike today’s corporates, the government of the day did not recognise the Gilberts’ claim to Melbourne’s land.

Nevertheless, today’s Gilberts (Rod Thomas and Helen Epsworthy) were last month spruiking voyages aboard the replica Enterprize, which is berthed at Docklands.  

And they were right at home speaking the language of commerce with Docklands’ lunchtime corporate crowd.