Narrative | Roberts (2005, p 53) wrote: 'Another attack at about this time, at the Calvert River, was said to have been punished severely. Dick Moore was a brumby-hunter who made his living from trapping Price Cox’s thoroughbred horses and their progeny. Moore and his Aboriginal "boy" were living in a bough and canvas camp on a lagoon near the west bank of the river. They had a clear view on all sides to prevent a surprise attack during the daylight, while cattle dogs guarded at night. One night, not long after Moore settled there, a spear pierced his tent fly. He decided to "get a blow in early that would teach the blacks a lesson", wrote Gordon Buchanan, and: "His Queensland black boy was a good tracker and rifle shot, and for months they followed up and dispersed, so it was said, numbers of natives, and captured and secured…a couple of young gins." Moore is alleged to have shot down "bush blacks" on sight, once killing thirteen while they were crossing a plain.' |