Scope

General Policy

The policy as to whether to include a report of an exploration is generally one of inclusion rather than exclusion.

Two or More Accounts of the One Exploration

Where two substantially different accounts of the one exploration are extant (e.g, different start and/or finish points, different time of the year) both are included.  If not substantially different, the more 'interesting' version is included and references to the other version(s) included.

Previously Published Exploration

Where the exploration has been documented and published (e.g. Warburton, Forrest, Grey, Gregory, etc) the particular expedition is only referenced in the applicable volume in the correct chronological sequence.

Previously Explored Country

A report of travel over previously-explored country is included only if it offers additional or complementary information (thus allowing for the different training/expertise/experiences that explorers have).

Excursions by Naturalists and Scientists

Excursions by naturalists and scientists are excluded unless they offer new information of general interest about vegetation types and condition, soil types, indigenous people, hydrology, climatic/weather effects etc. Accounts that simply offer bald lists of species are not exploration and are not included.

Maritime Exploration

Pre-settlement (1826) – not included.
Post settlement – excerpts will be included if the expedition landed and explored and/or named features while coasting.

Caves Exploration

The exploration of caves in Western Australia is not covered by this Project. Incidental exploration of a cave as part of an above ground exploration may be encountered.

Prospecting Exploration

Policy still to be decided.

Aerial Surveys

Policy still to be decided.

Missed Expeditions

Diaries of expeditions of exploration that have been located after publication of the applicable Volume for the year of the exploration will be reproduced at the beginning of the diaries in the next chronological Volume.

‘Cut Off’ Date

This is dependent on the region.
Kimberley is 1970.
Eastern Goldfields is 1890.