Returning
in the Heroine, Leichhardt arrived in Sydney on 25 March 1846. As it was
believed that his party had perished their unexpected success was greeted with
great rejoicing. Leichhardt was hailed as 'Prince of Explorers' and his party
as national heroes, and their achievement was rewarded by a government grant of
£1000 and private subscriptions amounting to over £1500.
Australian
Dictionary of Biography
An
assessment of Leichhardt's work credits him with achieving one of the longest
journeys of exploration by land in Australia, and one of the most useful in the
discovery of 'excellent country available … for pastoral purposes', and in the
collection of the data for the earliest map of the country covered by his
route.
Australian
Dictionary of Biography
Geologists
and botanists valued Leichhardt's collections of specimens and the records of
his observations which, in an age accustomed to extravagant travellers' tales,
were remarkable for their restraint and accuracy; he believed that as long as
the traveller was truthful the scientist at home would be thankful to him.
Australian
Dictionary of Biography
Leichhardt
was a most dedicated servant of science and from this very dedication sprang a
singleness of purpose which shaped his life, and made him somewhat ruthlessly
regardless of all but his research. With perseverance, energy, courage and
complete disregard of discomfort, and of the physical handicap of poor
eyesight, he pursued his goals as 'an explorer of nature'.
Australian
Dictionary of Biography
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