Robert Garrett, Tasmanian penal colony surgeon: Alcoholism, medical misadventure and the penal colony of Sarah Island

Abstract

Robert Garrett emigrated from Scotland to Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) in 1822. Within a few months of arrival he was posted to the barbaric penal colony in Macquarie Harbour, known as Sarah Island. His descent into alcoholism, medical misadventure and premature death were related to his largely unsupported professional environment and were, in many respects, typical of those subjected to this experience. © 2011 Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.