Conflicts with European settlers

Conflicts with European settlers in 1828, 1833 and 1834 appear to be cooperative efforts on the parts of several clan groups. Willoughby Bean states: “This District has within the last five or six months been greatly disturbed by the inroads of Strange Tribes of Aborigines, I believe from the Hunter’s River, The Wollombi and the Sugar Loaf – These tribes have frequently…assembled in great number (on one occasion upwards of 200 & on another 180)…the District Constable during my absence…deemed it prudent to arm fifteen men & go in pursuit of them…They…confessed, that it was their intention not only to rob the Settlers, but likewise to capture and burn a Gentleman of the name of Cape, who had formerly fired on them during the night when stealing his Corn. – Assistance was immediately sent to Mr Cape…They have now left the District; but will…visit it again; and, unless some strong steps be taken to intimidate them, will be liable to do more mischief. – I beg to know to what extremities I may go in repelling them…I wish to know how far I am justified in treating them with severity…” (Bean to Alex McLeay, April 1828, in Blair, 2003,18, 26).