The First Fleet's arrival at Norfolk Island marked a pivotal moment in the British colonization of Australia. Under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip, the fleet sought to establish a convict settlement that would help relieve the burden of overcrowded prisons in Britain. The fleet had originally landed in Sydney Cove earlier that year, making Norfolk Island a critical extension of that effort. The island was selected for its potential agricultural viability and as a site for logging valuable timber, which was in high demand in the growing colony and back in Britain.

Upon arrival, the settlers and convicts faced numerous challenges such as harsh conditions, isolation, and the need for sustainable food sources. The settlement began with a small group of convicts and soldiers, who were tasked with clearing land and establishing crops. The initial efforts focused on growing food to support both the Norfolk Island settlement and Sydney, while also beginning to exploit the island's forests. Despite the adversities faced, the establishment of this settlement was significant in the context of British naval dominance in the Pacific and laid the groundwork for later expansion in the region.

Furthermore, the introduction of agriculture on Norfolk Island was closely monitored by the British government as it sought to develop economic self-sufficiency in its Australian colonies. The strategic location of Norfolk Island made it an essential hub for maritime activities in the Pacific, serving as a waypoint for ships traveling between Australia and other territories. It also contributed to the complex relationship between the British, the environment, and the Indigenous peoples of the region, whose lives were dramatically altered by these colonial endeavors.