Captain James Cook, an accomplished navigator and cartographer, was on an expedition aboard the HMS Endeavour, tasked with observing the transit of Venus across the Sun and searching for the hypothetical Southern Continent. As he journeyed through the Pacific Ocean, Cook and his crew sighted land on the morning of April 19, 1770. This sighting occurred along the southeastern coastline of what is now Australia. The landing site, known as Point Hicks, became a crucial landmark in the history of exploration.

Upon reaching Point Hicks, Cook climbed a nearby hill to survey the land. He documented various geographical features, including the rich flora and fauna observed in the area. The interactions with Indigenous Australians would later shape the experiences of European settlers in the region. Cook’s discoveries on this voyage vastly contributed to the British maps of the time, showcasing the potential for new territories.

Cook's expedition continued to explore the east coast of Australia, claiming the land for Britain, which laid the groundwork for future British colonization. His meticulous mapping of the coastline was pivotal for navigators and significantly influenced the maritime strategies of the time. This event marked the start of an era of exploration and interaction between Indigenous populations and European settlers, leading to profound changes in both cultures.