Thomas Austin (pastoralist)

[1] Thomas Austin took up land near Winchelsea, Victoria starting in 1837, and eventually created a run of 29,000 acres (12,000 ha) known as Barwon Park.

As a member of the Acclimatisation Society of Victoria, Thomas Austin helped to introduce many species from England.

In 1861, he wrote that he had introduced hares, blackbirds and thrushes, and that he was breeding English wild rabbits and partridges.

[4] In October 1859, he introduced 24 breeding rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) on his estate as game for shooting parties.

[5] While other settlers praised his efforts at the time, he has borne the brunt of blame for introducing this pest to Australia.