People Australia

John Brady (c.1788-1830), a farmer's man, was found guilty on 29 February 1820 at the Durham Assizes of uttering forged notes. His death sentence was commuted to life transportation. He arrived at Sydney, New South Wales, aboard the Elizabeth in December 1820. He was described as being 32 years old, 5 feet 7¼ inches tall, with a fair ruddy complexion, black hair and hazel eyes.

After absconding from Port Macquarie Penal Settlement in 1824 he was sent on the brig Woodlark to Hobart Town to serve the remainder of his sentence at Macquarie Harbour.

Convict Punishments

• 22 June 1824, endeavoured to obtain hops by false pretences - 25 lashes
• 23 November 1824, having tobacco in his possession contrary to orders - 3 days solitary confinement
• 10 December 1825, aiding and abetting the escape of two bushrangers - (*no punishment recorded)
• 13 March 1826, sending an insolent and insubordinate message to the commandant - 25 lashes remitted to 18 lashes
• 13 March 1826, disobeying orders and refusing to work - 50 lashes - remitted.
• 3 June 1826, making away with vegetables contrary to order - 25 lashes.
• 31 March 1828, stealing potatoes - 20 lashes.
• according to his court report, he was on probation when he was found guilty of 'carnally knowing and abusing' Julia Anstey who was five years old.

On 14 June 1830 Brady, William Messenger and Richard Yewdle were sentenced to be executed for raping Julia Anstey. Messenger and Yewdle's death (but not Brady's) are listed in the Tasmanian BDM.