Interactive map sheds new light on Ludwig Leichhardt expedition

ABC The ANU's tracking of Leichhardt's expedition (in red) compared to John Arrowsmiths map of the route published in 1847 (in blue).

An Australian National University (ANU) project has shed new light on explorer Ludwig Leichhardt and his landmark expedition through northern Australia in 1844.

The ANU has launched a new paper map, as well as an interactive digital map, showing the precise route taken by Leichhardt on his journey from Moreton Bay, in south-east Queensland, to Port Essington in the Northern Territory.

The new map corrects old maps that were up to 32 kilometres off.

Today marks 170 years to the day, since Leichhardt set of on the journey with his company.

The map includes excerpts from journals kept by Leichhardt and three other members of his party as well as artworks by Bill Gannon and Katharine Nix.

A digital version of the map has been linked to the journals allowing users to take the expedition online.

After having repaired some harness, which had been broken by our refractory bullocks upsetting their loads, and after my companions had completed their arrangements, in which Mr. Bell kindly assisted, we left Jimba, and launched, buoyant with hope, into the wilderness of Australia.

Many a man's heart would have thrilled like our own, had he seen us winding our way round the first rise beyond the station, with a full chorus of 'God Save the Queen,' which has inspired many a British soldier,- aye, and many a Prussian too - with courage in the time of danger.

"You can zoom in and out of the map and to see what it looks like now.

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Interactive map sheds new light on Ludwig Leichhardt expedition