Ernest Henry (explorer)

Ernest Henry (born 1836, died 1919) was an Australian explorer and pastoralist. He is best known for his exploration of northwest Queensland, Australia, and the discovery of significant copper deposits that led to the establishment of the town of Cloncurry.

Henry's early life was spent in New South Wales before he ventured north in search of pastoral land. In the 1860s, he led expeditions into the largely unexplored territory of what is now northwest Queensland. These journeys were fraught with danger, including hostile encounters with Aboriginal Australians, the harsh environment, and the logistical difficulties of transporting supplies.

His most significant contribution was the discovery of rich copper ore deposits near the Cloncurry River in 1867. This discovery sparked a mining boom and led to the founding of Cloncurry, which became an important center for copper mining and related industries. The town played a significant role in the economic development of the region.

Beyond his role as an explorer and discoverer, Henry was also a successful pastoralist. He established several sheep and cattle stations in the Cloncurry region, contributing to the growth of the pastoral industry in northwest Queensland. He is considered a pioneer of the region and an important figure in its history. His legacy is preserved in the naming of the Ernest Henry Mine, a large copper and gold mine located near Cloncurry, a testament to his initial discovery.