James Stirling (Royal Navy officer)

James Stirling (1791 – 3 August 1865) was a Scottish officer of the Royal Navy, colonial administrator, and the first Governor of Western Australia. He is principally known for his exploration and survey work along the Swan River in 1827, which led to the establishment of the Swan River Colony in 1829.

Stirling entered the Royal Navy in 1803. He saw active service during the Napoleonic Wars and the War of 1812, achieving the rank of Captain in 1820. In 1826, he was given command of HMS Success.

In 1827, whilst patrolling the waters off New South Wales, Stirling investigated the Swan River region on the west coast of Australia, motivated by reports of its suitability for settlement and strategic importance. His favorable reports on the land around the Swan River, particularly its fertile soils and access to fresh water, were instrumental in persuading the British government to establish a colony there.

Stirling lobbied extensively for the creation of a new colony at Swan River. He was appointed Lieutenant-Governor of the new colony in 1828, even before its official establishment, and arrived with the first settlers in 1829 aboard HMS Parmelia. His initial role involved establishing infrastructure, managing relations with the local Aboriginal population, and overseeing the allocation of land.

In 1831, Stirling was officially appointed Governor of Western Australia. He faced numerous challenges during his governorship, including tensions with settlers over land distribution, difficulties in developing a sustainable economy, and escalating conflicts with Aboriginal groups. He pursued a policy of pacification towards the Noongar people, which was not always successful and sometimes led to violence.

Stirling resigned as Governor in 1838 and returned to England. He was subsequently promoted to Rear-Admiral, Vice-Admiral, and finally Admiral. He also served in the British Parliament. He died in Surrey, England, in 1865.

Stirling's legacy in Western Australia is complex. He is remembered as the founder and first governor of the colony, but also criticized for his policies regarding Aboriginal people and the slow progress of the colony during his tenure. The city of Stirling and the Stirling Range are named after him.