Abstract
In the early years of the Australian colonies alcohol consumption was heavy but is shown to be lower than in some other countries at that time. The decade of the 1830s saw the highest per capita consumption although the gold rush period of the 1850s was probably comparable. From 1860 to 1900 consumption fell strongly. Causes and consequences of rises and falls in consumption levels are presented for the convict era, the gold rush years and the post-gold rush period to the end of the century. The response to drunkenness is discussed including the attempts of the anti-drink movement to achieve prohibition.
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K.C. Powell
Both authors formerly Public Health Officers, Eastern Sydney Area Public Health Unit Previously general practitioner, Orange NSW, Australia.