Subsequently to these discoveries, Mr.Surveyor Mechan, accompanied by Mr.Hamilton Hume, a colonist of considerable experience, explored the country more to the southward and westward of Sydney, and discovered most of the new country called Argyle, and also Lake Bathurst.
Mr.Hume was afterwards associated with a Mr.Hovel, in an excursion to the south coast, under the auspices of Sir Thomas Brisbane.

After a most persevering and laborious journey, they reached the sea; but it is uncertain whether they made Port Philips, or Western Port.

Mr.Hume, whose practical experience will yield to that of no man, entertains a conviction that it was to the former they descended from the neighbouring ranges; but Mr.Hovel, I believe supports a contrary opinion.

In the early stage of their journey, they passed over York or Yass Plains; and, after crossing the Morumbidgee, were generally entangled among mountain ranges that increased in height to the east and south-east.

They crossed three considerable rivers, falling westerly, which they named the Goulburn, the Hume, and the Ovens; and found a beautiful and well-watered country in the vicinity of the coast.
In 1826, Mr.Allan Cunningham, Botanical Collector to his late Majesty, traversed a considerable portion of the interior to the north of Bathurst, and, with a laudable zeal, devoted his labours to the acquisition of general information, as well as to his more immediate professional pursuits.