While looking for more cat-themed paintings, I came across what is considered to be Australia’s most famous feline: a black-and-white cat called Trim, who accompanied explorer Matthew Flinders on his voyage around the coastline of Australia. Trim was a true seafaring cat, born aboard the ship in 1799 and made a favourite for his grit, intelligence and cheeky personality.
The plaque at the Mitchell Library in Sydney has this moving dedication written by Flinders in memory of his cat:
The best and most illustrious of his race
The most affectionate of friends,
faithful of servants,
and best of creatures
He made the tour of the globe, and a voyage to Australia,
which he circumnavigated, and was ever the
delight and pleasure of his fellow voyagers
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