John Pascoe Fawkner was an early Australian settler and a key figure in the establishment of Melbourne. Born in 1792 in England, he arrived in Australia in 1835. Fawkner played a significant role in the founding of the city, leading a group of settlers to the Yarra River area, where they established a settlement. In addition to his contributions to urban development, Fawkner was also involved in various businesses, including a hotel and a newspaper. He was a strong advocate for the rights of settlers and played a part in the early political landscape of Victoria, helping to shape the region's future.