William Janszoon was a Dutch explorer born around 1570. He is best known for being the first European to set foot on the Australian continent in 1606. Janszoon sailed on the ship Duyfken and explored the western coast of Cape York Peninsula, mapping parts of the coastline. During his voyage, Janszoon encountered the indigenous peoples of Australia and documented his findings. His exploration contributed to the early European knowledge of the region, although it would be many years before further exploration and colonization occurred. Janszoon's journey marked a significant moment in the history of European exploration in the Pacific.