His first voyage was to Norfolk Island, when he carried orders and instructions from the Governor of New South Wales to Major Foveaux, the Lieutenant-Governor.

Before leaving Sydney, Captain Abbott, Ensign Piper and Mr.John Roberts (surgeon's mate) were embarked as passengers on board the Lady Nelson, and in the afternoon of October 1st she set sail for her destination.

The following account of her voyage is extracted from the log:-- H.M.A.SURVEYING VESSEL LADY NELSON.
From Port Jackson to Norfolk Island.
"October 2nd, 1801.

At 3 P.M.got under weigh and stood out of ye Heads.
Observed ye Porpoise to be in the offing.

At 5 P.M.passed under the stern of the Porpoise and Mr.Murray went on board and waited on ye Commander of that vessel.