On the 18th the boats were again used, the river being much broader, and in two days he reached the coast, a little to the east of Cape Northumberland.
The whole expedition then moved homewards, and reached Portland Bay, where they found that the Henty family from Van Diemen's Land had been established on a farm for about two years.

From them Mitchell received some assistance in the way of necessary supplies, and then resumed his journey for home.

On the 19th the party separated; Mitchell pushed ahead, leaving Stapylton, his second, to rest the tired animals for a while and then to follow slowly.

On his homeward way Mitchell ascended Mount Macedon, and from the summit saw and identified Port Phillip.

His return, with his glowing report of the splendid country he had discovered -- country fitted for the immediate occupation of the grazier and the farmer -- at once stimulated its settlement, and as the man whose explorations were of immediate benefit to the community in general -- Mitchell's name stands first on the roll of explorers.
7.5.DISCOVERY OF THE BARCOO.
Some years elapsed before Mitchell -- now Sir Thomas -- again took to the field of active exploration.