Hoddle, Robert (1794-1881), was a pioneer surveyor in Australia. He is best known for his design of Melbourne, which he completed in 1837. He planned the city in a gridiron pattern, with the main streets 100 feet (30 meters) wide. Sir Ralph Darling, the governor, appointed him assistant surveyor in 1826. In 1851, Hoddle became the first surveyor general of the newly independent colony of Victoria. He surveyed many areas for settlement, including Berrima, Campbelltown, and Goulburn. He worked with the British explorer John Oxley in mapping and surveying the shores of Moreton Bay. He also surveyed the upper Shoalhaven River area. Hoddle was born in London on April 20, 1794. He settled in Australia in 1823. He died on Oct. 24, 1881.
