From outlaw bushrangers who fell in love to a famous horseman born a woman, Australia’s history is full of queer stories

Anne Drysdale (pictured) lived with Caroline Newcomb for 21 years in the 19th century – more than 150 years before the full decriminalisation of homosexuality. Photograph: Federation University Australia

In 1841, Anne Drysdale invited Caroline Newcomb to live with her on her farm outside Geelong. It was a bold move for the time: the full decriminalisation of homosexuality was 156 years away;the legalisation of same-sex marriage, 176 years.

In colonial Australia, women did not own property,let alone share one, and the same bed.