David According to Gillian Kelly's book there were a lot more ships than three, but it seemed the Australian government didn't want them as Lacemakers so the lacemaking machines were left in Calais. The website 'The Australian Lacemakers of Calais' gives a lot of information on the subject. And then, as you say, the goldrush happened. If you can read Gillian's book 'Well Suited to the Colony' you will find it very interesting.
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