or maybe this one

[r.magnay]

Matt, I posted the other one first then re read what you described so now I am posting this one...oh well, it doesn't hurt to refresh things from time to time I guess.

When Ancient Rivers Run

© Ross Magnay 27/2/10

Thunder clouds on catchments are unleashing captive spoils,
the rocks soon shed the moisture like a nest of silver snakes,
the water trickles downwards eroding desert soils,
nature has decided on the course the river takes.

Gathering momentum soaking ancient river sand,
picking up the flotsam as it makes its hurried way,
another desert miracle by Mother Natures hand,
ensuring that her garden will survive another day.

foaming cocoa waters crashing over river beds,
rushing on their way down to the lower desert plains,
pushing froth before them past the ancient ’River Reds,’
and fed by tributaries of the trickling little drains.

Snaking through the mulga and majestic river gums,
along the winding river beds of Namatjira’s brush,
thunder in the distance like a rolling band of drums,
playing with the raindrops as the desert rivers rush.

Fickle desert weather just as quickly makes it stop,
tomorrow there is nothing but some sticks against the trees,
but seeds and spores are sprouting to ensure another crop,
and guarantee a future for the native birds and bees.

[Maureen K Clifford]

Foaming cocoa waters - what a fabulous description that is Ross - perfectly describes it. Well done. I love it

[Heather]

I remember this one for the "cocoa water". Enjoyed reading it again Ross.

Heather

[r.magnay]

Thank you ladies, lucky I didn't call them latte waters hey!...

[warooa]

Good one Ross. Nicely said. Very enjoyable.

Foaming cocoa waters

I know it's inappropriate but makes me think of Augustus Gloop

[Catherine Lee]

More wonderful images here Ross - there is such inspiration out there and you really send the reader out there with your lovely lines.
I particularly liked:

Thunder clouds on catchments are unleashing captive spoils
the rocks soon shed the moisture like a nest of silver snakes

foaming cocoa waters crashing over river beds,
and the whole fourth stanza...

I hadn't seen this before, so thanks for re-posting.

[r.magnay]

...had to Google Augustas Gloop Marty, yes inappropriate but I get your point...

Thanks Catherine, glad you got some pleasure from it.

Thanks Matt, never been a fan of 'dot' paintings, the only thing traditional about them is that they are called traditional! Always been a fan of Namatjiras' stuff though, even though his colours may be exaggerated a bit they do sort of stay that way in your head I reckon.