AUSTRALIAN SON

[Vic Jefferies]

An old one for Australia Day:

AUSTRALIAN SON
(Vic Jefferies)

I’ve kicked around this country; been most everywhere,
from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the “Apple Isle” down there.
I’ve roamed across the Nullarbor, parched in the desert’s heat,
sweltered in the jungles and dined in Collins Street.

I’ve climbed old Uluru and almost touched the sky;
camped on the Murrumbidgee and shore at Gundagai.
I put a tally on the board to rival Jacky Howe;
did my share of soldiering and toiled behind a plough.

I roamed the Arafura Sea, won my share of pearls;
laboured at the Isa and chased the Queensland girls.
I’ve sailed on Sydney Harbour, had a beer at Woolloomooloo,
and battled for me tucker out west of the dry Paroo.

I cut the cane at Innisfail, beneath the Queensland sun,
wheeled the cattle when they rushed on a distant outback run,
I’ve seen the Ancient Owners sing and dance by firelight
and listened to their stories in the quiet of a “Top End” night.

My star sign is the Southern Cross, it holds my destiny,
I am Australian born and bred and very proud to be.
Henry Lawson wrote my bible, “The Banjo” penned my creed:
“A fair go for everyone and stick to a mate in need.”

So when I see that old flag proudly flying from the mast,
I ponder on our future and I glory in our past;
I think of the men and women who built this great country
and all those who gave their lives so you and I could live free.

From your snowy mountains to your sparkling tropic seas,
to a campfire by a billabong up in The Kimberleys,
I am your son, Australia, and I will always be,
proud to call you Mother and I hope you’re proud of me.

Vic Jefferies (2010)

[alongtimegone]

Gave me the old goosies by the end Vic. Wonderful mate.
Wazza

[Vic Jefferies]

Thank you Wazza. Glad you enjoyed the poem.

[Bob Pacey]

Yes spot on

Vic

[mummsie]

You've summed it up I reckon Vic-good on ya!

Sue

[Maureen K Clifford]

Nailed it Vic - well done

[Ron]

That's a beauty Vic, well done!
"Henry Lawson wrote my bible, 'The Banjo' penned my creed:" love it!

Ron

[Vic Jefferies]

Thank you everyone. I am glad you all enjoyed the poem for Australia Day.

[Jeff Thorpe]

I'm a bit late Vic, but that was a good read.

Regards, Jeff

[Catherine Lee]

Great poem - gives you chills!