Chris Young is a fabulous singer, sonwriter, entertainer and MAN. He's deep sultry country voice will "rock you" to your core. You'll love him and love listening to him once you start. He's gotta make a trip to Australia, you'll love it when he does.
Oh thankyou for another great song from The Flatlanders. I just love their songwriting, the music and those unique voices. Keep their tracks coming please.....
i have just been listing to kitty wells hank thompson pasty cline judith durham and the singers today are not a patch on the old days keith urban sings rock
I wish they would show the Golden Guitars on TV as they are happening! like they do for the American Country Music Awards! Not have to wait a month or so later on CMC!
Everything Troy does is great work and he is just a wonderful performer and down to earth person who has never forgotten his roots. This album will be just as great as the others. Go Troy !
I am trying to find out the same information as Truckernurse - it is doing my head in not knowing who sings the song. "I can't believe its really time to go. I can't believe it's really time to turn the horses home" HELP!
Just reading this, its weird for me as my mum is one of the original members of this Group (Maria) she moved to Australia in 1972 (It could have been the end of 1971) and that is why she is not part of the original albumn. Growing up she used to sing these songs to us. She lent her copy of the Albumn to a friend years ago and never got it back. My sister has finally tracked it down and is giving it to her for christmas this year. I would say there will be tears.
Good on Shane Nicholson I wish you well as you have a great voice for true Aussie Country and keep it Aussie Country Good luck as I just watched Bill Chambers DVD live at the Pub at Tamworth 2011 and loved every bit of it great to watch true Aussie Country which is far better than what is coming out of America at the moment I Thank You
The same old names get recycled each year - the Central Coast mafia - Adam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Kasey & Shane, etc - all good music - BUT - what about some of the great album releases of the year - 'Life Gets in the Way' by Rose Carleo and 'Dust In The Sky' by Jakki Pollock.Do yourself a favour and listen to some real Australian contemporary music with this music. Someone needs to explain how Keith Urban can be nominated when everything he does is based in and on the USA - these are the AUSTRALIAN Country Music Awards ...... No wonder Country Music in Australia is struggling .............
Ahhhh that Banjo album with John Kane and Ian Simpson is absolutely amazing music from two fine seasoned musicians.
They are like red wine....are improving all the time, with age if that is possible.
Stunning entertainers.
"G'day"
Some guidance would certainly be appreciated.
As a bloody ol' retired bloke, to keep me from robbin' banks, I have written a few rhymed pieces all about Aus., some of which may be suitable as song lyrics.
One piece, Maggin' with Macca, was recorded in an amateur studio a while back and sounds pretty good. But I'm probably biased.
A few others have been read to air over ABC Radio.
Hi Gina,
Im Rhianna and that song " Dancing with elvis" was that at all dedicated or even sung for my father Allan Gundy
who can sing and dance like elvis a couple of years ago because im his daughter and i believe that " Dancing with elvis was written for my father!
We were at your concert in toowoomba on sunday 13th nov. i am 75 and my husband is 77,and have been married for 52 years. we dont go out much but would not miss seeing you for the world.we had a ball and have not laughed so much for a long time.i was one of the ones who sang out shut up and sing!!! we were at your last concert in toowoomba and god willing we will be at your next one.we have all your albums please keep the albums coming.as the ones we have are nearly worn out!! cheers and regards Margaret.
i think luck is a fantasic singer an he should of won Australian idol not carr
i want to know were to buy lukes albums so i can go get them well done luke good to hear your still singing
con grats to you been a dad
Hi I would like to know when rascal flatts are coming to Australia near Sydney I would love to see them live they are the best I have ever heard their songs make me want to cry they are that good
Thank you for this great song Lou, and such beautiful lyrics... I have heard it twice now on digital radio, and just have to stop and absorb it all and heartfelt performance...
I love Bob Dylan singing country and the Norah Jones singing How Many Times Have You Broken My Heart is mesmerizing... I am grateful you will be featuring this CD and will certainly look forward to this airplay...
Thomas fersen is of that universal type of musician; the melodies that he writes are honest and expand beyond the style they are dressed in. His sense of musical language is pure and comes from somewhere we do not often see in Australia. A mix of middle eastern, gypsy, french music hall and punk rock. But as his last cd, Je Suis Au Paradis shows, he knows how to use strings to accentuate the drama and fragility of a song. He has gathered around him a group of very good musicians able to adapt to any style required and that is another thing we dont see very often here; musicians who aren't afraid to present other styles to their music to give it a depth. The guitarist he uses, Pierre Sangre is extremely gifted.
Thomas Fersen doesn't seem to have any particular interest in showing us in his music, probably because he has quite a substantial following in Europe and Canada.
In the end, it is good music that will be slow to become tired and dated.
I quite wonderful second album what a talent.
She came to the UK on a short visit and made a great impression including live sesion on BBC Radio 2.
On my favourite albums this year.
My take on the album:
To tread the boards trodden by most of the Greats must be one helluva an experience - coundn't happen to a nicer bloke . And he is even Koori .You make all us Kooria proud
Hi Becky,
we are the couple who came all the way from Adelaide to see you in concert at Swan Hill.
Thankyou for making my husbands first country music concert memorable.( He was big ted on the night front row centre) and he really is not a country music fan but took me as a special "date night treat". I do love that man!... anyway he has not stopped talking about what a great time he had so thankyou Beccy and Adam!
Tickets to see Dolly are an outrageous price for her fans - looking at $300,00 a seat only available. All $100.00 tickets have been sold to her shows which were sold the first day bookings opened. Very disappointed!
We have a lovely old lady where I work Broken Hill who is the biggest Adam Harvey fan, she wont be able to make the concert on July 31 but would love the chance to meet him.
are u coming back to perth wa this year(2011) if so when and any venues that children can come my son sheldon has been waiting to see u for a couple of years
Adam I know you don't have time to read every message on this site and keep jade your wife happy having family like you do and the most wonderful wife to have by your side through thick and thin
We all know that you have to travel around and you won't have time for a stop on the way or a concert you have to get to.
Wishing I can see you in concert down here a port macquaire you have got fans out there who really trust you be there and my wish will never come true wanting to see you and to travel with you around with the band and jade.
You are like my brother but you are really not I haven't met you or even seen you in concert.
Jade you are really lukey to have him I with apon a star that I would meet him some day jade he is very special to me take care of Adam
Hope you can come down here and see your biggest fan and stay a her place and meet her parents and sisters work on the farm with them
Hope you's stay together forever and have children who want to be like both of yous
Carnt wait to see the film on the extrordanary life of one of aussie great talents of comdey country great lryic man and with his own natural style to entertain
The McClymonts have amazing voices and harmonies but we couldn't hear them over and above the noise of the instruments when we went to their recent show in Bundaberg. It was so loud that people were putting their hands over their ears. What a shame! Even the beginning of Markus Meier's songs sounded distorted because the sound was so loud. How about toning down the sound so that we can hear what we came and paid for - the amazing talents of these wonderful young people! When the sound of the instruments are that loud, one wonders what you are trying to cover up. And besides, too many people are going deaf prematurely these days and no wonder if they must sit through NOISE such as this. This is SO not meant to be negative - a little constructive criticism is good for us all. Take it or leave it. Cheers!
This album is flawless, I love the emotion and depth in the songs and I think Tori is a brilliant songwriter and sinnger and this album examples that. This is something everyone can enjoy, it's great music!
Well you might not have been here for a while, but you haven't lost your ocker accent! Lovely to actually here your voice talking, also that you met Sarah. I bet she was a little starry eyed having a famous aunt, but I am jealous that she has got to meet you and Mez and Warwick and his family before I have, but there will come a time! She was over the moon at your performance and you may have turned her into a country fan, so there's a win. When you get a chance settled in back home, send mum's address will you as we/ve lost it and older people prefer snail mail. Im not sure if she knows how to reply to emails. Anyway I am so glad your tour has been a success, say hello to Mez for me and hope to get over there one day, regards John and Marg.
the wilson pickers rule full stop! they dont profess they are a bluegrass band, quite the opposite actually. they just play bluegrass style instuments and put their own stamp on it. good on em i say.
Having become a fan of Mikes at Tamworth I was intrigued to see he has formed a partnership with Simon. The new songs tell a story in an acoustic setting and I look forward to hearing more from these talented men as Springfield.
When I heard Mary's depth of voice and lyrics of this song I was deeply moved and the guitar is mesmerizing.
"I fell into the space between us
and that's a long way to fall"
Please continue to play this song for us, and thankyou to Denise Murphy for her very helpful and informative comment.
I'm disgusted that on Australia All Over, Ian McNamara's comments on this tape were along the lines of that he didn't think the "politically correct" artists, Paul Kelly and Peter Garrett should be on this tape. The works of these artists maybe politically palatable to the Rudd/Gillard governments. However I can think of a number of Paul Kelly tracks that John Howard would be likely to label as the "black-armband view of Australian history".
Having seen the full listing of the compilation now, I'm even more incensed that Macca chose to single these two artists, when they only represent six tracks out of the total. I've cut out several of the Jimmy Barnes tracks to make room for:
John Williamson (Galleries of Pink and Gray Galahs, Raining on the Rock, The Drover's Boy and others...)
Sara Storer
Gina Jeffries
The Pigram Brothers
amongst others (and I second the nominations for Lee Kernaghan and Slim Dusty)
No, country music was not forgotten but where was our one-time Australian of the Year Lee Kernaghan? Slim Dusty - the greatest of all CM performers? I respect the artists featured and yes, they are great Australian country music performers. While Jimmy Barnes, Crowded House and possibly Bernard Fanning are also remarkable musicians, why the large percentage of inclusions? Oh and were our artists paid for the use of there works on this CD or was it a pirated version?
'Cause north of the border (not down Mexico way) we know good music and the artists know we know good music. Problem is from Townsville to Brisbane is as far from Brisbane to Melbourne so most of Queensland will not get to see The Voice of Country either.
I think these guys are great and a breath of fresh air in a market that lacks variety.
I agree that these guys don't fit into the bluegrass genre, but that in no way takes away from what they do. I'm sure that they have bluegrass CDs in their collections and have a healthy respect for them. My guess is that they've come from a rock/pop background and have been pulled by bluegrass towards creating acoustic driven music that tips its hat to bluegrass, but is not bluegrass in and of itself.
I play in a band that fuses bluegrass with alt-country influences (you don't get pedal steel in most bluegrass bands). Whilst at times we've angst about the fact that we're not true bluegrass, we have been welcomed, supported and highly encouraged by the bluegrass community in Australia and look forward to continue being influenced by them.
Hi Felicity,
I've been listening to your show over the internet for about a year now, and I'm wondering what the name of the song is that closes out your show. Something about "I can't believe it's really time to turn the horses home" What's the name of the song and who sings it, please? Thanks from Florida!
Hi Liam,
I discovered your good song The Doghouse in the Best of CMC 2010 CD and I am featuring it in my radio show here in France on RCF Haute Normandie Radio. The response from my listeners is excellent. I would be happy to help you promote your album in France by giving you more air play and by reviewing it in our French CM Magazine Le Cri du Coyote. I run in it a special Aussie section: called "Kanga Routes" in which I publish the reviewed Aussie albums, as you can see in the attachment. It helps French country music fans to become aware of Aussie artists and many of them have been present in our festivals among which Jetty Road and Adam Brand. To purchase the albums of their choice we direct the fans to the Country Music Store in Brisbane and to WJO Distribution.
You are a young artist Liam but you seem to have a great potential so godd luck to you in your Country Music career.
Regards
Roland Lanzarone
Le Crid du Coyote/ RCF Haute Normandie
42 Bis Rue Edouard Fortier
76130 Mont Saint Aignan
France
Jon is right. There are a lot of acts emerging that say bluegrass or roots or pickers and who are nothing more than guitar casuals and front bar rockers. Strumming a few guitar chords isn't enough. Where are the banjo and fiddle pickers and the three part harmony? Where is the gospel quartet? Where is the high lonesome sound? Where are the ancient tones?
It is terrible to see your father, a dedicated parrot head all his life, be completely turned off from jimmy due to this ridiculous tour.......what a waste of time, money and resources to come all the way out here for such small concerts. Who on earth thinks the Opera House is a place for this type of music??!! Such a big shame Jimmy!!! You have lost the hearts of many Aussie parrot heads!
Was really excited to hear that Jimmy was coming to Australia. I knew nothing of Jimmy when I first met my now husband. We saw him at Festival Hall in Brisbane on one of our first dates. Really disappointed that tickets sold so quickly. I was on the net and well as one the phone with a co-worker and still missed out. I had organised my husband's leave with his work to surprise him ... had to cancel that. We live in Hobart, Tasmania and always miss out on top line acts. My husband is a huge Leonard Cohen fan as well and we were lucky enough to attend his sell out concert in Hobart upon his second tour. So, please come back Jimmy. :)
Troy what can one say ,,this bought tears to my eyes to hear what you and your loved ones have all gone through. we on the west coast (perth) could only sit back and imagine,But for those that it has affected they will be scared for life.Like you said what you lost is hard but alot can be replaced ,those that lost their lives can never be replaced and Thank God you all still have your lives.. You are one hell of a gentleman, and the greatest C&W star ever..love you millions.. ..And by no means are you a sook lol ..big hugz to you all and may God give you all the strength to carry on..Regards Patricia Gaden.. Perth W.A.. xxx
Disapointing to not be able to get tickets for the opera house andi am working Aus day. I have seen jb in western Aus during the ameris=ca cup in 86 then he played a concert on Hamilton island in about 90 .Cmon mr Chugg how bout some Qld dates to ????????????
Lets hope some additional (other state) dates become available. Would be great to see a Brisbane/Queensland benefit show(s) in support of the recent floods
Harmony James' album TAILWINDS is now one of my prized CDs...and I have been collecting music for nearly 50 years. My tastes include most music (except for hard-core, unintelligible rap misic), and believe that I can identify talent and qualty whe I hear/see it.
The production quality is of the highest order, the writing, melodies,mix and tempos of the tracks, excellent. I am certainly looking forward to her next album, hoping Harmony will be able to maintain the high level she set the bar at with TAILWINDS.
I happened to hear Harmony guesting with Felicity on ABC Radio a few weeks back and was also impressed with her comments, attitudes, and level-headed comments. Certainly a true Rising Star.
Hi Ken,
This and Facebook are most probably good starting points for you.
I want to see if you actually get this so can you please respond if you do.
Cheers
Brian
We first seen Markus Meier at Crown Melbourne Saturday 20/03/10 as support act for Lee Kernaghan. He is awesome-a graet new Australian talent. He had the place rockin and was the best suppoort act I've seen before the main feature
My daughter bought me a digital radio for Christmas and I can now listen to ABC country. Thank you for playing my songs ... it means a lot. Thanks too for playing such a wonderful selection of real country music ... it gets expensive though, I now have to go out and buy Jamey Johnson's album.
I have been a Parrot Head for 35 years, saw Jimmy in Melbourne in 1978 and 79, got everything he has recorded.
I, and 3 other parrot Heads were ready to fly to see JB from Melbourne. Extremley disappointed when at 9.00 am when sales opened, sold out. What can I do, go to USA?
Thanks for the information Anthony. It's about time Promoters here realized that Country Music has a big following like J.B. and accommodate them in bigger venues and provide more shows!
The two Sydney Opera House concerts were sold out in under 15 minutes.
The Sydney Opera House on line ticket sales stuffed up and forgot to turn off the 'presale' restriction of 2 tickets per customer, restricting those who made contact with the site within the first two minutes of sales to a maximum purchase of 2 tickets. People lucky enough to make contact with the site after 9:02 a.m. but before the tickets were all sold out were not restricted.
Response from the Opera House Box Office: "You can write us a letter of complaint but as the tickets are all sold it will just be filed."
Many Australian Parrotheads left scratching their heads as to why Chugg Entertainment organised the only two Jimmy Buffett Australian concerts to be held in such a small venue as the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, given the large following he has here in Australia.
l love country music do you? l am from far away but it is good to listening this radio feeling well is like being
in the u.s.a. l share the good moments with you
I like the song by Alan Archer about Chinchilla. I live in the village of Whissonsett in Norfolk U.K. where Matthew Goggs was born. I have been researching all of the Goggs family and I will be including this tale of Chinchilla in my research. Matthew Gogg's first wife,Bridget Burke is buried in our village churchyard.
Great news that J.B. is coming to Australia and performing at the Sydney Opera House.
Disappointing for his fans that he can't perform in other States whilst he is here - we
all can't go to Sydney!
My favourite country singer would have to be Kasey Chambers. I love her powerful unique voice but most of all I love the fact that she seems so down to earth.
My favourite artist singer/songwriter has got to be Kasey Chambers. Kasey hasn't compromised her..music - she's stuck to what she likes doing best and that's country. Outstanding songwriter in her own right she has developed her own style as in her own words " I ain't pretty enough' ...the song that gave her fame.
I like Lee Kernaghan also - his style of music is different it's 'boysie' type country and he is a great entertainer - he is a man of the land and is ready to help others who need help.
I like these two artists very much!
i was brought up on slim dusty and he'll always be my favourite australian country singer he knew how to turn a campfire story into a song, old and young alike can relate to at least one slim dusty song
Love Lee Kernaghan, he lives and feels his music just like Slim Dusty did. Lee will go out of his way to talk to his fans, have a photo taken with them and he is so down to earth a real sign of a genuine country boy, well done Lee with Planet Country it is fantastic, I play it all the time.
I'm a little shallow I'm afraid as it was the brooding good looks, twinkling eyes and sly sexy smile that made ADAM HARVEY my favorite Country artist ... it's just a bonus that the cowboy can SING!!! ;)
Slim Dusty is the greatest country and western entertainer of the decade,
He has some great songs, and they never seem to date,
If you are ever on a long trip and you put Slim on everyone can sing along to them, and it helps to pass the time, while you watch our vast land of Australia pass by.
Adam Brand would be the pick of the crop for me !!! His music relates to the way of life in Australia. He plays upbeat songs to keep you going and every now and then will slip a slow and memorable song into his albums. He is a true Aussie artist, up their with the greats.
Thank you ABC COUNTRY for this great web.site.
It would be fantastic if you would consider TRANSMITTING the COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FROM U.S.A.
as it is only once a year and there are a lot of fans who would appreciate this. Concerts here for Alan Jackson have been booked out - 3 concerts in Brisbane alone - Melbourne unfortunately has only one.
Come on ABC IF YOU ARE DINKY DIE ABOUT COUNTRY THEN lets see these Awards.
Country takes a back-step on T.V. compared to other musical genres.
It would be a GREAT STEP FORWARD FOR THE ABC.
Beautiful Tracks Sara. sara has alwys had beautiful tracks with country sara and John willamson are same artists they write tremendous lyrics from the heart pure Country Geniuses
For his heartfelt and beautiful songwriting skills, for a voice that captures an audience in just a few lines, for a heart of solid gold which he gives so much to our country communities that struggle in all types of hardships be it bushfire, flood or drought and for his absolute appreciation to his loyal and devoted fans. I say Lee Kernaghan is my favorite Aussie Country Singer.
Already entered but wanted to say how great it is to see a wide range of country artists being mentioned. How boring would it be if everyone like the same thing :) How good is it when you agree with everyone's comments. Keep em coming, I'm enjoying this!
I believe that Gina Jeffreys' musical performances show that she is not afraid to challenge the Country Music genre and mould it into more modern music for a wider audience, whilst still maintaining its country feel.
I have many favourites including Lee but one of the best would have to be Graeme Connors after listening to his songs 'Sicilian Born' and 'The Ringer And The Princess.'
my favourite country singer would be slim dusty. he was and still is an iconic true blue dinki di aussie who loved his people and the land, and always had time for his mates. long live the king of country. :)
The Pigram Brothers are one of my favourites. I have heard them at Port Fairy and in West Australia. They are so full of life and love for their country that they sing about. John Williamson, too, is a troubador in the spirit of Slim Dusty, in that he sings about us, our everyday lives. He evinces, with his music, our dreams and disasters, oyr sorrows, our joys, our everyday lives. He makes me cry, he makes me laugh, he makes me think. Wonderful.
Lee Kernaghan - After his Planet Country show in Nowra (the first country music concert I had ever been to, and we travelled 2 1/2 hours each way) - I stayed to see if I could get an autograph. Almost two and a half hours later (after midnight!) I did get a poster autographed - and I wasn't even at the end of the line! I think Lee was a real trooper to stay that long to meet fans - and he even managed to smile in the photo!
LEE KERNAGHAN, not only for being the best in country music but for the amazing person he is for all the other things he does for the rural communities. He takes the time to really be amongst them, not only to entertain them, but also to offer courage and support and be such a help and down to earth fairdinkum friend and help to them. To me he just goes that one step further than the rest.
Kasey Chambers. She has a great variety in her repertoire from soft ballads to music with a bit of attitude. It's great to see an artist who writes/performs music that is enjoyable and has meaning. Kasey is able to create atmosphere with her music. She has music that I can play no matter what mood I am in. Kasey is awsome.
I would have to say Markus Meier, is making a name for himself with some great songs, lyrics, I think he will be here for a while to come yet, whilst ever he keeps churning out these great songs, I will continue to buy his albums, and hopefully get to one of his shows real soon, I am a big supporter of the Aussie Country Music scene, we have somje great talent right here on our own doorstep, Garth Brooks doesn't need my cash, but Markus does, lol
Like many others , Slim Dusty was a favorite for lots of years - still is .
Of the "current crop its a tossup between Troy Cassar-Daly & Lee Kernaghan.
Anne Kirkpatrick is still the top of the girls - saw her in the Great Hall of Parliament in Canberra .
crying on each others shoulder - slim dusty & ann kirkpatrick
fear of falling - donna fisk & michael cristian
these are the most favourite songs & singer
overall i love female voices in country music
the first time i heard australian country was in the 60's and it was "a pub with no beer" as i was growing up in switzerland
no i'm living in australia.......
cheers James
I congratulate David Crewe on his win.I concede it must have been a very difficult task for the judges to choose a single winner from the many well written entries. As a poet and song writer I picked out at least 20 entries which I thought were potential winners. It may come as a surprise to you that I hadn't included David's entry in my list, however as the judges are professionals in this field I guess my opinion is irrelevant.
Among the verses which I thought should have been considered for the short list, one stood out above all others,the very first entry, Country's In My Blood by Tom Griffin. This verse was very well structured and extremely rhythmic. From the outset it set the scene for a picture which was well painted of the town of Pambula. Shades of Banjo Patterson I thought.
Congratulation to the winner and to all who posted their songs. Congratulation to all how put the competition together and the people who had the hard and long task of listening to each song ...
i didn t know enithing about australia;whent whit my husbund on our honnymoons there in your lovely ruff lovley country and we had a carecitent in the outback, well a kangarooh on the street. your songs helpt me to understand your country and i love it
What an odd list. Some of these songs may be tragic in theme, but they actually sound quite jaunty, such as D-I-V-O-R-C-E (and, let's face it, a divorce can be the happiest day in some people's lives). I'm very surprised Hank Williams' I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry didn't make the cut. Johnny Cash is deservedly the only artist with two entries. He could fill the list on his own, especially with his later recordings. His cover of Hurt is unredeemed bleakness.
Oh, I heard and saw Melinda about a month ago on a Radio National in-studio performance with Fran Kelly, and it was just wonderful.
Melinda is fun loving and talented, and just a delight for those of us who were (open and closeted) fans of Doris Day way back when. It''ll be a blast.
Mary Gauthier is an extraordinary songwriter who sings about the dark aspects that inhabit our lives. In doing so, quite gently and beautifully, she leaves the audience renewed and reawakened.
All her albums are different and wonderful. 'Mercy Now' (2005) is perhaps the most popular, though 'The Foundling' (2010), a song cycle narrative of her own tragic life circumstances has resonated with an ever growing fan base. If you could only buy one album, "Genesis' (2008) might be the one. It is a sampling of her whole repertoire, though for me, 'The Foundling' is her strongest album lyrically and musically. For serious Country fans, I'd suggest 'Dixie Kitchen' (1997) or 'Filth and Fire (2002)'.
Sadly, she is better known and understood outside of her own country of the United States, but it is a joy to me that the ABC has introduced her to the ABC audience in all its forms.
A "list" is always problematic in how far back do you go and only "10" ?? My contribution (tongue in cheek ) would be - The Louvin Brothers- Tragic songs of life - Mary of the wild moor. If you want to start your day on a high note don't start with this album.
DEAR LADY SPRINGSURE (Springsure, Central Queensland)
Verse 1
Dear lady I'm ashamed to say
I haven't thought until today
To tell you of the love and deep respect I hold for you
I've chanced to travel far and wide
Yet always with the greatest pride
I told your fascinating tale - and how the tributes flew!
Verse 2
I ventured from another land
Yet you were there to take my hand
You gave me love and shelter as if I were your own
In bliss I spent my chjldhood days
I filled my time a thousand ways
Where else would I have chosen as a place to make my home?
Chorus
Lady stand and take a bow
Lady hear those tributes now
Lady all your children vow
To show their love for you
Your struggle through those early years
Your fallen boys you held so dear
The drought and fire that drained your tears
What pride we have in you
Verse 3
Dear lady in your autumn years
Rest easy now - forget your fears
For those who hold you dear will tend to all your needs
Despite the change that's in the air
Your rugged beauty and your flair
Will stand the test of time as an honour to your deeds.
Intro.
It's not Uluru, not alcatraz, not a wrestler on TV
There's only one one The Rock to me.
1)
Magpies gargle in the dawn, from the kurrajongs down main,
Each tree is for a soldier, who did not come home again.
Tingle of the the morning train, rumbles through your feet,
Young blokes on their way to school, kick a footy down the street.
Chorus.
The lion of the riverina plain that guards this town,
sits atop a stony ridge, broke free from even ground.
Wheat beside canola, sews a patchwork quilt all round.....
This little town they call The Rock.
2)
Trucks go to and from the silos,like ants before a rain.
Good to see a bumper harvest, after 10 long years of pain.
Sheep fossick through the stubbles, like beachcombers on the sand.
Hooves give rise to dust, a hazy blanket 'cross the land.
Chorus
3)
The Rock was known as Kengal, before white man came to town.
An initiation place; they say it was sacred ground.
Now tourists come to scale the peak, for fitness or for fun.
Another day draws to a close, as the big cat blocks the sun.
Chorus
It's not Uluru, not alcatraz, not a wrestler on TV
There's only one one The Rock to me.
Chorus:
When the winter winds blow - through the Aussie gum trees
There's light and shade through - the Coffs Harbour plateau
The Coffs Harbour plateau - When the winter winds blow
When the winter winds blow - through the Aussie gum trees
Verse 1:
The early morning light on the manna gum trees
The early morning breeze - blowing the Aussie gum trees
Blowing the Aussie gum trees - blowing the tallowood trees
Blowing the tallowood trees - and the swamp mahogany
Verse 2:
The Aussie native gums swaying from side to side
Swaying from side to side in the gentle Aussie breeze
The Aussie butcher birds ringing out their call
Singing out there call in the early morning light
Verse 3:
The tall Australian gums with their canopies up high
They almost seem to touch our Aussie blue sky
And there's our Aussie legend, feeding on the sweet gum leaves
Feeding on the sweet gum leaves below the canopy up high
SHE'S A GEM OF A PLACE/ NOT FAR FROM TAMWORTH/ SHE'S OUT OF THE RAT RACE/ NESTLED IN THE VALLEY/
SHE'S A VILLAGE WITH A SPIRIT/ TINGED WITH GOLDEN NUGGETS/ PERHAPS THE BEST KEPT SECRET/ IS HER COUNTRY PEACE AND QUIET/
CHORUS
WHERE EVERYONE SAYS G'DAY/ WITH A WINK AND A SMILE/ IF YOU STOP BY AND HAVE A CHAT/
IT MAY TAKE A WHILE/ WHERE THEY DRINK CUPS OF TEA/ AND HOMEMADE MOONSHINE/ WOOLOMIN IS THE HEART OF COUNTRY LIFE/ AND SHE'S OUR TOWN
YOU CAN WALK TO THE STORE/ OR ANY PART OF TOWN/ YOU CAN SWIM IN THE CREEK/ OR CAMP BY THE DAM/
YOU CAN SING LIKE THE BIRDS / OR HUM LIKE THE BEES/ YOU CAN DO NOTHIN AT ALL / BUT YOU BETTER NOT LEAVE/
YOU MAY SEE AN EAGLE CIRCLING THE SKIES/ OR MARVEL AT THE ROLLIN HILLS AS COTTON CLOUDS ROLL BY /
YOU MAY BE CONTENT TO BREATHE IN FRESH AIR / AND AFTER A WHILE YOU WON'T HAVE A CARE .. COS
CHORUS
EVERYONE SAYS G'DAY/ WITH A WINK AND A SMILE/ IF YOU STOP BY AND HAVE A YARN/
IT MAY TAKE A WHILE/ WHERE THEY DRINK CUPS OF TEA/ AND HOMEMADE MOONSHINE/ WOOLOMIN IS THE HEART OF COUNTRY LIFE/ AND SHE'S OUR TOWN / SHE'S OUR TOWN .. WOOLOMIN
It started outside the pub
On a misty Malanda day
There was woodchops and everything
And one of the boys had something to say
We got gymnastics and soccer and things we don't know
There's skate parks, push bikes and taekwondo
But all we really needed was a senior football side
To don the mighty colours and show this town some pride
You see it finished many years ago, before we were born
The memory lay dormant for thirty years or more
But the word had got around that there were maybe three or four
And the Eels got back together and Made Malanda roar
We are for one and all like thirty years before
And the boys all made a pact to never let it fall
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
This is Malanda playing for the blue and gold
Now we all know what's happened since deregulation set in
It broke some of our farmers, but there are still some hanging in
Wearing their hearts out on their sleeves, they've all stuck together
And that's what makes this town so proud to be Malanda
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
These are the farmers asking for a fair go
High in the mountains, deep in the scrub
There lie a battle they said just couldn't be won
But the pioneers all had a dream, that only they could see
And that's why this town of Malanda stands before you and me
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
This is Malanda playing for the blue and gold
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
These are the farmers asking for a fair go
In the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
We've all heard of Dawn Frazer who hailed from Balmain Town
She showed that it was possible to swim a hundred metres in under a minute
And if there was a lark going on, you can bet our Dawnie was in it.
Her first GOLD came in the Melbourne Olympics and she was still going strong in Rome.
By the time she'd finished in Tokoyo, she'd bought forty records home.
Cause in the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
On the track, we had Majorie Jackson, the fabulous “Lithgow Flash”.
In '52,she claimed GOLD and World Records in both the one and two hundred metre dash.
And never forget Betty Cuthbert, Australia's first “Golden Girl.”
When Betty got to the Melbourne Olympics, she gave that track a twirl..
In the women's one hundred metre sprint, it was GOLD to Australia that day.
Then in the two hundred metres, GOLD again came Australia's way.
In the four by one hundred metre relay, our “Golden Girl” did it once more.
Then eight years later in Tokyo, Betty added more GOLD to the score.
Cause in the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
In the pool, we've had Curry and Lenton, Riley, Gould, Lewisand Brown
On the track, we've had Nunn, Fleming, Saxby and Boyle
with Gainsford and Freeman's reknown.
In the past we've cheered wildly and proudly for Susie and Becky and Marina
and Rachel, Marayka and Nova and Elli, Tracey and Katrina
For our stars, both known and unknown, our hearts have beaten with pride
and none have even competed alone ,for they've had this whole nation on side.
Cause in the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
On The Run .. V1. She ran away from Runaway Bay/ A Long reach away from home/ She had seven thrills in Seven Hills / You couldn't call her on the phone / V2. She had a good time in Narromine/ took her back pack to Crackin Back and back/ She ended up in Jindabyne/ Had a stack off the beaten track / Ch: She's on the run to have some fun/ kickin up her heels spinnin out her wheels/ She's on the go, boy don't you know/ She won't be back and that's a fact / V.3 She went to work in the back o Bourke/ Pickin fruit she learnt to shoot/ She lost a shoe in Dunedoo/ She couldn't dance she learnt to bootscoot/ V.4. She met a bloke in the town of Broke / kissed a man in Brighton Le Sands / She rowed a boat to and fro Norfolk/ She finally caught her man in romance.
They're on the run to have some fun/ kickin up their heels spinnin out the wheels/ She's on the go, boy don't you know/ She won't be back and that's a fact ..
There’s something in the air up here that seems to make you smile,
Not like the crowded city folk where smilin’s out of style.
So when you’re walking down the road strangers still hello you,
And the people in the shops and stores are pleased to get to know you.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea,
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be.
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam,
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home.
Up here you’ll find the peacefulness that any man would seek,
Among the ancient forests and along the Obi creek.
When the sky comes dropping down the world can disappear,
Within the soft embrace of clouds you’ll know that heaven is near
I drink with men whose father’s father’s came here long ago,
To build a life that’s different with no pretentiousness or show.
Why I’m here I’m not so sure I know the reason why,
But there’s something about Maleny – can’t avoid it if you try.
Within this magic hinterland, the places I’ve explored,
I’ve come to think I’m living in the bosom of the Lord.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home
Entry by Ella Davies from Bega High School. Written at a Landcare camp at Bournda
Bega
V1
There's a dark side of Bega
that people often see
the drugs and drink
The side that scares me
Chorus
But there's a bright side, a right side
The hidden side
People actually care
The hippy side some would say
But its the right side for me
V2
The parks, the walks
Our house on the hill
15 minutes from the beach
this place is for me
V3
The people we see
The places we go
The vegans and the bogans
My family and me
Our Jessie dog's been beggin'
to tear off for a run,
the dam's in sight,such sweet delight
that mud's incredible fun!
The kids they'll all get coated
& plaster it in their hair,
call around the neighbourhood
& give their friends a scare!
chorus...That dam's so central to our lives
it really is a treasure,
gives us so much pure joy
way beyond all measure.
We've dangled chunks of chicken bits
from twine upon a stick,
hauled out lots of yabbies-
masses,nipping,fat & thick;
Even famous,wealthy folk
who've really done it all,
reckon this enticing yabbying's
the absoluteness of having a ball!
chorus
God's great world beneath the weed
in this our Bundy dam,
chock full of fish & turtle life
beyond the realms of man;
Let's keep it clean & special
for it's a landmark too,
has entertained us all for years
our wonder water zoo!
Little town, time forgotten,
spose there's nothin' to see
But I reckon it's slow enough
and it'll do me
We've got not nothing to shame us
But let beauty blame us
For keepin' our secret 'hard kept' from the world
Blink and you'll miss us
On a post card with kisses
Wish you here with us
at Coledale by the sea
Is our name 'beer' in origin ?
Were we named after coal ?
Were we fashioned in granite like the war's 'Honor Roll' ?
Where loss wont belittle me
Coledale to Gallipolli
Jack Simpson worked underground
Black coal for his crust.Sent his hard earned to Mother
Tar soap for the dust
His black and white photo, hangs up in the local
set sail for the 'motherland'
to fight Johnny Turk
Old enough to work underground
Too young for a Missus
To write home some kisses
........Black coal for his crust from the seam in Coledale
Little town,time forgotten
Nothin' to see
Unless you open your eyes up
there's more history
Quiet girl ran through ocean mist
In the still of the morn
Steel town will and an iron fist
then savagely torn
Little boy, held her hand ,
His mum's Kerryn McCann
On a lap made for victory
Twas a sad valedictory
You can take all the gold,
and melt it all down......
A hero, a Mother from Coledale her town.
Should I think that you'd miss us
From beyond the cold pale
Little town by the seaside struck two stamps for your mail
Heroes have havens and their Holy Grails
Each fought the good fight, they fought tooth and nail
They're here and in spirit. If you come here you'll feel it
In the blink of an eyelid 'twas their home in Coledale.
TAMWORTH ON THE RIVER PEEL
IS THE GREATEST PLACE ON EARTH
ITS THE COUNTRY MUSIC CAPITOL
AUSTRALIA IS ITS BIRTH
THE FANS THEY COME FROM NEAR AND FAR
TO CHEER THEIR SINGERS ON
AND SING AND DANCE AND PARTY
EVERYDAY AND ALLNIGHT LONG
CHORUS
WE BOAST THE WAX MUSEUM
WE DO THINGS HERE IN STYLE
A MIGHTY TOURIST CENTRE
YOU CAN WALK A COUNTRY MILE
THE TREC AND EQUINE CENTRE
THE WONDEROUS HANDS OF FAME
TSA SONGWRITINGS TRIBUTE
AND THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME.
THE GOLD GUITARS AND CAMERATA
STARMAKERS ALL FIND STARS
THE FANS GO THERE IN THOUSANDS
THEY FILL THE CLUBS AND HOTEL BARS
YOU,LL FIND RECORDING STUDIOS
AND BUSKERS ON THE STREET
THERES MANY GLOWING POETS
ALREADY TO COMPETE
REPEAT CHORUS.
THERE,,S CAMPERS ON THE RIVER BANK
IN TENTS AND CARAVANS
SO THEY CAN PLAY IN TAMWORTH
AND HEAR THEIR FAVOURITE BANDS
ITS EVERY MUSOS PARADISE
EVERYONE CAN HAVE A GO
IN COUNTRY MUSIC CAPITOL
LET EVERYBODY KNOW
Forged around factories, mills and pits
A town nestled high in the mountains blue
Where working class people are the fabric
Family, hard yakka and mateship the glue
Verse 2
Home of the factory that armed our forces for war
Birthplace of the industry that built this nation
With abundant supplies of natural resources
This valley has always been such a prime location
Verse 3
To the steelworkers the potters their wives and kids
To the factory workers, miners and railwaymen
We pay tribute to what they got on with and did
And homage to the community that supported them
Chorus
Bent backs, calloused hands, lungs dusted with coal
Young men once - grown prematurely old
To my town these men are the heart and soul
Gateway to the central west, my town Lithgow
Verse 1:
I know a place with the whitest sand
I know a place where the rainbows land
I know a place where the dolphins play
And the mermaids go on holiday
Chorus:
It’s not too fancy, no it’s just right
You might even call it paradise
So if you’re looking for a place to get away Then come on down to Jervis Bay
Verse 2:
I know a place with the sweetest breeze I know a place with whispering trees I know a place where the eagles fly And the clouds all love to surf the sky
Chorus:
It’s not too fancy, no it’s just right
You might even call it paradise
So if you’re looking for a place to get away Then come on down to Jervis Bay
Verse 3:
I know a place with possums and roos
I know a place where ships like to cruise I know a place with a turquoise sea And everyday is like winning the lottery
Chorus:
It’s not too fancy, no it’s just right
You might even call it paradise
So if you’re looking for a place to get away Then come on down to Jervis Bay Come on down to Jervis Bay Come on down to Jervis Bay
Our highland town called Tumbarumba sometime referred to as land
Of thunder. Where the skies are blue and the streams run crystal clear.
The rolling hills and valleys and the breathtaking mountain view.
Kosciusko; snow-capped, so far and yet so near
An awesome pleasure just in living here.
I walked from Murray’s crossing to Tumbarumba, years ago.
Even then a big tall lad just sixteen years or so.
I met this chap half up the street, the side of the two hotels.
“He said my names Plum Wildsmith boy, and are you doing well?”
He had an old bush had, pulled low, down over his sunburnt brow,
Looking so much a stockman, a man who just knew how..
A stock-whip curled around his shoulder, the lash end hanging low,
He must have been a drover, it wasn’t there for show.
He started singing then, a tune, no matter how I try,
I can’t remember much of, those many years gone by.
Looking back a few of the words keep ringing in my mind,
Perhaps if I think hard enough, my memory might be kind.
“Spend a week on the Tumbarumba creel, and there you’ll always stay
I know because I came here with my good old horse and dray.”
I wonder did he mention the hills on the eastern side,
Those rugged mountain ridges tipped with snow
The rolling slopes on the western side, where the soft green grasses grow,
Come along to Tumbarumba and you’ll know.
Did he really mention the murmur, as the creek goes gently by,
Or looking up at night time at the stars.
The wildflowers and the bird life…. and breath the mountain air,
Take time to look around you, you’ll find an answer there.
So many things have changed since then and some things much the same
Those English trees with their trunks still standing proud.
And the Autumn leaves still coloured are painting the valley wide.
Our forebears who planted them, keep looking down with pride.
The Tumbarumba garden club as well now are waving their magic wand,
Painting a beautiful landscape there, for all to see..
The wondrous splash of colours in the street gardens and beyond
Where else in this world would you rather be?
So we’ll spend a week on the Tumbarumba creek.
We’ll walk downstream from the pony club, side the mountain stream so cool,
The steel ringed fence of the showground lined with trees,
Take in the site of the caravan park, then past the swimming pool,
Cross over the creek at the half moon bridge, and feel the evening breeze.
We’ll pause awhile at the kids skate park and watch the kids at play,
Note the big flash motel on the right hand side, not so very far away.
The monuments to Hume and Hovel, to our miners and mill hands,
Further down, stonework to honour our farmers, the ones who worked the land.
Follow the path to the water wheel, brought down from an out-town mill.
The library close with the high pitched roof reaching ever upward still.
The bowling club with its own motel… book in there for the night.
Think to myself, well, Plum old fellow, you were absolutely right.
When I speak about Tumbarumba.
Where’s that I hear you say?
I answer then, with a touch of country prid.
“It’s a little town placed halfway between
Sydney and Melbourne,
Just shoved a mite there to the side”.
How come you happen to be here then?
Again I hear you say
“Well the lord he kinda dropped me here
And me being kinda slow
Thought what the heck I like it here and
Didn’t feel the need to go.”
Now as I sit up here in my house in town
And sharpen up my pen
Writing about my shearing days, thinking
What might have been.
Had I travelling around this wide world.
Seen the wonders there unfold
Have I missed so much I wonder, as my
Bones are growing old.
You see this is the place where the distant
Hills show up in shades of blue
Further there the peaks of Kosciusko rise
White in winter’s stately view.
And I look across the fertile soils of these
Valleys and those hills.
Surrounded by the pines all spreading wide
And I see the kangaroos lying in a clearing
There, on the sunny side.
The young lambs running, and frolicking
Under their mothers and watchful eye
And I see the clouds are forming in the
Distant blue green sky.
There’s a winding creek and willow trees,
And cattle grazing there.
I walk slowly along with my fishing rod
Neither worry nor a care, as
I rest awhile neath a shady tree and enjoy
Just being there.
I grew up at the end of a long winding road
where the grass trees burned
and the limestone caves
drew me into a mountain world
Life and death were every day around me
a new calf born and the old dog dies
the river swelling to clean her sides
Take me back
across,
where the sun sets high and the stars a fiery blanket
Take me back
across,
Across The Great Divide
I left home and I set up in the city
where the buildings shine
and the pulse of life
drew me into a neon world
The daily grind was every day around me
On the train and the bus ride home
No-one talks, everyone's alone
Take me back
across,
where the sun sets high and the stars a fiery blanket
Take me back
across,
Across The Great Divide
I moved back to the other side of the mountains
where the ocean tide
and the river mouth
drew me into a sandy world
My family is every day around me
the town is small and the pace is slow
there's no place I'd rather go
But - Take me back
across,
where the sun sets high and the stars a fiery blanket
Take me back
across,
Across The Great Divide
Look at the moon
Look at the Heavens
At the Southern stars
Running above The Great Dividing Range.
The show is free, free.
The display is a wonder to see
Such colours, the world's envy.
Its tempers rage from silence
To thunder and lightening,
Loud booming strikes in the skies
That sometimes hit the Eucalypt trees
Australia the rage, from A to Z,
Goes from silence to the booming muster
By the sea
To its incredible blue hue
Its special light
That makes Australia
The amazing home
For all nation's many.
They used to roam those hills,Ev and Al,when they were boys.
They had an old pea rifle and rabbit traps for toys.
Ally was a good shot and Evie he was quick,they used to pair those rabbits and hang them from a stick.
Then they'd pedal off to town,to the freezer they would go,
to sell their little rabbits,then off to the Picture Show.
They'd meet up with their brothers and old 'English Bill",
then after the pictures,they'd walk bsack to Tent Hill.
CHORUS:
And let's hear it once again,for the old Tent Hill Hall,
where every Christmas time,those kids would have a ball.
Santa came through the front door,they'd collect presents from the tree,
those were happy times,such special memories.
--------------------------
And the old school still stands,amongst the hills today,
and as he leans on the fence,he can hear those children play.
There in the distance he thought he heard a yell,
was it their old teacher,Barry Michell?
Mum and Dad with thirteen children,and their little old tin mine.
Those were the good old days,though he knows he can't stop time,
He recalls their trips to Glen Creek,for a picnic and a swim,
Their Mum and Dad would sit and watch them all,run and laugh and then jump in.
CHORUS:
(As above)
Now they've all grown up,some had children,some moved on.
Dad likes to share his stories,and say a prayer for brother Ron.
To him it all still matters,and it is plain to see,
there's nothing more important than friends and family.
CHORUS:
(As Above)
Yes,those were happy times such special memories.
Kiama Kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but Kiama Kiama is home for me, where beauty is all around Kiama kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but kiama kiama is home for me.
Verse 1:
Where the blowhole is blowing, the waves at our beaches are roaring making great for surfing, and the Jamberoo hills are really rollie, where the mountains meet up high in saddleback mountain, what a view, where else would you rather be but (go to the chorus x 1)
Verse 2:
Our eaters are fabulous we even have a Gloria Jean, our clubs are competitive really community supportive, whether shopping for a bargain or special antic, our shops are grand, whether young or old there's lots for the whole family to do where else would you rather be but (go to the Chorus x 1)
Verse 3:
Our icons have put us on the world map, we are full of beauty from head to toe, from shades of blue to green, it's all here for you to see, so come see for yourself where else would you rather be but (go to the chorus x 2)
It was a town when I was born
many years ago
A town built upon some caves
we want the world to know
Tourists they all come
from everywhere to see
This now famous Blue Lake City
so listen now to me.
CHORUS
Blue Lake water. Limestone Caves
Trees growing everywhere
Tourist’s walking round our town
They don’t even have a care
They come from other states
and overseas as well
But when they see this city
they say they have come to dwell.
Now in Mount Gambier is always busy
with many industries
among these is our timber transport
and wineries.
While along the Limestone Coast now
our fishing fleets are strong.
If ever you have to leave here
You won’t be gone for long.
Repeat chorus to the end.
Repeat last lines of chorus.
Verse 1
In the early morning light
Not a soul in sight
Hear the rooster crowing
There’s a lone dog barking
Birds start singing
A new day is beginning
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Verse 2
Now no longer dark
Walking in the park
It’s another brand new day
See the children play
People passing by
Some stop they say “Hi”
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Chorus
There’s a butcher, there’s a baker
Check out the candlestick maker
The streets they come alive
As more people they arrive
This is the place to be
This is the place for me
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Verse 3
Now the day is done
As I watch the setting sun
No need for me to roam
I’ll just head off to my home
It all feels so right
On another starlit night
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Chorus
There’s a butcher, there’s a baker
Check out the candlestick maker
The streets they come alive
As more people they arrive
This is the place to be
This is the place for me
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
I love my life in a small country town
Long haul
Mack power
Hit the wall
Watch the hours
Six deck load
Travelling hard
Worn-out road
To Roma yard
Past where the Maranoa’s running
That Mitchell girl she knows he’s coming
Fresh horses, dogs, and country waiting
They’ll take their time with celebrating
Too long alone, so far to roam,
Best welcome known, when Mitchell’s home.
Rough block
Tough crew
Rowdy stock
Horses too
Cattle in
Loaded, gone
They all grin
They’re heading home
To where the Maranoa’s running
That Mitchell girl she knows he’s coming
Fresh horses, dogs, and country waiting
They’ll take their time with celebrating
Too long alone, so far to roam,
Best welcome known, when Mitchell’s home.
Dump trucks
Drag lines
Big bucks
Coal mines
Twelve hour days
Two weeks straight
One week off
And he can’t wait
Because the Maranoa’s running
That Mitchell girl she knows he’s coming
Fresh horses, dogs, and country waiting
They’ll take their time with celebrating
Too long alone, so far to roam,
Best welcome known, when Mitchell’s home,
When Mitchell’s home.
Jock Douglas
Verse 1
Rows of empty houses with their stories in the past The distant roar of engines rumbles through 'The Last Post'
Coloured wreaths and home made scones, a gentle warming breeze It's Anzac Day in Acland, little town brought to her knees
The comp'ny spoke of jobs and schools, salvation for the town Bit hard to find the place this year since the street signs have come down Singled out the town folk, sent them packing one-by-one But it's Anzac Day in Acland and the final deal's not done
Chorus:
Promises are broken once a foot is in the door For everything it's taken, it just keeps on wanting more Now we see the scope of what was planned right from the start New Hope has its sights on Acland's township, Acland's heart
Verse 2:
We wonder what the mine will do with the memorial They sent a rep to lay a wreath this year, I guess they'll make the call Diggers sent to die in lands of which they'd never heard The bosses give the orders and the rest must take their word
Chorus 2:
Funny how our fears don't always serve our real needs Water, food and air take a back seat to corporate greed Our future's only built on what we will believe Our imaginations sow our future's only seed
Verse 3:
If seasons pass and Acland sees another Anzac Day To the morning service on the Downs I'll make my way 'Cuz it's good to know a fighter and a towel that's not been thrown in yet So spend Anzac Day in Acland, little town 'Lest we forget'.
Just 20kms from the coast
is the place we call home
its not very big
though many tracks to roam
Chorus
Surrounded by mountains and farms all around is a town called Wyndham no better place to be found the locals are all friendly and from all walks of life from city people to farmers hippies and the like
Kinder to yr6 less than 20 kids at school we have a park and an oval but we have no swimming pool Chorus
the local shop is our post office
its called the Wyndham store
Robbie Burns is our pub
the best drinking hole thats for sure
Chorus
Your Town, Your Song – Mullumbimby
If ever you've lived in Mullum there's something about her that gets under your skin and you will always be a Mullumite!
Here's my song about my beloved little town!
Mullumbimby
Back in the thirties a thought flashed through his eyes
Dear Ol' Uncle Tom, cooked up his yummy pies.
Out on the Highway, where the truckies stopped to eat,
Now it's an outpost, but still the place they meet.
Chorus:
Mullumbimby - she's the town of the small round hill
Rising Mount Chinney - Australia's first light spill.
If you've ever loved her and now that you're apart
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Seventies was her heyday, for hippies in this town
Peace-loving children, not clothed with a shirt or gown.
Smokin' "Mullum Madness", while the Police did some raids
T'was funny when they burnt it - they all looked in a daze.
Chorus:
Mullumbimby - she's the town of the small round hill
Rising Mount Chinney - Australia's first light spill.
If you've ever loved her and now that you're apart
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Her locals are people who've lived here all their lives,
It's the tree-changing faces, now grace her new disguise.
With long days of summer, and in the swelt'ring heat
The Popular or The Empire are the cafés where we greet!
Chorus:
Mullumbimby - she's the town of the small round hill
Rising Mount Chinney - Australia's first light spill.
If you've ever loved her and now that you're apart
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart.
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart!
INJUNE chorus Injune its a town near the valley Injune free from worries and strife Injune where the cattle are grazing Injune its a cowboys life. Verse 1 Time near the valley is gentle Its a time where people reflect Of days from long ago ringers To the days of now we respect. Verse 2 Riding proud in the saddle These men of the Carnarvons we speak Many stories of long ago stockman We marvel at the strength of their feats. Verse 3 The struggles of yesterdays hardships The teaching of young people we seek Trying to instill the proud knowledge We hope, as past ringers will repeat. Verse 4 So join with us in our conquest To keep our proud tradition alive The men and women of Injune Look up with your head held high. Chorus x 2
I’d just sped through my old home town
My kids asked, “What’s that place”
So I turned around and took them back
It was hard for me to face.
My old home town is dyin’
Most business has closed down,
The country towns are loosin’ out
Most folks there wear a frown.
Sometimes the place you’re destined
Isn’t where you want to be,
And often the best of what you had
Lives just in memory.
(CHORUS)
My old home town is a memory
With thoughts of good times spent,
Like the old bush hall where for dancin’
On Fridays nights we went.
And the river once that wound its way
Through the gorges and the plains,
Where we used to fish for yellow belly
But never will again.
‘Cause they built a dam a way up stream
For the common good they said,
Now my old home town is a memory
It’s heart and soul is dead.
You see down by that dry creek bed
Where with Bruce my dog I’d run,
I’d go for a swim, swing from that tree,
We had a lot of fun.
With some smelly meat on a piece of string
Big yabbies we’d pull in
Then light a fire and boil them up
In an empty old milk tin.
We’d hunt for rabbits, we’d ride our horses,
Like the wind we felt so free,
I really loved how it was back then
An enduring memory.
(CHORUS)
My old home town is a memory
With thoughts of good times spent,
Like the old bush hall where for dancin’
On Fridays nights we went.
And the river once that wound its way
Through the gorges and the plains,
Where we used to fish for yellow belly
But never will again.
Cause they built a dam a way up stream
For the common good they said,
Now my old home town is a memory
It’s heart and soul is dead.
The meat works closed when the river died
It was the town’s lifeblood,
The banks then went, a sad event,
It soon became a flood.
People moved away in droves
Small business loss was great,
The writing was upon the wall
We had to face our fate.
It’s hard to fight what you can’t control
Get on top of adversity,
I often think how it used to be
How sad that memory.
(CHORUS)
My old home town is a memory
With thoughts of good times spent,
Like the old bush hall where for dancin’
On Fridays nights we went.
And the river once that wound its way
Through the gorges and the plains,
Where we used to fish for yellow belly
But never will again.
Cause they built a dam a way up stream
For the common good they said,
Now my old home town is a memory
It’s heart and soul is dead.
Still trying to say goodbye
By Mick Fleming
Verse 1
I sit up on his front step
And look out at the view
Recollecting those memories
Of the man that once we knew
He settled in Coolah town
Beyond the black stump with his wife
And in this small proud country town
You see, he spent his life
A woman I never met before
Was at the funeral for Ambo Ray
She held my hand for hope and said
Your Dad saved my life one day
They put a plaque on the station wall
A nice headstone on his grave
But all he ever cared about
Were the lives and pain he saved
Chorus
I went to your farewell
And I felt everyone’s cry
I still go to sleep, your picture beside my bed
Still trying to say goodbye
Just one sheet of paper
On the kitchen table laid
To define her grief and list her love
The difference that it made
Verse 2
My Daughter cried and poured one night
Her loss it wouldn’t stop
I said to her, ”Just write a note”
To the one she lost called Pop
Next morning I woke up
On the kitchen table laid
Her thoughts and heart were written down
On just one single page
She said,
Pop, I wanted to say Hi
I would have written sooner
But I was busy growing up
You’re the bravest person I remember
I just remember you as my grandfather
I took it for granted you were here to stay
You were always there and I didn’t get a chance to thank you
Before you went away
You were always rattling change in your pocket
Whenever you were around
It was a sign of your rich and generous heart
Whenever I heard the sound
Chorus
I went to your farewell
And I felt everyone’s cry
I still go to sleep, your picture beside my bed
Still trying to say goodbye
Just one sheet of paper
On the kitchen table laid
To define her grief and list her love
The difference that it made
Verse 3
The hardest thing for Ray to lose
Was never monetary strife
The one thing that gave him greatest pain
Was losing someone else’s life
His heart so big it gave out
As he began to fall
Before he even touched the ground
You knew he gave his all
So often near the Black Stump
You can hear the people say
“Remember Ambo Ray,
He saved my life one day”
(Mick) Of all the people that he touched
Oh, I’m the lucky one
You know, I used to call him Dad
And he proudly called me, Son
Chorus
I went to your farewell
And I felt everyone’s cry
I still go to sleep, your picture beside my bed
Still trying to say goodbye………
Through Depression and War and changes of law, wet winters and sweltering sun
We’re proud of our town, our strength is renowned, we survived by working as one.
Northcliffe’s unique, from beginnings so bleak no-one thought we would survive
But we rode out the rough, Northcliffians are tough and now we’re enjoying the ride.
Hear the singing, hear the call, come together one and all
Northcliffe is the town for you to see
Hear the ringing of the laughter, you’ll remember ever after
Northcliffe is the place for you to be.
Come see for yourself, and the good of your health, there’s fishing, marron and beer
Timber, truffles, dairy, walk trails and the Karri Cup race every year.
Up hills, through bush, one hundred k’s long, leg muscles screaming with pain
As hundreds of riders pedal like hell, competing for fortune and fame.
Group Settlers were here in the beginning, echoes of their axe still ring clear
Though Northcliffe has grown, their spirits still roam as they watch over the town they held dear.
In the South West of Western Australia, where Karri trees tower so tall
The Southern Ocean and Forest meet at Northcliffe,
the best place to live in of all.
VERSE 1
From city roots, she was born and bred
Amid the bright lights and the noise
Feeling alone
Strangers all around
Needs to find a place to call her own
VERSE 2
She found her love, and a farming life
With crisp spring mornings, summer rain
Nature’s bounty
Sometimes cruel
She’s found a place to call her own
CHORUS
Corowa saw a nation born
She watches on with pride
A humble town on the mighty Murray
Our country is her child
My town and me we’re just the same
We watch our children grow
Independent, strong and free
VERSE 3
Her children gone their different ways
She looks back on what her life did bring
A loving family
Her pride and joy
In Corowa-town , she’ll always be at home
The area I live in, is called the Burdekin.
It’s the place where great things happen.
It has a population of 20,000 people,
If you search it up on the map we are just a tiny dot,
Though really we’re one great spot.
We’re 100 kilometres south of Townsville.
And that’s the best place there could ever be,
We are a sugar cane growing industry,
My town has it’s own sugar cane mill,
Every night I see cane fires burn,
And it snow black ash, which is called cane trash,
In the mornings I hear trains, carrying the cane, to the mill,
So it can be turned into sugar.
Everything is a sight to see,
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
(CHORUS) The town I live in, is called the Burdekin,
And it’s the place where great things happen.
It is the nicest town you’ll see, and the friendliest place you’ve ever been.
Also the most active, fit and sporty spot,
On the map we’re just a dot.
We’re all like one big family.
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
In 2007 we won the tidy town award,
In the Burdekin you never get bored,
We have our water and harvest festival,
Always enjoyed by all,
We have our famous Burdekin Bridge,
Which was opened in 1957,
It took ten years to construct,
It recently celebrated it’s fifty-third birthday,
It is special in every way,
The bridge also has a catwalk,
So we can have a closer look,
It’s also know as the Silver Link,
It lets us go across the river where we get our water from to drink,
It cost six million dollars to build,
The bridge connects Ayr to Home Hill,
Also the north and far north of Queensland,
We have beautiful wildlife all over the land,
And lovely beaches with shells and sand,
Out in the country is pretty,
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
(CHORUS)
The members of our community are very clever,
We always work together,
So we can have sport,
Cause we are the athletic sort,
We have our tennis, cricket, swimming and golf club,
Which everyone does love,
Also the netball, soccer and the sprints team,
Everyone lives their dreams,
And for our education,
Our school is really cool,
We have the largest oval in Queensland,
And three fabulous playgrounds,
We also have great learning facilities,
And thousands of books in our libraries,
And all our different technologies,
Like cameras, computers, music and TVs,
There are extremely smart students and good teachers,
School teaches me to works a team and reach my dream,
And also helps me achieve my goals,
And the best thing about it is, it’s a bully- free zone,
In our town you’re never alone,
We are all friends,
The kindness never ends,
We are all one big family,
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
The Burdekin
From the capital so it is about the district of Australia
I have gazed on far horizons o’er the dusty dancing plain,
I have seen the wheatstalks standing straight and tall
I have heard Galahs in thousands screeching out their wild refrain
And their strident song of freedom echoes forth to one and all
I have watched the storm clouds sailing like huge galleons overhead
And seen their drops bring life to all the land
I know not to love this country is to mean the soul is dead
For the miracles of God are all at hand
I have watched the southern cross unfurl as a brilliant scroll above
I know any worldly place that I may see
I can speak with pride and boasting of the country that I love
For I know that this Australia is for me
I have helped to move the cattle through the mountains snowy peaks
I have heard the stockwhips echoes ringing free
And have watched the cattle drinking at the swiftly flowing creeks
For this land gives of its’ gifts abundantly
I have heard excited barking as sheepdogs bring back the strays
I have seen the tide of wool sweep o’er the hills
I have worked the shearing muster on these golden peaceful days
As the shearers clip the harvest for the mills
I have watched a glorious sunset paint the deep blue sky above
I know any worldly place that I may be
I can speak with pride and boasting of the country that I love
For I know that this Australia is for me
I have felt the lift of oceans surge and watched the sea spume blown
As we crossed the harbour bar at break of day
I have smelt the salty breezes as we bring the trawlers home
And the glorious lights of heaven show our way
I have seen the giant caverns that men cut to mine the ore
And have heard the huge machines all creak and groan
Whilst the treasure that they bring forth puts this country to the fore
As the seeds of wealth and happiness are sown
I pray as tomorrows sunrise does dispel the dark above
And spreads light for all Australians living free
And makes the symbol of our country a glistening snow white dove
Yes, I know that this Australia is for me
vs 1
Small and friendly,stop and say hello
Chat to shopowners that you know
They give you pumpkin seeds they saved
Butchers cut your meat just the right way
The grocer asks how the kids are
And really want to know
They tell you who was married or born
and how about yesterday's huge storm
ch
On the banks where the Manning River ran
Once busy with factories, ships and men
Now its come back to life again
Children in the park run laughing
Tinonee, our town,keeps on lasting
vs2
Dirt roads, pot holes, windy bitchumen
Too narrow for that truck coming ahead
That paddock use to have cows
Remember that one use to grow peas
Now weeds and bracken shoot up with trees
Falling down fences die too
Driving over the old wooden bridge
That cloud of dust follows you
ch
On the banks where the Manning River ran
Once busy with factories, ships and men
Now its come back to life again
Children in the school run laughing
Tinonee,our town, keeps on lasting
vs3
But this town, our small country town
Its still here, its still the same
I drive past the shops and sports grounds
and see the young ones run around
They aren't my kids, but they are me
They are the heart of this small town
They put life into this small town...
Tinonee
ch
On the banks where the Manning River ran
Once busy with factories, ships and men
Now its come back to life again
Children on the fields run laughing
Tinonee , our town, keeps on lasting
1. This is a cotton’ chippin’ melon pickin’ kinda town
Right out here past the Western Downs
We go huntin’ and a piggin’ all year round
When Friday night comes we go to town
We go chasin’ the girls down by the riverside
Skiin’ and a fishin’ then in the ute for a ride
Circle work and throwin’ dye at the B and S
From the Gully to Gundi we never rest
CHORUS: So give it up for the St. George boys
Lovin their girls and their earthmoving toys
Give it up for the boys from the land
With sheep to shear and cattle to brand
2. Drivin’ to town all the way up the Moonie
A fella’s gotta be just a little bit loonie
Dodgin’ the roos and the emus too
We make it to town just to down a few
Sunday comes and we’re off to the football
Floggin’ the Red Bulls, Meggsie’s Call
Back to work and we’re changing pumps
Planting crops and burning out stumps
CHORUS: So give it up for the St. George boys
Lovin their girls and their earthmoving toys
Give it up for the boys from the land
Bringin’ some pride to the Longhorn brand
3. We buck em out big at the Rodeo
And at the Campdraft, the Polocrosse we put on a show
We’re livin’ our life and we’re livin’ to the full
And around the bar we’re breakin’ the rules
Crackin’ laps round town on a Saturday night
With my girl so bright in the Full Moon light
She’s lookin’ at me like I gotta impress her
So I look down and I give it to my ‘Cruiser
CHORUS: So give it up for the St. George boys
Lovin their girls and their earthmoving toys
Give it up for the boys from the land
We’re doin’ it tough, but we’re doin’ just grand
1. Dawn breaks over the Condamine River,
I tumble out of bed and give a little shiver,
A chilly start to a glorious day,
This is living life the Warwick way.
As Silos tower over golden wheatfields,
Cowboys run round rugby league fields,
Here we are at another day …
And up at St. Mary’s they begin to pray.
CHORUS: This is my town, this is my story,
This is the place so full of history,
This is where Queensland was born,
The heart and the soul of the Darling Downs.
2. Sandstone structures guard the main street,
Roses blooming, looking so sweet,
Cattle trucks boom down on the saleyard,
And crowds gather round at the Pig and Calf.
History tells us of the man, Jackie Howe,
Of farms and families and the dairy cow,
Warwick is a town with a history,
Of life, of love and mystery.
CHORUS: This is my town, this is my story,
This is the place so full of history,
This is the best of Queensland towns,
The heart and the soul of the Darling Downs.
3. There’ll be dust and flies at the Rodeo,
Australia’s Most Famous Buckjump Show,
The biggest and the best in all the land,
And old riders meet up in the grandstand.
Shannons Chips and a Hudson’s Pie,
This is home you’ll hear me cry,
The sights and the sounds of the Southern Downs,
Of Glengallan, Rosenthal and Allora town.
CHORUS: This is my town, this is my story,
This is the place so full of history,
This is the town of great renown,
The heart and the soul of the Darling Downs ...
VERSE 1
Have you seen the shoreline la-ate-ly
thought I didn't have the time
so now I've packed and moved on eh-else-where I only visit in my mind.
CHORUS
There are times I wish I could reach
back through time to Kingston Beach
I'd like to see that place again
(those) calming waters kept me saaaa-aaaaaane
Friday night when cheeky youths
would congregate, drink with their crew
blare their music from souped up Utes
beachside party time agaaaa-aaaain
VERSE 2
Sunday mornings slip slowly by
walk along, absorb the quiet
the beach is peaceful in the winter
water ripples catch the light.
VERSE 3
In the water, boats are bobbing
clothed with brightly coloured sails
I wonder if there is a race on
as I lean against the rail.
Hello sunshine, hello city
where the river life is pretty
Hello Brisbane... will you welcome me?
I'm a new arrival
seeking sweet reprieval
from the cold and wet
from my last home and hence upheaval
I like this warmer sunshine
days spent outside are divine
I wish more parks like these
were something that I could call mine
Hello sunshine, hello city
walking where bike lines are pretty
Hello Brisbane... what have you got for me?
This place is bold and busy
your buildings make me dizzy
so many skyscrapers and
so much opportunity
travel by train and ferry
the houseboats seem so merry
next time I travel on
I won't take more than I can carry
Hello sunshine, hello city
where the night lights are so pretty
Hello Brisbane... can you adopt me?
I need a new home.
There’s something in the air up here that seems to make you smile,
Not like the crowded city folk where smilin’s out of style.
So when you’re walking down the road strangers still hello you,
And the people in the shops and stores are pleased to get to know you.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea,
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be.
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam,
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home.
Up here you’ll find the peacefulness that any man would seek,
Among the ancient forests and along the Obi creek.
When the sky comes dropping down the world can disappear,
Within the soft embrace of clouds you’ll know that heaven is near
I drink with men whose father’s father’s came here long ago,
To build a life that’s different with no pretentiousness or show.
Why I’m here I’m not so sure I know the reason why,
But there’s something about Maleny – can’t avoid it if you try.
Within this magic hinterland, the places I’ve explored,
I’ve come to think I’m living in the bosom of the Lord.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home
Down to me' last dollar
I went to claim an allowance
An address they said I'd need.
So I said I'm livin' in.. 186 HR Holden,
Main Road an' I need a feed.
I live at Someplace Else
186 HR Holden
Main Road, Anywhere.
I'm livin someplace else
Could be down by a river
For me it's not a major care.
I heard the Ranga an' Mr Abbot
On the radio
They were fightn' tooth an' nail.
So I thought I better register to have a legal vote
But an address they needed without fail. So I told 'em
I live at Someplace Else
186 HR Holden
Main Road, Anywhere.
I'm livin someplace else
Could be down by a river
For me it's not a major care.
Now I'm over people askin'
Just exactly where I'm at.
I've decided to just chill and go.
If contact is required they'll find me on the web
At the double yoos dot someplace else. So..
I live at Someplace Else
186 HR Holden
Main Road, Anywhere.
I'm livin someplace else
Could be down by a river
For me it's not a major care.
Tallarook
In Tallarook "where things are crook", or so the saying goes
We've got the Dabyminga creek which very rarely flows.
Rook's name comes from the Wattle bird, a very common sight
And on his way to Melbourne, Ned Kelly stayed for just a night.
The red gums are so very tall, we've ranges that turn umber,
When time it is for sun to set, and folks prepare to slumber.
Two churches, general store and pub, mechanics hall provide.
A grass roots life, a place to meet, for all who here reside.
There's hills to climb and creeks to fish, wombats and roos abound,
And in the nooks if you have luck, there's gold flakes to be found.
The skies appear splashed with stars, the night air is so clear
You feel that you can reach and touch the Southern Cross so near.
The town it hasn't changed a lot since first I came to stay,
It's like a place that time forgot, folks like it just that way.
So, when you've tired of city life, you can come and take a look,
At this slower, quiet, tranquil place, it's a town called Tallarook.
My earliest inhabitants
braved the harsh elements
in makeshift homes of flimsy tents
while being watched over by ancient spirits in the hills.
Tho' they had little water
they stayed to tame the Pilbara,
giving me my name, Karratha,
and I'm here still.
Chorus.
I am Karratha,
nestled in the north of Western Australia,
I'm no longer JUST a mining town.
I am the gateway to the Pilbara,
where resources mingle with red dust and ochre
and no one can keep my spirit down.
I was born in the sixties
and have weathered some adversity;
sad memories from my twenties
bring an occasional tear.
Yet I tenaciously hung on,
like the bouganvillea I blossomed
now my dress is a colourful explosion
that I proudly wear.
I am now home to many companies,
forging futures for families
from Australia and from overseas
who come to the Pilbara for work.
Just as the errant willie-willies
carry their gathered debris,
so I carry hopes but it doesn't weary me
for I stand firm in this orange-red dirt.
Streaky
bay As you drive into town,there's views all the way,
A welcoming place, beautiful Streaky Bay.
The whiting abound, The squid a delight!
Watch them pull them in on our jetty at night.
There's waves here to surf, if you've got no fear,
But watch out for pointers,there's plenty round here!
There's pristine beaches and a seal colony down the track,
Once you've been to Streaky,you'll want to come back.
Friendly people,smiling faces,a pub to rival the best,
Streaky Bay, the place to stay,my favourite in the west.
I love this town I live in,that's all I've got to say;
The wonderful, the peaceful,the lovely Streaky Bay.
chorus: Streaky Bay! Streaky Bay!
A coastal town in SA
Eat some oysters, have a play!
Everyone loves Streaky Bay.
Walking down the old dirt road,
Memories carved in from long ago
When the pioneers claimed this land for there own
Now the memories like the wind are blown
Plenty of history lies all around this town
Amongst the trees, the streams, secrets hidden in the ground.
If you only listen you will hear the sounds.
And when the night time falls and the sun is gone,
You can feel your never really alone,
As the darkness creeps and day time's seized.
Feel the presence of old families.
*Chorus*
Take a minute stop and look,
Carilla now named Pickering Brook
Years pass by and memories whither,
But the history here will live forever
Old saw mills, you can imagine the sounds,
Wood choppers chopping all around,
But not with a chainsaw like the ones today
Hand sawing trees would take all day,
Can you picture the old steam train?
Puffing up that hill again,
Destinations along the way,
to arrive in Carilla that same day.
*Chorus*
Take a minute stop and look,
Carilla now named Pickering Brook
Years pass by and memories whither,
But the history here will live forever
Barton's Mill, have you ever heard it?
Where the prisoners were kept, men who murdered.
The stories that lie beneath those woods,
Are best left hidden in the trees for good.
So if your passing by this simple little town,
Take your trip slowly and have a good look around,
And remember history lies in the earth, in the ground,
And is not always so easily found.
Eumundi Markets
G. P. Torrens
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
The buskers sing and dance and mime
as they slither through the streets.
And the locals sell their fruits straight from the vine
or as tasty little treats.
There are home made vests, leather belts
and colourfully, patched britches.
but the favourites have to be the cackling, clapping witches.
You will have a great time if you wander up this way
But make sure you come on a Saturday
Cause during the week, the stalls all go to ground
And it seems like there's not a single soul to be found.
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
So make up a list of the things you want to buy
and take the whole family cause if you don't, they'll cry.
Stop and see the lovely sights as you wend along the way
Just make sure you get there before Saturday
You'll never get a park if you tarry or delay
And once you arrive, you'll really want to stay.
The locals are a hoot, each and every one
and visiting Eumundi is guaranteed to be fun.
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
People come here jaded after a full and busy week
But a smile appears upon their face when they find the things they seek
The scents of home made jams, pickles, cakes and soap
Seems to soothe them all and fill them with new hope.
The laughter and the sharing of the people in the town
Make them feel a kinship and breaks all barriers down.
When finally, it's time to leave old Eumundi town,
It seems like everyone has forgotten how to frown.
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
I may not be a Banjo or a Henry
But I'm Aussie just the same
And if you give me a chance
I'll tell you about my town from where I came
It's a little place called Bombala on Monaro ground
where platypus swim and kangaroos bound
sheep and cattle graze just to pass the day
winter's cold and we don't get a lot of rain.
CHORUS
She's country through and through
lifes you up when you're feeling blue
with smiling faces and a g'day
that's just the Bombala way.
Once to be the capital city but that all changed
when snow and water shortage changed the mind of the government of the day
now she's just a sleepy country town
with smiling faces all around.
Repeat Chorus
There's not a lot you'd want to change
where everyone knows everyone by first name
but ain't that the country way
where you help one another when times get tough
you work as one when disaster strikes
that's the Bombala way of life.
Repeat Chorus
SONG 2
"I'M FREE LIVING IN THE COUNTRY"
Gumtrees line the roadway leading to my town
cattle and sheep graze
magpies yodel to wake the day
I'm free living in the country
You can drive an hour to the mountains or the sea
but Bombala's the place for me
she's cold in winter but the warmth of smiling
faces and a g'day to get me through.
CHORUS
I'm free living in the country
Yeah I'm free living in the country
got platypus swimming, magpies yodelling
sheep and cattle grazing
kookaburras laughin
yeah I'm free, living in the country
So why don't you come and see
you'll be welcomed to my town
it's a place to see, the only place to be
Bombala, she's dinky di, true blue
Aussie through and through.
Verse 1
As the noble boughs are swaying on the gum trees by the door
and the winter winds are echosed 'cross the hills.
I sit and write, reflecting on the journey that has been.
With the warmth of new found friendships my heart fills...
T'was a calling to the Mountains, to a different way of life
and a chance to start our city life anew.
Down by the Snowy River with the distant snow-capped ranges
the sweet splendor of the "High Country" just grew...
But the beauty of the mountains doesn't just lie in the landscape
or the majestic vision of a distant view.
It's a true and lasting beauty that the eye can not behold
and a gift that just can not be bought, it's true...
Verse 2
It's the beauty of the people; it's the passion in their souls.
It's the stanch and stoic humble mountain way.
It's the battling through the hard times, the rejoicing in the good
and the helping of a mate who's gone astray...
It's supporting your community; pitch in when times are tough,
or volunteer to help a local cause.
It's the group participation, raising funds for someone needy
and the comfort of the "always open doors"...
It's "My Mate Jack" who's eighty-nine and shares his precious yarns
as he says "Come, sit, I'll tell you some more lies!"
His face lights up, his chest swells, as he talks about the past
and his memories of the war bring misty eyes...
Verse 3
It's my dear friend Jackie Jackson - she's a real life inspiration,
She is always there to lend a helping hand.
She's got five kids of her own, but you never hear her groan,
and her smile and laughter leave a lasting brand...
Now we're raising our two children on our farm here in the country,
such a contrast from the streets where I grew up.
The city life of Redfern seems a million miles away
where I played and strayed when I was just a pup...
But for those who said "Sheer Madness!" when we said "we're going bush"
you can see it's not as crazy as it seems.
Our lives have been transformed, inspired, enriched beyond belief
as we now live out our true "High Country Dreams"...
CHORUS
It's the 'characters', the 'larrikins', the wry bush sense of humour,
that always seems to strike a special chord.
History, heritage and pride, the legend never died.
It's why the Banjos 'Man' is so adored...
This is my home town - this is my song,
Telling the story of where I belong.
Sure springs of water made Springsure a town,
When wagoneers rested, and laid their loads down.
CHORUS
Little old town, holding my heart,
Time walk and distance won't tear it apart.
Under the mountains - lulled by the spring -
Always the voice of my home town will sing.
Hear from the Dreamtime, corroboree feet
Stamping at dusk in a primitive beat.
Rail lines lie rusting - road trains roll on -
Songs of the Dreamtime have vanished and gone.
CHORUS
Little old town, holding my heart.
Time walk and distance, won't tear it apart,
Under the mountains - lulled by the spring -
Always the voice of my home town will sing.
Mountains of mem'ry rise to the sky,
Hearing the sound of the spring's lullaby.
When I am wearied, my soul will attest
That here in the valley is where I will rest.
CHORUS
Little old town, holding my heart.
Time walk and distance, won't tear it apart,
Under the mountains - lulled by the spring -
Always the voice of my home town will sing.
Spring time in Bellingen town
(waltzy)
river risin', no surprisin', coz the rains coming down,
its spring time in Bellingen town
crack of thunder, bridge is under, now the main roads shut down,
its spring time in Bellingen town
all the fella's, unberellas, leanin' outside the pub,
the old gumboots left by the door
look of worry, step of hurry, coz the foods running out,
inside the grocery store
(CHORUS)
ooooh i hear the rain (i hear the rain)
slippin and slidin, there ain't no denying
the wettest spot in New South Wales
river risin, no surprisin, coz the rains coming down,
its spring time in Bellingen town
(Instrumental verse)
(CHORUS)
S.e.s men, gotta flood plan,now their watchin the rise, ready to take on the call,
stock shifted, pumps lifted, to be sure to be sure
coz we know the river takes all
ooooh i hear the rain (i hear the rain)
slippin and slidin, their ain't no denying, the wettest spot in New South Wales
river risin no surprising,
coz the rains comin down
its spring time in Bellingen town
its spring time in Bellingen town
its spring time in Bellingen town
If you are travelling on the Plenty Highway
Heading towards Boulia Way
Here you'll see Atitjere Homelands
At a place they call Harts Range
CHORUS
Harts Range was Mica mining country
Ever since electric power came our way
And all the Italian miners
Came and carted all the Mica away
CHORUS
Today they are digging up gemstones
From the mullock heaps from old Mica mines
Tourists are finding good gemstones
In those mullock heaps that the old miners left ehind
CHORUS
When you're travelling on the Plenty Highway
Call in and say g'day
And you'll see the Atitjere Hills change their colours
In the different times of the day
Rusty's Byron Song
G to C 3 times… then Am, Am7, D, D?
G C
When I wake up in the morning
G C
Big south swell rollin…. by
G C
Me and the boys and girls why we get so high
Am Am7 D D?
Slipping and a sliding, peeping and a hiding
Chorus
Green, green grows the grass on the hills
Overlooking my old Bay
And there's magic in the sweet cow pies
That will open every one of your loving eyes
Dolphins swim in the turquoise sea
Gannets diving from the skies
We're all so lucky just to be here today
As this crazy old world keeps going by
Chorus
Blue, blue and the white puffy clouds
You know our dreams come true
We can all come along and sing on this song
And these will be your dreams too
Song written by Rusty Miller about Byron Bay and the 1970's surfing lifestyle
Yandina Street Fair
Gayle P.Torrens
In the village, 'neath the mount, in every single nook,
The people of Yandina have such a happy look
They smile and talk. They dance, they share
because nothing can compare
To the one and the only Yandina Street Fair.
Jugglers, singers and flexible acrobats
Clowns, mad doctors even strange, black cats
Start to wash their costumes and hang them out to dry
Because they know their own Yandina Fair is nigh.
The schools begin to practise their musicality
And the shops prepare to extend their famous hospitality.
Prizes are collected and goods are neatly stored
Everything is done to ensure that no-one will be bored.
In the village, 'neath the mount, in every single nook,
The people of Yandina have such a happy look
They smile and talk. They dance, they share
Because nothing can compare
To the one and the only - Yandina Street Fair.
The townsfolk donate gladly to show how much they care
Poppy carefully purples her lovely, curly hair
Performers practise madly to enhance their showbiz flair
All are getting ready for the fabulous Yandina Fair.
So next year, on your calendar, be sure to mark the date
You will be upset if you find that you're too late
You’ll know by the excitement floating through the air
That the time has come again for the Yandina Street Fair.
In the village, 'neath the mount, in every single nook,
The people of Yandina have such a happy look
They smile and talk. They dance, they share
because nothing can compare
To the one and the only Yandina Street Fair.
Tonight the wind in the mountains
Are singing a song to me
Of what it is that makes this world
A peaceful place for you and me
And as I ride through the hills of Abercrombie land
I think of all the things that this world has done for me
Done for me
The Levels life leaves behind
All the things I didn’t want to find
Loves I’ve lost bad victories won
All go down with the setting sun
If only life could stay this way
Until the very end
I’d give this world all I have and ride to heaven then
To see it again
The rising sun on a distant hill
Stars the day for the animal
The new born lamb, the flying bird
Spread their wings on a sunlit earth
The frost that melts, the winds that cease
Show the signs on a day’s release
I find my horse to ride again
These mountains seem to never end
Thanks nature then
Ninderry was a warrior who stood proud and tall
But his love for Maroochy was to be his downfall.
It caused a terrible rift with his mighty brother, Coolum
Now both will stand forever motionless and numb.
And Maroochy's tears softly flow through the night
Always hoping that the brothers will one day re-unite.
But they stand there sightless, neither one will bend
and so their bitter feud will never come to an end.
The brothers will always dominate, standing dark against the sky
As Maroochy whispers on the breeze, her eternally, sad goodbye
The bushes and the trees bow down with respect
while the sunflowers turn away, burdened with regret.
And Maroochy's tears softly flow through the night
Always hoping that the brothers will one day re-unite.
But they stand there sightless, neither one will bend
and so their bitter feud will never come to an end.
Sometimes Ninderry lights up with a sunny smile
As he once again succumbs to Maroochy's feminine guile
But then he sees Coolum slowly harken
and immediately his face begins again to darken.
And Maroochy's tears softly flow through the night
Always hoping that the brothers will one day re-unite.
But they stand there sightless, neither one will bend
and so their bitter feud will never come to an end.
I west to Kasey Chambers at abc hq with my husband and we both thought it was well worth the drive in from Wakeley in sydney South West. We think she is great a real down to earth person we even got a photo with her. The only thing was it was too short we would have loved to hear more from the album.
"WARIALDA TOWN" Lyrics by Denis Merchant.
This song is about a little town situated on the Gwydir Highway, between Inverell and Moree in northern NSW.
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Warialda means a town where wild bush honey can be found
On the Gwydir between Inverell and moree towns
is our Warialda town
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Come meet the good folk down in Stephen Street
Say G'day folk in Hope Street
Go take a drive out to Cranky Rock
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Come to ur happy and friendly town
Take a visit to Carinda House
Say G'day to the Ladies and Gents
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Have a friendly drink at the Royal or Commercial our two pubs in town
Come listen to our wild birds sing
Come to this peaceful place, you can hear yourself think
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Come in winter to see the mighty Wombats play football
Come join our many events throughout the year
It's a great place for kids, and kids at heart
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
So don't forget the place where wild honey is found
Please come and see us soon
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town.
Kasey never fails to amaze. I wonder what it is about her songwriting that connects in such a pleasing way. She's proven that she can deliver on the sad and pitiful(hurtin' all over) songs; however, these songs are not that. These songs are easy and fun and beautifully brilliant.
This song is an original by B A Hunter. This was written for my wife and children who were all born in Derby WA (West Kimberley)
This song is about a Kimberley Icon as seen in Derby.
Larrgadee (by B A Hunter)
He's lived in his country, all of his life
A true Kimberley survivor
He's weathered powerful cyclones, flooding rains and drought
He's seen so many wildfires
Kids have played upon his back, held on to his arms
Enjoyed themselves, in his house of fame
He told us when it would rain, when the seasons changed
A wise old man, who stood tall and strong
He's shared a meal with many, offered shelter from the rain and sun
He's been a mate, to some people that he's met
He's the king of his country, he's humble proud and free
Yes he's my friend, old man Larrgadee
Yes he's your friend, old man Boab Tree
Yes he's our friend, old man Larrgardee
I gave you three rivers running near
I gave you my bushland to clear
I gave you my soil to grow your crops
I've given you your freedom to graze your stock.
You have taken my oil and my gold
You have taken my good timber and behold
Your garbage, junk and mess not a sight to see
And now amongst yourselves you can't agree.
You have your roads and bridges, whatever it has taken
Just rember I'm your Mother Earth, you might give
A little back in your appreciation.
I hear of places like the Bahamas, Greek Islands
And Graceland in America
Now maybe you will start to love me, I'm your
home, your town, I am Nerriga.
CHORUS
I am old and forgiving, I have seen many things
And gained my wisdom, that's my claim
You can still have your freedom
But I think it's time to lift your game.
In Queensland's Callide Valley, there's a town I won't forget,
It's etched into my memory, in my mind I see it yet.
The early settlers worked to form a fine community,
Their foresight left a legacy for all the world to see.
Chorus: Biloela, it's true, means White Cockatoo,
Like a boomerang's return, we come back to you.
This town of wide renown, will never let us down,
Biloela is my Home Town.
The Dairy Industry for years it played a major part,
Long hours and constant labour, but it gave them all a start.
Then coal mines brought great changes, but the pioneers now gone
Will never be forgotten, they're immortalized in song.
(Repeat Chorus)
As children we marched proudly, and we learned the Golden Rule,
A tribute to the dedicated teachers at our school.
Though fate has intervened, and we're years and miles apart,
My Home Town, Biloela, lives forever in my heart.
I was born, in a north coastal town
In the beauty, of the timeless Kimberley
Rolling sandhills, sun-white beach's
Rock formations, etched by time
A magical place, from our Dreamtime
A golden Staircase, shines it's treasures
A generous coast, bearing her gifts
In her power and her beauty
Where the red dirt, meets, the mighty Indian Ocean
Mangroves swamps, flourish the tidal creeks
Coastal Plains Billabongs, the bush the wildlife
Will forever, be our way of life
When the tropical sky, beds the setting sun
A spell is cast on everyone, who lives in the romance of this Pearl Coast
Its my home, its where I was born
This Pearl Coast is where I belong
This is a song about Nashdale, a tiny orchard community just outside Orange, NSW
Nashdale Cherry Picking Song
----------------------------------------------
Out on the cherry orchards again
Need me some Christmas money to spend
Wearing dad's old shirt and a cricket hat
All covered with red juice in ten minutes flat
Chorus
......................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money 'fore the season's through.
..........................................
Big summer storm rumbling over the hill.
If the hail doesn't get you the lightning will:
up a metal ladder in a tall tall tree,
metal bucket in my hand - is it gonna strike me ?
......................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money 'fore the season's through.
..........................................
Passed a motorbike wrapped round a tree
down in the hollow just past the creek.
The ambos were turning their faces away -
looks like Pete won't be picking today.
......................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money 'fore the season's through.
..........................................
(Repeat Chorus)
.....................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money'fore the season's through.
..........................................
There’s a town out in the Central West
Far from the city lights
And you can see her at her best
When she’s spoiling for a fight
When government or climate force her to the wall
That’s when the folks of Condo town
Cry out this country call.
Chorus
From honest toil on honest soil
Come cattle fat and sleek
And shearers comb the creamy fleece
From the backs of sheep
When our golden grain takes its
Tumbling train ride from the west
That’s when the folks of Condo town
Know they’re done their best.
Now it’s been a tough one
Through the last ten years of drought
Many have left us but most have stayed the course
They’ve stayed and kept farming, there’s been no room for doubt,
Now we’ve set to feed the world to make it all right
The rain’s let us bring back our kids,
Made the future pretty bright.
Chorus.
Now Condo’s is the Heart
Of this great big State
But every time we ask for help we’ve told we have to wait,
Well we wait and wait but still we smile
We just go on keeping on
We have to feed the country
So we stay and sing our country song.
Far from Wooloomooloo and Timbucktoo
And beyond the Stump of Black,
Is outback town of little renown
It’s just a little down the track.
It has a pub and a gas pump
With a heeler or two out the back,
A couple of utes and a blue gum too
And a horse you could call a hack.
The river’s run dry and the sheep have died
The drought has sent us bust
The trucks broke down 10 miles from town
Now the tractors full of rust.
CHORUS
But down at the pub the spirits are high
And the beer it flows free and fast,
You’ld never know as we drown our woes
This beer could be our last.
For we’ll never quit we’ll just hang on
But there will come the day
When the rain will come once again
For that’s the Australian way.
This song was written not long after I had met my birth family at 23. My Uncle Bill from my birth mothers side decided to jam out one night in Innisfail. This is the town where all my birth family come from. So I was adopted out at birth. To set the scene, Bill and I were sitting under the porch outside, it was raining lightly, occasionally a cane train would pass and a it was a full moon lit night. I had my guitar and Bill had his Harmonica, We pressed record on my old Fostex 4-track recorder and with the Chords D-C-G came up with the song 'Innisfail'. Here are the Lyrics:
Rain comes down
the rain comes down
rain comes down
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Cane farmers land
its cane farmers land
cane farmers land
CHORUS
Train rides through
the train rides through
train rides through
CHORUS
We made this up on the spot, I think you can even heat the train go past in the recording and the rain pitter patter on the roof top. Nice.
Will they know when we are gone?
Will our grandchildren know that we tried?
When we are gone when we are gone?
Will they know we tried to save the town from mining?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
Will they know we tried to save the good farming land from mining?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
Will they know we tried to save wild life, parks and heritage?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
Will they know we tried to save them some water and clean air to breathe?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
The town is gone
The people are gone
The farms are gone
The water is gone
The air is gone
There is a barren waste
Yes they will know when we are gone
that we failed
Can you hear my song I sing on the wind
My lonesome moonlight traveller
Can you hear the song that beckons you
Back home again, back to Cunnamulla
That beckons you back home again, back to your true lover
We will sing the songs we sang before
On the porch near grandma’s garden
Townsfolk will come and sing harmony with each other
For that’s what they do on starry nights
In good old Cunnamulla
Chorus
We sing on the wind and we sing with one another
We will sing you back home again my lovely moonlight lover
Back home again, back to Cunnamulla
Back home again, back to your one true lover
I will sing a song to catch the wind, my sorrowful moonlight traveller
And you will remember a time of one star lit night in old Cunnamulla
When you said that love made music in the sky for all the moonlight lovers
Now the wind will carry my song so high
To the heart of my lonesome moonlight traveller
I always long to get home to Chinchilla
In the winter time it will chill your chin
But you soon warm up with a nip of gin
It's the birth place of that movie man George Miller.
Ludwig Leichhardt did explore out there in 1844
The natives called the cyprus pine Jinchilla
Two years later Matthew Goggs got busy sawing up some logs
for the homestead at Chinchilla cattle station.
In the 1890's I do declare the place was choked with prickly pear
You couldn't move for thorns around Chinchilla.
They introduced the cactoblastis moth
And within a year by golly gosh
It destroyed the prickly pear. A real killer!
Charley's creek does sometimes flood
Plenty of water and lots of mud
it flows into the Condamine near Chinchilla.
The butter factory is a long time gone
But water melons still grow on
The February Melon festival's a thriller.
Now they're mining coal and gas
The folks are rich and dressing flash
The economy is booming around Chinchilla.
The frosty nights will chill your chin
But you soon warm up with a nip of gin
I long to meet you all back at Chinchilla
Let's have a big reunion at Chinchilla.
Vision for the outback
Verse 1
In May of 1928 south of McKinlay town
A stockman was injured when his horse had fallen down
From Squirrel Hills to McKinlay they nursed him day and night
The call was made that brought the first mercy flight.
Chorus
Flynn had a vision for the outback to bring help to their door
In a single engine aeroplane the Flying Doctor made the call
Verse 2
Soon people in the outback heard what he had done
Flynn’s quest for saving lives had only just begun
The peddle wireless was their lifeline in their hour of need
It wasn’t long ‘fore the world knew of the Flying Doctor’s deeds.
Chorus
Verse 3
(3rd verse optional) Many a night a call for help went over the air
Soon the doctor’s looking for an airstrip lit by flares
They’d hear the drone of the engine as the plane came into land
Their prayers had been answered the doctor’s on hand.
Chorus
Verse 4
Its over 80 years since that first mercy flight
All over Australia they fly both day and night
So we salute these brave heroes as they fly across the land
Spreading a mantle of safety under God’s guiding hands.
Last Chorus
Flynn had a vision for the outback to bring help to their door
In a twin engine aeroplane the Flying Doctors make the calls
So we salute these brave heroes as they fly across the land
Spreading a mantle of safety under God’s guiding hands.
My grandad was a railway man
My old uncle was a railway man
My cousin Tony was a railway man
And for a time I was a railway man
On the North Queesland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't movin in
Then they ain't movin out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
My Uncle Georgie lost a leg on the line
Down south away in Proserpine
Shunting trains is a dangerous game
You only make the one mistake
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't movin in
Then they ain't movin out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Til the big wet comes....about
My grandad was a union man
The leading hand of a real tough gang
Yeah my grandad was a drinkin' man
In bush-camps pass the bottle around
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't movin in
Then they ain't movin out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
Railway man.......
it's such a long train
Railway man.......
it's such a long train
Railway man.......
it's such a long train
Yeah he's a railway man.
The scorching wind is blowing, ochre dust across the way
Heat haze shimmers gently as the children play
The scraggy shade of sunbaked trees, can’t cool the roasting ground
But the greatest warmth of living here is the friendship in this town
Chorus:
Helping hands are reaching out across the Barkly miles
And the golden desert sun is shining down
A flash of shared laughter and a careless easy smile
Can’t you feel the heart soaked in this town?
Dusty hats and scuffed up boots, the roar of ancient weathered utes
Cicadas humming as the sun goes down
Making our own fun... fair go for everyone
Thats what I love about this town.
The gentle touch of friendship comes through shining smiles
Can’t you feel the heartbeat of this town?
Six hours drive from Katherine, five from Alice Springs
Explore the Devils Marbles, take a Mary Anne swim
Drive up to the lookout, feast your eyes on the way down
But don’t forget the people, they’re the lifeblood of this town
Chorus:
Helping hands are reaching out across the Barkly miles
And the golden desert sun is shining down
A flash of shared laughter and a careless easy smile
Can’t you feel the heart beat in this town?
The gentle touch of friendship comes through shining smiles
Can’t you feel the heartbeat of this town?
My grandad was a railway man
My old uncle was a railway man
My cousin Tony was a railway man
And for a time I was a railway man
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try and run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't moving in then they ain't moving out
Gotta keeo those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
My uncle Georgie lost a leg on the line
Down south a way in Proserpine
Shunting trains is a dangerous game
You only make the one mistake
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't moving in then they ain't moving out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
My grandad was a union man
The leading hand of a real tough gang
My grandad was a drinkin' man
In the bushcamps pass that bottle around
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't moving in then they ain't moving out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes ....about
Railway man
It's such a long train
Railway man
It's such a long train
COPYRIGHT Terry Prowse Ph.0435688659
A jewel in the crown
By Terry Prowse
C F C
THE BRIDGE IS BENT AND BROKEN, NO MORE TRAFFIC TO PASS
G7
THE RAILWAY BRIDGE IS USED NO MORE IT, DID’NT LAST
C F C
THE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, PASSES THROUGH THIS TOWN
G7 C
GUNDAGAI N.S.W. A JEWEL IN THE CROWN
ITS STREETS ARE FULL OF HISTORY, THIS IS THE TOWN
WHERE YOU CAN COME AND STAY, PUT YOU’RE ROOTS DOWN
THE DOG SITS ON THE TUCKER BOX, THAT’S THE FEEL
GUNDAGAI NSW, THIS TOWN IS REAL
IN 1860 GOLD WAS FOUND,
THE RIVER IT FLOODED, SOME DROWNED
BUT THE SETTLERS THEY WERE TOUGH, THEY STOOD THEIR GROUND
GUNDAGAI NSW, YEAH! MY TOWN
THE TOWN IS NOW GROWIN’, PEOPLE MOVIN’ IN
EVERYONE WANTS A PIECE OF IT, TO START LIVIN’
RAISE YOUR FAMILY, BY THE MURRUMBIDGEE SHORE
GUNDAGAI NSW, SAY NO MORE
THE BRIDGE IS BENT AND BROKEN, NO MORE TRAFFIC TO PASS
THE RAILWAY BRIDGE IS USED NO MORE IT, DID’NT LAST
THE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, PASSES THROUGH THIS TOWN
GUNDAGAI N.S.W. A JEWEL IN THE CROWN
GUNDAGAI N.S.W. A JEWEL IN THE CROWN
GUNDAGAI, NSW, YEAH! MY TOWN
Minlaton, Minlaton, that’s the place where I was born,
Minlaton, Minlaton, bury me there when I’m gone.
One of the tidiest towns in South Australia you know,
With civic pride that we don’t hide, it’s always on the go,
Here in Minlaton, oh Minlaton, you are my pride and joy,
And I’m so glad I was born a country boy,
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Minlaton, Minlaton, past the ton and going strong,
Minlaton, Minlaton, due for mention in a song,
Over 60 businesses to choose from in the town,
More than a dozen sports are played to stop you feeling down.
Here in Minlaton, oh Minlaton, you are my pride and joy,
And I’m so glad I was born a country boy,
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Minlaton, Minlaton, called Gum Flat in years long gone,
Minlaton, Minlaton, it’s the place where I belong,
It’s the barley capital of all the world they say,
Farmers living here have worked the ground to earn their pay.
Around Minlaton, oh Minlaton, you are my pride and joy,
And I’m so glad I was born a country boy,
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Pambulas historic Toad Hall and Covingtons Retreat,
are some treasures found in Pambulas main street,
An old weatherboard bank is an interesting place to eat,
and two great old pubs where locals eat,drink and meet.
*Chorus
Pambula Village is famous for Mrs Macs old store,
where she sold habidashery and so much more,
Bennetts garage was in icon in old Pambula town,
when the old T Fords were driven by locals reknown.
* Chorus
Pambulas floodplains are popular as wetlands to wander,
Historic Oaklands is restored for the tourists to ponder,
so please visit our Pambula and discover the wonders,
of a freindly old village full of friendly locals asunder.
*Chorus
Discover modern shops, the historic town hall.
on the Princes Highway, Pambula has it all
Halfway between Melbourne and Sydney town,
Pambula is our town, so come on down.
90 minutes outta Sydney, drive south along the Hume
Theres a city they call Goulburn, come on in theres heaps of room
It's got a bloody light house but no beach or ship in sight
Its the local War Memorial shining out into the night
Weve got some famous sportsmen, theres Poidevin and Gray
and theres that fella they call Diamond, geez he can shoot the clay
Weve got the big Merino up the southern side of town
ya cannot bloody miss it, its the biggest sheep around
If ya driving north past Maccas have a look left over the rail
Youll see the walls of brick so tall, Thats the Goulburn Gaol
Full of years and years of stories and some of them are even true
Beleive me when i tell yas that place is not for you
Chorus
Dont drive along the bypass, turn off, come in to town
when you drive atop of Goulburn Hill its the bestest view around
You'll love it, stop at Belmore park, have a ride apon the swing
Enjoy your stay hava a great safe trip and remember, call again
Chorus:
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be
Verse 1:
Multicultural cuisine
Greatest batsman ever seen
Churches to keep you in good faith
Come here where the Murray ends
Taste our wine and make new friends
Adelaide's the place you'll wanna see
Chorus:
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be
Verse 2:
Finest beaches right at hand
Found on Aboriginal land
Tandanya "Red Kangaroo"
A town that follows Aussie Rules
Famous for it's festivals
The Parklands and WomAdelaide
Chorus
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be..
Verse 3:
And now we have our first PM
A woman that stands beside the men
Someone else this town can look up to
So don't go east and don't go west
Come down south where life's the best
Adelaide's the place for me and you
Chorus
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be..
SURF AND SUNSHINE - A ballad for Port Macquarie
(My entry for 2010 ABC Song Contest)
CHORUS:
Surf and sunshine, hey-hey-hey!
Port Macquarie, by the sea.
Every day's a holiday
in Port Macquarie by the sea.
Where the river meets the ocean there's a sighing in the pines
where the convicts built the church upon the hill.
Here the peaceful koori people made their home in ancient times
and the sea and lanch are rich with beauty still.
Old John Oxley came exploring and he knew this place would do
for a colony, where men could settle down.
It became a port for shipping, and a fishing village too;
- Australia's First Resort, a lovely town.
I can hear the magpies warbling in the gardens in the spring,
as the kookaburras greet the coming day;
and koalas hug the treetops, and the pelican takes wing
while the dolphins in the river frisk and play.
If you drew a line on the map in my part of western Sydney between the city and the country , it would run straight through Riverstone. (Rivo).
Boomgates ringin' loud and clear
Let's you know your round here
They say they'll be gone every year
But talk is cheap , a bridge is dear
Were just part of that special line
The city lies on the other side
Sometimes we'll be left behind
And I dont really mind
There ain't no airs and graces round here
Just old familiar faces year after year
We know it wont be long till our simple life is gone
In the meantime Rivo's hangin' on , Rivo's hangin on
Our fathers farms are doomed to be
Multi function factories
And the families in our backyards
Will need our homes to park their cars
And those of us who stay behind
We'll think about the better times
Or maybe they'll just pass us by
I can dream can't I
There ain't no airs and graces round here
Just old familiar faces you can get a feed you can get a beer
We know it won't be long till our simple life is gone
In the meantime Rivo's hangin on , Rivo's hangin on.
I was lucky enough to watch this recording live in the studio, Firstly i would like to thank both Kasey and the Staff at ABC for a wonderful evening
I LOVE the new song little bird I have not heard such brilliant lyrics in a long time, Not only did she sound AWESOME live she also tells you a bit of back ground on the songs and it was lovely to hear her talk about her kids and life journey
I love Kasey i think she truly emulates what we call the Aussie Spirit! she has a connection deep with in herself that radiates through her songs, She sings of the land as easy as water runs a stream and sets your mind racing with images of places you have never seen
It was the best and well worth watching...
i tried to call you guys at the ABC to say thanks for your wonderful hospitality but switch couldn't locate you.... so again THANKS
Blink and you'll miss it, I use to tell my friends
This old town, really is the living end
'Progress Association', what a joke!
All I learn't here was how to drink and smoke.
Chorus
But that was then and this is now
I've learnt a lot, life is sweet and sometimes sour
This town has heart and depth and soul
From its shiny Silos to it's Water Hole
I use to find it hard to breathe here
Sought my freedom...a reprieve dear
Longed for anonymity, chance to make mistakes
Where no-one was keeping score, ready to burn you at the stake
Chorus
But that was then and this is now
I've learnt a lot, life is sweet and sometimes sour
This town has heart and depth and soul
From it's shiny Silos to it's water holes
Now I long for it's gold dusted paddocks
It's friendly houses with unused locks
My Aunts and Uncles, my cousins and my friends
A home to go to...time to make amends
Chorus
But that was then and this is now
I've learnt a lot, life is sweet and sometimes sour
This town has heart and depth and soul
Form it's shiny Silos to it's water holes
By Kendall valleys of soft dappled haze
where grey wallaby and dairy herds graze
waters to the Camden Haven go seawards hauling
from Comboyne's plateau of sudden storms calling
echoing yesteryear's songs of rainforest felling
of cross-saw and axe and bullockies yelling
where bound and free brought wealth to a nation
with black-butt and cedar on river navigation
when fine timbers felled by axes long still
floated down stream to Fagan's mill
by a pioneer township of Henry Kendall fame
in 1891 posthumously given his family name
Refrain:
Fed by Comboyne's plateau of steady rains falling
creeks bringing life to the river go seawards hauling
past satin bird bowers hidden in fern and thicket
where flits the blue-wren and hums the cricket
by frog-mouth mimicking twig and bough
posing in shadows until the sunset hour
in Kendall beauty where creek and river mix
inspiring Australia's first-born poet in 1876.
Come Spring the poet's village of once cedar kings
hosts the resounding music of violin strings
when September farewelling winter at rest
invites in national competition the instrument's best
part of a legacy of caring benefiting each as a whole
known to a long-ago poet seeking solace of soul
when troubled by illness and the hardships he knew
that were to hasten his death in 1882.
Softly the works of his pen in a stay of six years
by mountain and valleys of the waterfall's tears
echo of peace given a poet remembered in stone
within an inconic spirit uniquely Australia's own.
Long gone are the pioneer days of convicts in chains
where ribboned waterfall weep in Kendall rains
and later boom times of an old logging township
where bullockies language split the air like a whip
leaving in common with rural townships today
a reliance on a oneness of spirit alive and in play
where combined endeavour benefiting the whole
meets community needs of mind, body and soul.
Tuned to the now, Kendall moves on ever a part
of an iconic spirit nurturing a community's heart
by scenic beauty once easing a poet's pain
where magpie carolling sweet-talk the rain.
Life has taken me places but I'm heading home today
Back where I was born and bred, it's where my heart will stay
No matter where else I have been, I'll never feel this way
Just can't wait to get back home to the beautiful Batemans Bay
Chorus
This is where my heart is, this is my hometown
Where the people are fair dinkum, their feet firm on the ground
Where the bush meets the beaches and the water's sparkling hue
The only place that I call home, it's here I am true blue
The tide that flows is pulling me, taking me by the hand
And the waves so blue are singing their song as they crash on the golden sand
Throwing a line in the river Clyde, there's nothing quite so grand
You'll never find a better place across this brazen land
Chorus
The wildlife just roaming about across the lush green grange
Dining with the kangaroos is not a sight so strange
Solid as a rock she stays, her story will never change
Breathe the beauty of the Australian bush and the Great Dividing Range
Chorus:
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
These muscled trees,
Their leafy fingers trailing upward,
Their dark centres merging with the mud,
Fingers of light travel between their branches,
Because this is the only place,
They gather close,
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
Yellowed stones are my fool’s gold,
Silver rocks are my white crystal,
Follow the path of white,
My gold will wait,
For in this place,
I will become rich,
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
Patterns of red etched into walls,
Gentle lap of water on a stone edge,
Curling buildings and curving tunnels,
Trees far from home,
Dragons in the sound of snaps,
Shimmering in the circular sun,
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
Up where the hand clasp's a little stronger
Up where the smile last's a little longer
Up where the sun is a little brighter
And where the bonds of home are tighter
CHORUS ......
Now I must tell you for what it's worth
We are the fruit bowl of the north
Health and happiness here abound
No better little town can be found
Up where the hills with rain are white
Soaking the soil with all it's might
Keeping the prosperity of our town alive
Helping cane, bananas, pineapples thrive.
REPEAT CHORUS
The progress of Tully is in the making
Where fewer hearts with dispair are aching
That's where our beautiful town wins
Tully is where the North begins
care of Packsaddle Village via Newman 6753
if you wanna send snail mail way out here to me
where the sunsets create the most beautiful red ranges
and new residents quickly become mates, not strangers
after work its up to the wetty first, to quench our hard earned thirst
on mid strength beer, which really is quite queer
we chat about our day, while spending our pay
before having a power shower, at a later hour
then resting our clean heads on our green beds
for some well deserved rest, so we can wake up feeling our best
yawning, we all emerge out of our den
hi-ho off to work, to do it all again
rain, hail or shine, we're out here bright as a daisy
drivin' round in circles, going almost crazy
boredom can be my worst enemy
so I listen to conversations, quizzes and stories such as Lady Monda Gree
on my favourite radio channel, the ABC
when I find something that motivates me
I like to write songs to help break the monotony
just the lyrics though, I'll let you create the melody
scribbling lines and rhymes down at every opportunity
coz even though I'm young, I dont' trust my memory
There's a place here on the mid north coast and Wauchope is it's name
It's on the Hastings River timber was it's claim to fame
In days gone by old bullock teams pulled huge logs to the mills
Those bullockys and axemen displayed their true bush skills
Cadar, Rosewood, Brushbox passed through those spinning blades
Tallowwood and Ironbark split and into sleepers made
As time went by the the logs ran out and the mills closed one by one
But Wauchope kept on growing some thought that we were done
Dairy farmers and graziers all kept the town alive
You just cant stop a counrty town to prosper and survive
Wauchope now stands proud and tall and still we grow a grow
And if your passing through our town there's something you should know
Chorus
You'll be made feel welcome when you visit to our town
There's lot of friendly people and we'll show you around
With a true blue country atmosphere I'm sure that you'll agree
That Wauchope on the mid north coast is the place to be
There's lots of lovely sceenery all part of our surrounds
We're not far from the beaches where surf and sand abounds
The river runs right through our town if boating is your thing
You can water ski or paddle a canoe or try your luck fishing
So bring your friends and family and come and say good day
Im sure that once you visit us that you will want to stay
There's just one thing you need to bring to be welcome at our place
And it wont cost you very much just a smile upon your face
Chorus
You'll be made feel welcome when you visit to our town
There's lot of friendly people and we'll show you around
With a true blue country atmosphere I'm sure that you'll agree
That Wauchope on the mid north coast is the place to be
Here are the lyrics as my submission to the "Your Town, Your Song" competition for the 2011 Tamworth Country Music Festival. I have also written a melody to the lyrics, which I have posted to ABC Sydney.
A TOWN CALLED PORT MACQUARIE
1. We have moved up here from the great Big Smoke
To the town called Port Macquarie
To breathe fresh air and see the stars at night
In the town called Port Macquarie.
It is a great place to live even if you're broke
In the town called Port Macquarie.
The River Hastings and the beaches they're a sight
In the town called Port Macquarie.
CHORUS
And all the folk are nice and friendly
In the town called Port Macquarie,
Where the whales swim by
And the dolphins smile
In the town called Port Macquarie.
2. The big Glasshouse grand offers culture true
In the town called Port Macquarie.
Artists come this way from very far and near
To the town called Port Macquarie.
They sing and dance and play and they make music too
In the town called Port Macquarie;
Others paint the beach on sunny days so clear
In the town called Port Macquarie.
CHORUS
3. Brothers South and North and Middle Brother too
Near the town called Port Macquarie
Give a perfect view of the coastline fair
Up to the town called Port Macquarie.
Australian bush and plants and lots of wildlife too
Are near the town called Port Macquarie.
We're here to stay, enjoy the beauty oh so rare
In the town called Port Macquarie.
Gold In Gulgong
I was born in the small town of Gulgong
and all of my life i've lived here
I've lived with the strain of drought , fire and rain
I've lived with the laughter and tears
My children all grew up in Gulgong
but they had some plans of their own
and though they now are scattered near and far
whenever they can they come home
Now there's no gold in Gulgong
but there was once it's true
we were ten times the size, a golden paradise
back in 1892
We will sometimes leave Gulgong
but wherever we roam
whatever we see, whoever we meet
gulgong's still home.
The ten dollar note bore our picture
and Henry Lawson's as well
that was our claim, our 15 minutes of fame
but that's not all we've to tell
Our museum and our eisteddfod
keep our town rating highly
It's a great place to be to retire comfortably
or just live the life of Riley
There's no gold left in Gulgong
and we're gone from the note
and faces may change, but the feeling's the same
Gulgong's still gold
Yes, the gold's gone from Gulgong
now they're mining for coal
but for all of us here, year after year
Gulgong's pure gold
We've known all along, our town Gulgong
is pure solid gold.
'salt water sea' my song entry about my town Coolangatta on the Gold Coast QLD.
Salt water tingling, sunkissed skin
Living by the ocean
my town has always been
A place for gypsy souls to rest
to breathe the salty wind
Sand between my toes
salt water on my skin
No matter where my heart will lay
my home is on the waves
Sand between my toes
endless summer days
Listen to the birds that call
from the sparking sea
Salt water songs
are a part of me
My town by the ocean
the place my heart belongs
My town by the ocean
singing gypsy songs
Sunkissed skin, summer rain
skies blue and grey
No matter where I may roam
On the waves I'll stay
My town by the ocean
where my heart belongs
My town by the ocean
singing salt water songs.
1.At Firefly we settle down, we found a nice house and piece of ground.
It’s just a place not quite a town at Firefly where we settled down.
2.Our Saturday nights with friends around, the grandstand calls a familiar sound,
With fire lit, friends sharing whit, felicity country show a certain hit,
It’s just a place not quite a town at firefly where we settled down
3.The Krambach cap at the old face club the Nabiac show and our local pub with
Beer all gone and fire burnt down, these friends of ours now all home would bound.
It’s just a place not quite a town at Firefly where we settled down.
4.On clear dark night where stars are bright ,
It’s a distant car with a red tail light,
Our milky way all clear and white, and the fading glow of a lone satellite
It’s just a place not quite a town at firefly where we settled down.
5.Our kids in bed all safe and sound , the wife and I finding common ground,
It’s just a place not quite a town at Firefly where we settled down.
( IN VERSE 5 if sang by girl)
My man and me finding common ground ( would like to see sung by duet )
V1)
If I don't leave here,
If I don't go now,
If I don't live life then I won't know how to be myself,
to be unique so I will kiss you on the cheek
CHORUS
So what's there to do in a sleepy town
spending all your days just foolin around
not long now before I have to decide
but in a sleepy town what can you do with your life
V2)
Well it's been too long to remember why
I've stayed round here never said goodbye
you might be down at a girl like me
so ill say goodbye
I won't need the key
REPEAT CHORUS
V3)
Well the time has come to spread my wings
the hour has come to do my thing
you might be mad or you might be sad
well I don't care I'm oh so glad
The only job you ever knew was felling trees,
Over fifty years you spent up in the scrub.
First there were bullock teams and axes,
now there’s chainsaws trucks and tractors.
But the timber, well it still remains the same.
CHORUS
Long Flat Logger no more will you climb the hills.
Nor will the echo of your axe ring out in song.
But while you’re sitting in your chair,
breathing in the mountain air,
the smell of eucalyptus stirs within your mind .
Somehow its like it lets you go,
back to that time so long ago,
when you were young and strong with all the world to roam.
But when you wake up from your dream,
and your eyes take in the scene
its just you on your verandah all alone.
A blanket and a campfire, and a good dog next to you.
That was all it took to keep the cold away.
And you slept the deepest sleep every night upon the ground ,
With the sound of Dingoes howling all around.
Now your beds too hard to let you rest in comfort anytime,
and the hottest summer sun won’t warm your bones.
The legs that carried you so high into the forest every day,
Now barely get you to the Pub just down the road.
CHORUS
The hands that held your axe don’t seem familiar any more.
No longer do they have a grip as strong as iron.
But as your gnarled and knotty fingers grip your walking stick each day,
It’s like your hands remember what they used to do.
Your fingers just start moving to a memory all their own,
and that stick becomes an axe just for a while.
Then the swelling in your knuckles,
and the aching in your bones,
brings you back here to the front porch of your home.
And you realize what you’re doing ,
And you remember what you’ve done,
and the memories never fail to make you smile.
CHORUS
Yeah you’ve lived a good long life,
And been through your share of strife.
But there’s really not a single thing you’d change.
Except for maybe one, and that’s that now your race is run,
that you could turn around and live it all again.
The front porch views are awesome, wild birds everywhere
Mount Fairfax in the distance, God paints with colour there
This time of year’s my favourite, to walk among the trees
And see the nectar on the flowers, covered all by bees
Tawny frog mouths in the trees, a pretty special sight!
And then the kids saw ducklings, walk through school last night!
The Sydney memorial reminds us of people who died in war.
The fifty cent swing is famous, and colourful wildflowers call.
Hot white beach sand and scorching summer days,
Not much winter here, but lots of fish and crays.
Lavender and tree farms, rows of olives too,
Wineries and fisheries; but that’s not all to do!
Don’t forget the basketball, footy league and fishing,
There’s hockey, soccer, golf and cricket, harriers and swimming.
Kite surfing is popular; Australia’s most windy city.
The washing dries in half an hour; the dust, it is a pity!
Kilometres from anywhere, a five hour drive to Perth
Where is Geraldton you ask? Somewhere on this earth.
chorus
But life is what you make it, and Geraldton is home.
It’s really like a holiday, so I don’t want to roam
too far from here. Retirement? Well, I’m much too young as yet.
So I will just go fishing, grow vegies, or walk the pet.
Then just as we slow down a bit, the grandies come along,
And now the children have returned, so Geraldton’s my song!
Chorus in
We're heading for the heart of the country
On the New England Highway
Searching for that golden guitar
At Tamworth on Australia Day.
Verse 1
Everybody's surely heard of Tmworth
The mecca of the country music scene
We head there in our Holdens and our Kenworths
Been there done that in every town between
CHORUS
I've heard about the buskers out on Peel Street.
The pubs and clubs are raging to the sounds,
A country heard won't ever miss a beat
And everywhere festivities abound
CHORUS
Verse 3
Tamworth keeps on calling me at Mogo
Even though it's 12 hours away
One day I'm gonna live to tell the tale
Of Tamworth on Australia Day.
Chorus in
Well I was meltin' in Milton I got hot under the collar
Hot under the collar, in Ulladulla
As I started to cook
I jumped into the ocean at Mollymook.
Verse 1
Summer vacation, summer fun
I got my hat and my 15 plus
Lyin' on the beach catchin' some rays
I got my sunglasses on and I'm checkin' the waves.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Chasing a ball for eighteen holes
The sun did burn and the wind did blow
Losing my balls I was losing my temper
The heat makes me feel like a glowing ember.
CHORUS
Verse 3
In the heat of the night there's Rowan's Arcade
Electronic games in a video haze
Using all my tokens trying to get a free go
All the buzzing and a ringing, my mind's about to blow.
Chorus in
I lost my love at Bateman's Bay
II turned around and drove away
This girl she was to be my bride
I left her there and drove home up the Clyde.
Verse 1
We were at Corrigan's Beach at the fair
When she went and left me standing there
Went on the rotor with another man
They got so close that they were holding hands.
CHORUS
Verse 2
I just stood and stared in disbelief
And wandered off to Casey's Beach
Had so many tears in my eyes
That I had to have one of Elaine's gourmet pies
CHORUS
Verse 3
At the fair the ydidn't know I was missing
All they were doing was ahugging and a kissing
I just turned and drove away
When I lost my love down at Bateman's Bay.
Final chorus
I lost my love at Bateman's Bay
I turned around and drove away
This girl she was to be my bride
I left here there and drove home up the Clyde
Yes I left her there and drove right off the Clyde.
Chorus in
I stopped in for a moment at Malua Bay
I reflected on the day as it passed
It was such a magic moment at Malua Bay
I just wanted to make that moment last.
Verse 1
The winter sun shone strong and warm
I removed my shirt and stripped down to my shorts
I lay on the beach and watched the tide
And wondered how I could pause time.
CHORUS
Verse 2
An elderly man walked his dog on the beach
He let it run wild when he removed its' leash.
No dogs allowed it said on the sign
I thought that making rules is such a waste of time.
CHORUS
Verse 3
The children ran the children schemed
They laugh at nothing so easy to please
Chased each other little legs so swift
In the city its things like these you miss.
Chorus in
Come with me to Broulee, down by the sea
See some of the best beaches you will ever see
Let me take you by the hand, walk with me along the sand
I tell you that I love you more than any other can.
Verse 1
Broulee you've got me I could never leave you
I feel so alive walking on Coronation Drive
Broulee your beauty is second only to my love
When we're together I thank heaven above.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Broulee your bay just glistens in the sun
Inviting me to dive in where all the waters run
Frolice with my love frolic on the beach
In the summer time you are always in my reach
CHORUS
Verse 3
We stroll around your Island we wander hand-in-hand
All your shells and ocean smells seem under our command
Sand in between my toes, sand under my feet
When I'm here with my love my life seems so complete.
Chorus in
Congo oh Congo
I love to go to Congo
Where the waves roll
Along the beach I stroll
Verse 1
It is said this place is primitive
That's a saying that I really won't forgive
It's not hte way to describe the place I live
If this is primitive, give me more of this.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Every Friday night in town it's happy hour
At Congo we love to share our house
We sometimes gather at the camping ground
Laughing and drinking after the sun goes down
CHORUS
Verse 3
The height of our social calendar
Music in the park, when everybody's there
Music from the heart the way music should be
Music in the park, music by the sea.
Chorus in
I guess I'll run into ya
At the markets at Moruya.....on Saturday
I guess I'll run into ya
At the markets at Moruya.....sometime.
Verse 1
He holds a stall she stands in awe,
In the crown she gravitates nearby.
She only looks her courage small,
Maybe one day she will say to him "Oh, hi"
CHORUS
Verse 2
The buskers sing their guitars ring,
Sounding out the rhythm of her heart.
She often thinks it's a funny thing
When you do not know just where to start.
CHORUS
The hawkers yell they try to sell
Their brightly coloured clothing and their wares,
While she just stays nearby
Her eyes are fixed on him she only stares
Verse 1
I head a rumour you were lonely in Narooma
I'm sad to say I could not get here any sooner,
Oh those crystal blue green waters as you drive across the bridge
It just makes me think what a beautiful place to live.
Chorus
I heard a rumour you were lonely in Narooma
I just called to say hello
And now I'm here
I don't think I can go.
Verse 2
I had to see ya on my way through to Bega
When I phoned to see if I could see ya you sounded really eager
And when we met that day all the years were swept away
You were my childhood dreams, my adolescent schemes
CHORUS
Verse 3
I heard a rumour you were lonely in Narooma
We went to Obrien's and sank quite a few schooners,
And then you took me home over your bed I was thrown
I'm so glad I heard that rumour only wished I'd heard it sooner.
Chorus in
Mogo Mogo see that little town grow
Mogo Mogo is always on the go
The retailers retail which such an eye for detail
And everything in town is always for sale, for sale....
Verse 1
A crafty little village with so much charisma
Nowadays it's hard for you to find a place to park
It's history was Black and then goild,
And now its come right out of the dark, yes right out of the dark.
Chorus
Verse 2
A crafty little village tradition steeped in time
Traditionally tradition is a very find line
And there's a very fine line of goods
Available in Mogo all of the time, yes all of the time.
Chorus
Verse 3
A craft little village with so much history
There were 32 pubs when gold fever had begun,
Alas my friends how the times have changed,
These days we don't even have the one.
Verse 1
It was Oberon the hills near Bathurst when I last saw you
It's been more than 50 years and I'm still feeling blue
My grandad took me by the hand beside your hospital bed
His tears were flowing as he whispered "Say goodbye to your Dad".
CHORUS
Oberon you lost me when I lost my Dad
You are indeed the hometown that I never had.
Oberon you lsot me you're a place I'd barely known
For I was only five years old when we left that town.
Verse 2
I remember seeing old cars and wondered how they'd changed
After starting out their lives as shiny new machines
I remember seeing apples that were bigger than my head
They're the biggest one you'll ever see if what my father said.
CHORUS
Verse 3
My father was the newsagent and he knew everyone
When he died the flags in town were halfway up the mast.
Everybody loved him, everybody cried
Oberon you are the town where my father died.
Song of Benalla
Lyrics by Residents of Cooinda Village Benalla
V1
The Gateway to the sunny North East
On the Hume corridor'
With snowfields and wineries
and much' much more.
We've gardens and cricket
And golfing and football,
There's bowling and horse-racing
There's something for all.
Chorus
We love our Benalla
The city of roses.
We're all fair dinkum,
Where the Broken River flows
We've Hector Waller and
Weary Dunlop true blue,
They're part of our history
And Ned Kelly too.
V2
Sir John Monash built the bridge
To make one town instead of two.
It's over Lake Benalla
With its swans and a duck or two.
The Art Gallery's a shiny beacon,
And the mural has more to tell,
It's still a work in progress
But we like it very well.
V3
We've cropping sheep and cattle,
Sometimes it's a real battle.
Facing floods and fire and drought,
Year in and year out.
We're a close and caring community,
And we live in close unity,
We value our happiness and health.
Who'd want to live anywhere else?
For many years I was called Yanyarrie
This name taken from the annuels of Time
Was changed in a time of Pride &
named it after the Beautiful daughter
of the govenor at the Time.
Caroline was chosen to represent
this town as a quest of Pride
So Yanyarrie became Carrieton
for as it was given a name
of Great Delight.
For Carrieton became a bustling
Town of the Flinders Rangers.
There was a grocer, a baker,
a carriage wheel maker, churches abound
and the Pubs were truely the Centre of Town.
For the Rangers were busy with wheat
and sheep.
The train line carried all the produce from all around
Wool and wheat were in abound.
That was in times past...
Now it is a community of 33
You know that 1 pub still stands
and the community itself maintains the town.
The store still is busy and open
The school transformed to a
great stopover for the many
travellers of the Flinders Rangers.
My Town..Carrieton
is open and welcoming
to all who travel the
South Australian
Flinders Rangers.....
I'm Tamworth fair city in Oxley Country
Where the lovely Peel River flows ever free:
It wends through the valley past mansion and shack
Its echoing murmur calls wanderers back.
Chorus
Tamworth! Tamworth! Country Music City
Where the ballards are great and the girls are all pretty:
To join in the fun folk come from afar
To cheer for the singer who wins a guitar.
Then let us sing for Tamworth - our hometown serene
And to the mighty pioneers in the year 1818:
They were men of foresight, dignity and might
Very soon the growing township switched on electric light.
There's always a kind greeting to folk from other lands
The "welcome mat" is ever out, placed there by caring hands:
When the mountains crumble and all the creeks run down
Haunting country music will waft over Tamworth town.
I've travelled like a gypsy
Round this rugged land
I've travelled through the dust and rain
I've travelled through the sand
I'm coming back to Tamworth
To hear a country band
I've travelled like a gypsy
Towed the caravan
Spent the kids inheritance
Now I'm coming home
Coming back to Tamworth
Country music home
I've got a fridge of stubbies
Got a can of breans
We'll sit around the caravan
Play a few CD's
Now I'm back in Tamworth
With the river and the trees
Currawongs are calling
On the mountain side
Ripples on the river
Hills of misty blue
I'm coming back to Tamworth
Coming home to you.
I hear the buskers strumming
Good old country songs
All along in Peel St
They just want to be a star
They'll come back to Tamworth
And win a gold guitar.
Stand along in Peel St
Watch the big parade
Grab your water bottle
Looking for the shade
Carnival is over
Tamworth cavalcade
All the stars will come again
You've got to be on the show
There's Lee and both the Adams
Graeme, John & Colin
Troy & Brendon too
Lindsay, Chad and Tommy
Just to name a few
We'll have....
Melinda, Bec & Tanya
Kirsty-Lee and Shaza
And Gina Jeffries....
Sara and Felicity
Kasey and her crew
They'll be back in Tamworth
You'd better be there too.
So grease up all your swag straps
Put on your boots and jeans
Check the oil and water
Polish up the chrome
Come on back to Tamworth
Country music home
Well here's a little song
About a couple
John and Kell
They lived in the city
Didn't like it very well
Had some land over east
With a view of Georges Bay
So they sold up int he city
for a better kind of day
Down to Georges Bay
Come for a visit
Better still - stay
Just out of St Helens
Bout 5k or so
We look over the bay
Where the wild oysters grow
Bay of Fires to the left
Binalong Bay is there too
Surfing, Fishing, Beachcombing
Just too much to see and do.
Down in Georges Bay
You can visit if you want
But I'll bet you'll want to stay.
And dotted round the bay
Are others just like us
From Akaroa thru to Moulting Bay
The houses are asprouting up
The faces are all smiling
Caust they're here
Just like me
And when life is like that
It's a wonderful place to be
Down at Georges Bay
Comee on now
Visit if you want
But feel welcome to stay
Down in Georges Bay!
I'm resubmitting my Song of Broken Hill as I realised there can only be three verses!
SONG OF BROKEN HILL
by Maureen Clark
Broken Hill in the Barrier Ranges
Near the state’s far western line
Where the hills are made of silver
And there’s a fortune in every mine
Once Australia’s mining giant woz ‘ere
Now our owners live overseas
And tourists can’t seem to get enough of
Our legendary art and history
(Chorus)
Oh, there’s a pub on every corner, sometimes two;
Kangaroos hop down the street
Followed by the odd emu
And the locals all drive rusty utes
And their dogs are all called Blue
That’s how outback legends are made here
And some of it may be true!
Barkindji roamed, Wiljakali too
Before Sturt and Burke and Wills,
And Rainbow Serpent and painted hands
Cover the rocks among the hills.
Pro Hart and the Brushmen of the Bush
Painted our city’s fame abroad
Now tourists appear from far and near
And when they leave, they’re overawed!
Some say the outback’s the Dead Heart
Of Australia, our fair land
Where the artist’s palette is set out
In the colours of the sky and sand
Orange soil and bones burned white
In blistering sun, no gentle hues.
Wild hops so red, looks like the hills have bled
Into the saltbush, of sage blue;
(Chorus) So come and see us…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
Ourl unions gave us Workers’ Rights
Like the 35 hour week
And the Hill lived by its very own rules
Thanks to the BIC
Once Cobb and Co brought travellers here
Now they fly in by jet it seems
While our camel trains and Mundi Mundi Plains
Are a film producer’s dream!
(Chorus) And they said that…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
We camped the grounds of Smith's Beach shore
Listened to the crack as the waves implored
The dark night’s gift of the stars encore
But there ain’t no more camping there
They ripped the guts from the grass and bark
Built the condos and the gray car park
“Here have a dollar” said the shark
“Come and be a millionaire”
Chorus
If you dig the coal 'neath Yallingup
And scar us more with rot
Come the day the your sons will pay
And cry upon your plot
Blackened by your soot
And your greed afoot
Digging up the coal 'neath Yallingup
Verse 2
We explored the cape along the trail
And watched the roos and the humpback whale
Drew in breath of the salt on sail
But they’ll rape the country air
They’ll rip the guts from the grass and bark
Build the mine and the gray car park
“Here have a dollar” says the shark
“Come and be a millionaire”
Bridge
Here's a drink to the wine district
Fare the well my lady lady fair
Pack up your vines give the glass a lick
Brush the verdant from your hair
CHORUS:
A long way from Sydney, between the hills and the coast
there's a town called Cobargo that I like the most.
With loggers and greenies and people I know
we're close to the beach and not far from the snow.
We've got spiders and snakes, roos and wombats,
kikuyu and eucalypts and lots of cow pats,
farmers and artists and those on the dole
and warm fuzzy workshops to get in touch with your soul.
CHORUS
There's floods and there's droughts and bushfires as well,
'though which one we get when, you never can tell,
But the volunteer sevices will save us we hope,
so long as they're not all out 'making rope'.
CHORUS
We poduce honey, milk, beef and cheese,
but don't come here in winter, you're likely to freeze,
and don't come here in summer, you surely will roast
in a town called Cobargo that I like the most.
Got on board the old Hound down in Melbourne
Headed north on highway Thirty one
Crossed the Murray river at Wodonga
Look out Sydney city here we come.
-------Chorus-------
When you’re a Tourist, When you’re a Tourist
You’ve gotta keep your eyes wide open
When you’re a Tourist, Yes a Tourist
Keep your eyes wide open all the time
Keep your eyes wide open all the time
----
Toured all round Sydney and the Harbour
Opera house and Bondi in a day
Headed north along the East Coast highway
Finally made a stop in lovely Byron Bay.
To ----Chorus----
You can go across to Hawaii, Visit all the states of USA
But you’ll never feel, the magic or the zeal
Till you’ve been to see controversy Byron Bay.
(To Chorus----)
We’ve had fires, floods and droughts along the beautiful Macleay
As it winds down from the highlands and out into Trial Bay.
There’s ghosts of Koori families, of timber men so brave,
Of sailors and their passengers lost down beneath the waves.
There’s early farming families, working from dusk to dawn
Trying to scratch a living, growing cane and wheat and corn.
There’s the cattlemen on horses riding through the ranges,
Searching for their stock, facing loneliness and dangers
Chorus
There are many passing memories of those who’ve gone before,
But Kempsey has something special for those who went to war.
They’re known as Streets of Honour that help us all recall
The memories of those young ones, standing proud, erect and tall.
We don’t have a harbour bridge or Opera House so grand.
We don’t have a Big Thing but you must really understand
We’ve got singers, artists, writers and sporting legends too.
We’ve got pride in our valley, its scenery and its views.
Our nearby national parks, our headlands and our beaches.
There’s always something happening, something there to teach us
And reminding us eternally of sacrifices made.
They’re our Streets of Honour, whose memories will never fade.
Chorus
There are many passing memories of those who’ve gone before,
But Kempsey has something special for those who went to war.
They’re known as Streets of Honour that help us all recall
The memories of those young ones, standing proud, erect and tall.
BACKGROUND NOTES :
Marrawah, on the NW corner of Tasmania, was originally inhabited by the small tribal group, the Peerapper people.
The name Marrawah means Number One place.
Marrawah is most usually pronounced either Marrawah or Marrawoar. Nobody really cares too much about it.
(Mid tempo, maybe a bit reggae/ bluegrass feel)
VERSE 1 :
A long, long time ago the black man come
He was lookin’ for a good place, lookin’ for some sun.
He found lots of tasty game and seafood galore
So decided to stay and he called it Marrawah. (pronounced as if Marrawoar)
(spoken) : That’s Peerapper language, means number one place
(a voice) : It’s Marrawah mate, get it right.
CHORUS :
So Marrawah or Marrawoar, it’s all the same to us,
We don’t care how you say the word, we rarely make a fuss.
We’ve got clean air, good folk, it really is quite nice
It may be bloody windy, but it’s our own paradise.
VERSE 2 :
Much later came the white man, lookin’ for a home
Somewhere that he could clear some land and let his cattle roam.
He shot those pesky thylacines and devils by the score
They were hard, hard men who settled Marrawah (-oar)
(spoken – another voice) : That’s Marrawah mate, get it right
INSTRUMENTAL BREAK / VERSE
VERSE 3 :
And then there came the surfers, a dodgy, hairy lot
Looking for some waves at a west coast secret spot.
Some of them had football skills, could kick a ball quite far
So the welcome mat was rolled out if they played for Marrawah.
(spoken – another voice) : That’s Marrawoar mate, get it right.
I wrote this song about the small town of Trunkey, also known as Trunkey Creek, situated on the road between Bathurst and Goulburn NSW, not far from the Abercrombie River. Although a tiny town in size, it has a community with a big heart and pulls together for key events every year. It also has a very rich goldmining history.
On the road to Abercrombie is a tiny place called Trunkey
Nestling in the hills by the side of a silvery creek
Golden days
Summer haze
Shearing sheep in the shimmering heat
Going back over memories sweet
That's what Trunkey means to me
Chorus:
Take me back to Trunkey that's where I want to be
All my friends are there with stories to share, so much history
Oh, my heart belongs in Trunkey
That's the place for me
True gold can be found in this tiny town, why don't you come and see
There are yarns in the pub at Trunkey, that tell of days of yore
Billy cans, boots and sundries bought at Fred Davies' store
Frosty nights
Bright firelight
Gold in the ground that's never been found
You'll learn even more if you hang around
I like that...about Trunkey
Chorus:
Take me back to Trunkey, that's where I want to be
All my friends are there with stories to share, so much history
Oh, my heart belongs in Trunkey
That's the place for me
True gold can be found in this tiny town, why don't you come and see
There's gold in the hills of Trunkey, many will tell you so
Pan the creek for colours to seek in the sunshine it will glow
Time stands still
If you will
Your spirit free where you want to be
Dream in the shade of an old gum tree
That's what Trunkey means to me
Chorus:
Take me back to Trunkey, that's where I want to be
All my friends are there with stories to share, so much history
Oh, my heart belongs in Trunkey
That's the place for me
True gold can be found in this tiny town, why don't you come and see
(Last line of chorus repeated as follows)
True gold can be found in this tiny town, come fill your heart for free.
[b]< ODE TO PINOCCHIO >[/b]
As cunning and as sly as an old vixen
and her word not worth a brass razoo
with smile just as false as her hair colour
and friends she'd count on fingers of two.
With the dial of an ugly old rodent
and snake eyes to put the taipan to shame
if she gets at you, you'll always remember
her litany of lies and self serving games.
She was born in the slums of old Britain
in the days before her giving a toss
learnt her trade from the dead beat commos
in the land of the great southern cross.
When the day came when she did travel
with no where in mind really at all
she slummed herself across to victoria
where the spin and the stories grow tall.
Then she humped her back pack into Lalor
looked around, with wrinkled brow
said somewhat upbeat, a safe Labor seat
that was thirty or so years ago now.
Together of times at the Workers Club
with a Chardonnay or two cross her chest
she'll tell of the MPs she slept with
and how they often lived up to the test.
And she'll tell of the PM she befriended
who's goal was to be number one in life
her eyes on Kev's back were fastened
a target waitin' for Pinocchio's knife.
On this day they witnessed the slaughter
the union thugs who organised the coup
she shared with them great satisfaction
then declared, Kev'll be in my cabinet too.
I've been there and back in my travels
and women like her I've known are few
thank God for this great blessing
he has been kind to me,what about you?
Well It's been years since I've been home
I'm all depressed and all alone
All the wild times in the south I'll leave behind
I never tried to save a cent all my money I just spent
I'm dreamin of going home now for some time
Oh to be back home again at xmas time
Chorous:
Yes I'm dreaming of Charters Towers tropical gardens all the flowers
when the poinciana trees are all in bloom
It's december and I'm glad I'll be home with mum and dad
With a xmas tree in the corner of the room
Oh those happy days will be back with me soon
____
So tonight I'm heading north all my things are in one port
when I get back home there'll be much to recall
I don't fit in down here no more so when I would out through that door
I'll keep heading north untill I'm in "the world"
Charters Towers to me you'll always be my girl
Chorus:
Yes I'm dreaming of Charters Towers tropical gardens and all the flowers
when the poinciana trees are all in bloom
It's december and I'm glad I'll be home with mum and dad
with a xmas tree in the corner of the room
oh those happy days will be back with me soon
Just sittin around playin country tunes
Oh those happy days will be back with me soon
THIS IS NOT A SONG ABOUT A SINGLE TOWN. IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY YOU GROW UP AND WORK THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE TERRITORY. THAT’S MY HOME …….TOWN.
Lite the fuse on a rocket………head’n south on’a Friday night
Splitt’n it through the traffic…..Gott’a put Darwin town out’a sight
Hit the Hayes Creek jump’n up…….Started grab’n gears slow’n down
Launched it off the otherside…and come slid’n into Katherine Town
I had that jukebox pump’n ……music echoed in the night
I snapped it back another gear and made that big dog bite.
CHOURS
Cause I love my hillbilly music…..love country rock and roll
Cart’n freight …going interstate… that music rocks my soul
It’ll make ya blood start pump’n….when ya mix it with a V8’s crack
Hang’n off that steer’n wheel it’ll make ya hair blow back
Sent it out’a K Town……..chase’n those tail lights down
Foot stuck through the firewall…..pull ya head in I’m come’n round
Put Mataranka in the mirror……shook the windows of Hi-way Inn
Dunmarra was back behind me as Saturday morn was ease’n in
CHOURS
Cause I love my hillbilly music…..love country rock and roll
Cart’n freight …going interstate….that music rocks my soul
It’ll make ya’ blood start pump’n…..when ya mix it with a V8’s crack
Hang’n off that steer’n wheel it’ll make ya’ hair blow back
Beat the sunshine into Tennent Creek ….and was gone before the crack of dawn
Everyone one was getting up…….and I aint begun to yawn
Cause it’s five hours flat to Alice …….and I aint stick’n round
I’m standing on the governor……. soot’n out a V8 sound.
Cause I love my hillbilly music….love country rock and roll
Cart’n freight going interstate… that music rocks my soul
It’ll make ya blood start pump’n …when ya mix it with a V8’s crack
Hang’n off that steer’n wheel it’ll make ya hair blow back
She is the Hydraplat rider, up so high no one can hide her,
she moves from tree to tree like a sugar glider,
she climbs like a spider, that Hydraplat rider.
He’s the truck engine tuner looking forward to just one schooner,
he is a child under his dooner, he is the apricot tree pruner
he does it now or sooner.
They cross the Murray on the Lyrup ferry, situated near the Riverland’s Berri
They work outdoors and are suntanned very,
They pick a the cherry and the grape vine berry
He is the tractor driver, he spreads the organic fertilizer, the soil reviver
she swims in the river, that Lady Godiver, she is a sustainable life striver
she couldn’t be aliver, a real survivor.
She is the citrus sorter, she is the fruit grower’s daughter
she is the school teacher who taught her, he is the husband that caught her
AND THEY ALL NEED SOME WATER.
I wrote this song about my home town Benalla, but at the same time I try to use the features, weather and a little bit of history from here, to write about the nature of towns generally, and how they reflect who we are as a collective
Heart is where the home is
(Verse 1)
Built upon the Broken River,
The lifeblood of the lake
This town that always delivers
The bridge of memories free to take
(Chorus 1)
There’s magic hidden in her gardens
It’s the answer concealed in her art
She’s always a picture of beauty
Benalla’s forever residing in my heart
(Verse 2)
Leaves litter the streets in autumn
Pollen glides through the air in spring
This town fit for a drunken beggar
Tailored for any wandering king
(Chorus 2)
Eden's nestled within her gardens
Picasso's an admirer of her art
Mugs are bedazzled by her beauty
Benalla's the constant beat in our hearts
(Verse 3)
The summers are getting hotter
Frosty winters feel like they’ll never end
There's not a soul that isn't affected,
But not a soul that wouldn’t lend a hand
(Extension)
We won’t forget the floods,
The fires and the smoke filled skies
Even when the sun turns the color of blood
The thought of home will get us by
(Chorus 3)
Everyone's welcome in her gardens
Every painting’s a tribute to her art
Blind men speak of her beauty
Benalla’s always a mirror into the heart
1. Tapping up your heels, feel the beat of the drums
My hand in yours, we’ve only just begun
Melodies and guitars are buzzing in the streets
Bridgetown, Bridgetown Blues
Is where we love to meet.
Chorus:
Street stalls, water falls
Night skies, country life
Green hills, blue jeans
Black hats, cool cats
High heels, cold beers
Hand shakes and good mates
2. Kicking up our heels, dancing the night away
Cold beers and hot dogs until the break of day
Lazin on those green banks with the one you love
Listening to that music and gazing stars above.
Chorus
3. Memories of the Blues, makes me think of you
Good ol’ Country air, those flowers in your hair
The way you held me close, just makes me want to boast
Bridgetown Blues, Bridgetown Blues take me there.
Chorus
4. Follow down the river road to coffee at the Cow
Drive that Blackwood country mile
Just to see sweet Rubie smile
And hear the bands play
At “The Bridgetown”, the Bridgetown Blues.
some newlyweds in brisbane
thought theyd like to get away
go driving in the country
on this lovely summers day
they headed north, then turned east
and right out of the blue
they found our little hide-away
a place called boonooroo
they didnt find a restaurant
or a fancy shopping mall
in fact they couldnt find themselves
any shop at all
but they did find pristine waterways
and lots of mangroves too
the birds and all the wildlife
that live in boonooroo
they gazed on fraser island
on the sandy straits so blue
and thought this is magnificent,
this place called boonooroo
as they headed out they found us
the locals at the 'hub'
the only shop in town as well
our little bowling club
theyd had no chance for coffee
or croissants for two
so they turned into the car park
of bowls club boonooroo
the bar was turned to silence
as is the country way
till they got their drinks and turned to us
smiled and said ' gidday '
they sidled up to terry
and were talking for a while
then the lady asked a question
that made old terry smile
" whats it like living in the country ?"
" i wouldnt know, young wife -
i was born right here in town you see,
and lived here all me life !!!"
eventually, they got the joke
and had a drink or two
but alas they had to leave us
and our lovely boonooroo
they would leave us to our peaceful nights
and our million billion stars
then head back home to brisbane
in that endless line of cars
theyd love this day for ever
and forever hold the view
they were bloody lucky
to find our boonooroo
c - copywrite guy hunter boonooroo qld. 1st september 2010
Home
See how the land lies; see all the blue sky
Listen to the magpies on a typical day.
See all the pretty girls best place in the whole world
Ride a tram to the beachside; take a swim in the bay.
Let your heart take it all in. There’s peace in the busy streets
Let your mind take it all in. Just follow your feet.
Meet me under the clocks babe outside the station
I’ll buy you a coffee in the middle of town
We’ll walk through the alleys buy you a pretty red dress
I’ll slip in beside you and watch while you change
Give a dollar to the busker. We’ll watch all the fast cars
Stand under the elm trees when it starts to rain.
I’m a Melbourne boy, born and bred
It’s in my talk it’s in my head
I’m a Melbourne boy; it’s in my soul
Wanna stand in the city square and watch it grow old.
I’ve worked underneath her
Aint nothing sweeter
Find a parking meter and leave the old car
We could go to the MCG hold my hand and walk with me
Once the bombers win the game babe, we’ll have a drink in the bar.
Love the work of the builders and singing ‘Waltzing Matilda’
While the city watches over me and I watch the stars…
(Van Morrison) I want to stay, stay a while with my own ones
One more day, one more day with my own ones
This old world is so cold it don’t care nothing for your soul
But this old town does…
Once you’ve learned to walk here pretty soon you learn to run
I’ve heard the people from Sydney say we never get the sun
But we get enough babe and you and me make it brighter
The ‘Old Lady Of The South’ is still a girl who has fun
Yeah the Yarra’s pretty dirty and there’s some people been hurt here
But if you love it like I do. Then the stories just begun.
I love living in Darwin NT
She’s Home Sweet Home to me
I love the wet season especially the rain
It brings back life once again
The people are great a multicultural city
A big difference to folks living in the big cities
I love watching those dragon flies
A definite sign of the dry
I love me fishing and Jonahs my name
Yet to catch a fish but I’m game
I love the Mindil Markets Thursday nights
Asian foods delightful cooked just right
I love camping in the great outback
Sometimes I don’t feel like coming back
My grandchildren keep me on my toes
They help me forget all my woes
My children often visit me
Refreshing me like the sea breeze
I love living in Darwin NT
Close by the Arafura Sea
What makes my town a special place,
what makes this jewel shine?
What holds my heart strings evermore
so I can call it mine?
It's every smile and G'day mate,
The "No Strings" helping hand...
The beauty and the bounty of Mundubbera's Promised Land.
CHORUS
So meet me at Mundubbera's gate
Come watch our world go by
Come taste a touch of magic
In the Burnett by'n'by
Come dream your dreams ---- dance the dance
Waltz into town and take a chance
To start anew or wipe away the tears
This little town's been doin' it for years
This little town's been doin' it for years
We're pretty good at cricket,
Martin Love can vouch for that .....
And we're magic on the footy field,
or any old creek flat.
There's chandeliers of citrus,
pearly grapes upon the vine...
And the sweetest cattle country that is ... so, so fine.
CHORUS
We will stand up and be counted ....
in the kitchen or the yards,
Standing up for values try'd'n'true,
we're holding all the cards ...
So with drumming heart and gentle grace,
It whispers "You Belong"
This town of past and present voices, hear them in the song.
See the people down by the river , drinkin` on the best strawberry wine , and you can see the smiles upon the peoples faces , guaranteed to make you feel real fine , and there`s a rope swing there up in the tree , man throws a line in for the fish to see , you can tell he`s a local `round here , `cause when the fish are biting you`ll see him there . ( Chorus ) Longtime a livin` easy when you find a place to live your life , Longtime a livin` here . Longtime a livin` easy ...yeah . (Verse 2 ) So come up here and take the time to look around you and , is it what you really wanted to find , and there`s nothing between it and The Great Dividing Range , and the people up here they got nothing to hide ... yeah . ( Chorus ) So relax and have strawberry and leave all your troubles behind you , and see the smiles upon the peoples faces down by the riverside we`ll have a goodtime ( Chorus - Add live - End ) Thanks Al Keating .
Historic Gympic is just placed right
Handy to everything in sight
With friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle
Come for a visit and stay a while.
There's sport and shopping and plenty to do
Work or retirement could be for you.
CHORUS
You've just got to stop in Gympie
the best town in the Country!
We're farming nearby and fishing to
And lots of hills with pretty views
Ride the Rattler, a great trip by steam
Valley countryside - the prettiest ever seen!
Enjoy muster camping, music and fun
Goodd times with friends for everyone.
CHORUS
You've just got to stop in Gympie,
the best town in the Country!
Gympie's story should be told
Good for families - young and old
Go to the beach - a short scenic drive
Makes you feel great to be alive
Relax a bit - it will make you smile
Stay in Gympie and live in style!
CHORUS
You've just got to stop in Gympie,
the best town in the Country!
OH YEAH!!!
Morning mist on the river
A low sun casts a warm light ‘cross the flats
Two pelicans skim like Hercs from The Base
A lone rower’s insect legs cut across the water
Loaded trucks shift down to cross the bridge
Engines throb; then growl as lights turn green
It’s my home
It’s my home
Nowra’s home.
Chorus
The morning routine brings a smile
Head to the coast or pause a while?
Coffee’s hot; toast’s on the plate
And your smile brings me home.
Sleepy town awakens; the sun’s climbed through the trees
Off to school, kids laugh and chatter
Cambewarra watches over all
Mid day news on the phone
She’s in labour – doin’ it tough.
Share lunch under Jacarandas
As the river strolls to the sea
Kookaburras call from the gumtops
Laughing truants head to Bomaderry.
In Shoalhaven’s many villages
Neighbours laugh or lean and smile
Tenderly friends farewell a comrade
And a funeral cortege sobs on by.
Chorus
Life’s routine brings some wonder
Drive to the coast or sit at home?
Kettle’s hot ‘n’ hearts are ready
And your face is alive with love
The afternoon shadows stretch and yawn
Phone call at last – mum and baby girl doin’ fine
Your soft tears make me smile as it’s
Night time on the river
A full moon hovers in a Van Gogh sky
Trapped by the bridge’s steely arms
She breaks free and reaches for the stars
Chorus
Another day to bring a smile
All’s right with the world, pause for a while
It’s my home
Nowra’s home
Welcome home.
My Grand-daddy’s Daddy crossed that saddle on Black Mountain
All them pack-track miles, way too many to be countin’
And the whistle of the water in the Little Annan River he could hear
And the Lions Den Pub . . back in 1882
From a perch at the bar with the mountain in view
And the glasses of beer made the dust in his throat disappear
All the bushies told their tales of the spirits of that mountain
‘mongst the coves and the scratchers there was very little doubtin’
That the callin’ of the curlew in the night time came too soon
And the old timber floors of the Lions Den rattled
As the timber cutters chewed through a hundred head o’ cattle
And a hundred weight of tin it was washed by the light of the moon
There was a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispered screaming near
Now there’s four wheel drives that are corrugation countin’
As they bust off the black top as they’re drivin’ past the Mountain
With their headlights piercin’ through a blanket of Helenvale dust
And the same tin and timber is the Lions Den Pub
While the Annan still flows out the back through the scrub
Where the old tin mine has been smothered by the jungle and the rust
And the Black Mountain boulders - still a big pile o granite
But the tourists think it’s lookin’ like it’s from another planet
And the Murri man won’t even go near the mountain at all
just a handful of K’s over Wallaby Creek
Through a rainforest maze under Finnegan’s Peak
Where the night time still hears the echoin’ curlew call
There’s still a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispers screaming near
And then the Mountain gets blacker and the flyin’ ants swarm
As the sky closes in and the thunderheads form
And the rumbling river it roars from the mountains high
And still the stories from the bar fill them Mango Trees
While the Annan and The Mountain make you feel unease
And the curlew calls they fill up the night time sky
And the scrub it comes alive with the stories told of tin
When the monsoon comes everybody’s rained in
And there aint no use for a modern day mobile phone
It’s a wild old ride on the Helenvale Track
When the Annan River rises there aint no goin’ back
Mother Nature as she does, always . . . she reclaims her own
Cos there’ll always be . . . a mountain, and a pub
And the Annan River through the scrub
But it’s rainin’ axe handles
And the curlew’s callin’ still
Chorus: Ride down unroll your bluey
at the town I claim to be mine
with a beer or two we'll G'day to you
at post code two five four nine.
--------------------------------
Verse 1: Dismount at the hitching rail
just outside the Bottom Pub
stroll inside for a cold one
and join me in a bite of grub
the oldtimers will grab your ear
about the history of their Shire
the little town of Pambula
its droughts floods and bush fires.
---------------------------------
Verse 2: They'll tell of the bushy they toiled with
who's attention in life was the lyre
claimed these birds, his saw they'd mocked
but with no rev control the results were dier
then there were the local larakins
who white washed old Dan's black steed
now Dan reported his prize horse stolen
replaced with an old white nag, he greived.
----------------------------------
Verse 3: There was the time in the long ago now
with flood waters high over the flat
the only way to the other side
was astride the Goana's back
now this big lizard a stubborn old cuss
often times he'd well jib at the bit
he'd pig root and do a belly roll
and give the rider the slip.
-----------------------------------
Verse 4: One night, Dan at the pub they'll recall
horse and cart he'd hitched to the fence
now the local yocals had a brillaint idea
they swore they meant no offence
from the shafts old Dan's horse they took
and slipped the poles through the paling slats
then reharnessed the steed on tother' side
and with beers in hand they settled back.
-----------------------------------
Verse 5: Come midnight, time for Dan the trail to hit
to his horse and cart at a drunken stride
with reins in hand all set to go
but Black Bessy just wouldn't abide
with a puzzled look upon his face
old Dan just couldn't work it out
on horse hair seat he settled back
declared,I think there's time for one more shout.
-------------------------------------
My Grand-daddy’s Daddy crossed that saddle on Black Mountain
All them pack-track miles, way too many to be countin’
And the whistle of the water in the Little Annan River he could hear
And the Lions Den Pub . . back in 1882
From a perch at the bar with the mountain in view
And the glasses of beer made the dust in his throat disappear
All the bushies told their tales of the spirits of that mountain
‘mongst the coves and the scratchers there was very little doubtin’
That the callin’ of the curlew in the night time came too soon
And the old timber floors of the Lions Den rattled
As the timber cutters chewed through a hundred head o’ cattle
And a hundred weight of tin it was washed by the light of the moon
There was a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispered screaming near
Now there’s four wheel drives that are corrugation countin’
As they bust off the black top as they’re drivin’ past the Mountain
With their headlights piercin’ through a blanket of Helenvale dust
And the same tin and timber is the Lions Den Pub
While the Annan still flows out the back through the scrub
Where the old tin mine has been smothered by the jungle and the rust
And the Black Mountain boulders - still a big pile o granite
But the tourists think it’s lookin’ like it’s from another planet
And the Murri man won’t even go near the mountain at all
just a handful of K’s over Wallaby Creek
Through a rainforest maze under Finnigans Peak
Where the night time still hears the echoin’ curlew call
There’s still a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispers screaming near
And then the Mountain gets blacker and the flyin’ ants swarm
As the sky closes in and the thunderheads form
And the rumbling river it roars from the mountains high
And still the stories from the bar fill them Mango Trees
While the Annan and The Mountain make you feel unease
And the curlew calls they fill up the night time sky
And the scrub it comes alive with the stories told of tin
When the monsoon comes everybodies rained in
And there aint no use for a modern day mobile phone
It’s a wild old ride on the Helenvale Track
When the Annan River rises there aint no goin’ back
Mother nature as she does, always . . . she reclaims her own
Cos there’ll always be a mountain, and a pub
And the Annan River through the scrub
But it’s rainin’ axe handles
And the curlew’s callin’ still
I am a boarder from a village called Humula near Wagga Wagga. This song was inspired by my home and the feeling i get when i am on way back from the school to the farm. The lyrics describe the great memories and qualities of my home, and the almost indescribable feeling of happiness country life brings to me especially after being away from it, in the Sydney smoke, for way too long.
IM COMING HOME
It’s been too long my heart grows weary,
I miss the dirt, and the cattle grazing when I look out my window.
The cities alright, But it beckons me back,
The worn out road, musterin on horseback that’s my home, forever.
I travelled the world, and that was all good,
But my mind didn’t change like my momma said it would, I was homesick all the while.
(Bridge)
They say at home you’ll find your heart,
And it has been there from the start,
It time to go where it feels right,
Where you can sleep through all night,
Home is where I’m heading--------
(Chorus)
45 degrees, the eucalyptus trees,
That’s dusty red road, where the traffic is slow.
The fresh out back air, not a worry not a care.
I’m coming home, I’m coming home.
Dips in the dam, barbys with fam,
When the drought comes around, we'll tough it all out.
cause I’m coming home, yes I’m coming home.
The Ute gives a rumble, it won’t be long,
I’m sittin in my jeans, and my flannel’s on, I’ve almost reached my dream.
My families all there, there waiting for me,
I can barely hold it in, I just wanna scream, it been way too long.
The mailbox out front, the old tin can,
I swing the front gate wide, I take a look at the land, it is a view I’ve missed
(Bridge)
They say at home you’ll find your heart,
And It has been there from the start,
It time to go where it feels right,
Where you can sleep through all night,
Home is where I’m heading--------
(Chorus)
45 degrees, the eucalyptus trees,
That’s dusty red road, where the traffic is slow.
The fresh out back air, not a worry not a care.
I’m coming home, I’m coming home.
Dips in the dam, barbys with fam,
When the drought comes around, we’ll tough it all out.
cause I’m coming home, yes I’m coming home.
45 degrees, the eucalyptus trees,
That’s dusty red road, where the traffic is slow.
The fresh out back air, not a worry not a care.
I’m coming home, I’m coming home --- today.
This is a song I wrote about going back to my home town of Forbes and the road that I pass everytime I drive there, it's about five miles out of town and whenever I see it I know home is just around the corner, memories come flooding back of home:
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
When I see it rolling round the bend
I know that it ain't long till I get home.
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
Rollin over the bridge at sunset watchin stars collecting while I roam.
Nothing ever changes and my love is never wasted,
Feelings washing over me again.
I know I've been away for too long,
Livin my life and singing my song
It's time to come back home where I belong.
I see the lights as I pull in and hold my mum and dad again
wishing I could stay for evermore.
As I cherish every minute, watching my dad grinning
and listen to the stories geting told.
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
When I see it coming round the bend
I know that it aint long till I get home
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
Rolling over the bridge at sunset
Watchin stars collecting while I roam
If I could only keep it all beside me,
and take it all back with me when I go.
So I hold on to the memories of everything home means
to me and dream of clear skies shining round the bend.
But until I take those steps back home I'll keep on
driving down this road until I see old Yellow Box again.
Yes, until I take those steps back home I'll keep on driving down this road ... until I see old yellow box again.
No ordinary house, the one where we lived
When I was a kid in Hill End,
Near the rubble of gold mines, now spent and deserted,
But where the old house was a friend.
Made of wattle and daub, a simple bush building
Protected now by the Trust,
The house where we lived is somehow still standing
Held together by rust.
Chorus:
Returning to visit my old childhood home
The highlights of memories flood,
Brought back by the sight of the tumble down house
Made out of the red Hill End mud
My old Uncle Tommy lived there for a while.
He said he had ‘done the place up’.
Well, he’d lined the walls with fresh sheets of newsprint
And a light globe was now hanging up.
A few extra boards were laid on the dirt
To help make a new kitchen floor.
But there’s still the lean-to, long-drop dunny out back,
Leaning-to just a little bit more.
Chorus:
Returning to visit my old childhood home
The highlights of memories flood
Brought back by the sight of the tumble down house
Made out of the red Hill End mud
I remember my mum patching holes in the walls
With handfuls of wet sticky clay
And warm days we’d run barefoot in the grass
And trees were fun places to play.
The ghosts of my childhood are haunting Hill End,
Nuggets of things said and done,
And somehow, the pieces still hang there together,
No ordinary childhood, that one.
Chorus:
Returning to visit my old childhood home
The highlights of memories flood
Brought back by the sight of the tumble down house
Made out of the red Hill End mud
< I'M GOIN BACK TO THE GONG >
-----------------------------------------
Chorus: I'm goin' back to the Gong
where the mountains meet the sea
where the sunshine swathes the beaches
and the lifestyle beckons me.
-----------------------------------------
Verse 1: I've had my share of country life
as peaceful as this may be
but I miss the bustle of city life
it's Wollongong again for me.
-----------------------------------------
Verse 2: With its coal mines and the steelworks
and the port facilities
I wouldn't trade the lights of Wollongong
for the bright lights of Sydney.
-----------------------------------------
Verse 3: From all corners of the world
folks have come to settle down
in the great city of Wollongong
in the long ago my home town.
-----------------------------------------
Repeat Chorus: I'm Goin>>>>>
Roy's tea, Linda's sugar, Dinah's tim tams ,Pauls milk
The tiny town of Woodridge, was heavily timbered then, that's going back, a hundred years and ten
we were just a stop-off, for coaches to the coast, water for the horses, folk got tea and toast.
the country side remained, unchanged for many years, then all the crowds came, lots of land was cleared
gone were trees of old and birds that they held, in their places homes were built, where families could dwell.
round that time i started, walking with my dog, firstly it was Pinto, nowadays it's Oz
frequently we visit, the Links at number 10, starting with a shy hello, now we're best of friends.
There's been lots of jokes, hundreds of debates, one or two disputes, but never over states
maroon is the colour, flying through our veins, we both love the sunshine state, even when it rains.
To-days logan locals, take a great big bow, we've grown up together,just look at us now
we're building new forests and though there's more to do, let's be like the pioneers ans stop.......
to have a brew! get the billy goin mate let's have a cup or twooooooooooooooooooo!
Chorus: Now this highway has all the signals there
It's a long way to go but a lot for all to share
I can see all the signs,feel the tie that binds
as I travel down the highway of my mind.
Verse 1: I can see the lights in the distance
can see reflections of days gone by
I shed what was of me, now far behind
the warmth of Perth still surrounds me
as the thread around my thoughts unwind.
Verse 2: I remember my first trip across the big paddock
my memry' of those days of heat and dust
corrugations we diddlybopped and held on tight
but something of the west stirred me deeply
when it's golden gateway came in sight.
Verse 3: Broome's cable beach,the turning of the tide
and the power of Perth's City overccome me
It wasn't only rays of Sunday mornin' sun
feelins' of those days are more than embers
a glowing fire of love for Perth had then begun.
So you're fed up with city life the constant cattle crush
You need a chance to clear out from the bustle and the rush
Then take the Way called Waterfall and up around the bend
You'll find a piece of paradise the town of Bellingen
There's cockies and there's hippies amd occasional celebs
Some of them are wealthy but most of us are plebs
On Friday at the local you can get into a stink
Then catch up on the gossip with your mates at Centrelink
(Chorus)
Oh, the locals call it Bello but it's really Bellingen
If I have seen a nicer place I can't remember when
You wake up every morning and you feel like yor in heaven
Mother Nature did her best when she made Bellingen
Our footy team's the Mighty Magpies all in balck and white
We've had our share of glory but it's fading out of sight
On Sunday arvo down the park we give the boys a cheer
Then head back to the Diggers to drown the loss in beer
One day I heard a chopper and it really shook the floor
The next thing there's this copper big and ugly at my door
He said "Now you've been naughty son, we've caught you growing dope"
I said "They're just tomato plants, I bought them from the Pope"
Three weeks later hair slicked down I'm up before the beak
He said " So what's your story son, its now your turn to speak"
I said "It's all a fit up and the copper is a clown
Why take a look around you, he's nicked half the flamin' town"
Chorus
Where once there was a cafe and it sold you pie and peas
There's now a string of coffee shops and french patisseries
There's festivals of every kind that run throughout the year
No matter what may float your boat your sure to find it here
So if you want to change the sea or simply change a tree
Go search Australia far and wide but take a tip from me
You'll find the place you're looking for up around the bend
That little piece of paradise the town of Bellingen
Though city born, in my dreams I could see, our children all raised in rural country
So I packed wife & kids, no point hangin’ round & set our sites on Nabiac town
You’ll need a good cow, that’s what they all said, they couldn’t believe it as they rolled out of bed
‘Cause down the road in their gum boots they ran, how Fresians can run, my goodness they can!
And then there was Digby with his old cattle truck, when his run was over it was all full of muck,
He’d yell & prod & curse & swear till he had all those cows & calves right up there
Now Tom’s a short curly headed bloke, always good for a smile & a bit of joke
He’d don’ the glove & with a great long shove, “she’ll have a nice calf by next winter luv”.
The kids had no trouble gettin’ to school, cause Jim drove the bus, they said he was cool,
There goes the bus, guess we’re to late!, no problem at all he’ll wait by the gate
A cattle sale will be held next week, there’ll be a big crowd & they’ll all need to eat
the wife calls her new friend Valerie, she’ll help with the cakes & a nice cup of tea
Chorus
We moved to this town for a new way of life, away from the city its pollution & strife
Twenty years later much wiser is he, for he knows it’s not the grass or the green of the trees
It’s the people, their spirit & the character I see, that makes this small town the right place for me.
I was born just a breath away from the ocean
Near a beach that is popular for surfin'
My youth days were filled with excitement
In Newcastle they're not short of entertainment
The blue collar boys taught me all about life
Not to forget some migrants that I knew from Fife
The steelworks once contributed to the bread
But no longer they do something else instead
But now I've moved away
And I'll go back some day
You know I've no regret
Growing up on Novocastrian Sweat
I got some friends they worked in a coal mine
They remember the strike back in 1949
And had to struggle to buy food and groceries
Helped by friends that worked in factories
They play a guitar and sing songs to greet
When busking in the mall in Hunter street
Ambassadors of nightlife fill the tavern
I've never ever driven an FJ Holden
But now I've moved away
And I'll go back some day
You know I've no regret
Growing up on Novocastrian Sweat
Merchant ships tied up from other ports
With hands that mix with blokes on the wharf
They share stories and a laugh and a brew
And invite them around for a barbecue
The weekends are enjoyed by all
That see their local side play football
I'd see jelly fish drifting up the Hunter river
And whales swim out at sea near a Clipper
But now I've moved away
And I'll go back some day
You know I've no regret
Growing up on Novocastrian Sweat
MY HOME TOWN PAMBULA.
------------------------------------
Chorus: Where there's eucalypts by the roadside
crimson brush nectar treat to the lorikeet
Yes, it's my historic home town of Pambula
but just a rooster's crow from the beach.
---------------------------------------
Verse 1: On the shores of the great Pacific ocean
below the mountains of the Kosiusko snow
rests a village pride of the Sapphire coast
where the rivers of the Bega Valley flow.
--------------------------------------
Verse 2: Where the wedgetail ever circles slowly
seeking cottontails with sharp eagle eyes
from far up in God's great heavens
from the sun drenched cloudless skies.
---------------------------------------
Verse 3: The eastern greys bound across the flat
the water hen seek refuge by the wetlands
while the king,rosella and the moutain larry
say g'day where the old church still stands.
----------------------------------------
Repeat Chorus:
Stark and bare are the vines, sleeping, with arms outwide
Winter chills them, stills them, resting on the hillsides
Their feet tucked under crispy frost that lies in the hollows
Where green crops help to nourish the growth soon to follow
That is triggered by spring, with the vines unfolding
Bunches of hope brewing in the juice they are holding
These majestic vineyards make NURIOOTPA so grand
For the vineyards and the people go hand in hand
CHORUS
Vineyards and vignerons, vats and vines
It all ends up in premium class wines
We live in the valley, with beauty all round
Nuriootpa is buzzing, it's our kind of town
We all call it NURI, cos that's a lot easier
Barossa's northern gateway is waiting to please you
It's name means "meeting place"and we do that well
At cafes and coffee shops where we stop for a spell
Enchanting bush cottages will entice you to sleep
Cellar door memories you will just want to keep
For fresh local produce, there's only one place to go
It's the farmers market, where the best is on show
CHORUS
Vintage festivals and street parades often take place
Local brass bands excel, and they set a fast pace
Pop stars and jazz concerts bring crowds to the greens
At some of our wineries, they're great outdoor scenes
There are all types of sports here, to be played by all
Soccer, tennis and horses and the Tigers football
Swimming, netball and rugby, the list is too long
Whatever you choose, you'll be sure to belong
I've travelled near,
I've travelled far,
But I'm sure I'll stick with Gunnedah,
Whether you go there by horse or car.
I've sen it cringe,
I've seen it smile,
But now it's moving on with style.
It was mainly built on wheat and wool,
With the odd guy giving cow's teats a pull.
Coal once played a minor part,
Now it's the towns main beating heart.
The soil around is rich and sweet,
some like dark chocolate you could eat,
a block will stand you on your feet.
With the Namoi river flowing clear,
And Keepit Dam so very near,
You can sail and fish all the year.
So whether your in retirement,
Or charging on full steam ahead,
Gunnedahs the place to stop,
Settle down you'll finish top.
Hi Guys. I have already submitted an entry titled COUNTRY'S IN MY BLOOD, entry No 1, but I thought I would just share these few words with you. It is not about any particular town but rather outback Australia in general.I penned it in 1974 when I was working in Carnarvon W.A.
THE STOCKMAN COLOURED BLACK.
-------------------------------------------------------
The Nannup Tiger is a mythical thylacine type creature that 'allegedly' lives in the forests of SW WA. Old-timers claim to have seen it, but there haven't been any recent sightings......
THE NANNUP TIGER
I live in southern forests deep
I roam the town when you’re asleep
I’m not a cow; I’m not a sheep
I am the Nannup Tiger
I’m very quiet on the prowl
I do not scream; I do not howl
I’m not a duck; I’m not an owl
I am the Nannup Tiger
(Chorus)
Keep looking ‘neath the jarrah and the karri -
Don’t give up
Keep searching - you might find me
In the forests of Nannup
I hide in places quite remote
I have a very stripey coat
I’m not a dog; I’m not a goat
I am the Nannup Tiger
I keep my four paws on the ground
I move myself around and round
I hide so that I can’t be found
I am the Nannup Tiger
(Chorus)
Some people think I don’t exist
A notion that you should resist
I am well loved, but never kissed
I am the Nannup Tiger
I’m proud to live near Nannup town
The people there won’t let you down
They do not cry; they do not frown
They all are Nannup Tigers
i remember back when i was eight
living on the floodplains outside goulburn
rusty wire wooden gate
i spent my days dreaming up ways
that i could leave this town
when i was thirteen there was only you and me
kissing down by the courner so your parents wouldn,t see
we spent our days dreaming up ways to leave this town
when i was sixteen i found my self sitting on a train
heading north on the midnight xpt in the summer rain
i was amazed id finaly found ways to leave that town
3 verses to original song leave this town written by luke wilton
If you need a bit of sparkle in your life
And your day is looking rather slow
Jump in your car and head to Deloraine
Because that’s the place to go.
It doesn’t matter if you’re old or young
There’s plenty to do that’s fun
Deloraine is a great little town
And has something for everyone.
When you reach the river that meanders along
Look out for the big green train
That’s the best known landmark
In the town of Deloraine.
It’s great place to get out
For kids to have a play
To feed the ducks, have a barbecue
And plan the rest of your day.
Take the time to look around
And discover what’s old and new
Everywhere in Deloraine
The locals will welcome you.
Chorus:
Meander River is the place to start
When you arrive in Deloraine
To feed the ducks and have a barbecue
In the park by the big green train.
Take the path around the river
And cross a bridge or two
Whichever way you’re walking
There’s another perfect view.
Deloraine is never idle
It’s a happy and busy town
People from around Australia
Move in to settle down.
There’s lots of arts and craftsmen
Who visited and stayed
To enjoy the Deloraine lifestyle
Where they live and work and play.
Each year in November
Deloraine hosts a giant fair
And thousands of people gather
To buy and sell craft wares.
It’s another of the reasons
Why Deloraine’s on the map
Why people come from all over
And keep on coming back.
Chorus:
Meander River is the place to start
When you arrive in Deloraine
To feed the ducks and have a barbecue
In the park by the big green train.
To find out lots more stories
That Deloraine can tell.
Wander through the Folk Museum
And the Visitor Centre as well
You’ll enjoy some fancy Yarns
Of four stories sewed in silk
Deloraine through all the seasons
Stitched by folk of every ilk.
Check out all the sculptures
While meandering up and down
They are the wonderful characters
Who helped to make this town.
There’s craftsman Jimmy Possum
And community groups on view
A farmer, publican and shearer
An extreme skateboarder too.
See the fish that caught the fisherman
And a guitar playing man
An Aboriginal girl and peace maker
And a tree protecting fan.
Chorus:
Meander River is the place to start
When you arrive in Deloraine
To feed the ducks and have a barbecue
In the park by the big green train.
There's a place that's called Meander
where I spent my childhoodd years,
Hunstman dam now stands, and it
looks so grand, underneath the
Western Tiers, where I was a bub up
in the scrub where the animals run wild
I have fond thoughts as I go back
in my memories as a child.
CHORUS:
I have memories of Meander
where the river winds its way,
where the folks are fine and
from time to time
in my mind they come to play.
There was lots of good in that neighbourhood
and the football team was fine.
There were dances in the local hall
that would help the folk unwind.
The joke about the local blokes
checking the school at start of year,
Pretty teachers start, and they looked so smart,
in their lovely teenage years.
Welcome to the Redlands, it's a Shire mighty fine
It's for you to enjoy - come one and all to wine and dine
Our very own winery sits on top of a hill
Down in the valleys it's tranquil, quiet and still
We're proud of our beaches and of our teachers
You'll love the many berries that grow in our red soil
Out on the bay the water is deep and inviting
A visit to our town will be intriguing and exciting
Chorus
So - come to the Redlands - wine and dine
Each day you will want to rise and shine
The roads are so smooth in this area of the State
Our service clubs are in abundance for you to debate
The outlying islands are accessible to one and all
You'll hear the birds singing their melodical calls
Agriculture and horticulture - we surely have it all
Industry and employment - that's an easy call
From day care centres to great old age care
Your residency will be welcomed, you'll not fear
Chorus
So - come to the Redlands - wine and dine
Each day you will want to rise and shine
There's highways and bikeways - shopping abounds
Come check out the Redlands where beauty surrounds
Aboriginal input is respected - no racial barriers here
Come to the Redlands, we welcome you with care
Whether it be the galleries or out on the bay
One thing is for certain you'll have a mighty great day
There's dolphins and dugongs frollicking in the sea
Inviting you to the Redlands - they're there for all to see
Chorus
So - come to the Redlands - wine and dine
Each day you will want to rise and shine
There's a little town I know of
tucked 'neath the Western Tiers,
a friendly, little Tassie town
where I spent my childhoodd years,
'neath rugged blue, grey mountains
with snowcaps high above,
we flourished there as children
'tis the place I learned to love.
CHORUS
Meander is the name they gave
to this little country town.
'tween Quamby and the Western Tiers
our families settled down.
This place is by the river
from whence it got its name,
for it wanders from the mountains
through town and 'cross the plains.
The tiny country schoolhouse
still stands so proud and tall
The hub of the community
still used by one and all,
a singer and a dancer
once trod those old wood flooers
As household names, their worldy fame
has brought them much applause.
In those days the social life
was light to say the least,
The monthly dances at the hall
were something of a feast
Not only was the supper grans
but right on ten past ten
the local closed and then the rush
of all the nice young men
Without this dance, some may not be
in such a happy state
For this is where the local youth
quite often found their mate.
One time this place could boast three shops,
a school and public hall,
three churches and a football team,
we really had it all.
Our fathers, they all wored the land
or toiled at the old sawmill.
T'was the lifeblood of the Hunstman
I dream of the whistle, still.
The whining of those sharp saw blades,
the sawdust and the sap,
Our mothers, towels were ne'er the same
our dad's hands always black.
Those milling days are long since gone,
there's more to life at stake,
replaced there are by much, much more,
the magnificent Huntsman Lake,
Now when, at times, we do return
to dance in that old hall,
and a local friend says "welcome home"
THAT REALLY SAYS IT ALL.
Verse 1
There’s a little dot on a map, in a little place faraway. I followed my husband and inherited his past, the photos on the mantelpiece tell of legacies once lived. And now our baby carries his name when she’s older I’ll tell her of
their lives.
Verse 2
The solider on the Waler in the light horse brigade, paints a sad picture for the sacrifice he made. We will remember the courage that was shown. We won’t forget that he never came home.
And in the seventy’s the apple orchards fell, not just the black spot but the markets as well. They bull dozed the fruit trees and the land was all sold, left were the giant sheds, decrepit and old.
Chorus
And in this raw land, that the Sea eagles own, surrounded by water and golden sandstone, this is my home, the Tasman its known, my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful home.
Verse 3
One thing I know is the love in her eyes, when Granma and Grandpa drive up and surprise. She runs to their side and into their arms, I’m so grateful, she’ll grow up on our family farm.
And on the Jetty that’s fading away, near the old headstones where sad convicts lay, that’s where he asked me to be his wife, we stood where his ancestors started their lives.
Chorus
And in this raw land, that the Sea eagles own, surrounded by water and golden sandstone, this is my home, the Tasman its known, my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful home.
There's a small town in the Wimmera that people know so well
It's known around the world 'cause of the story it had to tell.
Nestled quietly amonst the gum trees that sway gently in the breeze
And surrounded by farmlands that try so hard to please
Starting up in the Grampians the Wimmera River flowers
Meandering slowly inland the cherished water goes.
Through the town of Dimboola famous for regatta crews
To Hindmarsh and Albacutya where it finally subdues.
There's a desert to the west
And a river running through
It's built around nin creeks
And there's a welcome for me and you.
There's a steam train in its parklands hauled by an old J class
The railways have been integral in this old town's past.
It's struggling for its future as many small towns do
But it's a part of Australia that we must help pull through
The Little Desert beckons you from beneath the great arch way
From Pomponderoo to Horsehoe Bend where grateful campers stay.
The kangaroos and emus feed peacefully on heath
And the banksia seed waits patiently to be freed by bushfires' heat.
There's a desert to the west
And a river running through
It's built around nine creeks
and there's a welcome for me and you.
The knowledge of its citizens is forged up on the hill
The grand old school gazes steadfast west with futures keen to fill.
Many of its students have roamed both far and wide
But some have stayed to till the earth and tend our countryside.
Now let's rejoice in what we've had and surge ahead once more
There's crops to plant and mouths to feed so we can prosper forth
And in times of peace let us reflect for what we're gratful for
That we came from Dombool and proud of that I'm sure.
There's a desert to the west
And a river running through
It's built around nine creeks
and there's a welcome for me and you.
Verse 1
On the far north coast of NSW, is the greatest country town;
The people there laid-back and cool, and rarely show a frown;
But sometimes things get on their goat, and they don't take it well;
They're gonna to lose their icon, and have to say farewell.
They're crying in their pretzels, everyone's forlorn;
Ballina is in mourning; It's gonna lose its Prawn.
Chorus
Stanthorpe has its Apple,
A big Axe stands in Kew,
The Banana's at Coff Harbour,
They all pose quite a view.
A Big Bull at Rockhampton,
And Bega spruiks its Cheese,
But no more Prawn at Ballina
Despite the desperate pleas.
Verse 2
Ballina folk keep busy, trying not to think;
What's about to happen, is driving them to drink.
The residents are all sombre, no smile upon their dials;
Shoppers dragging feet along the supermarket aisles.
Truckie's spit the dummy as they roll into the town,
Their roadside mark for Ballina is about to be torn down.
Chorus
The Big Bull's at Rockhampton,
Even Moonbi has a Chook,
The gold guitar's at Tamworth,
Such icons worth a look;
The dog is on his Tuckerbox,
A Cassowary by the seas,
But no more Prawn at Ballina,
The town is on its knees.
Verse 3
What will they do in Ballina, our Prawn's not just a shrimp;
No more cheery BBQs, it's all caused such a stink,
The publican has heard it all, the boys have spat the dummy,
"Don't come the raw prawn with our Prawn, us blokes don't think it's funny!"
The Prawn that drew us nearer, now never to be seen.
Just an empty space where our beloved Prawn has been.
Chorus
Tully has its Gumboot,
Kimba its Galah,
The Merino stands at Goulburn,
All icons, near and far;
There's the Pineapple at Gympie,
And Urunga's hive of bees;
But no more Prawn at Ballina,
Won't someone save it please…...?
Written by Lee Hillyard (Ballina NSW) - 19 August 2010
CHORUS
[Where the Riddoch meets the Dukes
is a small South Aussie town
We will soon be famous
When the word does get around
That we are on the saintly track
To fortune and to fame
The only Aussie Saint to be
And McKillop is her name.
So head on down or over or up
Whatever the case may be
Remembering KEITH is the name of the town
That all will want to see!]
Our playground has a mighty train
Made only for tin lids
Up and down thr track they go
Kids just being kids.
Squeling with such great delight
As the train rumbles down
You can hear the sound of laughter
Echoing through our town.
CHORUS
There there is our "Landie" up the pole
Yes! It does sound rather odd
And of course there is our pizza hut
That's our house of God.
We all live by the water
But no sea change do you see
'Cause all the water's underground
Now there's a mystery.
CHORUS
Hender Street is the place to go
If you choose to meet and greet
Jack our icon he'll be there
A sitting on his seat.
We've got B&Bs and a fountain
And of course a farm stay too
Mount Monster is a sight to see
Yep! Our town is just true blue.
Belbora’s rolling hills
Where wild angophoras grow
And gullies shelter creeks
That twist and gently flow;
I see the cattle graze
On pasture nature sows
A wholesome country scene
Just right for my abode.
Chorus:
Belbora, home sweet home,
Where I feel free to roam
Heart strings tie me to
My sweet Belbora home.
Farms are nestled there
Where neighbours have their home
In times of need or fun
You never feel alone,
And when at end of day
You pause and look up high;
Feel the peaceful wonder
Of a star-filled sky.
When you consider all
It’s easy to see why
Belbora is my home
No matter where I fly,
The pleasure travel brings
Will fade with passing time
But nothing stirs the heart
Quite like this home of mine.
MY TOWN SITS BESIDE THE RIVER
CLOSE ENOUGH TO WALK DOWN TO THE SEA
I HEAR THE WAVES ROLLING ON THE BEACH AT NIGHT
NORTH BROTHER MOUNTAIN WATCHES OVER ME
THE TREES AND FORESTS ARE ALL AROUND
I LOVE THIS COASTAL AIR THAT I BREATHE
I HAVE A FEW GOOD FRIENDS IN THIS PEACEFUL TOWN
SO I HAVE NO GOOD REASON ... TO LEAVE
THEY CALL THIS PLACE "A HAVEN"
PROTECTED BY THE MOUNTAIN
AND SHIPS COME IN TO REST A WHILE
BEYOND THE WINDSWEPT SEAS
THE FOREST YIELDS IT'S TIMBER
THE RIVER, LIKE A FOUNTAIN ...
BRINGS FORTH IT'S BOUNTY TO THIS TOWN
WHO REFUGE IN IT'S BREEZE
LIKE EVERY TOWN IT HAS IT'S SHARE OF HISTORY
THE NAMES OF EARLY SETTLERS AND THEIR KIN
FAMILIES WHO BUILT THEIR DREAMS ON NOTHING MORE ...
THAN HOPE, THAT HERE, THEIR NEW LIVES WOULD BEGIN
I'VE READ OF LONGWORTH, GEORGE DE FRAINE AND OXLEY
HIBBARD, ROGER, BIBBY AND MCKAY
DUN, BAGAN, BELL AND JOSEPH LAURIE
FROM WHOM OUR STREETS AND TOWNSHIPS HAVE BEEN NAMED
THEY CALL THIS PLACE A HAVEN
IT SURE LOOKS LIKE GOD'S COUNTRY
AND PEOPLE COME TO REST A WHILE
AND SOME WILL NEVER LEAVE
THEY BUY THEIR SLICE OF HEAVEN
ITS' VALUE MORE THAN MONEY
AND PLEDGE THEIR SOULS TO PARADISE
WITH HEART UPON THEIR SLEEVE
SO IF YOU'RE EVER PASSING
AND WISH TO TASTE OUR BOUNTY
YOU'RE SURE TO SEE A WELCOME SMILE
WHILE WALKING THROUGH THE TOWN
THE RIVER AND THE MOUNTAIN
THEIR FLAWLESS NATURAL BOUNDARIES
WILL COMFORT YOU AND THEN YOU'LL SEE
THE JEWEL WITHIN THE CROWN
YES!, BEAUTY'S OUR INHERITANCE
FOR ALL WHO WILL RECEIVE ... BUT
BE WARNED 'FORE YOU STEP INSIDE...
... IN MAGIC YOU'LL BELIEVE!
There's a fine Art Deco theatre
At the heart of Tumut town,
It's had a big make-over
'Cause it was a bit rundown -
It was saved from demolition
To increase the car park space
By a crazy bunch of people
With their hearts in the right place.
Chorus:
It's a hill town
It's a mill town
Grazing country in the main
At it's backdoor are the mountains
At it's front the inland plains
It's a sport town
It's a horse town
Outdoor living is the call
But we also love our theatre
The historic Montreal.
Now it is the townsfolks' theatre
With a weekly movie show,
The Grand Ole Opry's been there,
Real live opera on the go,
Every sort of entertainment
You can think of passes through
And the local talent's brilliant -
For a country town - it's true.
Chorus:
It's a hill town
It's a mill town
Grazing country in the main
At it's backdoor are the mountains
At it's front the inland plains
It's a trout town
It's a boat town
Dam and river there for all
But there's an inside place that's magic
At our revamped Montreal.
The trains get cancelled all the time,
Graffiti is what locals do to bide their time.
Shops and stations are miles away,
You have to get up early to get on your way
Chorus:
Werribee doesn’t stink.
Cos the sewerage farm,
Is never on the blink.
Even though we are west
Our touristy icons are the best.
The first female PM,
Is our long standing Federal member,
Guess what,
I have never seen her!
Chorus:
The Zoo is pretty good,
The animals have room to roam
As they should.
The Mansion takes you back in time,
When people were dignified and very fine
Chorus:
I want to go home
Where arms will embrace me
Where Im never alone
And time cannot chase me
v1
I want to go home
Where the oceans roar
Where the horses roam
Along heavens shore
v2
I want to go home
To my small country town
Where I am well known
I wear a royal crown
v3
I want to go home
Where there will never be sadness
Where pain is not known
And there will only be gladness
I wandered ‘round Woodstock a few years in the past,
it didn’t bring memories, but it sure was a blast.
Ya see, I was too young to remember those days,
some are just figments, most a recounted haze.
My birth paper says, young Jim is a male,
apparently I was - hearty and hale.
But, Jim is a contraction of a much bigger name.
Perhaps, the two my folks chose, they thought would bring fame.
Well, it never happened. I don’t really care.
They’ve all served me well, no need for despair.
A small Private Hospital in the town of Woodstock,
I stood quiet on the footpath after walking the block
up from the station, yes - there once was a train,
maybe it whistled as it took on the strain.
The train does not run now. It’s probably lost and forlorn
in some rusty ol’ rail shed, it’s whistle long gorn,
but the footpath’s still dusty and perhaps in a fleet
- of a moment -
I saw the impressions of, my parents feet.
Slim. I won't forget you.
Your spirit's all aroumd.
Your face is in my campfires' glow.
Your voice is singing in the wind that blows,
through the streets of MY TOWN.
And over every dusty track that you went down.
VERSE 1
It’s rainin’ and it’s pourin’
Country and Western tunes
I am stuck in the middle of town
Lookin’ for Tully’s runes.
I can see rodeos
Show time and cane trains.
I can see hungry hawks
In the fields crossed by aeroplanes.
CHORUS
The clouds are rainin’ country
The clouds are rainin’ dreams.
Time to put together life’s seams
Put together life's seams.
VERSE 2
We just saw the creek
Made a detour for a dip.
Kids are jumpin’ off the bridge
Headin’ home to play the didje.
They’re not scared of crocodiles
Lookin’ for some lunch.
They’re tellin’ me the locals
Are a super friendly bunch.
CHORUS
The clouds are rainin’ country
The clouds are rainin’ dreams
Time to put together life’s seams
Put together life's seams.
VERSE 3
As I head back on the road
I long to be free
Perhaps I’ll leave this small town
With all its festival crowns.
Say goodbye to rodeos
Show time and cane trains
Goodbye to hungry hawks
In the fields crossed by aeroplanes.
CHORUS
The clouds are rainin’ country
The clouds are rainin’ dreams.
Time to put together life’s seams
Put together life seams.
You can rest at ease, 'neath the blooming trees,
on a Springtime day smell the perfumed leaves.
Hear the white birds cry, see the white clouds fly,
from range to range through an azure sky.
You can find your space in the meeting place
There will always be room Where the Wattles Bloom.
See the sparkling snow, hear the river flow,
from the mountain top to the plains below.
You can find your space in the meeting place
There will always be room Where the Wattles Bloom.
Watch the heavens cross, see the gentle gloss,
of the silver stars of the Southern Cross.
You can find your space in the meeting place
There will always be room Where the Wattles Bloom
They say that home is where the heart is
So I guess that I am part
Of a place called, Cradle Mountain
That, long ago, stole my heart.
That famous boat shed nestled on the Dove,
The soft, white snow drifting down from above.
The wombats ambling, as the pademelons play
I can't think of anywhere, I'd rather spend my day.
I first went there as a girl of maybe three.
My granddad took me so its wonders I could see.
The Enchanted Forest, is a place I won't forget
for I've never seen a view to compare with it yet.
That famous boat shed nestled on the Dove,
The soft, white snow drifting down from above.
The wombats ambling, as the pademelons play
I can't think of anywhere, I'd rather spend my day.
Cradle Mountain is the place my heart will always be..
It' holds some special memories for my granddad and me
Of climbing Marion's Lookout, or trudging through the snow
Cradle Mountain is one place ,I'm glad I got to know.
That famous boat shed nestled on the Dove,
The soft ,white snow drifting down from above.
The wombats ambling, as the pademelons play
I can't think of anywhere, I'd rather spend my day..
Chorus; Drink the Chardonnay today or Cab Sav that we have
Then linger while you're caught, with a lacal Tawny Port---
All the tastings that I pour, will bring them back for more---
Yes, they're coming for the wine, made out here at Mudgee.
1. When the vintage is released and we celebrate in Spring,
There's a festival in September in full swing;
Welcome folk from everywhere, come to visit without care,
Savour the delights fit for any Queen or King.
Chorus.
2. When the roses are in bloom and the honey's flowing too,
Artists paint their canvas with morning's valley view;
There's aroma on the street from the diners' breakfast treat,
The market's in the park the Cudgegong flows through.
Chorus.
3. Oldest town in New South Wales, hist'ry ev'rywhere abounds
Where pioneers settled down on fertile virgin grounds,
Grazing flocks of fine wool sheep, growing wheat and corn to reap
While fossickers sluiced gold from yellow mullock mounds.
Chorus.
Timber, sugar and steel works was the main stay of the day
Now add the pub crawl and mary poppins and we are here to stay
We live around the mighty Mary, a port for ships it be
Heritage is the backbone, now tourism is the key
The muddy mary flows along from Imbil to the sea
At times it floods, and when it does it is a sight to see
The people are all friendly, though conservative it seems
Sporting acholades have seen champions, the start of many dreams
Its safe to rear your family, everything close in one area
The beach and rolling farmlands makes it all the more merrier
The muddy mary flows along from Imbil to the sea
At times it floods, and when it does it is a sight to see
Tis Maryborough where I love to be, climate stable all year round
Sure we have our seasons, but no extremes abound
Just put a rod in my hand, from rivers, dam and sea
And look upon my face with glee, cause it's Maryborough twill be
The muddy mary flows along from Imbil to the sea
At times it floods, and when it does it is a sight to see
" My Goolwa Home" is a song which I wrote both the music and words for my Bush Band. This band is comprised of residents of Thornbury Park retirement village, and was formed so that we could have fun with music and we entertain at senior citizens clubs and nursing homes. We are all amateurs with no formal training but we love to get together and sing. We would love to hear it with a professional touch. Betty Dutton.
P.S.I can send a dvd but I am not up with all the computer technoloy .
My Goolwa Home.
I walk along the shore, see the waves and hear their roar.
I wonder at the awe this brings to me.
I watch the children play, their mum's not far away.
the beauty of the scene. A sight to see.
chorus.
Oh my Goolwa Home Where I love to be.
I travel and I roam , but I long to come home.
So much for me to do and my worries are few
My friends and company mean much to me.
Not too far away. the mighty Murray fails.
She's just a stagnant pool, her lakes are dry.
Please let the river flow, let her flow to the sea.
She gives the Coorong life, so let her live.
chorus..........Oh my Goolwa home .......
I watch the whales at play, the calves not far away.
Oh what can I say , who could ask for more.
there goes the cockle train, close by the shore
doing the tourist run, down through the port.
Last Chorus.
Oh my Goolwa Home where I love to be
I travel and I roam, but I long to come home.
So much for me to do and my worries are few
my friends and company mean much to me.
My friends and company and my Goolwa home.
Belbora’s rolling hills
Where wild angophoras grow
And gullies shelter creeks
That twist and gently flow;
I see the cattle graze
On pasture nature sows
A wholesome country scene
Just right for my abode.
Farms are nestled there
Where neighbours have their home
In times of need or fun
You never feel alone,
And when at end of day
You pause and look up high;
Feel the peaceful wonder
Of a star-filled sky.
When you consider all
It’s easy to see why
Belbora is my home
No matter where I fly,
The pleasure travel brings
Will fade with passing time
But nothing stirs the heart
Quite like this home of mine.
Bell Bell beautiful Bell, at the foot of the Bunya mountains,
We have a green golf course and a race track too,
Icy cold drinks at the old Bellview.
Chorus:
Bell Bell beautiful Bell at the foot of the Bunya Mountains.
We have an RSL and a bowls club too,
Popey's shed with old motors to view,
Have a caravan park and a great butcher to,
A vet name Sam with lots to do.
Chorus:
Bell Bell beautiful Bell at the foot of the Bunya Mountains.
Dirt and dust flies at the Bunya Trail Ride,
That supports our school all year round
With plenty of cattle, sheep and pigs to,
So we have it all in the golden west
Bell Bell Bells the best.
The cliffs of yellow sandstone, tower upwards overhead,
Around the fertile valley, where wond'rous views are wed
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
where wond'rous views are wed---in Glen Alice.
The hues of splendid sunsets, are painted on the rocks
And native Aussie parrots, fly through in screeching flocks
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
fly through in screeching flocks---in Glen Alice.
Remote and off the highway and nowhere near the rail,
It's dinkum Aussie country, where settlers drove their trail
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
where settlers drove their trail---in Glen Alice.
Iron clad church by the graveyard and the hall across the road,
Are remnants of the Scotsmen, whose village life has slowed
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
whose village life has slowed---in Glen Alice.
The lucerne flats are green below the peak of old Mount Frome
where settlers found the fertile soil and called this place their home;
Mudgee sits within her nest where the southern side is steep
and fossickers found fortune where the hills graze fine wool sheep.
The cattle thrive on pastures and the thoroughbreds breed well,
the honey flow is golden and the roses sweet to smell;
The Cudgegong flows westward as the lifeblood of the town
from the lake at Windamere, where the trout are big and brown.
Come September in our valley warmed by Spring's sunshine clear,
we celebrate with strangers and sample season's wine;
While singers soothe the senses, hear the morning bush birds' trills
where our name is Wiradjuri, meaning "Nest in the Hills".
Come and share the history, set in stone and firmly cast,
retained in civic buildings, stately structured in the past;
this sensory perfection for your nose and taste and eyes
will cause you to remember, never losing Mudgee ties.
This is a song about our town, our city, our nation, Australia. I wrote it for my class years ago.
We Are a People
We are a people, ancient and strong
This land is our mother, to her we belong.
We know of our dreamtime, we cry for our past
We hope for the future, one people at last
Come share the spirit, Come a waltzing with me.
Come share our dreaming, and make this land free.
Come share the spirit, Come let your heart soar
One people, one nation, one land for us all.
We are a people, young and alive
This land is our homeland, We live and survive.
We all have our story, We know theres still time
To share in the future, Thats yours and thats mine.
Come share the spirit, Come a waltzing with me
Come share our dreaming, and make this land free.
Come share the spirit, come let your heart soar
One people one nation one land for us all.
STEEL CITY
verse 1
I am driving down the mountain on a winding road
heading to steel city on the south coast
magic views all around take you breth away
shimerring waters rustlig leaves all just want to say
chorus
In Wollongong the sand is whiter and the grass is greener
In Wollongong the trees are taller and the girls are sweeter
Its the place I like the most this steel city on the south coast
verse 2
People of all nations walking down the street
happy smiling faces you'd just love to meet
beautiful girls walk with certain kind of sway
men tough as steel all ust want to say
We wrote this song this year for a show called 'Where I Belong'. As part of the process, students researched the history and attractions of our town. They sing it with gusto!
Bendigo
Intro - spoken:The gold rush was the starting point, of the place that we call home,
They came in search of fortune, from far away they roamed.
Life was hard, in cold and rain, in dusty times and drought.
They settled here, they made a town, we’re glad they stuck it out.
Chorus:Bendigo, the place we know, the place we know and love
Where families and friendships fit like a hand inside a glove.
Happy people, friendly folk, ready with a smile,
Nothing’s very far away, good living, country style.
We’re bigger than a country town, much bigger - than Shelbourne,
But smaller than the big smoke, much smaller - than Melbourne.
We have here all the things we need, and all the things we like.
You can walk down to the heart of town or get there on your bike.
The fountain is the central point, the place where main roads meet,
It was made in 1881, and is found near Mitchell Street.
The QEO in Bendigo is very well renowned,
The citizens from far and wide know that it’s our sporting ground. CHORUS
At the information centre they’ll tell you where to go
The poppet head, the Shamrock, are big in Bendigo,
The Central Deborah Goldmine, the very first Myer store,
The Goldfields library, Chinese Museum, and restaurants galore. CHORUS
When you come to Bendigo you’ll have a brilliant time,
The place is steeped in history and the food is just divine,
You’ll meet terrific people, and see amazing things,
Some day soon you’ll come right back to do it all again. CHORUS
I have just realised that I have left out the main word in my last entry (16 August 8.49pm).
Please delete this and replace with the following:
EDEN: MY TOWN
CHORUS:
I want to brag, I want to boast
About the best place to live, Eden, on the South Coast.
So pack up your bags, strap in the kids
and head for the highway, you’re welcome in our midst.
Beauty surrounds us wherever we go
That’s what regular visitors already know.
The birds with their twitter wake us up every day
Oh! Yes, with the modern world they’re so au fait.
The sun’s reflection glistens on the water so blue
it invites you to take part in things to do.
Stroll on the boardwalk along Aslings beach
where in Spring time you can see humpbacks breach.
Dolphins will greet you as they speed along
Loved by the old and also the young.
When you go angling for your dinner tonight
You’ll find it relaxing to wait for the fish to bite.
What Mother Nature provides for all to see
needs no tickets – the show is for free.
CHORUS:
I want to brag, I want to boast
About the best place to live, Eden, on the South Coast.
So pack up your bags, strap in the kids
and head for the highway, you’re welcome in our midst.
Visitors come across the locals on their daily walk
They stop, say “Hello” and enjoy a talk.
For those who like to bowl or give their clubs a swing
Friends at The Country Club will take you under their wing.
When the water is warm, pull on your bathers
And head for the surf, where the swimmers gather.
If something more challenging is for you
Climb Mt. Imlay and take in the view.
A place not to miss near the wharf side of town
Is The killer Whale Museum, a jewel in our crown.
Old Tom is displayed there in his last place of rest
The hours that you spend there will be some of the best.
In the evening when you are tired and spent
You realise this part of the world is Heaven sent.
CHORUS:
I want to brag, I want to boast
About the best place to live, Eden, on the South Coast.
So pack up your bags, strap in the kids
and head for the highway, you’re welcome in our midst
Can't wait to get to Gympie again. I think the best artist this year will be Todd Stewart who I saw on main stage as a runner up of the talent search at the Muster two years ago. I purchased his recent EP from Itunes and can't wait to see him live this year!!
In saying that though, all artists there do a top job and it is well worth doing the two day trip to get there again.
In these political times
Analytical times
It's good to be
On an old bush track
Sun on your back
Country free
Wild birds return by their own guiding star
Having flown so far
Natures secret rhythm and rhyme
The sky seeking eucalyptus trees
When I'm away the bushland breeze
Whispers to me
Come home
The wattle is blooming bright
Early spring rain on the track
Come back - Come back
I know the city life
The buzz, the nitty - gritty strife
From living close together
Now I listen to the 'Country Hour'
Stock and crop reports - primary power
Linking me.
There’s a place up in Queensland, (V - I)
but I can’t tell you where.
It’s sort of a secret,
we’re not s’posed to declare.
It’s the tropical gateway,
and the sun shines all year.
There’s still cane in town paddocks,
and now there’s “flash” pubs for beer.
Where there’s……….
Barra for brekky and mudcrabs for lunch. (Chorus )
‘Bay folks are lucky, a real happy bunch !
They don’t “bolt for the gate”on the 5 o’clock bell.
Their grin says it all; yeh, everything’s “swell”!
Now because you’re polite, (V - II)
I’ll give you a hint.
Mid Capital and Capricorn,
just a small coastal splint.
Aazure seas ssheltered,
by the island of ssand.
Between ssunrise and set,
You’ll see best work of God’s hand.
And there’s……………..
Barra for brekky and mangoes as well, (Chorus)
‘Bay folks are lucky, and friendly as hell !
But don’t press them to argue that your place is best,
You’ll just get THAT grin : that’ll put it to rest !
Well, there’s gypsies and travellers, (V - III)
all come here to nest.
Both children and oldies,
the numbers attest,
that the story has spread,
and the populous grows.
Just who let the cat out ?
Well, nobody knows !
And they’ve got…………
Barra for brekky and scallops for tea. (Chorus)
‘Bay folks are lucky , a unique family.
But you won’t hear them boast, cos the secret’s within.
They’ll just give you a nod and a sly, knowing grin!
Yeh !
Barra for brekky, girt by rivers and sea, (Closing Chorus)
Where turtles and whales swim happy and free.
There’s no better place for my family and me,
but if you say where we live, you’ll be strung from a tree !
Versus 1
My hometown, the place where I am me. The laughs of a thousand lighting up all the streets. Helping each other from A to B. Helping little kids learn their ABC’S, 123’S. The only place where I am me.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Versus 2
Boys in the fields kickin’ that ball around. Girls up the road singin’ there hearts out. Day by day, going up and down. Rain falling, no ones calling. Lonely again. Birds in the sky, dogs in the parks, people everywhere. My little city livin’ it by day and night. Watchin’ the cars go on by. Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Versus 3
Sweet memories, from ma’ backyard to Albany. All the trees, runnin’ from bees, swimming by the seas. Rain, wind, stars and sun. Let’s go for a run. Cars, trucks, roads and more. Friends and family. Livin’ ma day by each tree. Singin’ this song, showin’ ma life to all of thee. Flowers in the fields, birds in the sky. I’m just ready to fly. Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Bridge
I’m just a Little, Lonely, Aussie girl. Runnin’ from the bees, runnin through the trees. Seein’ the sun go by. Playin’ with ma’ friends just being Plain old me. Just trying to be me.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Down from the bush on holiday, on Redcliffe Strand I saw this guy,
He was well built and handsome so I smiled at him and said ,”Hi”,
We had a swim in the ocean pool, walked hand in hand through the sand,
And I had the thought on this sun drenched day, this Redcliffe is really grand.
Now I have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe,
The Sky’s the limit where the sea meets the shore,
There’s plenty of things that we could explore,
And have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe.
We went on a date on Moreton Bay and watched Whales put on a show,
We often dined on the esplanade, saw the sunsets golden glow,
We swam and sailed and fished the seas , till my head spun I was dazed,
Cause my feelings for this Redcliffe guy like a crazy bushfire blazed.
Now I have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe,
The Sky’s the limit where the sea meets the shore,
There’s plenty of things that we could explore,
And have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe.
After fish and chips at famous Morgans he got down on one knee,
Placed a diamond ring on my finger, said he’d love to marry me,
Redcliffe had so many charms but this man was number one,
We wed on the beach on a perfect day as our Love on Redcliffe shone.
Now I have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe,
The Sky’s the limit where the sea meets the shore,
There’s plenty of things that we could explore,
And have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe.
This song was written not long after I had met my birth family at 23. My Uncle Bill from my birth mothers side decided to jam out one night in Innisfail. This is the town where all my birth family come from. So I was adopted out at birth. To set the scene, Bill and I were sitting under the porch outside, it was raining lightly, occasionally a cane train would pass and a it was a full moon lit night. I had my guitar and Bill had his Harmonica, We pressed record on my old Fostex 4-track recorder and with the Chords D-C-G came up with the song 'Innisfail'. Here are the Lyrics:
Rain comes down
the rain comes down
rain comes down
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Cane farmers land
its cane farmers land
cane farmers land
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Train rides through
the train rides through
train rides through
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Family history
my family history
family history
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
We made this up on the spot, I think you can even heat the train go past in the recording and the rain pitter patter on the roof top. Nice.
This is a story of a 17 year old whose parents move from Adelaide to the Gold Coast and take her away from her friends and boyfriend.
Hinterland
Remind me why you brought me here
Why you dragged me away
From all my friends and my one true love
On this God forsaken day
Your green belt awakens me
After many miles on the road
Comming down the gap from Cunningham, the scaters sing their sweet summer song
Of my future in this new home
Of my future yet unknown
Chorus
Rolling hills of velvet green
Touch my eyes like never seen
You fill my soul and you guide my hand
Sweet Hint-er-land
Your show my why you brought me here
To my new Hint-er-land, why you dragged me away
You offer me my own salvation
On this God given day
Chorus
Rolling hills of velvet green
Touch my eyes like never seen
You fill my soul and you guide my hand
Sweet Hint-er-land
Miss Selina Pembroke worked in Yass library
Now who knows her story, her hopes or her tears?
She knew every book when life was much slower.
She ran the Yass library for sixty one years.
Chorus:
The town has grown bigger and busier and bustlier.
Talk to young people, they don't want to know.
I was the same, when I was much younger.
I must have crossed over... some time ago.
Gloria showed me a picture; it's all in the archives.
She works in Yass archives; she's done it for years.
She holds all the records, of when life was much slower,
Stands in the breach as time disappears.
There isn't a headstone for Miss Pembroke's memory,
And who'll be our memory, when Gloria's gone?
Youth gives its soul to the latest technology.
With no voice from the past, there's no future song.
Chorus:
Now the town has grown bigger and busier and bustlier.
If I talk to young people they don't want to know.
I was the same, when I was much younger.
I must have crossed over... some time ago.
Oh, we'd like to be swimming in the Brim Weir Pool,
We'd love to go fishing with a rod and a reel,
If only there was water
Wouldn't that be cool
Down at the Brim Weir Pool.
Well, we've had a big drought since I don't know when,
The water's stopped flowing for a year or ten.
The crops they were a - dying,
And the tanks were dry,
And there was nowhere for a swim
Or a garden left alive.
But then they built a pipeline
To deliver us the water,
And then we had some liquid gold
To use just like we oughta.
And we're gonna be swimming in the Brim Weir Pool
Gonna be there right after school
A - splishing and a - splashing and having fun
Down at the Brim Weir Pool
Yeah we're all at the Brim Weir Pool!
It's where I live-the town of Allingham
It whispered to me this is what I am -
Bush curlews with their haunting call,
Leichardt trees so strong and tall
Orange grevilleas used as Christmas trees
White apple flowers that make you sneeze.
Scavanging ibis their prodding beaks dig,
Looking for food 'neath native figs,
Water birds probe amongst reed and logs
Chase crickets, beetles and bright green frogs.
Thunder, lightning brings wet season rains
Filling swamps unrestrained
Mauve water lillies lift blooms aloft
Soft oozing mud squelches underfoot.
An ocean voice forever resounds
Dying waves roll over soft white sands
Like a film of thread it leaves a line,
A seaweed necklace and shells that shine.
A sea that is calm, and then it turns
A cauldren, wind, froth, the water churns
Gyrating whirlpools, surge and churns,
Then calm returns, to meet evening hush.
Its where I live, the town of Allingham-
It whispered to me, this is what I am
You guys have opened the flood gates by allowing multiple entries!
This is my second.
Title: So What Do I Like About This Town?
Chorus:
So what do I like about this town?
What do I see when I’m looking ‘round?
There’s nothing unusual I agree,
But living in Yass feels good to me.
A few close friends could colour my view.
Childhood memories might do it too.
Seeing things familiar also may,
When returning home from a time away.
Chorus
At different times I might complain,
Of burning sun or driving rain,
But changes bring their pleasures too,
As life has seasons for living through.
Chorus
Perhaps my season is one of grace,
What I find outside takes second place.
My home town may not stand apart,
But it’s coloured by a contented heart.
The cane stood in the fields, growing green and tall
Putting a contented smile on the face of all
Until the big burn when the ash began to fall
And the smoke from the fires cast its eerie pall.
Now the sweetness has gone from Nambour and the sugar mill’s no more
The sickly scent of treacle doesn’t waft through every door
The sugar cane’s no longer Nambour’s essential core.
That’s all in the past. What does the future hold in store?
The cane's long gone and the fields lie bare
The hallowed ground's dotted with houses here and there.
People seem to have forgotten or they just don’t care
How Nambour, without its sugar cane, is really going to fare
Now the sweetness has gone from Nambour and the sugar mill’s no more
The sickly scent of treacle doesn’t waft through every door
The sugar cane’s no longer Nambour’s essential core.
That’s all in the past. What does the future hold in store?
The farmers have been trying out a new crop idea
And the housewives don’t dread the big burn every year.
The shops are full of goods and the pubs have got beer
But in the wind there’s a lament that the old folk hear.
The sweetness has gone from Nambour, the sugar mill ‘s no more
The sickly scent of treacle doesn’t waft through every door
The sugar cane’s no longer Nambour’s essential core.
That’s all in the past. What does the future hold in store?
Now that the sweetness has gone from Nambour
and it’s a sugar town no more.
Kiama Kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but
Kiama Kiama is home for me, where beauty is all around Kiama
kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but kiama
kiama is home for me.
Verse 1:
Where the blowhole is blowing, the waves at our beaches are roaring making
great for surfing, and the Jamberoo hills are really rollie, where the
mountains meet up high in saddleback mountain, what a view, where else would
you rather be but (go to the chorus x 1)
Verse 2:
Our eaters are fabulous we even have a Gloria Jean, our clubs are
competitive really community supportive, whether shopping for a bargain or
special antic, our shops are grand, whether young or old there's lots for
the whole family to do where else would you rather be but (go to the Chorus
x 1)
Verse 3:
Our icons have put us on the world map, we are full of beauty from head to
toe, from shades of blue to green, it's all here for you to see, so come see
for yourself where else would you rather be but (go to the chorus x 2)
My home town is Coober Pedy - the changes that are happening to it have inspired this song.
There's a town in Central Australia; Coober Pedy is it's name
The search for the elusive opal, has been it's claim to fame.
But things are now a'changing; The opal miners are all aging.
And a new breed of young miners have arrived.
Their search is for copper, gold and the iron ore
The big miners have now come to town.
Big money for our young ones, money for our town
But we don't really want things; in our town to change
For the beauty of this outback town, is not in gems or gold
But in our people, who come from near and far
For together we have formed a bond, that can't be found elsewhere
The gems of Coober Pedy, are it's people dark and fair.
CHORUS
Yes things are a'changing in our outback dusty town
The big miners are a'coming to our town
But the gems of Coober Pedy, are it's people you will see
If you can find the time to spend a day or two with me.
On the road to nowhere
Beside the Snowy Mountains
Are the ghosts of the past
And a town of yesteryear
Hidden in the hillsides
Are friends and neighbours
A close knit community
Open arms and open doors
CHORUS
The sun rises and sets in glory
The stars are brilliant in the sky
And there's plenty of mates
And plenty of cakes
At the fire shed morning tea
In down town, Bungarby
The McLaughln and the Snowy
Fight for pride of place
And there's s clash of the tribes
Between the roos and cows and sheep
CHORUS
The internet is satellite
The TV is just ABc
But there is a peace to be found
In those wide open skies
I grew up by the Comet River on a place outside of Rolleston town
It's where i spent my childhood days, me and my friends would run around
There's not much to the town itself - school and park in the main street
old men sit and reminisce of how things used to be
Chorus:
What seemed so big is now so small
that town becames my home
Now I'm walking the empty streets
And i see how much I've grown
The windmill is still standing
but the cafe has closed down
I see so much love in this town
The road trains creep through with red dust tracks, full with cattle from the local stations
Tourists see just another country town - they think of big city destinations
Farmers now wear mining shirts - that's how it's come to be
families leave their home town behind, they've moved onto make end's meet
When I am old and grey, maybe 70 or more
I'm gunna bring my grandkids to the place that I adore
The windmill will still be standing, as I watch them run around
Everything I love is here in this town.
I wrote this little song, walking along South Beach at Port Hughes SA York Peninsular
"Paridise Port Hughes"
The summer sunlight hugs the coast
Makes it feel sometimes the most
Attractive little place there is on earth
South beach sands running thought my hands
You can see and understand
Why folk from far away come here to stay
Boaties leave the ramp at dawn
Heading out in the early morn
To catch a feed of fish to have for tea
Coming back in the afternoon
Gather round the BBQ
For the fun and family lifestyle is all free
Chorus
We have million dollar views
And lots to see and do
At this peace of paradise [we call Port Hughes
Locals in this town of ours
With helping hands and loving arms
Make your stay the best you’ve ever had
We all love our town with pride
Makes all of us realise
This special place on earth is safe and free
Chorus
So come along enjoy yourselves
Tell your friends that it’s the most
Impressive little place you’ve ever stayed
We would like too see you back again
So bring your mates, and there friends
To this little country town down by the sea.
Chorus + 2
Toowoomba is my city
Toowoomba is my town.
Toowoomba is the diamond
In Queensland's golden crown.
She sits atop the ridge in
The good ol' Darling Downs,
Toowoomba is my city, Mate,
Toowoomba is my town.
I've lived in Goondiwindi
And watched old Gunsynd train,
I've played footy up in Innisfail
In twenty feet of rain.
I've knocked around the "Isa",
And many places west,
There's just one place for me, Mate,
Toowoomba - she's the best.
I've seen much of this country,
My work trakes me away,
And many a pretty little town
Has tempted me to stray.
But home is where the heart is,
And that will never change.
My heart is in Toowoomba,
Way up there on the Range.
Toowoomba, she's my city, Mate,
Toowoomba, that's my town.
She's at her best in Springtime
When she wears her floral gown.
The "Carnival of Flowers" is held in great renown.
Toowoomba is my city, Mate,
Toowoomba, that's my town.
SONG OF EDEN
VERSE 1:
Our Port is a haven for weary sailors who have come to rest
after the sapphire blue Ocean has put them to the test.
Our harbourmaster pilots huge ships to the safety of the dock,
one of the few ladies able to steer the vessels away from rocks.
When mishaps strike yachts in the Sydney to Hobart race
they limp into Eden and will find comfort and a welcoming face.
Mary Mc Killop’s connections to Eden are very well known,
her poor Mother drowned when the LY-EE- MOON went down.
CHORUS:
When George Bass first anchored in Twofold Bay
What would his thoughts be if that was today?
Would he be envious of what we have here,
or yearn for his home and shed a few tears.
VERSE 2:
Eager tourists arrive to explore areas far away from a mall.
They fish, swim, go on whale cruises and really have a ball.
Sporting and Art groups gather their friends, and together
with calendars full of events, they enjoy all their leisure.
We can drive to the mountains if we want to snowboard or ski.
Some prefer to stop at the Seahorse Inn at Boydtown for High Tea.
Visitors from all over the world want to see OLD TOM
in the Killer Whale Museum that is now his permanent home.
CHORUS:
When George Bass first anchored in Twofold Bay
What would his thoughts be if that was today?
Would he be envious of what we have here,
or yearn for his home and shed a few tears.
VERSE3:
Our Marine High School teaches subjects linked to the sea.
Exchanging classrooms for deep water, where students feel free.
For our seniors who need special attention and care
A new centre has opened so you can join those already there.
Because the climate in Eden is really quite mild
It attracts many to settle here from far and wide.
At times the city calls us and we wrestle with the noise and the stress
but we know that an hour on a plane returns us to a place truly blessed.
RIDE THE RAIL WEST
Born of sweat and Labour, from the burly miners hands
Built their character through hardship, carved their lives out on the land
Some carried all their dreams, on the sheep and cattle tracks
Then watched ‘em disappear, as the Bremer took ‘em back
Young families cleared the land, and slept among the crops
While miners journeyed deep, into the broken rock
So come and ride the rail west, into a sun burnt sky
Come and raise your family, come and feel the pride
Make a stand and stake your land, in a town where dreams exist
Fill the workshops, mills and foundries
Come build this City of Ipswich
A haven for the battler, filled with Aussie pride
Hard work’ll never kill ya’, just lets ya’ know that you’re alive
Now a City of achievement’s, we’ll boast of all her quests
The sportsman and the poet, have dug deep into her depths
We live among the V8’s and hear the big Jets roar
Cause no one makes em’ tougher, we’re Ipswich to the core
Does anyone know where I can get Dolly Parton's Treasures CD (other than from ebay/amazon, as i'm not a fan of e-shopping). Its a prezzie for my mum. Any help will be much appreciated.
Chorus
Aboriginals so black and so bold
Gave Tomerong its name
So the story is told my friends
So the story it goes
About a little town called Tomerong
That nobody knows
First came the farmers to clear the land
Working and working, they all lent a hand
Coming down the Wool Road with a couple of ton
Been out Goulburn way, doing a wool run
Timber cutters with their axes and their saws
Cutting down old gum trees, can you hear the bullocks roar
They're just shadows gone by
They're just shadows gone by
Little school on the hill, its still there today
The pub and the butcher, the baker's gone away
It was the hub of the land, all the councillors
Divided by four, by parish men
Chorus
Tomerong where the gum trees grow
The soil is fertile, the plants all know
Native animals still love this place
To live in Tomerong, its a grace
Aboriginals so black and so bold, Gave Tomerong its name
So the story is told my friends So the story it goes
About a little town called Tomerong
Nobody knows
Tomerong
Nobody knows
Tomerong............
In a valley west of Sydney
On the Great Dividing Range
Was discovered then developed
and so began the chain.
Settlers came to start life anew
Roads were built and railway too
Pioneer skills were put to test
And progress made to build the rest
A town a City sure to be
Lithgow part of History
Coal was mined and steel was milled
Pottery fired and orders filled
To satisfy with so much pride
The needs of all from far and wide
The valley thrived and people strived
To make this town a place of pride
Friendships young and friendships old
Formed by people pure as gold
The future of our town was sure
With commerce industry and more
The signs were good for growth and life
Happiness, prosperity and not much strife
Though as the years passed this to changed
Some ups and downs and trouble ranged
But times still heals and hurts will be
Just memories in our History.
It’s the gateway to the Sapphire Coast, where the mountains meet the sea
On the far south coast of New South Wales, Eden’s the place we love to be
Situated on the shores of Twofold Bay it’s during Spring whales come to play
And if you want to see the Humpbacks feedin’ then you’ll have to visit Eden
Put on your boots & take a hike you can walk from Light to Light
From Greencape near Disaster Bay along the cliffs to Twofold Bay
Come & visit Twofold Bay
Watch the Humpback whales at play
Once you have been here you will want to stay
So visit Eden & say g’day
Launch your boat and drop a line – the fishing here is mighty fine
Kingfish, tuna, albacore – you’ll keep coming back for more.
Watch the boats unload their catch – fresh fish & chips there is no match
Enjoy the local chilli wine, the prawns and mussels are divine
Take a cruise around Twofold Bay, view landmarks built in Ben Boyd’s day
Dolphins, seals and Albatross, just some of the sealife you’ll come across
Come & visit Twofold Bay
Watch the Humpback whales at play
Once you have been here you will want to stay
So visit Eden & say g’day
A cruise ship enters Twofold Bay, we know they will enjoy their stay
In the thermals eagles soar, a patch of salmon swim close to shore
Boyd’s Tower, Edrom the Seahorse Inn- you need time to take all this in
Have you heard of Eden’s Killer Whales – visit the museum and hear the tales
Of Tom the leader of the pack – rejoice the whales are coming back!
As the sun sets over Mount Imlay, it’s time to reflect on a perfect day
Come and visit Twofold Bay
Watch the Humpback whales at play
Once you have been here you will want to stay
So visit Eden & say g’day
This is my song. ( Kelmscott) It starts with the chorus and ends with it.
Chorus:
I'm crusing down a highway and it's highway number one
I'm heading back to Kelmscott going to have me some fun
trailer hitched up to the Holden as the country keeps unfolding
yes, I'm heading back to Kelmscott going to have me some fun.
1 I've left behind big cities and all their fancy lights
I'm heading for the country and starry starry nights
I'll be sitting around a camp fire with the billy on the boil
It's a simple country pleasure and reward for all your toil
the sights that I am seeing rate with the best on earth
and that makes me thankful for the fortune of my birth
Chorus
2 to see this big wide country in all its natural awe
makes you want to keep on moving and see a whole lot more
and now that I have told you my thoughts on how I feel
I hope that you'll remember when you get behind the wheel
and take a trip to somewhere where all these sights abound
to take it nice and easy and have a look around
Chorus
3 It's an Aussie kind of feeling and it gets you in the heart
and I know that when I get there I'll head back to the start
I'll keep right on a moving and take a different track
cause there's a lot more country to explore as I head back
This is my Song of Broken Hill. It's a great place and deserves its own song. I think I may have been subconsciously channeling Slim Dusty and maybe a bush band could do it justice- a lagerphone, washboard, flute, fiddle... Or why not go all out with some brass?
Broken Hill in the Barrier Ranges SONG OF BROKEN HILL
Near the state’s far western line by Maureen Clark
Where the hills are made of silver
And there’s a fortune in every mine
Once Australia’s mining giant woz ‘ere
Now our owners live overseas
And tourists can’t seem to get enough of
Our legendary art and history
(Chorus)
Oh, there’s a pub on every corner, sometimes two;
Kangaroos hop down the street
Followed by the odd emu
And the locals all drive rusty utes
And their dogs are all called Blue
That’s how outback legends are made here
And some of it may be true!
Barkindji roamed, Wiljakali too
Before Sturt and Burke and Wills,
And Rainbow Serpent and painted hands
Cover the rocks among the hills.
Pro Hart and the Brushmen of the Bush
Painted our city’s fame abroad
Now tourists appear from far and near
And when they leave, they’re overawed!
(Chorus) Maybe they heard…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
Our unions gave us Workers’ Rights
Like the 35 hour week
And the Hill lived by its very own rules
Thanks to the BIC
Once Cobb and Co brought travellers here
Now they fly in by jet it seems
While our camel trains and Mundi Mundi Plains
Are a film producer’s dream!
(Chorus) And they said that…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
Some say the outback’s the Dead Heart
Of Australia, our fair land
Where the artist’s palette is set out
In the colours of the sky and sand
Orange soil and bones burned white,
In blistering sun, no gentle hues.
Wild hops so red, looks like the hills have bled
Into the salt bush,of sage blue;
(Chorus) So come and see us…
Oh, there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street…(etc)
TITLE " I Call Home " Verse 1 Where the Burnett starts it's trip to Bundy,and the beautiful Cania Gorge,where the Monal meets the Three Moon ,waters barley run at all..The soil is rich the air is clean, this lovely land of all. CHORUS: Between Mungungo an Mulgildie,a place where I call home, between Mulgildie an Mungungo a place we call Monto. Verse :2 It's freezing in the winter , but the stars are clear an bright,you can sit around the fire an drink, rum an Coke all night,well its . CHORUS: Between Mungungo an Mulgildie a place where I call home, between Mulgildie an Mungungo,a place we call Monto. Verse : 3 Summer if your lucky,the rains will come thundering down ,changing the brown land scape to green,bringing life through out the land.The cattle fat ,the sorhum growing ,it's just like a dream ,farmers cutting lucerne an baling with machines.Yes. CHORUS : Between Mungungo an Mulgildie a place where I call home, between Mulgildie an Mungungo a place we call Monto. ".END"
The train used to wind through the ranges collecting the milk on the way
Dairies were plenty and paddocks were green the cows contented all day
Today the station is missing the tracks rusty now on the hills
The dairies are gone no need for the milk the town growing empty and still.
Chorus
And the kookaburras still laugh in the mornings
And the curlews still cry in the night
Wide Bay Creek still trickles along
And Kangaroos frightened take flight.
Once there were dances and tennis people in buses would come
A butcher, a smithy a produce store, now we are left with just one.
Once cow cockies cries reached to the skies and cattle sales often were run
They flocked to the pub for a beer and some grub and their families joined the fun.
Chorus
Land is now selling and people are building and the school is teaching the kids
The rains are returning and beef cattle fattening and people are making the quids.
So maybe one day Woolooga will grow and again a new hey day will start
Whatever the mood or the industry there it will always be home in my heart.
CHORUS:
South of the Murray in the State's north-east, lies our little town of Rutherglen
We grew from a gold rush in the eighteen-sixties, to produce our most famous wine.
VERSE 1
They came from far and wide to mine the plains for gold
To build the town, the churches and the schools
They planted vines across the land and built the railway line
The pubs and banks and postal buildings too.
CHORUS:
VERSE 2
At the turn of the century Phylloxera hit the vines
It decimated growth and wealth alike
The gold was gone, the grapes as well, the population spiralled down
But there were some who stayed, prepared to fight.
The farmers and producers, the tradesfolk and the like
The publicans and bakers come to mind
The merchants and the teachers, the locals and their kin
But most of all the growers of the wine.
CHORUS:
VERSE 3
The vines they were replanted, the industry evolved
The tourists come to taste our liquid gold
It's been a century and a half of history in our town
With many more great stories yet untold.
With heavy heart I walk this town
Tears in my eyes, no smile, just a sad old frown
Houses I remember are there no more
No Picture Theatre, No Ice Cream Parlour, Not even the General Store
All of my friends have moved on now
I remember those good old days so clear
I wish I could have those days back again
Fond memories are clouded by the free flowing tear
CH
Bring back those days, those good old days
Please take me I plead
Just give me back my younger days
To see you again for a short period of time, is what I really need.
I turn around, and wipe my eyes
And the memories in vain
Im best off leaving this town right now
And ridding myself of this pain
It’s just a little town nestled amongst the hills
Not real flash & don’t possess a lot of frills
A lot of empty windows surround a big locked door
But there was a time when the little town offered a whole lot more
We had three garages and a big wool store
A blacksmith’s shop where the furnace would roar
We had two cafes that did a roaring trade
And three pubs where a lot of deals where made
There was a railway line that brought the train to town
But it fell into disrepair so they pulled it all down
As business slowed down they pulled the bank managers out
Put new bar licenses in so it’s hard to get a shout
They’ve been knocking us about but we won’t lie down
We’re even working on getting the water back into town
It flows past us in the river and it all goes by
We just look at it and swallow but our throats are dry
It flows into Split Rock dam and then it all goes south
But they won’t let us bring any back to moisten our mouth
They say it is all for the good of the nation
While poor old Barraba’s on a big water ration
It’s just a little town nestled amongst the hills
Not real flash and don’t possess a lot of frills
But the people here are friendly and kind of heart
So don’t let the politicians tear our town apart
First verse
There is a house in them there hills full of childish joy,
but something is a missing and its not a baby boy
For in this house in Woodside there is a lonely soul,
surrounded by his beauties, four girls, a wife, a hole.
Chorus
Its been a long time, And it’s a long long way, to know that missing man.
will i ever get there and what do i say, will it make me the best i can
Does it make me who I am?
Verse two
My family is my life...... and should i have a place,
for doubt and reservation have marred this special race.
Ive got this little spot that missing man should be
Better late than never, I found that half of me.
Chorus
Verse three
I broke that wall of silence, fake names and hazy past,
To find that drunkard exploits in number cant be passed.
They cost me that great hindsight of yarns with dad and beers,
To protect themselves its cost me many wasted years.
Chorus
So in this house in Woodside, a hole is almost filled,
For the missing man is found, and we both are thrilled.
When we meet old lefty your hand i will sure shake,
And the hugs from my four beauties,.....well they’re bloody great.
Dear friend I hope this letter finds you safe and well.
Read it before your journey west, there's a story I'd like to tell.
Five thousand acres of hills and scrub, trees and endless sky.
A hundred more of golden grass greets the viewer's eye.
Fence posts hewn from ancient trees, strung with barbed and rusting wire,
lead to a fancy wrought iron gate salvaged from a past bush fire.
Beyond the gate there's a concrete path that keeps you on the straight and narrow.
Walk that path and on the right there'll be a flower-filled wheelbarrow.
In front of you there's a timber door. Knock softly, don't give them a start.
It is the home of a friendly pair known as Alice and Art.
They know this place like to back of their hands, they've lived there for donkey's years.
The pair have seen the country change, over time they've shed many tears.
But when visitors call 'round, like you will today, to chat and share a cuppa,
the stories flow on, day turns to night, and there's an invite to stay for suppa.
Clear your thoughts, open your ears, listen carefully to this elderly pair.
You have much to learn, they have much to say, as their stories they openly share.
They farmed this land, did Alice and Art, since they married so long ago.
Their sheep and cattle, wheat and oats, some of the best the district could grow.
They entertained neighbours and government staff under the roof of their well-built home.
Bushrangers too, often called in when out that way they happened to roam.
Art tells of wild romance and visits by the likes of Kelly and Hall.
You'll listen, as I did, over again, and wonder, "Do I believe it all?"
Alice just listens, relaxed in her chair. Her turn will come, she smiles.
She drags out her wool and knitting pair and lets it roll out over the tiles.
As Art plays a tune and stomps his foot, remembering days of old,
Alice gets up and pours more tea before the water gets cold.
Listen for the story of Art's porridge and sweetener, our breakfast when we stayed over.
We didn't know the sugar pot was filled with salt as we poured it over and over.
It didn't sweeten the porridge much, although, Art insisted, his tasted fine, what's the matter with us - then his face went all bitter and twisted.
Ask Alice about the early days when she and Art first met.
She found out later that Art kissed her cheek to secure a friendly bet.
Alice still wears the same style of dress, though she's done away with the corset.
She said it didn't control her weight, and gave up trying to force it.
Now, that five thousand acres doesn't do much, it's reclaimed by rabbits and roos.
Alice spends most of her time in the garden. Art spends his mending countless pairs of shoes.
When you visit them on the Western Plains, please, give them my very best.
I haven't forgotten them, I'll be there soon, when work takes me back out west.
Mullumbimby's now a different place, (Chorus)
The Mayor said to his wife;
"These city folks....have changed the spokes,
That turn the wheels of country life ! "
The Baker left a month ago,
In a fit of robust pique.
He said " No more" when the store next door,
Became the " Chez Monique" boutique !
Before it's said, " Who bakes the bread ? "
I'll relieve your abject misery,
The Bakery's been freshened up,
To become Pierre's Patisserie !
French loaves and croissants fill the shelves,
It looks sparkling, bright and clean;
There's alfresco dining out the front,
To create the " Paris " scene !
Pierre seems like a friendly bloke,
Monique ?....she loves a natter,
In former life, they answered to
Perc and Meg - from urban Parramatta !
(Chorus)
Time will tell if they do well,
May we say, " Merci beacoup,
You've improved the mood....,
And the range of food....,
Good Luck !....and Allez-Vous ! "
Tullah town’s snowy and it’s cold tonight, goin’ to find my man, hold him so tight
Light a big fire, we’ll be heaven bound, as we listen to the sound of the sun going down,
On Tullah town
Silver and blood settled this ground, they dug for riches all around this town
Dug so deep but the best thing they found, was the sound of the sun goin’ down
On Tullah town
Hey hey hey sun going down
Hey hey hey
Love my man and Tullah town
Hey hey hey
There's riches in the rock, but more riches in the heart, poverty flows from where truth fears to start
But truth walks free, across our ground, as we listen to the sound of the sun going down
On Tullah town
Now there’s a big yellow moon risin’ ‘cross the trees, smiling tenderly on my man and me
Keeping company to the truth we’ve found, as we listen to the sound of the sun going down
On Tullah town
Hey hey hey sun goin’ down
Hey hey hey sun’s going down
Love my man and Tullah town
Love my man and Tullah town
The following half verse could be used in first part of second verse to add drama and use the second half of second verse as the final “half verse” here at this point.
It would thus go
Silver and blood....
There's riches in the rock...
chorus
Now there's a big yellow...
Or of course it could be left out!! Or left as is.
Silver and blood once ruled this town, and many good men had their lives cut down
Grandma said “We laid too many deep in the ground, as we listened to the sound of the sun goin down
On Tullah town
The last time that I left Karumba
Was for a new job in the east
But I can’t seem to forget the orange sunset
As I sip my beer by the sea
Maybe it’s the way the sun hits the water
Maybe it’s the cool sea breeze
Cause the tears in my eyes as I say goodbye
Are rolling out to sea.
Upon my return to Karumba
Remind me when I have to leave
I’ll try not to cry when I say goodbye
This time I’ll kick and I’ll scream
The flat green brown wide-open spaces
The smiles on all the locals’ faces
Remind me of a time when this life of mine
Was connected to the sea
I tried not to stay in Karumba
I decided I just wouldn’t leave
It twisted my arm with its candour and charm
And the seafood I eat constantly
You’d reckon it’d be the warm winter days
Or the smell on the ground after in rains
But if you ask me why, I’ll say something like
It’s got something to do with the sea
The home is where the heart is they say , Frankston is where i work and play, The beaches are so inviting i want to stay. Australians far and wide we all love our towns and show our pride.
Come together let us rejoice ,after all we are all one voice.
The Aussie dream can come true for everyone not just me and you.
So sing along my fellow Aussie's and grab a beer and your cossies.
Australians through and through ,brothers and sisters me and you.
Australians through and through ,brothers and sisters me and you.
Frankston by the sea it's for yo
u as well as me.
There is a place in everyones heart that is dearer than another ,but be it country or by the sea it's a big Land let us all be happy where we stand.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE You are not alone when you live in the town of Ilfracombe, has the machinery mile and most of the locals have that genuine smile. chorus;Ilfracombe hub of the west, Ilfracombe thats my home, come by one day,come by one day.;We have had our fair share of floods, droughts,mirages across the plains.We even had amalgamation, which was the cause of many a heart palpatation.With its tourism beef and wool, the community does still rule.;chorus Ilfracombe hub of the west, Ilfracombe thats my home, come by one day, come by one day;;Have a drink at the Wellshot Hotel, doesnt matter if youre a grey nomad, a drover or the govenor general;;chorus Ilfracombe hub of the west, Ilfracombe thats my home, come by one day, come by one day
Travelling along high-ways,
Sun setting at my back
Parts unknown rolling hills
And meandering tracks
They're leading to Rochy
They're leading to Rochy
Travelling along highways
Passing through country towns
Past farmyards,schools and churches
Where people gather round
They're leading to Rochy
They're leading to Rochy
Chorus:
And when I reach there
I'll know what I will find
A place where I can call my own
Going home
Going home
Going home
Travelling along highways
Buildings up ahead
Lights that are shining
Welcome me around the bend
Home is here in Rochy
Home is here in Rochy
I walk my dog, well he’s just a pup, Along the sand, as the sun comes up
He looks at me, as he’s always done, So I let him go, for a run
He chases seagulls, on the beach, But they all stay, out of reach
Puffs and pants and, wags his tail, Doesn’t realize, he will fail
Chorus ------
It’s a long way from the city, A long way from LA
It’s a long way from the country, to the Sands of Byron Bay, Sands of Byron Bay.
--------
A jelly fish upon the beach, Driftwood too, seagulls screech
I watch a crab run down a hole, Dog lays down and has a roll
I wrote a message in the sand, with my finger, with my hand
Waves came in, washed it away, Same thing happened yesterday.
To Chorus ----
Bridge -----
I’m sick of life in the city, sick of the hurry and haze
If I don’t go back to the office, Then I’ll have no pay
I’ll buy a lottery ticket, Then I’ll hope and pray
I can spend the rest of my days on the, Sands of Byron Bay,Sands of Byron Bay
--------
A fisherman with his reel and rod, Gives me a wave and a friendly nod
Different people, that you meet, Makes this place, so unique
Not a worry, not a care. And there’s no polluted air
Leave my bags, I want to stay, Instead of working Saturday.
COUNTRY'S IN MY BLOOD.
---------------------------------------
Chorus:
City life aint so easy and friendships don't come in floods
I'm goin' back to the country cos' country's in my blood.
It's years since I left the stringies, the bloodwood and ironbark
for a life away from country, the lyrebird and the lark
but I miss my hometown Pambula on the sunny Sapphire Coast
where the beaches and the sunshine are a mutual matter of boast
I long to see again the wedgetail circling high above the flat
hear the hooting of the wise one ,shares night time with the bat
the warble of young magpie while Mom seeks worm in the loam
the tolling of the bellbird in the bushland of my home.
In dreams I see my childhood, the old folk and what they did
from stripping bark to rabbit trapping to feed us growing' kids
I go back through the decades to the stone house that's there still
I look down on the old place from my land up on the hill.
again to see the orb weaver, webs hold little beads of dew
sparkling like the sapphires early mornin's precious jewels
and somehow there's more beauty in nature's little ways
than the best parts of the city, concrete forests,all man made.
recall the drovin' of the cattle on wet and sometimes dusty tracks
to and there from lessons, our school bags on our backs
horse made little catchments left by hoof marks in the turf
oft' filled with crystal clear water, we drank to quench our thirst
the golden blossom of the wattle perfumes windshifts in the air
the gum we ate wen children, nature's golden chandelier
taste the fruit of wild cherry, now you don't often see
the one we used still laden for our annual Christmas tree.
As pleasant as this tune is the violence against men portrayed in this video is
unacceptable. If a man even simulated slapping a woman's face in a film clip
there would be an outrage and it would be removed from every ABC website.
Sorry Laura, your entitled princess routine might cut it with the pussy whipped but
not from men who have a modicum of self respect.
I saw greg (and Sara) on the first date of their tour at Katoomba. We went mainly to see Sara again - we had seen her in Taree several years ago. They were supported by Tracey Kileen who was fabulous. Then Greg took to the stage. We didn't know what to expect but came away delighted with seeing not only Sara, but her very talented brother Greg, He has the same natural and honest approach that his sister has and that approach is revealed in the passion with which he sings his songs. He has a great gravelly voice that copes as easily with traditional country ballad as it does with songs that have a blues edge to it. We really enjoyed Greg's set and have become instant fans. Looking forward to getting out and buying the album and hope to see him in concert again soon.
You seem a very bitter underachiever to think honouring a man that IS An Australian Country Music LEGEND is some how sick..He was the greatest alive and still is now he is gone, what is sick is that u think once dead you should be forgotten, shame really.Well you speak for few not many.. Every Year we hold a horse race we name after my late father in law and use it to keep his memories alive and fresh in our minds. He met Slim while working in the kimberly's and help slim with a flat tyre they had, am sure he is sitting having a beer listening to slim play right now!!,, sorry to hear no one will miss you so much but there is no need such comments,
I am a contributor to the initial funding call.
Money was being raised by 'selling' pavers or something similar.
I have not had any news for ' Best part of sometime ' - How the heck are things going ??
Slim ‘n Me.
Slim Dusty was waitin’ on the back of a truck
a bloody big diesel, engine runnin’ with noise,
smoke from the pipe was puffin’ out muck,
in the front cabin were two army boys.
‘e was waitin’ ‘is turn to join the parade,
the ‘Journey of a Nation’ was soon to begin
so while ‘e waited alone in the shade
I wondered if me chances would be much too thin.
‘e seemed to be shiftin’ about on ‘is feet
with ‘is ol’ battered ‘at set square on ‘is ‘ead.
I thought if I was just ‘onest and fleet
I’d catch ‘im right now, cos that’s ‘ow I’m bred.
“ G’day mate ! Slim Dusty ? “ is what I did say,
‘e turned and looked down at me standin’ on tar,
smiled as ‘e paused cos that is his way
with strangers in Sydney not known from afar.
“ Will ya sign me parade ‘at” I asked ‘im at last
‘e nodded and reached down to grasp me blue cap
with anchors upon it that ‘ave not seen oceans vast,
but ‘e wrote upon it, ‘e is a fair dinkum chap.
The cap’s made from cloth that is so very thin,
so the writin’ is scrawly an’ tricky to read, but
‘e said to me “Cobber, I hope that will do”
“Just on the off-chance do you have some paper?”
I searched in a pocket of which there were few
found me a notebook then did a big caper,
passed it to ‘im, for ‘im to collate
some suitable words that might ‘glint in the sun’
so ‘e wrote on the page - ‘ Slim Dusty, your mate’
then put underneath it - 2001.
GO THE GRAFTON GIRLS!! i'm from grafton too
and the mcclymonts are probs the hottest
,coolest best talent to come out of this town
keep doin what u do cuz its amazingly good a long time fan x =]
I have chosen songs that most people would know and will sing along with, I have all these song on a driving disc in my car and when I have friends in the car they always ask for this disc.
The Proclamers - 500 Miles
Jason Mraz - I'm Yours
Dixie Chicks - Goodbye Earl
All Saints - Never Ever
Miranda Lambert - Me And Charlie Talking
My suggested mixtape for Catherine and friends includes the following:
Hit the Road Jack as recorded by Ray Charles
Nice to be Here by Shane Nicholson
The First Cut is the Deepest – Cat Stevens - for flat tyre awareness
The Long Way Round by the Dixie Chicks
Fun Fun Fun by the Beach Boys
I think they are all great sing a long songs and include references to the road, friends, enjoying the moment and the beach. The Cat Stevens one is a bit out there but I can still link it in...just.
ABC has limited bandwith for Digital TV. They have allowed us sufficient to squeeze in ABC Dig Music and ABC Jazz but no more. So I'm afraid ABC Country missed out. Foxtel rebroadcasts what is available on Digital TV so ABC Country is not on Foxtel.
The Road is Still My Home - Slim Dusty
St Kilda to Kings Cross - Paul Kelly
Tear in My beer - Hank Williams
Old Man Emu - John Williamson
Goin' Back Home - Troy Cassar-Daley
Firstly I am gonna assume (or pretend) Catherines friends are country fans, if not they'll have a crap roadtrip!
I chose the first and second songs because of the references to being on the road, the third and fourth songs I chose cos' they are just beaut songs and bloody good fun to sing along to. The last one by Troy Cassar Daley, because the coming home is sometimes better than the being away. .
Hi Jack
Can you post sar this message via her facebook site if possible, not sure that she would see it here (actually i doubt she would) I will make sure she gets it if you post it to her facebook site.
cheers
Donna
itunes should be on it's way soon....
OMG! this is just completely devastating as a country music fan i show my support today in posting this comment and in wearing my Nashville Tennessee tshirt! :)
Can we expect another Album soon? Because the first one 'Wild Heart' is one of the best albums in Country Music that everyone should be listening too :) Doghouse and Girls with Girlfriends are my favourite :)
I really wanted to love this album. It’s got the T Bone Burnett sound and it’s full of old traditional songs that Willie has never played before. But it sounds dry. Doesn’t grab me.
In response to Nomis: Never mind "living in Sydney or Melbourne", I live 2 hours out of Melbourne and would crawl over broken glass to see Nanci. I did and sat throught one of warmest, most genuine performances I have ever experienced.
I sat vacillating between a manic grin and tears - both of joy and elation at finally seeing live my hero, my "Brave Companion of The Road".
I will never forget the experience. So glad I made the trip.
Re Matt from Perth; Couldn't agree more, and this year the City Muster , which is usually only one week apart anyway, was on the same weekend as Boyup and we go the whole year with not much else.
You know there are alot of People in WA who love country music, but we never seem to get very many people coming this way unless it's for the Boyup Brook festival. Come on people treat us all fairly.
An shining beacon in a sea of mediocrity which is modern American music. Nanci is the 'real deal'. Her new album 'The Loving Kind' is outstanding.
If you live in Sydney or Melbourne and don't see her live, you will be sorry for the rest of your life.
I first heard (and saw) The McClymonts when the came to Iraq and played for us during my tour. I fell in love with their style immediately and have been a fan of their ever since.
Couldnt agree more with you Gregg, saw them last night at Hornsby RSL far too loud and distorted could not understand the lyrics , mix was awful , very ordinary and disappointed not a good first impression, maybe a better venue will be the way to hear these lovely girls.
Hi Allyson,
You're doing a great job as the marketing manager - I couldn't get to Tamworth this year (shame) but thoroughly enjoyed the photos - there should be more, though. Keep up the good work!
Good On Ya John, you are the best aussie witha true bue heart. I have many albums and just love your lyrics.
Hillbilly Road CD has a track 'Better than a Picture' and it is a wonderful song. Congratulations mate.
Saw the McClymonts at West Tamworth Leagues on Friday 22nd January 2010 and could not help but be disappointed, not at the quality of their renditions, with the quality of the sound produced via the mixer. It was so overboard in level that it was extremely difficult to understand the lyrics (except when Happy Birthday was sung to Sam). I'm looking forward to seeing them at another venue in the future when, hopefully, their wonderful talent will be better presented.
sara, how are you? saw you at atherton recently,good show...is it possible to get a snail mail address for you as i have info on some of harrys belongings x camooweal you may be interested in ....hooroo.. jack
I have a guitar signed by the three of you in 2008.. Your latest album will be a great success story, it is no doubt a new chapter in your careers.It has to be fun to come to work, you show that to all of us.
Keep up the good work, so my guitar goes up in value.
Hi Molly, Brooke and Samantha how you girls doing It's Grant from Coonabarabran we met before in Tamworth i have a personally signed Cd from you three, you still remember that day you girls? you girls are awesome Wrapped Up Good Freshh EP is on sale January 2010 in tamworth you girls must be excited about this what shows have you girls got for tamworth?
Look forwrd to hearing from you girls soon
can't wait to see you girls in Tamworth Again
Great work - very proud!!! I would have come to watch if I didn't have my assignment to do. Will be at Tamworth to cheer you on!! (and Canada if you invite me!!! hehe) Good luck!!
hi im kealan vaughan your my 3hrd cousin i like the song the shake of a hand and the whole elbem i would like to meet you 1 day hopefuly we can if you could send me back a message in a week or two that would be great my dad robert vaughan wants to meet u to send me a message soon hope to meet you one day love the vaughans
A master song writer of his times. Capturing the pathos and humor of the day always relating to the common man. Check him out with the other songs of this self-titled album... "Sunday morning coming down"
Happened to catch him in Melbourne when he toured with Rita Coolidge...
I knew kirsty when i only 4 years old my sister chrystal use to sing a maitland hall it has been a long time
since we have sang there.
it was so fun befor kirsty became famous.
There is a new music video on YouTube now for 'Precious Little'. Cover art can be right click copied from the website for the TAILWIND album.
Keep up the good work!
Hi All,
Sincerly wondering why Lee Conway is not on your list..His music and talent is awesome.....
His songs have a huge range of different feelings to the mind, e.g The Bell, All i wanna Do,List goes on. Why not bring a legend back that has so much talent to offer to a variety of people?
Take the time to enquire...
Kindess regards Amber Jade.
the gympie MUSTER is a must do at least once while your still breathing.for a diehard fan like myself it is so good being out in the australian bush around campfires with people playing there own styles of guitar.its the type of event that still keeps the aussie aura alive in us all in this ever changing social environment.though you cant really compare it with tamworth as one is in the city and the other in the scrub the MUSTER does it for me bigtime,its like going home.i would suggest to anyone to allocate 10 days for this event though it actually runs for 6 days.on the sat/sun just prior to the MUSTER there is the imbil show and rodeo and steam train rides from gympie to imbil and return with period costume renactments at imbil.there is also horse trail riding with "adventure trail rides" held throughout the year.the races are also held in gympie and plenty of free live music held in gympie during the MUSTER week.volunteer workers at the various clubs such as scout and girl guides are most welcome and very rewarding.i was up there on friday 1st of august at 5.30am congregating with folks from all over australia in the icy cold conditions with a cup of cha for myself and others, waiting for poulsens paddock to open to reserve our real estate for the MUSTER.i hope you can join me this year,just keep an ear out for people singing to there hearts content into a mic and amp at a campsite and you have made it to hillbilly heaven. regards paul from Country Connection.
Even though DIG/ DIG Country seem to like them, I don't see what all the fuss is about the Wilson Pickers. They seem to be a bunch of young guys who play rock and pop music who think bluegrass and country music is all about dumb hillbillys and a few 'yee hahs' - and therefore, easy to play. In contrast with 'real' bluegrass, their music lacks 'the high lonesome sound' that Buill Monroe, the Stanley Brothers, Flatt and Scruggs, etc. made the defining character of the music, along with technically brilliant musicianship.
ABC Country is a great innovation and addresses a very poorly served section of Australian music listeners.
A section for general comments would be useful. I know this one is for Troy, but I don't see anything for other comments.
The Internet transmission is a bit patchy this morning and keeps breaking up. I have a 1.5 MBit link and I have nothing else running - maybe you have a lot of web listeners at present.
Great anti-spam tool - have not seen that before!!
Gympie is a terrific festival for the whole family. Congratulations to the ABC for sponsoring such great artists. The most exciting new artist this year at Gympie will probably be Craig Morrison and Little Cowboys who rocked the joint last year!
Comments
Chris Young is a fabulous singer, sonwriter, entertainer and MAN. He's deep sultry country voice will "rock you" to your core. You'll love him and love listening to him once you start. He's gotta make a trip to Australia, you'll love it when he does.
Great song and James is still brilliant even after all these years.
Oh thankyou for another great song from The Flatlanders. I just love their songwriting, the music and those unique voices. Keep their tracks coming please.....
what you are not aloud to bag the stars of today other wise my comments would have been put on bad look abc
i have just been listing to kitty wells hank thompson pasty cline judith durham and the singers today are not a patch on the old days keith urban sings rock
I wish they would show the Golden Guitars on TV as they are happening! like they do for the American Country Music Awards! Not have to wait a month or so later on CMC!
Everything Troy does is great work and he is just a wonderful performer and down to earth person who has never forgotten his roots. This album will be just as great as the others. Go Troy !
When will the 2012 Country Music Awards be televised?
Got it! A Year Or Three by Simply Bushed. Thanks to 98.9fm
I am trying to find out the same information as Truckernurse - it is doing my head in not knowing who sings the song. "I can't believe its really time to go. I can't believe it's really time to turn the horses home" HELP!
Hi
Just reading this, its weird for me as my mum is one of the original members of this Group (Maria) she moved to Australia in 1972 (It could have been the end of 1971) and that is why she is not part of the original albumn. Growing up she used to sing these songs to us. She lent her copy of the Albumn to a friend years ago and never got it back. My sister has finally tracked it down and is giving it to her for christmas this year. I would say there will be tears.
Good on Shane Nicholson I wish you well as you have a great voice for true Aussie Country and keep it Aussie Country Good luck as I just watched Bill Chambers DVD live at the Pub at Tamworth 2011 and loved every bit of it great to watch true Aussie Country which is far better than what is coming out of America at the moment I Thank You
The same old names get recycled each year - the Central Coast mafia - Adam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Kasey & Shane, etc - all good music - BUT - what about some of the great album releases of the year - 'Life Gets in the Way' by Rose Carleo and 'Dust In The Sky' by Jakki Pollock.Do yourself a favour and listen to some real Australian contemporary music with this music. Someone needs to explain how Keith Urban can be nominated when everything he does is based in and on the USA - these are the AUSTRALIAN Country Music Awards ...... No wonder Country Music in Australia is struggling .............
Go Shane!
Ahhhh that Banjo album with John Kane and Ian Simpson is absolutely amazing music from two fine seasoned musicians.
They are like red wine....are improving all the time, with age if that is possible.
Stunning entertainers.
"G'day"
Some guidance would certainly be appreciated.
As a bloody ol' retired bloke, to keep me from robbin' banks, I have written a few rhymed pieces all about Aus., some of which may be suitable as song lyrics.
One piece, Maggin' with Macca, was recorded in an amateur studio a while back and sounds pretty good. But I'm probably biased.
A few others have been read to air over ABC Radio.
"Any suggestions" ?
"oobloodyroo"
Jim.
Hi Gina,
Im Rhianna and that song " Dancing with elvis" was that at all dedicated or even sung for my father Allan Gundy
who can sing and dance like elvis a couple of years ago because im his daughter and i believe that " Dancing with elvis was written for my father!
love you Gina Jefferys
great stuff!
all too far from Sydney for me! what a shame.
We were at your concert in toowoomba on sunday 13th nov. i am 75 and my husband is 77,and have been married for 52 years. we dont go out much but would not miss seeing you for the world.we had a ball and have not laughed so much for a long time.i was one of the ones who sang out shut up and sing!!! we were at your last concert in toowoomba and god willing we will be at your next one.we have all your albums please keep the albums coming.as the ones we have are nearly worn out!! cheers and regards Margaret.
Have to agree with David on this one, u can hardly call it a national tour without those mentioned states. Love the Sunny Cowgirls
i think luck is a fantasic singer an he should of won Australian idol not carr
i want to know were to buy lukes albums so i can go get them well done luke good to hear your still singing
con grats to you been a dad
Love the Sunny Cowgirls, but you can hardly call it a NATIONAL tour without S.A. N.T. and the A.C.T
.
Hi I would like to know when rascal flatts are coming to Australia near Sydney I would love to see them live they are the best I have ever heard their songs make me want to cry they are that good
Thank you for this great song Lou, and such beautiful lyrics... I have heard it twice now on digital radio, and just have to stop and absorb it all and heartfelt performance...
mate want to get your song how do i get it????
I love Bob Dylan singing country and the Norah Jones singing How Many Times Have You Broken My Heart is mesmerizing... I am grateful you will be featuring this CD and will certainly look forward to this airplay...
(Please note my change of email address)
Ha i just wanna listen to goodbye blinky bill
Awesome pics, which really capture the atmosphere of the whole festival! Jace Everitt, what a voice & he was looking right at ya! (lucky you)
Great photos, keep them coming!
Excellent shots Cass - a pleasure to view them
Kerry W
Love Kathy; though I am getting older, an hour with Kathy on uTube sure is worth it.
Great photos Cassandra Hannagan!! Wish I was up there this year. x
Seem them both now..great work.
Love Dad
Love the pics, great work Cassandra ;0)
Brilliant portraits, more of this type should be done at other festivals.
Fantastic photos, looking forward to seeing portraits from other festivals =)
Great portraits Cassandra - brilliant photgraphy. Can't wait for more of the same.
Great shots ABC Country!
Sensational shots that capture great moments... thankyou Cass and Al...
These shots are amazing. Really captured the essence of the muster. The rain shots are superb.
Awesome shots!! So much character
ab fab stage shots!!!...really love the 'Muster Crowd' pics...nailed the atmosphere...and very entertaining!
what an awesome shot!...really captured the muster 'feel'
Thomas fersen is of that universal type of musician; the melodies that he writes are honest and expand beyond the style they are dressed in. His sense of musical language is pure and comes from somewhere we do not often see in Australia. A mix of middle eastern, gypsy, french music hall and punk rock. But as his last cd, Je Suis Au Paradis shows, he knows how to use strings to accentuate the drama and fragility of a song. He has gathered around him a group of very good musicians able to adapt to any style required and that is another thing we dont see very often here; musicians who aren't afraid to present other styles to their music to give it a depth. The guitarist he uses, Pierre Sangre is extremely gifted.
Thomas Fersen doesn't seem to have any particular interest in showing us in his music, probably because he has quite a substantial following in Europe and Canada.
In the end, it is good music that will be slow to become tired and dated.
Wow, great pics! Shame I couldn't make it this year, looks amazing!!
Looks like a Good Place To Be!
Loving the photos! Keep them coming! :-)
Amazing pics - the rain actually adds to the beauty. Some artists would want their own copy!
Thanks ABC Country for keeping us people that couldn't make it to the muster up to date with the lastest pictures.
Thankyou :)
I quite wonderful second album what a talent.
She came to the UK on a short visit and made a great impression including live sesion on BBC Radio 2.
On my favourite albums this year.
My take on the album:
http://countrymusicnewsinternational.blogspot.com/2011/05/sierra-hull-daybreak-2011.html
To tread the boards trodden by most of the Greats must be one helluva an experience - coundn't happen to a nicer bloke . And he is even Koori .You make all us Kooria proud
Travis is the man, the bomb, awsome energy, authentic USA country joy! Hello from the US! Love ya'll!!
Gillian is a treasure! Hello from the US.
Hi Becky,
we are the couple who came all the way from Adelaide to see you in concert at Swan Hill.
Thankyou for making my husbands first country music concert memorable.( He was big ted on the night front row centre) and he really is not a country music fan but took me as a special "date night treat". I do love that man!... anyway he has not stopped talking about what a great time he had so thankyou Beccy and Adam!
Miranda Lambert, the best of the best country music singer.I love her voice.
I LOVED this song. Bought tears to my eyes
C'mon ABC, get this one onto TV.
At last someone who tells it like it is. On ya Bec!
Richard
Tickets to see Dolly are an outrageous price for her fans - looking at $300,00 a seat only available. All $100.00 tickets have been sold to her shows which were sold the first day bookings opened. Very disappointed!
We have a lovely old lady where I work Broken Hill who is the biggest Adam Harvey fan, she wont be able to make the concert on July 31 but would love the chance to meet him.
Wearing gross looking sleevless shirts doesn't make you the fittest.
Love em one of the best Bands to come out in a while saw them at Byron Blues fest couple of years ago fantastic
are u coming back to perth wa this year(2011) if so when and any venues that children can come my son sheldon has been waiting to see u for a couple of years
Adam I know you don't have time to read every message on this site and keep jade your wife happy having family like you do and the most wonderful wife to have by your side through thick and thin
We all know that you have to travel around and you won't have time for a stop on the way or a concert you have to get to.
Wishing I can see you in concert down here a port macquaire you have got fans out there who really trust you be there and my wish will never come true wanting to see you and to travel with you around with the band and jade.
You are like my brother but you are really not I haven't met you or even seen you in concert.
Jade you are really lukey to have him I with apon a star that I would meet him some day jade he is very special to me take care of Adam
Hope you can come down here and see your biggest fan and stay a her place and meet her parents and sisters work on the farm with them
Hope you's stay together forever and have children who want to be like both of yous
I cant find tickets. How much are they and where can I get them?
We have been waitin an age for Sinead's debut album. C'mon guys at ABC, quit sitting on your hands and release it already!!!
He was great in hooty and the blowfish and I think he has made the cross over really well good sound
when are the tickets available for sale and when are the shows?
Chad Morgan - - - - my HERO.
Melbourne?
Carnt wait to see the film on the extrordanary life of one of aussie great talents of comdey country great lryic man and with his own natural style to entertain
when are you two going to do a show in Kalgoolie WA
your the best
How do I get tickets?
Im in New Zealand
tell carrie underwood to come to muster.com.au
Great show !
Perth ?
cool music gratings from holland
On'ya Kasey......
A BIG congratulation to you, and your team.
This is a feather in your cap, that you can display, and wear with pride.
The McClymonts have amazing voices and harmonies but we couldn't hear them over and above the noise of the instruments when we went to their recent show in Bundaberg. It was so loud that people were putting their hands over their ears. What a shame! Even the beginning of Markus Meier's songs sounded distorted because the sound was so loud. How about toning down the sound so that we can hear what we came and paid for - the amazing talents of these wonderful young people! When the sound of the instruments are that loud, one wonders what you are trying to cover up. And besides, too many people are going deaf prematurely these days and no wonder if they must sit through NOISE such as this. This is SO not meant to be negative - a little constructive criticism is good for us all. Take it or leave it. Cheers!
This album is flawless, I love the emotion and depth in the songs and I think Tori is a brilliant songwriter and sinnger and this album examples that. This is something everyone can enjoy, it's great music!
Love it!
Carrie Underwood put a smile on my mum's face with her amazing voice and talent and make mum's day
Well you might not have been here for a while, but you haven't lost your ocker accent! Lovely to actually here your voice talking, also that you met Sarah. I bet she was a little starry eyed having a famous aunt, but I am jealous that she has got to meet you and Mez and Warwick and his family before I have, but there will come a time! She was over the moon at your performance and you may have turned her into a country fan, so there's a win. When you get a chance settled in back home, send mum's address will you as we/ve lost it and older people prefer snail mail. Im not sure if she knows how to reply to emails. Anyway I am so glad your tour has been a success, say hello to Mez for me and hope to get over there one day, regards John and Marg.
im keen to get this on dvd ill pay good money this was a great concert!!!!!
thanks alot
luke
the wilson pickers rule full stop! they dont profess they are a bluegrass band, quite the opposite actually. they just play bluegrass style instuments and put their own stamp on it. good on em i say.
Adam Harvey
Adam has a sexy voice and would charm my mum and make her day complete.
Keith Urban can leave his cowboy boots and jeans under mum's bed and deliver himself as breakfast to mum anytime!
Johnny Cash..
I Walk the Line : "I find it very very is to be true, I know my mother is madley inlove with you"
first time i have heard Greg. well done
How are you nice meet you I''m very love this voice
are you comming to port macquaire
I am your bigest fan i have got evey cd that you were made
Your wife Jade is very lukey to have you
I saw Lady Antebellum in Adelaide, South Australia and they were FANTASTIC. I could have listened to their beautiful melodies for hours and hours.
Having become a fan of Mikes at Tamworth I was intrigued to see he has formed a partnership with Simon. The new songs tell a story in an acoustic setting and I look forward to hearing more from these talented men as Springfield.
Congrats to Kasey and Shane on their news - parents-to-be again! Looking forward to a big night here in Dubbo next month though
hi just wondering when will this be on tv or is it on the internet only???
i checked the tv guide and its not on the the list for tv so im wondering is this only on the internet
how do i get a copy of this????
i flew from brisbane to sydney for this gig was great@@@@
When I heard Mary's depth of voice and lyrics of this song I was deeply moved and the guitar is mesmerizing.
"I fell into the space between us
and that's a long way to fall"
Please continue to play this song for us, and thankyou to Denise Murphy for her very helpful and informative comment.
One of the proudest moments of my career was seeing Patti Page's version of my song "On The Inside" on the Billboard Country Chart
Allan Caswell
Only sorry they are not doing more in shows Southern QLD, cannot make it on April 1.
Saw Adam at Chinchilla melon festival and loved it.
I'm disgusted that on Australia All Over, Ian McNamara's comments on this tape were along the lines of that he didn't think the "politically correct" artists, Paul Kelly and Peter Garrett should be on this tape. The works of these artists maybe politically palatable to the Rudd/Gillard governments. However I can think of a number of Paul Kelly tracks that John Howard would be likely to label as the "black-armband view of Australian history".
Having seen the full listing of the compilation now, I'm even more incensed that Macca chose to single these two artists, when they only represent six tracks out of the total. I've cut out several of the Jimmy Barnes tracks to make room for:
John Williamson (Galleries of Pink and Gray Galahs, Raining on the Rock, The Drover's Boy and others...)
Sara Storer
Gina Jeffries
The Pigram Brothers
amongst others (and I second the nominations for Lee Kernaghan and Slim Dusty)
No, country music was not forgotten but where was our one-time Australian of the Year Lee Kernaghan? Slim Dusty - the greatest of all CM performers? I respect the artists featured and yes, they are great Australian country music performers. While Jimmy Barnes, Crowded House and possibly Bernard Fanning are also remarkable musicians, why the large percentage of inclusions? Oh and were our artists paid for the use of there works on this CD or was it a pirated version?
I went to the melb one...
THE BEST SHOW!!!!
lets hope its not as long for the 2nd time!
'Cause north of the border (not down Mexico way) we know good music and the artists know we know good music. Problem is from Townsville to Brisbane is as far from Brisbane to Melbourne so most of Queensland will not get to see The Voice of Country either.
Cowboy
Please come to Perth, Western Australia!! :)
I met 8 Ball at the Tamworth music festival and fell in love with his music. I love this CD and I'm definitely a fan!
I think these guys are great and a breath of fresh air in a market that lacks variety.
I agree that these guys don't fit into the bluegrass genre, but that in no way takes away from what they do. I'm sure that they have bluegrass CDs in their collections and have a healthy respect for them. My guess is that they've come from a rock/pop background and have been pulled by bluegrass towards creating acoustic driven music that tips its hat to bluegrass, but is not bluegrass in and of itself.
I play in a band that fuses bluegrass with alt-country influences (you don't get pedal steel in most bluegrass bands). Whilst at times we've angst about the fact that we're not true bluegrass, we have been welcomed, supported and highly encouraged by the bluegrass community in Australia and look forward to continue being influenced by them.
Hi Felicity,
I've been listening to your show over the internet for about a year now, and I'm wondering what the name of the song is that closes out your show. Something about "I can't believe it's really time to turn the horses home" What's the name of the song and who sings it, please? Thanks from Florida!
Hi Liam,
I discovered your good song The Doghouse in the Best of CMC 2010 CD and I am featuring it in my radio show here in France on RCF Haute Normandie Radio. The response from my listeners is excellent. I would be happy to help you promote your album in France by giving you more air play and by reviewing it in our French CM Magazine Le Cri du Coyote. I run in it a special Aussie section: called "Kanga Routes" in which I publish the reviewed Aussie albums, as you can see in the attachment. It helps French country music fans to become aware of Aussie artists and many of them have been present in our festivals among which Jetty Road and Adam Brand. To purchase the albums of their choice we direct the fans to the Country Music Store in Brisbane and to WJO Distribution.
You are a young artist Liam but you seem to have a great potential so godd luck to you in your Country Music career.
Regards
Roland Lanzarone
Le Crid du Coyote/ RCF Haute Normandie
42 Bis Rue Edouard Fortier
76130 Mont Saint Aignan
France
Jon is right. There are a lot of acts emerging that say bluegrass or roots or pickers and who are nothing more than guitar casuals and front bar rockers. Strumming a few guitar chords isn't enough. Where are the banjo and fiddle pickers and the three part harmony? Where is the gospel quartet? Where is the high lonesome sound? Where are the ancient tones?
Love Kasey and can't get enough! Maybe she'll come to Texas one day...
u girls rock do u do weddings and other events at all
It is terrible to see your father, a dedicated parrot head all his life, be completely turned off from jimmy due to this ridiculous tour.......what a waste of time, money and resources to come all the way out here for such small concerts. Who on earth thinks the Opera House is a place for this type of music??!! Such a big shame Jimmy!!! You have lost the hearts of many Aussie parrot heads!
Was really excited to hear that Jimmy was coming to Australia. I knew nothing of Jimmy when I first met my now husband. We saw him at Festival Hall in Brisbane on one of our first dates. Really disappointed that tickets sold so quickly. I was on the net and well as one the phone with a co-worker and still missed out. I had organised my husband's leave with his work to surprise him ... had to cancel that. We live in Hobart, Tasmania and always miss out on top line acts. My husband is a huge Leonard Cohen fan as well and we were lucky enough to attend his sell out concert in Hobart upon his second tour. So, please come back Jimmy. :)
Fantastic. I am sitting here in Tbilisi (Georgia) enjoying every minute and feeling a little homesick.
The lyrics are truly wonderful David, wish I was a good as you with words. Keep up the good work.
Troy what can one say ,,this bought tears to my eyes to hear what you and your loved ones have all gone through. we on the west coast (perth) could only sit back and imagine,But for those that it has affected they will be scared for life.Like you said what you lost is hard but alot can be replaced ,those that lost their lives can never be replaced and Thank God you all still have your lives.. You are one hell of a gentleman, and the greatest C&W star ever..love you millions.. ..And by no means are you a sook lol ..big hugz to you all and may God give you all the strength to carry on..Regards Patricia Gaden.. Perth W.A.. xxx
Love Jimmy's music - been a fan for years - been to a dozen of his concerts and Sunday will be another.
Disapointing to not be able to get tickets for the opera house andi am working Aus day. I have seen jb in western Aus during the ameris=ca cup in 86 then he played a concert on Hamilton island in about 90 .Cmon mr Chugg how bout some Qld dates to ????????????
Who is this interviewer?? Great interview! Loved it! Thanks. Really looking forward to hearing Shane and his new songs at Tamworth on Thursday.
Sounds fantastic! Loads of talent, and by the sounds of it loads of fun. Thanks for keeping us updated on the Gympie happenings.
Great interview! And what a nice guy. So lovely to hear his story and hear his passion for his music. Look forward to your next interview.
Lets hope some additional (other state) dates become available. Would be great to see a Brisbane/Queensland benefit show(s) in support of the recent floods
Harmony James' album TAILWINDS is now one of my prized CDs...and I have been collecting music for nearly 50 years. My tastes include most music (except for hard-core, unintelligible rap misic), and believe that I can identify talent and qualty whe I hear/see it.
The production quality is of the highest order, the writing, melodies,mix and tempos of the tracks, excellent. I am certainly looking forward to her next album, hoping Harmony will be able to maintain the high level she set the bar at with TAILWINDS.
I happened to hear Harmony guesting with Felicity on ABC Radio a few weeks back and was also impressed with her comments, attitudes, and level-headed comments. Certainly a true Rising Star.
Congratulations Felicity, and thank you.
You are both awesome - love the songs and can't wait to hear more!! Look out world here you come!
You girls are fantastic, onwards and upwards for you both:-)
Love the sisters burley they are awesome hope the girls make it big love u both xo
You guys are amazing and im so proud and happy to call u my mate kat .. Your both amazing :)
Hi Ken,
This and Facebook are most probably good starting points for you.
I want to see if you actually get this so can you please respond if you do.
Cheers
Brian
great to see the big fella doing and enjoying what he loves doing.
We first seen Markus Meier at Crown Melbourne Saturday 20/03/10 as support act for Lee Kernaghan. He is awesome-a graet new Australian talent. He had the place rockin and was the best suppoort act I've seen before the main feature
My daughter bought me a digital radio for Christmas and I can now listen to ABC country. Thank you for playing my songs ... it means a lot. Thanks too for playing such a wonderful selection of real country music ... it gets expensive though, I now have to go out and buy Jamey Johnson's album.
love your work
Caswell
well done Sarah, keep going. Listening to this song all the morning..........
I have been a Parrot Head for 35 years, saw Jimmy in Melbourne in 1978 and 79, got everything he has recorded.
I, and 3 other parrot Heads were ready to fly to see JB from Melbourne. Extremley disappointed when at 9.00 am when sales opened, sold out. What can I do, go to USA?
Ivon
Unfortunately I'm the guy with the Cadillac... ah well
'It don't buy you love' ... jeez, I wonder how these guys knew my life story !
Thanks for the information Anthony. It's about time Promoters here realized that Country Music has a big following like J.B. and accommodate them in bigger venues and provide more shows!
Hi,
Seeing as its Christmas how about playing Alan Jackson's version of "What a friend we have in Jesus"
Alan Jackson Down Under
Are you coming to Tas this year?
The two Sydney Opera House concerts were sold out in under 15 minutes.
The Sydney Opera House on line ticket sales stuffed up and forgot to turn off the 'presale' restriction of 2 tickets per customer, restricting those who made contact with the site within the first two minutes of sales to a maximum purchase of 2 tickets. People lucky enough to make contact with the site after 9:02 a.m. but before the tickets were all sold out were not restricted.
Response from the Opera House Box Office: "You can write us a letter of complaint but as the tickets are all sold it will just be filed."
Many Australian Parrotheads left scratching their heads as to why Chugg Entertainment organised the only two Jimmy Buffett Australian concerts to be held in such a small venue as the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, given the large following he has here in Australia.
Oh Thankyou for playing this today. It is such a wonderful, wonderful song and beautifully performed.
l love country music do you? l am from far away but it is good to listening this radio feeling well is like being
in the u.s.a. l share the good moments with you
I like the song by Alan Archer about Chinchilla. I live in the village of Whissonsett in Norfolk U.K. where Matthew Goggs was born. I have been researching all of the Goggs family and I will be including this tale of Chinchilla in my research. Matthew Gogg's first wife,Bridget Burke is buried in our village churchyard.
are you doing a concert in stawell vic this tour
Great news that J.B. is coming to Australia and performing at the Sydney Opera House.
Disappointing for his fans that he can't perform in other States whilst he is here - we
all can't go to Sydney!
this album surely is highly recommended ... great album .. kevin bennett adds again standout track driving home
Kasey Chambers, that girl sure takes some beating, great voice, band, & songs are just amazing.
My favourite country singer would have to be Kasey Chambers. I love her powerful unique voice but most of all I love the fact that she seems so down to earth.
lee kernaghan just because he is "SIMPLY THE BEST' noone else compares.
There's not one Aussie country music singer that I don't like. My favourites are the great Lee and our Troy.
John Williamson has great sing along music for anywhere.
My favourite artist singer/songwriter has got to be Kasey Chambers. Kasey hasn't compromised her..music - she's stuck to what she likes doing best and that's country. Outstanding songwriter in her own right she has developed her own style as in her own words " I ain't pretty enough' ...the song that gave her fame.
I like Lee Kernaghan also - his style of music is different it's 'boysie' type country and he is a great entertainer - he is a man of the land and is ready to help others who need help.
I like these two artists very much!
Listening to Slim Dusty is pure bliss,
an amazing talent we can continue to hear,
but the man himself we will miss.
This album picks up where they left it thirty years ago. Highly reccomended.
I love country music
Adam Brand, he's multi talented and a spunk to boot. Awesome on DWTS and amazing voice.
If push comes to shove.
It's Lee Kernaghan I love.
His voice is unique.
He exudes country chic.
His songs my heart seeks.
Sara Storer - her personality is as sweet as her voice!
I couldn't possibly single out a number one. I'm sure I could make a Top 30
(and if any of them happen to be reading this, you know who you are)
How do we book for the Brisbane event, please?
Troy is an great talent!
Disagree with you Pamela....forget the 'Nashville Sound' and keep making your own path Troy, you've got way more to offer!
David Gordon Fitzpatrick - but we all knew him as Slim,
Pioneered Country in Australia - Pub with no Beer a national hymn!
Adam Brand. Brand that guy perfection!
when it comes to music and voices, Catherine is a 'Britt' of alright!
i was brought up on slim dusty and he'll always be my favourite australian country singer he knew how to turn a campfire story into a song, old and young alike can relate to at least one slim dusty song
Love Lee Kernaghan, he lives and feels his music just like Slim Dusty did. Lee will go out of his way to talk to his fans, have a photo taken with them and he is so down to earth a real sign of a genuine country boy, well done Lee with Planet Country it is fantastic, I play it all the time.
Kasey Chambers with her distinct voice is definitely my favourite.
Troy is good - maybe he should introduce a pedal steel into his band and get more with the Nashville sound!
Lee Kernaghan as he is a true Aussie Country singer who has proven his ability time and time again
I'm a little shallow I'm afraid as it was the brooding good looks, twinkling eyes and sly sexy smile that made ADAM HARVEY my favorite Country artist ... it's just a bonus that the cowboy can SING!!! ;)
Slim Dusty is the greatest country and western entertainer of the decade,
He has some great songs, and they never seem to date,
If you are ever on a long trip and you put Slim on everyone can sing along to them, and it helps to pass the time, while you watch our vast land of Australia pass by.
Adam Brand would be the pick of the crop for me !!! His music relates to the way of life in Australia. He plays upbeat songs to keep you going and every now and then will slip a slow and memorable song into his albums. He is a true Aussie artist, up their with the greats.
Mickey is amazing !!! <3 you bud hahahahahhahahah
HURRY UP WITH THE ALBUM !
after seeing lee in concert ithink he is the best but on i pension now i cant afford to buy cd or dvd
since we first saw troy back in the nineties he hoas gone from strength,to,strength and on his latest cd, he is still country. david richer.
My favorite Australian Country Artist is Grame Connors/
He may not have the looks,but he certainly has the talent, Some of his best albums really blow me away.
modern times lee kernaghan, who we saw way back when at tamworth, others slim & stan who we also met and they were brilliant,david richer.0
Not knowing Noel Parlane, but since I got his music for my radio show WL COUNTRY in The Netherlands I find him a great artist.
It will be held in Brisbane on Friday 19th Nov in Brisbane
Lee Kernaghan is my favourite artist not only is he a terrific performer but he alos does a lot of work for the Outback
AWESOME interview, he is simply sensational!
LEE KERNAGHAN - 'cos it was his awsome Aussie songs that first got me into country music.
I saw these guys on hey hey a few weeks ago, performing hell yeah absolutely awesome song, cant wait to get the album
Don Williams said years ago "its all about the song" . All his work shows just that - one of the best , from any Country
wHY IS HE ONLY GIVING ONE CONCERT IN MELBOURNE WHEN BRISBANE IS GETTING 3.
NOT FAIR ON MELBOURNE FANS!
Thank you ABC COUNTRY for this great web.site.
It would be fantastic if you would consider TRANSMITTING the COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS FROM U.S.A.
as it is only once a year and there are a lot of fans who would appreciate this. Concerts here for Alan Jackson have been booked out - 3 concerts in Brisbane alone - Melbourne unfortunately has only one.
Come on ABC IF YOU ARE DINKY DIE ABOUT COUNTRY THEN lets see these Awards.
Country takes a back-step on T.V. compared to other musical genres.
It would be a GREAT STEP FORWARD FOR THE ABC.
Beautiful Tracks Sara. sara has alwys had beautiful tracks with country sara and John willamson are same artists they write tremendous lyrics from the heart pure Country Geniuses
My favourite artist is SLIM DUSTY. His stories are reflecting the true life on the road and in the bush. Cheers from Germany.
For his heartfelt and beautiful songwriting skills, for a voice that captures an audience in just a few lines, for a heart of solid gold which he gives so much to our country communities that struggle in all types of hardships be it bushfire, flood or drought and for his absolute appreciation to his loyal and devoted fans. I say Lee Kernaghan is my favorite Aussie Country Singer.
Already entered but wanted to say how great it is to see a wide range of country artists being mentioned. How boring would it be if everyone like the same thing :) How good is it when you agree with everyone's comments. Keep em coming, I'm enjoying this!
I believe that Gina Jeffreys' musical performances show that she is not afraid to challenge the Country Music genre and mould it into more modern music for a wider audience, whilst still maintaining its country feel.
Lee Kernaghan as his music takes me to the country no matter where i may be. When I listen to his music I can close my eyes and go back home.
I have many favourites including Lee but one of the best would have to be Graeme Connors after listening to his songs 'Sicilian Born' and 'The Ringer And The Princess.'
my favourite country singer would be slim dusty. he was and still is an iconic true blue dinki di aussie who loved his people and the land, and always had time for his mates. long live the king of country. :)
AS SOMEONE WHO PREFERS THE OLDER TYPE COUNTRY(SLIM
The Pigram Brothers are one of my favourites. I have heard them at Port Fairy and in West Australia. They are so full of life and love for their country that they sing about. John Williamson, too, is a troubador in the spirit of Slim Dusty, in that he sings about us, our everyday lives. He evinces, with his music, our dreams and disasters, oyr sorrows, our joys, our everyday lives. He makes me cry, he makes me laugh, he makes me think. Wonderful.
Lee Kernaghan - After his Planet Country show in Nowra (the first country music concert I had ever been to, and we travelled 2 1/2 hours each way) - I stayed to see if I could get an autograph. Almost two and a half hours later (after midnight!) I did get a poster autographed - and I wasn't even at the end of the line! I think Lee was a real trooper to stay that long to meet fans - and he even managed to smile in the photo!
LEE KERNAGHAN, not only for being the best in country music but for the amazing person he is for all the other things he does for the rural communities. He takes the time to really be amongst them, not only to entertain them, but also to offer courage and support and be such a help and down to earth fairdinkum friend and help to them. To me he just goes that one step further than the rest.
Kasey Chambers. She has a great variety in her repertoire from soft ballads to music with a bit of attitude. It's great to see an artist who writes/performs music that is enjoyable and has meaning. Kasey is able to create atmosphere with her music. She has music that I can play no matter what mood I am in. Kasey is awsome.
I would have to say Markus Meier, is making a name for himself with some great songs, lyrics, I think he will be here for a while to come yet, whilst ever he keeps churning out these great songs, I will continue to buy his albums, and hopefully get to one of his shows real soon, I am a big supporter of the Aussie Country Music scene, we have somje great talent right here on our own doorstep, Garth Brooks doesn't need my cash, but Markus does, lol
Like many others , Slim Dusty was a favorite for lots of years - still is .
Of the "current crop its a tossup between Troy Cassar-Daly & Lee Kernaghan.
Anne Kirkpatrick is still the top of the girls - saw her in the Great Hall of Parliament in Canberra .
crying on each others shoulder - slim dusty & ann kirkpatrick
fear of falling - donna fisk & michael cristian
these are the most favourite songs & singer
overall i love female voices in country music
the first time i heard australian country was in the 60's and it was "a pub with no beer" as i was growing up in switzerland
no i'm living in australia.......
cheers James
Troy Cassadaly as he is a great singer & a really nice bloke to boot
Such a fabulous rendition of this Buddy Holly Classic. I love it. Thankyou
Dear Felicity.
I congratulate David Crewe on his win.I concede it must have been a very difficult task for the judges to choose a single winner from the many well written entries. As a poet and song writer I picked out at least 20 entries which I thought were potential winners. It may come as a surprise to you that I hadn't included David's entry in my list, however as the judges are professionals in this field I guess my opinion is irrelevant.
Among the verses which I thought should have been considered for the short list, one stood out above all others,the very first entry, Country's In My Blood by Tom Griffin. This verse was very well structured and extremely rhythmic. From the outset it set the scene for a picture which was well painted of the town of Pambula. Shades of Banjo Patterson I thought.
Kind regards
Claude Varna.
Congratulation to the winner and to all who posted their songs. Congratulation to all how put the competition together and the people who had the hard and long task of listening to each song ...
Wow, he is only one of two Australian musicians to receive this award
hi flic its your cusion kirsty(bischoff)jones daughter of kerry and micheal,
look me up on facebook looking good girl xoxo
The truth is when is Sara Storer's latest video Tears gonna be available on all video websites?
I would add Barbara Mandrell's "I Don't Want to be Right."
i didn t know enithing about australia;whent whit my husbund on our honnymoons there in your lovely ruff lovley country and we had a carecitent in the outback, well a kangarooh on the street. your songs helpt me to understand your country and i love it
red dog by terry & jenny bennett
the horses stay behind by terry & jenny bennett
What an odd list. Some of these songs may be tragic in theme, but they actually sound quite jaunty, such as D-I-V-O-R-C-E (and, let's face it, a divorce can be the happiest day in some people's lives). I'm very surprised Hank Williams' I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry didn't make the cut. Johnny Cash is deservedly the only artist with two entries. He could fill the list on his own, especially with his later recordings. His cover of Hurt is unredeemed bleakness.
Townes Vand Zandt's "Marie" is my pick it is the saddest song I think I have ever heard.
You can't go past Richard Thompson's "1952 Vincent Black Lightning", leather, crime. red-headed women and violent young death. What more do you want?
I think this is a terrific idea. Country is a broad genre, and can embrace such sub-genres as Roots, Alt-Country, and Folk Country.
For me the strength of Country is the lyric, to bring this appreciation to a wider and younger audience can only do good.
Why all the concentration on American music since John's retirement?
Australian Country singers (When they're NOT trying to ape Americans) are far better than the American overproduced acts are.
As for the "bleakest songs in Country music history" The Fatal Wedding by Chad Morgan would have to be top of my list. ;-)
Oh, I heard and saw Melinda about a month ago on a Radio National in-studio performance with Fran Kelly, and it was just wonderful.
Melinda is fun loving and talented, and just a delight for those of us who were (open and closeted) fans of Doris Day way back when. It''ll be a blast.
Mary Gauthier is an extraordinary songwriter who sings about the dark aspects that inhabit our lives. In doing so, quite gently and beautifully, she leaves the audience renewed and reawakened.
All her albums are different and wonderful. 'Mercy Now' (2005) is perhaps the most popular, though 'The Foundling' (2010), a song cycle narrative of her own tragic life circumstances has resonated with an ever growing fan base. If you could only buy one album, "Genesis' (2008) might be the one. It is a sampling of her whole repertoire, though for me, 'The Foundling' is her strongest album lyrically and musically. For serious Country fans, I'd suggest 'Dixie Kitchen' (1997) or 'Filth and Fire (2002)'.
Sadly, she is better known and understood outside of her own country of the United States, but it is a joy to me that the ABC has introduced her to the ABC audience in all its forms.
A "list" is always problematic in how far back do you go and only "10" ?? My contribution (tongue in cheek ) would be - The Louvin Brothers- Tragic songs of life - Mary of the wild moor. If you want to start your day on a high note don't start with this album.
The very best. I have seen Markus Live and that was unreal. Overall one of the best in Australia
DEAR LADY SPRINGSURE (Springsure, Central Queensland)
Verse 1
Dear lady I'm ashamed to say
I haven't thought until today
To tell you of the love and deep respect I hold for you
I've chanced to travel far and wide
Yet always with the greatest pride
I told your fascinating tale - and how the tributes flew!
Verse 2
I ventured from another land
Yet you were there to take my hand
You gave me love and shelter as if I were your own
In bliss I spent my chjldhood days
I filled my time a thousand ways
Where else would I have chosen as a place to make my home?
Chorus
Lady stand and take a bow
Lady hear those tributes now
Lady all your children vow
To show their love for you
Your struggle through those early years
Your fallen boys you held so dear
The drought and fire that drained your tears
What pride we have in you
Verse 3
Dear lady in your autumn years
Rest easy now - forget your fears
For those who hold you dear will tend to all your needs
Despite the change that's in the air
Your rugged beauty and your flair
Will stand the test of time as an honour to your deeds.
Rep. Chorus
"The Rock"
Intro.
It's not Uluru, not alcatraz, not a wrestler on TV
There's only one one The Rock to me.
1)
Magpies gargle in the dawn, from the kurrajongs down main,
Each tree is for a soldier, who did not come home again.
Tingle of the the morning train, rumbles through your feet,
Young blokes on their way to school, kick a footy down the street.
Chorus.
The lion of the riverina plain that guards this town,
sits atop a stony ridge, broke free from even ground.
Wheat beside canola, sews a patchwork quilt all round.....
This little town they call The Rock.
2)
Trucks go to and from the silos,like ants before a rain.
Good to see a bumper harvest, after 10 long years of pain.
Sheep fossick through the stubbles, like beachcombers on the sand.
Hooves give rise to dust, a hazy blanket 'cross the land.
Chorus
3)
The Rock was known as Kengal, before white man came to town.
An initiation place; they say it was sacred ground.
Now tourists come to scale the peak, for fitness or for fun.
Another day draws to a close, as the big cat blocks the sun.
Chorus
It's not Uluru, not alcatraz, not a wrestler on TV
There's only one one The Rock to me.
"When the Winter Winds Blow"
Chorus:
When the winter winds blow - through the Aussie gum trees
There's light and shade through - the Coffs Harbour plateau
The Coffs Harbour plateau - When the winter winds blow
When the winter winds blow - through the Aussie gum trees
Verse 1:
The early morning light on the manna gum trees
The early morning breeze - blowing the Aussie gum trees
Blowing the Aussie gum trees - blowing the tallowood trees
Blowing the tallowood trees - and the swamp mahogany
Verse 2:
The Aussie native gums swaying from side to side
Swaying from side to side in the gentle Aussie breeze
The Aussie butcher birds ringing out their call
Singing out there call in the early morning light
Verse 3:
The tall Australian gums with their canopies up high
They almost seem to touch our Aussie blue sky
And there's our Aussie legend, feeding on the sweet gum leaves
Feeding on the sweet gum leaves below the canopy up high
WOOLOMIN
SHE'S A GEM OF A PLACE/ NOT FAR FROM TAMWORTH/ SHE'S OUT OF THE RAT RACE/ NESTLED IN THE VALLEY/
SHE'S A VILLAGE WITH A SPIRIT/ TINGED WITH GOLDEN NUGGETS/ PERHAPS THE BEST KEPT SECRET/ IS HER COUNTRY PEACE AND QUIET/
CHORUS
WHERE EVERYONE SAYS G'DAY/ WITH A WINK AND A SMILE/ IF YOU STOP BY AND HAVE A CHAT/
IT MAY TAKE A WHILE/ WHERE THEY DRINK CUPS OF TEA/ AND HOMEMADE MOONSHINE/ WOOLOMIN IS THE HEART OF COUNTRY LIFE/ AND SHE'S OUR TOWN
YOU CAN WALK TO THE STORE/ OR ANY PART OF TOWN/ YOU CAN SWIM IN THE CREEK/ OR CAMP BY THE DAM/
YOU CAN SING LIKE THE BIRDS / OR HUM LIKE THE BEES/ YOU CAN DO NOTHIN AT ALL / BUT YOU BETTER NOT LEAVE/
YOU MAY SEE AN EAGLE CIRCLING THE SKIES/ OR MARVEL AT THE ROLLIN HILLS AS COTTON CLOUDS ROLL BY /
YOU MAY BE CONTENT TO BREATHE IN FRESH AIR / AND AFTER A WHILE YOU WON'T HAVE A CARE .. COS
CHORUS
EVERYONE SAYS G'DAY/ WITH A WINK AND A SMILE/ IF YOU STOP BY AND HAVE A YARN/
IT MAY TAKE A WHILE/ WHERE THEY DRINK CUPS OF TEA/ AND HOMEMADE MOONSHINE/ WOOLOMIN IS THE HEART OF COUNTRY LIFE/ AND SHE'S OUR TOWN / SHE'S OUR TOWN .. WOOLOMIN
Entry for the Your Town, Your Song competition:
Malanda, Our Town
by Pig's in the Shed
It started outside the pub
On a misty Malanda day
There was woodchops and everything
And one of the boys had something to say
We got gymnastics and soccer and things we don't know
There's skate parks, push bikes and taekwondo
But all we really needed was a senior football side
To don the mighty colours and show this town some pride
You see it finished many years ago, before we were born
The memory lay dormant for thirty years or more
But the word had got around that there were maybe three or four
And the Eels got back together and Made Malanda roar
We are for one and all like thirty years before
And the boys all made a pact to never let it fall
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
This is Malanda playing for the blue and gold
Now we all know what's happened since deregulation set in
It broke some of our farmers, but there are still some hanging in
Wearing their hearts out on their sleeves, they've all stuck together
And that's what makes this town so proud to be Malanda
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
These are the farmers asking for a fair go
High in the mountains, deep in the scrub
There lie a battle they said just couldn't be won
But the pioneers all had a dream, that only they could see
And that's why this town of Malanda stands before you and me
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
This is Malanda playing for the blue and gold
This is Malanda the town that we all love
This is Malanda the home of the big wooden pub
This is Malanda with players young and old
These are the farmers asking for a fair go
Aussie Sheilas
G. P. Torrens
In the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
We've all heard of Dawn Frazer who hailed from Balmain Town
She showed that it was possible to swim a hundred metres in under a minute
And if there was a lark going on, you can bet our Dawnie was in it.
Her first GOLD came in the Melbourne Olympics and she was still going strong in Rome.
By the time she'd finished in Tokoyo, she'd bought forty records home.
Cause in the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
On the track, we had Majorie Jackson, the fabulous “Lithgow Flash”.
In '52,she claimed GOLD and World Records in both the one and two hundred metre dash.
And never forget Betty Cuthbert, Australia's first “Golden Girl.”
When Betty got to the Melbourne Olympics, she gave that track a twirl..
In the women's one hundred metre sprint, it was GOLD to Australia that day.
Then in the two hundred metres, GOLD again came Australia's way.
In the four by one hundred metre relay, our “Golden Girl” did it once more.
Then eight years later in Tokyo, Betty added more GOLD to the score.
Cause in the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
In the pool, we've had Curry and Lenton, Riley, Gould, Lewisand Brown
On the track, we've had Nunn, Fleming, Saxby and Boyle
with Gainsford and Freeman's reknown.
In the past we've cheered wildly and proudly for Susie and Becky and Marina
and Rachel, Marayka and Nova and Elli, Tracey and Katrina
For our stars, both known and unknown, our hearts have beaten with pride
and none have even competed alone ,for they've had this whole nation on side.
Cause in the land they call “Down Under,”they breed a race apart.
They're known as Aussie Sheilas and they're mostly made of heart.
For everything they do, they do with grace and style
Because they're Aussie Sheilas. It puts them ahead by a mile.
On The Run .. V1. She ran away from Runaway Bay/ A Long reach away from home/ She had seven thrills in Seven Hills / You couldn't call her on the phone / V2. She had a good time in Narromine/ took her back pack to Crackin Back and back/ She ended up in Jindabyne/ Had a stack off the beaten track / Ch: She's on the run to have some fun/ kickin up her heels spinnin out her wheels/ She's on the go, boy don't you know/ She won't be back and that's a fact / V.3 She went to work in the back o Bourke/ Pickin fruit she learnt to shoot/ She lost a shoe in Dunedoo/ She couldn't dance she learnt to bootscoot/ V.4. She met a bloke in the town of Broke / kissed a man in Brighton Le Sands / She rowed a boat to and fro Norfolk/ She finally caught her man in romance.
They're on the run to have some fun/ kickin up their heels spinnin out the wheels/ She's on the go, boy don't you know/ She won't be back and that's a fact ..
Another joy filled and inspired set from Kasey and her accompanists. Thanks ABC Country.
The Magic of Maleny
By David Crewe
There’s something in the air up here that seems to make you smile,
Not like the crowded city folk where smilin’s out of style.
So when you’re walking down the road strangers still hello you,
And the people in the shops and stores are pleased to get to know you.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea,
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be.
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam,
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home.
Up here you’ll find the peacefulness that any man would seek,
Among the ancient forests and along the Obi creek.
When the sky comes dropping down the world can disappear,
Within the soft embrace of clouds you’ll know that heaven is near
I drink with men whose father’s father’s came here long ago,
To build a life that’s different with no pretentiousness or show.
Why I’m here I’m not so sure I know the reason why,
But there’s something about Maleny – can’t avoid it if you try.
Within this magic hinterland, the places I’ve explored,
I’ve come to think I’m living in the bosom of the Lord.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home
Entry by Catherine Wheeler from Bega High School. Written at a Landcare camp at Bournda
Bournda
V1
About 2 kays from Kalaru
there's a place where you can do
almost anything you like
Paddle a canoe or ride a bike
Chorus
The only way that you would know
that anyone was here
Is when you see a car or tent
They're all silent to the ear
V2
When you wander, wonder, walk
Listen to the animals talk
Look out for the shape of a kangaroo
and be amazed, there's only you
V3
Waiting for a whisper, not a sound
But nature can be heard and found
Just wait, just listen and you will see
Why Bournda is the place for me
Chorus
Bridge
You'll never know that anyones near
Because they're all silent to the ear
Silent, Serene, My town
Entry by Ella Davies from Bega High School. Written at a Landcare camp at Bournda
Bega
V1
There's a dark side of Bega
that people often see
the drugs and drink
The side that scares me
Chorus
But there's a bright side, a right side
The hidden side
People actually care
The hippy side some would say
But its the right side for me
V2
The parks, the walks
Our house on the hill
15 minutes from the beach
this place is for me
V3
The people we see
The places we go
The vegans and the bogans
My family and me
"Life and Love Go 'Round"
chorus ...Life and love go 'round
in our back yard
& in our town,
Bundy's got such heart & soul
natural beauty,folks like gold.
Funny how the circle goes 'round
recycling's quite the fashion,
Mum did it in the good old days
dressed in sugar bags & hessian.
chorus...
Donald Cook & Dr Jenkins
heal our hearts & minds,
save many a wayward stranger
loving,caring,sharing times.
chorus...
Pottering 'round the garden beds
the goat,the chooks,the lizards,
the compost,worms & silvereyes
simply are our treasures.
chorus...
"Bundy's Wonder Water Zoo"
Our Jessie dog's been beggin'
to tear off for a run,
the dam's in sight,such sweet delight
that mud's incredible fun!
The kids they'll all get coated
& plaster it in their hair,
call around the neighbourhood
& give their friends a scare!
chorus...That dam's so central to our lives
it really is a treasure,
gives us so much pure joy
way beyond all measure.
We've dangled chunks of chicken bits
from twine upon a stick,
hauled out lots of yabbies-
masses,nipping,fat & thick;
Even famous,wealthy folk
who've really done it all,
reckon this enticing yabbying's
the absoluteness of having a ball!
chorus
God's great world beneath the weed
in this our Bundy dam,
chock full of fish & turtle life
beyond the realms of man;
Let's keep it clean & special
for it's a landmark too,
has entertained us all for years
our wonder water zoo!
Coledale' Brave'.
Little town, time forgotten,
spose there's nothin' to see
But I reckon it's slow enough
and it'll do me
We've got not nothing to shame us
But let beauty blame us
For keepin' our secret 'hard kept' from the world
Blink and you'll miss us
On a post card with kisses
Wish you here with us
at Coledale by the sea
Is our name 'beer' in origin ?
Were we named after coal ?
Were we fashioned in granite like the war's 'Honor Roll' ?
Where loss wont belittle me
Coledale to Gallipolli
Jack Simpson worked underground
Black coal for his crust.Sent his hard earned to Mother
Tar soap for the dust
His black and white photo, hangs up in the local
set sail for the 'motherland'
to fight Johnny Turk
Old enough to work underground
Too young for a Missus
To write home some kisses
........Black coal for his crust from the seam in Coledale
Little town,time forgotten
Nothin' to see
Unless you open your eyes up
there's more history
Quiet girl ran through ocean mist
In the still of the morn
Steel town will and an iron fist
then savagely torn
Little boy, held her hand ,
His mum's Kerryn McCann
On a lap made for victory
Twas a sad valedictory
You can take all the gold,
and melt it all down......
A hero, a Mother from Coledale her town.
Should I think that you'd miss us
From beyond the cold pale
Little town by the seaside struck two stamps for your mail
Heroes have havens and their Holy Grails
Each fought the good fight, they fought tooth and nail
They're here and in spirit. If you come here you'll feel it
In the blink of an eyelid 'twas their home in Coledale.
Author;Chris Driscoll
TAMWORTH COUNTRY MUSIC
TAMWORTH ON THE RIVER PEEL
IS THE GREATEST PLACE ON EARTH
ITS THE COUNTRY MUSIC CAPITOL
AUSTRALIA IS ITS BIRTH
THE FANS THEY COME FROM NEAR AND FAR
TO CHEER THEIR SINGERS ON
AND SING AND DANCE AND PARTY
EVERYDAY AND ALLNIGHT LONG
CHORUS
WE BOAST THE WAX MUSEUM
WE DO THINGS HERE IN STYLE
A MIGHTY TOURIST CENTRE
YOU CAN WALK A COUNTRY MILE
THE TREC AND EQUINE CENTRE
THE WONDEROUS HANDS OF FAME
TSA SONGWRITINGS TRIBUTE
AND THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME.
THE GOLD GUITARS AND CAMERATA
STARMAKERS ALL FIND STARS
THE FANS GO THERE IN THOUSANDS
THEY FILL THE CLUBS AND HOTEL BARS
YOU,LL FIND RECORDING STUDIOS
AND BUSKERS ON THE STREET
THERES MANY GLOWING POETS
ALREADY TO COMPETE
REPEAT CHORUS.
THERE,,S CAMPERS ON THE RIVER BANK
IN TENTS AND CARAVANS
SO THEY CAN PLAY IN TAMWORTH
AND HEAR THEIR FAVOURITE BANDS
ITS EVERY MUSOS PARADISE
EVERYONE CAN HAVE A GO
IN COUNTRY MUSIC CAPITOL
LET EVERYBODY KNOW
Lithgow – Heart of the Country
Verse 1
Forged around factories, mills and pits
A town nestled high in the mountains blue
Where working class people are the fabric
Family, hard yakka and mateship the glue
Verse 2
Home of the factory that armed our forces for war
Birthplace of the industry that built this nation
With abundant supplies of natural resources
This valley has always been such a prime location
Verse 3
To the steelworkers the potters their wives and kids
To the factory workers, miners and railwaymen
We pay tribute to what they got on with and did
And homage to the community that supported them
Chorus
Bent backs, calloused hands, lungs dusted with coal
Young men once - grown prematurely old
To my town these men are the heart and soul
Gateway to the central west, my town Lithgow
I Know A Place
Verse 1:
I know a place with the whitest sand
I know a place where the rainbows land
I know a place where the dolphins play
And the mermaids go on holiday
Chorus:
It’s not too fancy, no it’s just right
You might even call it paradise
So if you’re looking for a place to get away Then come on down to Jervis Bay
Verse 2:
I know a place with the sweetest breeze I know a place with whispering trees I know a place where the eagles fly And the clouds all love to surf the sky
Chorus:
It’s not too fancy, no it’s just right
You might even call it paradise
So if you’re looking for a place to get away Then come on down to Jervis Bay
Verse 3:
I know a place with possums and roos
I know a place where ships like to cruise I know a place with a turquoise sea And everyday is like winning the lottery
Chorus:
It’s not too fancy, no it’s just right
You might even call it paradise
So if you’re looking for a place to get away Then come on down to Jervis Bay Come on down to Jervis Bay Come on down to Jervis Bay
"Life and Love Go 'Round"
chorus..Life & love go 'round
in our back yard
& in our town
Bundy's got such heart& soul
natural beauty,folks like gold.
Funny how the circle goes 'round
recycling's quite the fashion,
Mum did it in the good old days
dressed in sugar bags & hessian.
chorus
Donald Cook & Dr Jenkins
heal our hearts & minds,
save many a wayward stranger
loving,caring,sharing times.
chorus
Pottering 'round the garden beds
the goat,the chooks.the lizards,
the compost,worms & silvereyes
simply are our treasures.
chorus
Song our town Tumbarumba
Our highland town called Tumbarumba sometime referred to as land
Of thunder. Where the skies are blue and the streams run crystal clear.
The rolling hills and valleys and the breathtaking mountain view.
Kosciusko; snow-capped, so far and yet so near
An awesome pleasure just in living here.
I walked from Murray’s crossing to Tumbarumba, years ago.
Even then a big tall lad just sixteen years or so.
I met this chap half up the street, the side of the two hotels.
“He said my names Plum Wildsmith boy, and are you doing well?”
He had an old bush had, pulled low, down over his sunburnt brow,
Looking so much a stockman, a man who just knew how..
A stock-whip curled around his shoulder, the lash end hanging low,
He must have been a drover, it wasn’t there for show.
He started singing then, a tune, no matter how I try,
I can’t remember much of, those many years gone by.
Looking back a few of the words keep ringing in my mind,
Perhaps if I think hard enough, my memory might be kind.
“Spend a week on the Tumbarumba creel, and there you’ll always stay
I know because I came here with my good old horse and dray.”
I wonder did he mention the hills on the eastern side,
Those rugged mountain ridges tipped with snow
The rolling slopes on the western side, where the soft green grasses grow,
Come along to Tumbarumba and you’ll know.
Did he really mention the murmur, as the creek goes gently by,
Or looking up at night time at the stars.
The wildflowers and the bird life…. and breath the mountain air,
Take time to look around you, you’ll find an answer there.
So many things have changed since then and some things much the same
Those English trees with their trunks still standing proud.
And the Autumn leaves still coloured are painting the valley wide.
Our forebears who planted them, keep looking down with pride.
The Tumbarumba garden club as well now are waving their magic wand,
Painting a beautiful landscape there, for all to see..
The wondrous splash of colours in the street gardens and beyond
Where else in this world would you rather be?
So we’ll spend a week on the Tumbarumba creek.
We’ll walk downstream from the pony club, side the mountain stream so cool,
The steel ringed fence of the showground lined with trees,
Take in the site of the caravan park, then past the swimming pool,
Cross over the creek at the half moon bridge, and feel the evening breeze.
We’ll pause awhile at the kids skate park and watch the kids at play,
Note the big flash motel on the right hand side, not so very far away.
The monuments to Hume and Hovel, to our miners and mill hands,
Further down, stonework to honour our farmers, the ones who worked the land.
Follow the path to the water wheel, brought down from an out-town mill.
The library close with the high pitched roof reaching ever upward still.
The bowling club with its own motel… book in there for the night.
Think to myself, well, Plum old fellow, you were absolutely right.
Tumbarumba
When I speak about Tumbarumba.
Where’s that I hear you say?
I answer then, with a touch of country prid.
“It’s a little town placed halfway between
Sydney and Melbourne,
Just shoved a mite there to the side”.
How come you happen to be here then?
Again I hear you say
“Well the lord he kinda dropped me here
And me being kinda slow
Thought what the heck I like it here and
Didn’t feel the need to go.”
Now as I sit up here in my house in town
And sharpen up my pen
Writing about my shearing days, thinking
What might have been.
Had I travelling around this wide world.
Seen the wonders there unfold
Have I missed so much I wonder, as my
Bones are growing old.
You see this is the place where the distant
Hills show up in shades of blue
Further there the peaks of Kosciusko rise
White in winter’s stately view.
And I look across the fertile soils of these
Valleys and those hills.
Surrounded by the pines all spreading wide
And I see the kangaroos lying in a clearing
There, on the sunny side.
The young lambs running, and frolicking
Under their mothers and watchful eye
And I see the clouds are forming in the
Distant blue green sky.
There’s a winding creek and willow trees,
And cattle grazing there.
I walk slowly along with my fishing rod
Neither worry nor a care, as
I rest awhile neath a shady tree and enjoy
Just being there.
Across The Great Divide
I grew up at the end of a long winding road
where the grass trees burned
and the limestone caves
drew me into a mountain world
Life and death were every day around me
a new calf born and the old dog dies
the river swelling to clean her sides
Take me back
across,
where the sun sets high and the stars a fiery blanket
Take me back
across,
Across The Great Divide
I left home and I set up in the city
where the buildings shine
and the pulse of life
drew me into a neon world
The daily grind was every day around me
On the train and the bus ride home
No-one talks, everyone's alone
Take me back
across,
where the sun sets high and the stars a fiery blanket
Take me back
across,
Across The Great Divide
I moved back to the other side of the mountains
where the ocean tide
and the river mouth
drew me into a sandy world
My family is every day around me
the town is small and the pace is slow
there's no place I'd rather go
But - Take me back
across,
where the sun sets high and the stars a fiery blanket
Take me back
across,
Across The Great Divide
Look at the moon
Look at the Heavens
At the Southern stars
Running above The Great Dividing Range.
The show is free, free.
The display is a wonder to see
Such colours, the world's envy.
Its tempers rage from silence
To thunder and lightening,
Loud booming strikes in the skies
That sometimes hit the Eucalypt trees
Australia the rage, from A to Z,
Goes from silence to the booming muster
By the sea
To its incredible blue hue
Its special light
That makes Australia
The amazing home
For all nation's many.
Copyright 2010
The previous is called "Memories Of Tent Hill".
They used to roam those hills,Ev and Al,when they were boys.
They had an old pea rifle and rabbit traps for toys.
Ally was a good shot and Evie he was quick,they used to pair those rabbits and hang them from a stick.
Then they'd pedal off to town,to the freezer they would go,
to sell their little rabbits,then off to the Picture Show.
They'd meet up with their brothers and old 'English Bill",
then after the pictures,they'd walk bsack to Tent Hill.
CHORUS:
And let's hear it once again,for the old Tent Hill Hall,
where every Christmas time,those kids would have a ball.
Santa came through the front door,they'd collect presents from the tree,
those were happy times,such special memories.
--------------------------
And the old school still stands,amongst the hills today,
and as he leans on the fence,he can hear those children play.
There in the distance he thought he heard a yell,
was it their old teacher,Barry Michell?
Mum and Dad with thirteen children,and their little old tin mine.
Those were the good old days,though he knows he can't stop time,
He recalls their trips to Glen Creek,for a picnic and a swim,
Their Mum and Dad would sit and watch them all,run and laugh and then jump in.
CHORUS:
(As above)
Now they've all grown up,some had children,some moved on.
Dad likes to share his stories,and say a prayer for brother Ron.
To him it all still matters,and it is plain to see,
there's nothing more important than friends and family.
CHORUS:
(As Above)
Yes,those were happy times such special memories.
Copyright Evan Jillett/Rachel Jillett.
"KIAMA IS FOR ME"
Chorus:
Kiama Kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but Kiama Kiama is home for me, where beauty is all around Kiama kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but kiama kiama is home for me.
Verse 1:
Where the blowhole is blowing, the waves at our beaches are roaring making great for surfing, and the Jamberoo hills are really rollie, where the mountains meet up high in saddleback mountain, what a view, where else would you rather be but (go to the chorus x 1)
Verse 2:
Our eaters are fabulous we even have a Gloria Jean, our clubs are competitive really community supportive, whether shopping for a bargain or special antic, our shops are grand, whether young or old there's lots for the whole family to do where else would you rather be but (go to the Chorus x 1)
Verse 3:
Our icons have put us on the world map, we are full of beauty from head to toe, from shades of blue to green, it's all here for you to see, so come see for yourself where else would you rather be but (go to the chorus x 2)
The end
josie folino
MOUNT GAMBIER
It was a town when I was born
many years ago
A town built upon some caves
we want the world to know
Tourists they all come
from everywhere to see
This now famous Blue Lake City
so listen now to me.
CHORUS
Blue Lake water. Limestone Caves
Trees growing everywhere
Tourist’s walking round our town
They don’t even have a care
They come from other states
and overseas as well
But when they see this city
they say they have come to dwell.
Now in Mount Gambier is always busy
with many industries
among these is our timber transport
and wineries.
While along the Limestone Coast now
our fishing fleets are strong.
If ever you have to leave here
You won’t be gone for long.
Repeat chorus to the end.
Repeat last lines of chorus.
A SMALL COUNTRY TOWN
Lyrics: Linzi (Lindsay) Owen
Verse 1
In the early morning light
Not a soul in sight
Hear the rooster crowing
There’s a lone dog barking
Birds start singing
A new day is beginning
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Verse 2
Now no longer dark
Walking in the park
It’s another brand new day
See the children play
People passing by
Some stop they say “Hi”
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Chorus
There’s a butcher, there’s a baker
Check out the candlestick maker
The streets they come alive
As more people they arrive
This is the place to be
This is the place for me
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Verse 3
Now the day is done
As I watch the setting sun
No need for me to roam
I’ll just head off to my home
It all feels so right
On another starlit night
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
Chorus
There’s a butcher, there’s a baker
Check out the candlestick maker
The streets they come alive
As more people they arrive
This is the place to be
This is the place for me
In a country town, in a country town
Life in a small country town
I love my life in a small country town
When Mitchell’s Home
Long haul
Mack power
Hit the wall
Watch the hours
Six deck load
Travelling hard
Worn-out road
To Roma yard
Past where the Maranoa’s running
That Mitchell girl she knows he’s coming
Fresh horses, dogs, and country waiting
They’ll take their time with celebrating
Too long alone, so far to roam,
Best welcome known, when Mitchell’s home.
Rough block
Tough crew
Rowdy stock
Horses too
Cattle in
Loaded, gone
They all grin
They’re heading home
To where the Maranoa’s running
That Mitchell girl she knows he’s coming
Fresh horses, dogs, and country waiting
They’ll take their time with celebrating
Too long alone, so far to roam,
Best welcome known, when Mitchell’s home.
Dump trucks
Drag lines
Big bucks
Coal mines
Twelve hour days
Two weeks straight
One week off
And he can’t wait
Because the Maranoa’s running
That Mitchell girl she knows he’s coming
Fresh horses, dogs, and country waiting
They’ll take their time with celebrating
Too long alone, so far to roam,
Best welcome known, when Mitchell’s home,
When Mitchell’s home.
Jock Douglas
Gotta Hurry Up
Verse 1
Riding on the highway
Hitting the zone,
There’s no place to stop
Just keep travellin’ home
Chorus
Pitstop, non-stop,
just gotta hurray up
Karoonda, out in the Mallee
My place to stop
May not find a subway
But the toilet’s got the lot
Verse 2
Rollercoaster ridin’ along
On drovers tracks of old
As rain comes pelting down
Just gotta keep hold
Chorus
Verse 3
Destination zero
No other place I’d rather see
Karoonda straight ahead
That’s the place I need to be
Acland
Verse 1
Rows of empty houses with their stories in the past The distant roar of engines rumbles through 'The Last Post'
Coloured wreaths and home made scones, a gentle warming breeze It's Anzac Day in Acland, little town brought to her knees
The comp'ny spoke of jobs and schools, salvation for the town Bit hard to find the place this year since the street signs have come down Singled out the town folk, sent them packing one-by-one But it's Anzac Day in Acland and the final deal's not done
Chorus:
Promises are broken once a foot is in the door For everything it's taken, it just keeps on wanting more Now we see the scope of what was planned right from the start New Hope has its sights on Acland's township, Acland's heart
Verse 2:
We wonder what the mine will do with the memorial They sent a rep to lay a wreath this year, I guess they'll make the call Diggers sent to die in lands of which they'd never heard The bosses give the orders and the rest must take their word
Chorus 2:
Funny how our fears don't always serve our real needs Water, food and air take a back seat to corporate greed Our future's only built on what we will believe Our imaginations sow our future's only seed
Verse 3:
If seasons pass and Acland sees another Anzac Day To the morning service on the Downs I'll make my way 'Cuz it's good to know a fighter and a towel that's not been thrown in yet So spend Anzac Day in Acland, little town 'Lest we forget'.
Just 20kms from the coast
is the place we call home
its not very big
though many tracks to roam
Chorus
Surrounded by mountains and farms all around is a town called Wyndham no better place to be found the locals are all friendly and from all walks of life from city people to farmers hippies and the like
Kinder to yr6 less than 20 kids at school we have a park and an oval but we have no swimming pool Chorus
the local shop is our post office
its called the Wyndham store
Robbie Burns is our pub
the best drinking hole thats for sure
Chorus
Your Town, Your Song – Mullumbimby
If ever you've lived in Mullum there's something about her that gets under your skin and you will always be a Mullumite!
Here's my song about my beloved little town!
Mullumbimby
Back in the thirties a thought flashed through his eyes
Dear Ol' Uncle Tom, cooked up his yummy pies.
Out on the Highway, where the truckies stopped to eat,
Now it's an outpost, but still the place they meet.
Chorus:
Mullumbimby - she's the town of the small round hill
Rising Mount Chinney - Australia's first light spill.
If you've ever loved her and now that you're apart
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Seventies was her heyday, for hippies in this town
Peace-loving children, not clothed with a shirt or gown.
Smokin' "Mullum Madness", while the Police did some raids
T'was funny when they burnt it - they all looked in a daze.
Chorus:
Mullumbimby - she's the town of the small round hill
Rising Mount Chinney - Australia's first light spill.
If you've ever loved her and now that you're apart
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Her locals are people who've lived here all their lives,
It's the tree-changing faces, now grace her new disguise.
With long days of summer, and in the swelt'ring heat
The Popular or The Empire are the cafés where we greet!
Chorus:
Mullumbimby - she's the town of the small round hill
Rising Mount Chinney - Australia's first light spill.
If you've ever loved her and now that you're apart
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart.
Her heartbeat still lives on, in the centre of your heart!
INJUNE chorus Injune its a town near the valley Injune free from worries and strife Injune where the cattle are grazing Injune its a cowboys life. Verse 1 Time near the valley is gentle Its a time where people reflect Of days from long ago ringers To the days of now we respect. Verse 2 Riding proud in the saddle These men of the Carnarvons we speak Many stories of long ago stockman We marvel at the strength of their feats. Verse 3 The struggles of yesterdays hardships The teaching of young people we seek Trying to instill the proud knowledge We hope, as past ringers will repeat. Verse 4 So join with us in our conquest To keep our proud tradition alive The men and women of Injune Look up with your head held high. Chorus x 2
MY OLD HOME TOWN IS A MEMORY
I’d just sped through my old home town
My kids asked, “What’s that place”
So I turned around and took them back
It was hard for me to face.
My old home town is dyin’
Most business has closed down,
The country towns are loosin’ out
Most folks there wear a frown.
Sometimes the place you’re destined
Isn’t where you want to be,
And often the best of what you had
Lives just in memory.
(CHORUS)
My old home town is a memory
With thoughts of good times spent,
Like the old bush hall where for dancin’
On Fridays nights we went.
And the river once that wound its way
Through the gorges and the plains,
Where we used to fish for yellow belly
But never will again.
‘Cause they built a dam a way up stream
For the common good they said,
Now my old home town is a memory
It’s heart and soul is dead.
You see down by that dry creek bed
Where with Bruce my dog I’d run,
I’d go for a swim, swing from that tree,
We had a lot of fun.
With some smelly meat on a piece of string
Big yabbies we’d pull in
Then light a fire and boil them up
In an empty old milk tin.
We’d hunt for rabbits, we’d ride our horses,
Like the wind we felt so free,
I really loved how it was back then
An enduring memory.
(CHORUS)
My old home town is a memory
With thoughts of good times spent,
Like the old bush hall where for dancin’
On Fridays nights we went.
And the river once that wound its way
Through the gorges and the plains,
Where we used to fish for yellow belly
But never will again.
Cause they built a dam a way up stream
For the common good they said,
Now my old home town is a memory
It’s heart and soul is dead.
The meat works closed when the river died
It was the town’s lifeblood,
The banks then went, a sad event,
It soon became a flood.
People moved away in droves
Small business loss was great,
The writing was upon the wall
We had to face our fate.
It’s hard to fight what you can’t control
Get on top of adversity,
I often think how it used to be
How sad that memory.
(CHORUS)
My old home town is a memory
With thoughts of good times spent,
Like the old bush hall where for dancin’
On Fridays nights we went.
And the river once that wound its way
Through the gorges and the plains,
Where we used to fish for yellow belly
But never will again.
Cause they built a dam a way up stream
For the common good they said,
Now my old home town is a memory
It’s heart and soul is dead.
Still trying to say goodbye
By Mick Fleming
Verse 1
I sit up on his front step
And look out at the view
Recollecting those memories
Of the man that once we knew
He settled in Coolah town
Beyond the black stump with his wife
And in this small proud country town
You see, he spent his life
A woman I never met before
Was at the funeral for Ambo Ray
She held my hand for hope and said
Your Dad saved my life one day
They put a plaque on the station wall
A nice headstone on his grave
But all he ever cared about
Were the lives and pain he saved
Chorus
I went to your farewell
And I felt everyone’s cry
I still go to sleep, your picture beside my bed
Still trying to say goodbye
Just one sheet of paper
On the kitchen table laid
To define her grief and list her love
The difference that it made
Verse 2
My Daughter cried and poured one night
Her loss it wouldn’t stop
I said to her, ”Just write a note”
To the one she lost called Pop
Next morning I woke up
On the kitchen table laid
Her thoughts and heart were written down
On just one single page
She said,
Pop, I wanted to say Hi
I would have written sooner
But I was busy growing up
You’re the bravest person I remember
I just remember you as my grandfather
I took it for granted you were here to stay
You were always there and I didn’t get a chance to thank you
Before you went away
You were always rattling change in your pocket
Whenever you were around
It was a sign of your rich and generous heart
Whenever I heard the sound
Chorus
I went to your farewell
And I felt everyone’s cry
I still go to sleep, your picture beside my bed
Still trying to say goodbye
Just one sheet of paper
On the kitchen table laid
To define her grief and list her love
The difference that it made
Verse 3
The hardest thing for Ray to lose
Was never monetary strife
The one thing that gave him greatest pain
Was losing someone else’s life
His heart so big it gave out
As he began to fall
Before he even touched the ground
You knew he gave his all
So often near the Black Stump
You can hear the people say
“Remember Ambo Ray,
He saved my life one day”
(Mick) Of all the people that he touched
Oh, I’m the lucky one
You know, I used to call him Dad
And he proudly called me, Son
Chorus
I went to your farewell
And I felt everyone’s cry
I still go to sleep, your picture beside my bed
Still trying to say goodbye………
NORTHCLIFFE
Through Depression and War and changes of law, wet winters and sweltering sun
We’re proud of our town, our strength is renowned, we survived by working as one.
Northcliffe’s unique, from beginnings so bleak no-one thought we would survive
But we rode out the rough, Northcliffians are tough and now we’re enjoying the ride.
Hear the singing, hear the call, come together one and all
Northcliffe is the town for you to see
Hear the ringing of the laughter, you’ll remember ever after
Northcliffe is the place for you to be.
Come see for yourself, and the good of your health, there’s fishing, marron and beer
Timber, truffles, dairy, walk trails and the Karri Cup race every year.
Up hills, through bush, one hundred k’s long, leg muscles screaming with pain
As hundreds of riders pedal like hell, competing for fortune and fame.
Group Settlers were here in the beginning, echoes of their axe still ring clear
Though Northcliffe has grown, their spirits still roam as they watch over the town they held dear.
In the South West of Western Australia, where Karri trees tower so tall
The Southern Ocean and Forest meet at Northcliffe,
the best place to live in of all.
VERSE 1
From city roots, she was born and bred
Amid the bright lights and the noise
Feeling alone
Strangers all around
Needs to find a place to call her own
VERSE 2
She found her love, and a farming life
With crisp spring mornings, summer rain
Nature’s bounty
Sometimes cruel
She’s found a place to call her own
CHORUS
Corowa saw a nation born
She watches on with pride
A humble town on the mighty Murray
Our country is her child
My town and me we’re just the same
We watch our children grow
Independent, strong and free
VERSE 3
Her children gone their different ways
She looks back on what her life did bring
A loving family
Her pride and joy
In Corowa-town , she’ll always be at home
CHORUS (and repeat)
The Burdekin
The area I live in, is called the Burdekin.
It’s the place where great things happen.
It has a population of 20,000 people,
If you search it up on the map we are just a tiny dot,
Though really we’re one great spot.
We’re 100 kilometres south of Townsville.
And that’s the best place there could ever be,
We are a sugar cane growing industry,
My town has it’s own sugar cane mill,
Every night I see cane fires burn,
And it snow black ash, which is called cane trash,
In the mornings I hear trains, carrying the cane, to the mill,
So it can be turned into sugar.
Everything is a sight to see,
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
(CHORUS) The town I live in, is called the Burdekin,
And it’s the place where great things happen.
It is the nicest town you’ll see, and the friendliest place you’ve ever been.
Also the most active, fit and sporty spot,
On the map we’re just a dot.
We’re all like one big family.
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
In 2007 we won the tidy town award,
In the Burdekin you never get bored,
We have our water and harvest festival,
Always enjoyed by all,
We have our famous Burdekin Bridge,
Which was opened in 1957,
It took ten years to construct,
It recently celebrated it’s fifty-third birthday,
It is special in every way,
The bridge also has a catwalk,
So we can have a closer look,
It’s also know as the Silver Link,
It lets us go across the river where we get our water from to drink,
It cost six million dollars to build,
The bridge connects Ayr to Home Hill,
Also the north and far north of Queensland,
We have beautiful wildlife all over the land,
And lovely beaches with shells and sand,
Out in the country is pretty,
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
(CHORUS)
The members of our community are very clever,
We always work together,
So we can have sport,
Cause we are the athletic sort,
We have our tennis, cricket, swimming and golf club,
Which everyone does love,
Also the netball, soccer and the sprints team,
Everyone lives their dreams,
And for our education,
Our school is really cool,
We have the largest oval in Queensland,
And three fabulous playgrounds,
We also have great learning facilities,
And thousands of books in our libraries,
And all our different technologies,
Like cameras, computers, music and TVs,
There are extremely smart students and good teachers,
School teaches me to works a team and reach my dream,
And also helps me achieve my goals,
And the best thing about it is, it’s a bully- free zone,
In our town you’re never alone,
We are all friends,
The kindness never ends,
We are all one big family,
And it’s, it’s all home to me.
The Burdekin
From the capital so it is about the district of Australia
I have gazed on far horizons o’er the dusty dancing plain,
I have seen the wheatstalks standing straight and tall
I have heard Galahs in thousands screeching out their wild refrain
And their strident song of freedom echoes forth to one and all
I have watched the storm clouds sailing like huge galleons overhead
And seen their drops bring life to all the land
I know not to love this country is to mean the soul is dead
For the miracles of God are all at hand
I have watched the southern cross unfurl as a brilliant scroll above
I know any worldly place that I may see
I can speak with pride and boasting of the country that I love
For I know that this Australia is for me
I have helped to move the cattle through the mountains snowy peaks
I have heard the stockwhips echoes ringing free
And have watched the cattle drinking at the swiftly flowing creeks
For this land gives of its’ gifts abundantly
I have heard excited barking as sheepdogs bring back the strays
I have seen the tide of wool sweep o’er the hills
I have worked the shearing muster on these golden peaceful days
As the shearers clip the harvest for the mills
I have watched a glorious sunset paint the deep blue sky above
I know any worldly place that I may be
I can speak with pride and boasting of the country that I love
For I know that this Australia is for me
I have felt the lift of oceans surge and watched the sea spume blown
As we crossed the harbour bar at break of day
I have smelt the salty breezes as we bring the trawlers home
And the glorious lights of heaven show our way
I have seen the giant caverns that men cut to mine the ore
And have heard the huge machines all creak and groan
Whilst the treasure that they bring forth puts this country to the fore
As the seeds of wealth and happiness are sown
I pray as tomorrows sunrise does dispel the dark above
And spreads light for all Australians living free
And makes the symbol of our country a glistening snow white dove
Yes, I know that this Australia is for me
MY TOWN
It is now a proven fact,
That in the days of yore,
The grassy plains of Winton
Once housed the dinosaur.
Chorus
So if you really want to know
Some history of the west,
You need not go past “Winton”
For it’s here you’ll get the best.
Now it was here in later years
In the old North Gregory
That Banjo crooned “Matilda”
“Will you come and waltz with me”
Chorus
So if you really want to know
Some history of the west,
You need not go past “Winton”
For it’s here you’ll get the best.
And of course this venue
Has another claim to fame,
For it was here that “Qantas”
Was to get it’s name.
Chorus
So if you really want to know
Some history of the west,
You need not go past Winton
For it’s here you’ll get the best.
vs 1
Small and friendly,stop and say hello
Chat to shopowners that you know
They give you pumpkin seeds they saved
Butchers cut your meat just the right way
The grocer asks how the kids are
And really want to know
They tell you who was married or born
and how about yesterday's huge storm
ch
On the banks where the Manning River ran
Once busy with factories, ships and men
Now its come back to life again
Children in the park run laughing
Tinonee, our town,keeps on lasting
vs2
Dirt roads, pot holes, windy bitchumen
Too narrow for that truck coming ahead
That paddock use to have cows
Remember that one use to grow peas
Now weeds and bracken shoot up with trees
Falling down fences die too
Driving over the old wooden bridge
That cloud of dust follows you
ch
On the banks where the Manning River ran
Once busy with factories, ships and men
Now its come back to life again
Children in the school run laughing
Tinonee,our town, keeps on lasting
vs3
But this town, our small country town
Its still here, its still the same
I drive past the shops and sports grounds
and see the young ones run around
They aren't my kids, but they are me
They are the heart of this small town
They put life into this small town...
Tinonee
ch
On the banks where the Manning River ran
Once busy with factories, ships and men
Now its come back to life again
Children on the fields run laughing
Tinonee , our town, keeps on lasting
Your Town Your Song: 'St. George Boys'
1. This is a cotton’ chippin’ melon pickin’ kinda town
Right out here past the Western Downs
We go huntin’ and a piggin’ all year round
When Friday night comes we go to town
We go chasin’ the girls down by the riverside
Skiin’ and a fishin’ then in the ute for a ride
Circle work and throwin’ dye at the B and S
From the Gully to Gundi we never rest
CHORUS: So give it up for the St. George boys
Lovin their girls and their earthmoving toys
Give it up for the boys from the land
With sheep to shear and cattle to brand
2. Drivin’ to town all the way up the Moonie
A fella’s gotta be just a little bit loonie
Dodgin’ the roos and the emus too
We make it to town just to down a few
Sunday comes and we’re off to the football
Floggin’ the Red Bulls, Meggsie’s Call
Back to work and we’re changing pumps
Planting crops and burning out stumps
CHORUS: So give it up for the St. George boys
Lovin their girls and their earthmoving toys
Give it up for the boys from the land
Bringin’ some pride to the Longhorn brand
3. We buck em out big at the Rodeo
And at the Campdraft, the Polocrosse we put on a show
We’re livin’ our life and we’re livin’ to the full
And around the bar we’re breakin’ the rules
Crackin’ laps round town on a Saturday night
With my girl so bright in the Full Moon light
She’s lookin’ at me like I gotta impress her
So I look down and I give it to my ‘Cruiser
CHORUS: So give it up for the St. George boys
Lovin their girls and their earthmoving toys
Give it up for the boys from the land
We’re doin’ it tough, but we’re doin’ just grand
Your Town Your Song: 'Historic Warwick'
1. Dawn breaks over the Condamine River,
I tumble out of bed and give a little shiver,
A chilly start to a glorious day,
This is living life the Warwick way.
As Silos tower over golden wheatfields,
Cowboys run round rugby league fields,
Here we are at another day …
And up at St. Mary’s they begin to pray.
CHORUS: This is my town, this is my story,
This is the place so full of history,
This is where Queensland was born,
The heart and the soul of the Darling Downs.
2. Sandstone structures guard the main street,
Roses blooming, looking so sweet,
Cattle trucks boom down on the saleyard,
And crowds gather round at the Pig and Calf.
History tells us of the man, Jackie Howe,
Of farms and families and the dairy cow,
Warwick is a town with a history,
Of life, of love and mystery.
CHORUS: This is my town, this is my story,
This is the place so full of history,
This is the best of Queensland towns,
The heart and the soul of the Darling Downs.
3. There’ll be dust and flies at the Rodeo,
Australia’s Most Famous Buckjump Show,
The biggest and the best in all the land,
And old riders meet up in the grandstand.
Shannons Chips and a Hudson’s Pie,
This is home you’ll hear me cry,
The sights and the sounds of the Southern Downs,
Of Glengallan, Rosenthal and Allora town.
CHORUS: This is my town, this is my story,
This is the place so full of history,
This is the town of great renown,
The heart and the soul of the Darling Downs ...
… The jewel in the crown of the Darling Downs.
"Kingston Beach"
VERSE 1
Have you seen the shoreline la-ate-ly
thought I didn't have the time
so now I've packed and moved on eh-else-where I only visit in my mind.
CHORUS
There are times I wish I could reach
back through time to Kingston Beach
I'd like to see that place again
(those) calming waters kept me saaaa-aaaaaane
Friday night when cheeky youths
would congregate, drink with their crew
blare their music from souped up Utes
beachside party time agaaaa-aaaain
VERSE 2
Sunday mornings slip slowly by
walk along, absorb the quiet
the beach is peaceful in the winter
water ripples catch the light.
VERSE 3
In the water, boats are bobbing
clothed with brightly coloured sails
I wonder if there is a race on
as I lean against the rail.
CHORUS...
"Brisbane"
Hello sunshine, hello city
where the river life is pretty
Hello Brisbane... will you welcome me?
I'm a new arrival
seeking sweet reprieval
from the cold and wet
from my last home and hence upheaval
I like this warmer sunshine
days spent outside are divine
I wish more parks like these
were something that I could call mine
Hello sunshine, hello city
walking where bike lines are pretty
Hello Brisbane... what have you got for me?
This place is bold and busy
your buildings make me dizzy
so many skyscrapers and
so much opportunity
travel by train and ferry
the houseboats seem so merry
next time I travel on
I won't take more than I can carry
Hello sunshine, hello city
where the night lights are so pretty
Hello Brisbane... can you adopt me?
I need a new home.
The Magic of Maleny
By David Crewe
There’s something in the air up here that seems to make you smile,
Not like the crowded city folk where smilin’s out of style.
So when you’re walking down the road strangers still hello you,
And the people in the shops and stores are pleased to get to know you.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea,
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be.
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam,
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home.
Up here you’ll find the peacefulness that any man would seek,
Among the ancient forests and along the Obi creek.
When the sky comes dropping down the world can disappear,
Within the soft embrace of clouds you’ll know that heaven is near
I drink with men whose father’s father’s came here long ago,
To build a life that’s different with no pretentiousness or show.
Why I’m here I’m not so sure I know the reason why,
But there’s something about Maleny – can’t avoid it if you try.
Within this magic hinterland, the places I’ve explored,
I’ve come to think I’m living in the bosom of the Lord.
I’ve travelled far and travelled wide, crossed every land and sea
But there’s one place in this great big world that I would rather be
No matter where I wander, no matter where I roam
The green hills of Maleny are calling me come home
SOMEPLACE ELSE
Down to me' last dollar
I went to claim an allowance
An address they said I'd need.
So I said I'm livin' in.. 186 HR Holden,
Main Road an' I need a feed.
I live at Someplace Else
186 HR Holden
Main Road, Anywhere.
I'm livin someplace else
Could be down by a river
For me it's not a major care.
I heard the Ranga an' Mr Abbot
On the radio
They were fightn' tooth an' nail.
So I thought I better register to have a legal vote
But an address they needed without fail. So I told 'em
I live at Someplace Else
186 HR Holden
Main Road, Anywhere.
I'm livin someplace else
Could be down by a river
For me it's not a major care.
Now I'm over people askin'
Just exactly where I'm at.
I've decided to just chill and go.
If contact is required they'll find me on the web
At the double yoos dot someplace else. So..
I live at Someplace Else
186 HR Holden
Main Road, Anywhere.
I'm livin someplace else
Could be down by a river
For me it's not a major care.
Tallarook
In Tallarook "where things are crook", or so the saying goes
We've got the Dabyminga creek which very rarely flows.
Rook's name comes from the Wattle bird, a very common sight
And on his way to Melbourne, Ned Kelly stayed for just a night.
The red gums are so very tall, we've ranges that turn umber,
When time it is for sun to set, and folks prepare to slumber.
Two churches, general store and pub, mechanics hall provide.
A grass roots life, a place to meet, for all who here reside.
There's hills to climb and creeks to fish, wombats and roos abound,
And in the nooks if you have luck, there's gold flakes to be found.
The skies appear splashed with stars, the night air is so clear
You feel that you can reach and touch the Southern Cross so near.
The town it hasn't changed a lot since first I came to stay,
It's like a place that time forgot, folks like it just that way.
So, when you've tired of city life, you can come and take a look,
At this slower, quiet, tranquil place, it's a town called Tallarook.
Karratha
My earliest inhabitants
braved the harsh elements
in makeshift homes of flimsy tents
while being watched over by ancient spirits in the hills.
Tho' they had little water
they stayed to tame the Pilbara,
giving me my name, Karratha,
and I'm here still.
Chorus.
I am Karratha,
nestled in the north of Western Australia,
I'm no longer JUST a mining town.
I am the gateway to the Pilbara,
where resources mingle with red dust and ochre
and no one can keep my spirit down.
I was born in the sixties
and have weathered some adversity;
sad memories from my twenties
bring an occasional tear.
Yet I tenaciously hung on,
like the bouganvillea I blossomed
now my dress is a colourful explosion
that I proudly wear.
I am now home to many companies,
forging futures for families
from Australia and from overseas
who come to the Pilbara for work.
Just as the errant willie-willies
carry their gathered debris,
so I carry hopes but it doesn't weary me
for I stand firm in this orange-red dirt.
Streaky
bay As you drive into town,there's views all the way,
A welcoming place, beautiful Streaky Bay.
The whiting abound, The squid a delight!
Watch them pull them in on our jetty at night.
There's waves here to surf, if you've got no fear,
But watch out for pointers,there's plenty round here!
There's pristine beaches and a seal colony down the track,
Once you've been to Streaky,you'll want to come back.
Friendly people,smiling faces,a pub to rival the best,
Streaky Bay, the place to stay,my favourite in the west.
I love this town I live in,that's all I've got to say;
The wonderful, the peaceful,the lovely Streaky Bay.
chorus: Streaky Bay! Streaky Bay!
A coastal town in SA
Eat some oysters, have a play!
Everyone loves Streaky Bay.
CARILLA (Now Known as Pickering Brook)
Walking down the old dirt road,
Memories carved in from long ago
When the pioneers claimed this land for there own
Now the memories like the wind are blown
Plenty of history lies all around this town
Amongst the trees, the streams, secrets hidden in the ground.
If you only listen you will hear the sounds.
And when the night time falls and the sun is gone,
You can feel your never really alone,
As the darkness creeps and day time's seized.
Feel the presence of old families.
*Chorus*
Take a minute stop and look,
Carilla now named Pickering Brook
Years pass by and memories whither,
But the history here will live forever
Old saw mills, you can imagine the sounds,
Wood choppers chopping all around,
But not with a chainsaw like the ones today
Hand sawing trees would take all day,
Can you picture the old steam train?
Puffing up that hill again,
Destinations along the way,
to arrive in Carilla that same day.
*Chorus*
Take a minute stop and look,
Carilla now named Pickering Brook
Years pass by and memories whither,
But the history here will live forever
Barton's Mill, have you ever heard it?
Where the prisoners were kept, men who murdered.
The stories that lie beneath those woods,
Are best left hidden in the trees for good.
So if your passing by this simple little town,
Take your trip slowly and have a good look around,
And remember history lies in the earth, in the ground,
And is not always so easily found.
Eumundi Markets
G. P. Torrens
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
The buskers sing and dance and mime
as they slither through the streets.
And the locals sell their fruits straight from the vine
or as tasty little treats.
There are home made vests, leather belts
and colourfully, patched britches.
but the favourites have to be the cackling, clapping witches.
You will have a great time if you wander up this way
But make sure you come on a Saturday
Cause during the week, the stalls all go to ground
And it seems like there's not a single soul to be found.
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
So make up a list of the things you want to buy
and take the whole family cause if you don't, they'll cry.
Stop and see the lovely sights as you wend along the way
Just make sure you get there before Saturday
You'll never get a park if you tarry or delay
And once you arrive, you'll really want to stay.
The locals are a hoot, each and every one
and visiting Eumundi is guaranteed to be fun.
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
People come here jaded after a full and busy week
But a smile appears upon their face when they find the things they seek
The scents of home made jams, pickles, cakes and soap
Seems to soothe them all and fill them with new hope.
The laughter and the sharing of the people in the town
Make them feel a kinship and breaks all barriers down.
When finally, it's time to leave old Eumundi town,
It seems like everyone has forgotten how to frown.
If you travel to the Sunshine Coast to visit Noosa's beaches,
you must take a trip - around its outer reaches
Cas there's a little town up there, that really is a peach.
It brings in all the tourists and it doesn't even have a beach.
If you want to have more fun than catching barramundi
Then come on up and visit the markets at Eumundi.
There are streets of stalls, all designed to whet your whistle
and if you want to be amused it's guaranteed that this will.
Elusive Lady Melbourne
By Brigette
Confused by your changing heart
Energised in your heated feats
You are a rubix cube
Harsh wind. Downpour. Sunshine.
Wrapped up in your daily charm
Complex in your workings
You are ontogenous.
Underground. Tram town. Majestic.
Laneways embodied with your flavours
Theatres pregnant with flair
You keep me rocking.
Hardware. Her Majesty. Forum.
Chorus:
You glitter come sunrise
You are serene in your sunset
You hold our bliss
(Two songs)
"THE BOMBALA WAY"
I may not be a Banjo or a Henry
But I'm Aussie just the same
And if you give me a chance
I'll tell you about my town from where I came
It's a little place called Bombala on Monaro ground
where platypus swim and kangaroos bound
sheep and cattle graze just to pass the day
winter's cold and we don't get a lot of rain.
CHORUS
She's country through and through
lifes you up when you're feeling blue
with smiling faces and a g'day
that's just the Bombala way.
Once to be the capital city but that all changed
when snow and water shortage changed the mind of the government of the day
now she's just a sleepy country town
with smiling faces all around.
Repeat Chorus
There's not a lot you'd want to change
where everyone knows everyone by first name
but ain't that the country way
where you help one another when times get tough
you work as one when disaster strikes
that's the Bombala way of life.
Repeat Chorus
SONG 2
"I'M FREE LIVING IN THE COUNTRY"
Gumtrees line the roadway leading to my town
cattle and sheep graze
magpies yodel to wake the day
I'm free living in the country
You can drive an hour to the mountains or the sea
but Bombala's the place for me
she's cold in winter but the warmth of smiling
faces and a g'day to get me through.
CHORUS
I'm free living in the country
Yeah I'm free living in the country
got platypus swimming, magpies yodelling
sheep and cattle grazing
kookaburras laughin
yeah I'm free, living in the country
So why don't you come and see
you'll be welcomed to my town
it's a place to see, the only place to be
Bombala, she's dinky di, true blue
Aussie through and through.
HIGH COUNTRY DREAMS
Verse 1
As the noble boughs are swaying on the gum trees by the door
and the winter winds are echosed 'cross the hills.
I sit and write, reflecting on the journey that has been.
With the warmth of new found friendships my heart fills...
T'was a calling to the Mountains, to a different way of life
and a chance to start our city life anew.
Down by the Snowy River with the distant snow-capped ranges
the sweet splendor of the "High Country" just grew...
But the beauty of the mountains doesn't just lie in the landscape
or the majestic vision of a distant view.
It's a true and lasting beauty that the eye can not behold
and a gift that just can not be bought, it's true...
Verse 2
It's the beauty of the people; it's the passion in their souls.
It's the stanch and stoic humble mountain way.
It's the battling through the hard times, the rejoicing in the good
and the helping of a mate who's gone astray...
It's supporting your community; pitch in when times are tough,
or volunteer to help a local cause.
It's the group participation, raising funds for someone needy
and the comfort of the "always open doors"...
It's "My Mate Jack" who's eighty-nine and shares his precious yarns
as he says "Come, sit, I'll tell you some more lies!"
His face lights up, his chest swells, as he talks about the past
and his memories of the war bring misty eyes...
Verse 3
It's my dear friend Jackie Jackson - she's a real life inspiration,
She is always there to lend a helping hand.
She's got five kids of her own, but you never hear her groan,
and her smile and laughter leave a lasting brand...
Now we're raising our two children on our farm here in the country,
such a contrast from the streets where I grew up.
The city life of Redfern seems a million miles away
where I played and strayed when I was just a pup...
But for those who said "Sheer Madness!" when we said "we're going bush"
you can see it's not as crazy as it seems.
Our lives have been transformed, inspired, enriched beyond belief
as we now live out our true "High Country Dreams"...
CHORUS
It's the 'characters', the 'larrikins', the wry bush sense of humour,
that always seems to strike a special chord.
History, heritage and pride, the legend never died.
It's why the Banjos 'Man' is so adored...
SPRINGSURE-CENTRAL QUEENSLAND
This is my home town - this is my song,
Telling the story of where I belong.
Sure springs of water made Springsure a town,
When wagoneers rested, and laid their loads down.
CHORUS
Little old town, holding my heart,
Time walk and distance won't tear it apart.
Under the mountains - lulled by the spring -
Always the voice of my home town will sing.
Hear from the Dreamtime, corroboree feet
Stamping at dusk in a primitive beat.
Rail lines lie rusting - road trains roll on -
Songs of the Dreamtime have vanished and gone.
CHORUS
Little old town, holding my heart.
Time walk and distance, won't tear it apart,
Under the mountains - lulled by the spring -
Always the voice of my home town will sing.
Mountains of mem'ry rise to the sky,
Hearing the sound of the spring's lullaby.
When I am wearied, my soul will attest
That here in the valley is where I will rest.
CHORUS
Little old town, holding my heart.
Time walk and distance, won't tear it apart,
Under the mountains - lulled by the spring -
Always the voice of my home town will sing.
Spring time in Bellingen town
(waltzy)
river risin', no surprisin', coz the rains coming down,
its spring time in Bellingen town
crack of thunder, bridge is under, now the main roads shut down,
its spring time in Bellingen town
all the fella's, unberellas, leanin' outside the pub,
the old gumboots left by the door
look of worry, step of hurry, coz the foods running out,
inside the grocery store
(CHORUS)
ooooh i hear the rain (i hear the rain)
slippin and slidin, there ain't no denying
the wettest spot in New South Wales
river risin, no surprisin, coz the rains coming down,
its spring time in Bellingen town
(Instrumental verse)
(CHORUS)
S.e.s men, gotta flood plan,now their watchin the rise, ready to take on the call,
stock shifted, pumps lifted, to be sure to be sure
coz we know the river takes all
ooooh i hear the rain (i hear the rain)
slippin and slidin, their ain't no denying, the wettest spot in New South Wales
river risin no surprising,
coz the rains comin down
its spring time in Bellingen town
its spring time in Bellingen town
its spring time in Bellingen town
Atitjere - Harts Range Country
By Benjamin Pope
If you are travelling on the Plenty Highway
Heading towards Boulia Way
Here you'll see Atitjere Homelands
At a place they call Harts Range
CHORUS
Harts Range was Mica mining country
Ever since electric power came our way
And all the Italian miners
Came and carted all the Mica away
CHORUS
Today they are digging up gemstones
From the mullock heaps from old Mica mines
Tourists are finding good gemstones
In those mullock heaps that the old miners left ehind
CHORUS
When you're travelling on the Plenty Highway
Call in and say g'day
And you'll see the Atitjere Hills change their colours
In the different times of the day
Rusty's Byron Song
G to C 3 times… then Am, Am7, D, D?
G C
When I wake up in the morning
G C
Big south swell rollin…. by
G C
Me and the boys and girls why we get so high
Am Am7 D D?
Slipping and a sliding, peeping and a hiding
Chorus
Green, green grows the grass on the hills
Overlooking my old Bay
And there's magic in the sweet cow pies
That will open every one of your loving eyes
Dolphins swim in the turquoise sea
Gannets diving from the skies
We're all so lucky just to be here today
As this crazy old world keeps going by
Chorus
Blue, blue and the white puffy clouds
You know our dreams come true
We can all come along and sing on this song
And these will be your dreams too
Song written by Rusty Miller about Byron Bay and the 1970's surfing lifestyle
keep it comin cousin.
Yandina Street Fair
Gayle P.Torrens
In the village, 'neath the mount, in every single nook,
The people of Yandina have such a happy look
They smile and talk. They dance, they share
because nothing can compare
To the one and the only Yandina Street Fair.
Jugglers, singers and flexible acrobats
Clowns, mad doctors even strange, black cats
Start to wash their costumes and hang them out to dry
Because they know their own Yandina Fair is nigh.
The schools begin to practise their musicality
And the shops prepare to extend their famous hospitality.
Prizes are collected and goods are neatly stored
Everything is done to ensure that no-one will be bored.
In the village, 'neath the mount, in every single nook,
The people of Yandina have such a happy look
They smile and talk. They dance, they share
Because nothing can compare
To the one and the only - Yandina Street Fair.
The townsfolk donate gladly to show how much they care
Poppy carefully purples her lovely, curly hair
Performers practise madly to enhance their showbiz flair
All are getting ready for the fabulous Yandina Fair.
So next year, on your calendar, be sure to mark the date
You will be upset if you find that you're too late
You’ll know by the excitement floating through the air
That the time has come again for the Yandina Street Fair.
In the village, 'neath the mount, in every single nook,
The people of Yandina have such a happy look
They smile and talk. They dance, they share
because nothing can compare
To the one and the only Yandina Street Fair.
THE LEVELS – Golspie, NSW
Tonight the wind in the mountains
Are singing a song to me
Of what it is that makes this world
A peaceful place for you and me
And as I ride through the hills of Abercrombie land
I think of all the things that this world has done for me
Done for me
The Levels life leaves behind
All the things I didn’t want to find
Loves I’ve lost bad victories won
All go down with the setting sun
If only life could stay this way
Until the very end
I’d give this world all I have and ride to heaven then
To see it again
The rising sun on a distant hill
Stars the day for the animal
The new born lamb, the flying bird
Spread their wings on a sunlit earth
The frost that melts, the winds that cease
Show the signs on a day’s release
I find my horse to ride again
These mountains seem to never end
Thanks nature then
Well done cousin great album lolxxxx
Ninderry and Coolum
G.P. Torrens
Ninderry was a warrior who stood proud and tall
But his love for Maroochy was to be his downfall.
It caused a terrible rift with his mighty brother, Coolum
Now both will stand forever motionless and numb.
And Maroochy's tears softly flow through the night
Always hoping that the brothers will one day re-unite.
But they stand there sightless, neither one will bend
and so their bitter feud will never come to an end.
The brothers will always dominate, standing dark against the sky
As Maroochy whispers on the breeze, her eternally, sad goodbye
The bushes and the trees bow down with respect
while the sunflowers turn away, burdened with regret.
And Maroochy's tears softly flow through the night
Always hoping that the brothers will one day re-unite.
But they stand there sightless, neither one will bend
and so their bitter feud will never come to an end.
Sometimes Ninderry lights up with a sunny smile
As he once again succumbs to Maroochy's feminine guile
But then he sees Coolum slowly harken
and immediately his face begins again to darken.
And Maroochy's tears softly flow through the night
Always hoping that the brothers will one day re-unite.
But they stand there sightless, neither one will bend
and so their bitter feud will never come to an end.
I west to Kasey Chambers at abc hq with my husband and we both thought it was well worth the drive in from Wakeley in sydney South West. We think she is great a real down to earth person we even got a photo with her. The only thing was it was too short we would have loved to hear more from the album.
Great performance. Great album. great artist. I hope there are some more videos from the "show".
well done great album ... nice work from kevin bennett as usual. spot on stuff by bill and shane .. above and beyond boys
"WARIALDA TOWN" Lyrics by Denis Merchant.
This song is about a little town situated on the Gwydir Highway, between Inverell and Moree in northern NSW.
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Warialda means a town where wild bush honey can be found
On the Gwydir between Inverell and moree towns
is our Warialda town
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Come meet the good folk down in Stephen Street
Say G'day folk in Hope Street
Go take a drive out to Cranky Rock
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Come to ur happy and friendly town
Take a visit to Carinda House
Say G'day to the Ladies and Gents
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Have a friendly drink at the Royal or Commercial our two pubs in town
Come listen to our wild birds sing
Come to this peaceful place, you can hear yourself think
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
Come in winter to see the mighty Wombats play football
Come join our many events throughout the year
It's a great place for kids, and kids at heart
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town
(Verse)
So don't forget the place where wild honey is found
Please come and see us soon
(Chorus)
In Warialda, Warialda town.
Sarina! Sarina! Sarina!
Chorus:
Sarina! Sarina! Sarina!
Gateway to further north;
Lazing astride the Bruce Highway,
Beckoning travellers forth.
Nature has painted your picture,
Singers have sung it in song;
Stories of tropical life in,
My home town, where I belong.
I see a picture of farming,
Patchwork of fallow and crop,
Framed in a background of ranges,
Whispers of cloud on the top.
Chorus:
Sarina! Sarina! Sarina!
Gateway to further up north;
Lazing astride the Bruce Highway,
Beckoning travellers forth.
Kasey never fails to amaze. I wonder what it is about her songwriting that connects in such a pleasing way. She's proven that she can deliver on the sad and pitiful(hurtin' all over) songs; however, these songs are not that. These songs are easy and fun and beautifully brilliant.
Great performance. Wish we could see Kasey in the UK - last saw her live about 10 years ago! I'm loving the new material.
MAGIC just AWESOME
Love her music.
This song is an original by B A Hunter. This was written for my wife and children who were all born in Derby WA (West Kimberley)
This song is about a Kimberley Icon as seen in Derby.
Larrgadee (by B A Hunter)
He's lived in his country, all of his life
A true Kimberley survivor
He's weathered powerful cyclones, flooding rains and drought
He's seen so many wildfires
Kids have played upon his back, held on to his arms
Enjoyed themselves, in his house of fame
He told us when it would rain, when the seasons changed
A wise old man, who stood tall and strong
He's shared a meal with many, offered shelter from the rain and sun
He's been a mate, to some people that he's met
He's the king of his country, he's humble proud and free
Yes he's my friend, old man Larrgadee
Yes he's your friend, old man Boab Tree
Yes he's our friend, old man Larrgardee
"Goolie"
Chorus:
Hey, hey, Lachlan Valley Way
The pressure's on, the feeling's strong
At Gooloogong
1. We've got the "Log Cabin Hall"
Made of logs and bark
"Croote Cottage" of mud and stone
pioneer's home of the past.
2. Giant river winding through
Big red rivergums on both sides
rich red soil, tall grasses grow
the reward to live here is my pride
3. A tennis legend here has been said
her forbears in days long gone
Living and playing on the riverbank
In the little village of Gooloogong.
"Three Rivers"
I gave you three rivers running near
I gave you my bushland to clear
I gave you my soil to grow your crops
I've given you your freedom to graze your stock.
You have taken my oil and my gold
You have taken my good timber and behold
Your garbage, junk and mess not a sight to see
And now amongst yourselves you can't agree.
You have your roads and bridges, whatever it has taken
Just rember I'm your Mother Earth, you might give
A little back in your appreciation.
I hear of places like the Bahamas, Greek Islands
And Graceland in America
Now maybe you will start to love me, I'm your
home, your town, I am Nerriga.
CHORUS
I am old and forgiving, I have seen many things
And gained my wisdom, that's my claim
You can still have your freedom
But I think it's time to lift your game.
My Home Town
In Queensland's Callide Valley, there's a town I won't forget,
It's etched into my memory, in my mind I see it yet.
The early settlers worked to form a fine community,
Their foresight left a legacy for all the world to see.
Chorus: Biloela, it's true, means White Cockatoo,
Like a boomerang's return, we come back to you.
This town of wide renown, will never let us down,
Biloela is my Home Town.
The Dairy Industry for years it played a major part,
Long hours and constant labour, but it gave them all a start.
Then coal mines brought great changes, but the pioneers now gone
Will never be forgotten, they're immortalized in song.
(Repeat Chorus)
As children we marched proudly, and we learned the Golden Rule,
A tribute to the dedicated teachers at our school.
Though fate has intervened, and we're years and miles apart,
My Home Town, Biloela, lives forever in my heart.
(Repeat Chorus)
Jungirrynyinboorr's Song;
PEARL COAST (Broome WA)
I was born, in a north coastal town
In the beauty, of the timeless Kimberley
Rolling sandhills, sun-white beach's
Rock formations, etched by time
A magical place, from our Dreamtime
A golden Staircase, shines it's treasures
A generous coast, bearing her gifts
In her power and her beauty
Where the red dirt, meets, the mighty Indian Ocean
Mangroves swamps, flourish the tidal creeks
Coastal Plains Billabongs, the bush the wildlife
Will forever, be our way of life
When the tropical sky, beds the setting sun
A spell is cast on everyone, who lives in the romance of this Pearl Coast
Its my home, its where I was born
This Pearl Coast is where I belong
This is a song about Nashdale, a tiny orchard community just outside Orange, NSW
Nashdale Cherry Picking Song
----------------------------------------------
Out on the cherry orchards again
Need me some Christmas money to spend
Wearing dad's old shirt and a cricket hat
All covered with red juice in ten minutes flat
Chorus
......................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money 'fore the season's through.
..........................................
Big summer storm rumbling over the hill.
If the hail doesn't get you the lightning will:
up a metal ladder in a tall tall tree,
metal bucket in my hand - is it gonna strike me ?
......................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money 'fore the season's through.
..........................................
Passed a motorbike wrapped round a tree
down in the hollow just past the creek.
The ambos were turning their faces away -
looks like Pete won't be picking today.
......................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money 'fore the season's through.
..........................................
(Repeat Chorus)
.....................................
Hear the drop in the bucket,
oh, here comes the truck !
Quick! Rocks in the bottom'll fill it up
Need another dollar and another one too;
gotta make my money'fore the season's through.
..........................................
What a great performance. It's great to see someone with such talent stay so natural. Then being part of the Chambers clan that's not surprisng
Condobolin- Condo Town
There’s a town out in the Central West
Far from the city lights
And you can see her at her best
When she’s spoiling for a fight
When government or climate force her to the wall
That’s when the folks of Condo town
Cry out this country call.
Chorus
From honest toil on honest soil
Come cattle fat and sleek
And shearers comb the creamy fleece
From the backs of sheep
When our golden grain takes its
Tumbling train ride from the west
That’s when the folks of Condo town
Know they’re done their best.
Now it’s been a tough one
Through the last ten years of drought
Many have left us but most have stayed the course
They’ve stayed and kept farming, there’s been no room for doubt,
Now we’ve set to feed the world to make it all right
The rain’s let us bring back our kids,
Made the future pretty bright.
Chorus.
Now Condo’s is the Heart
Of this great big State
But every time we ask for help we’ve told we have to wait,
Well we wait and wait but still we smile
We just go on keeping on
We have to feed the country
So we stay and sing our country song.
Chorus.
OUTBACK TOWN
CHORUS:
Far from Wooloomooloo and Timbucktoo
And beyond the Stump of Black,
Is outback town of little renown
It’s just a little down the track.
It has a pub and a gas pump
With a heeler or two out the back,
A couple of utes and a blue gum too
And a horse you could call a hack.
The river’s run dry and the sheep have died
The drought has sent us bust
The trucks broke down 10 miles from town
Now the tractors full of rust.
CHORUS
But down at the pub the spirits are high
And the beer it flows free and fast,
You’ld never know as we drown our woes
This beer could be our last.
For we’ll never quit we’ll just hang on
But there will come the day
When the rain will come once again
For that’s the Australian way.
CHORUS
© Sheron K Young
22nd September 2010
This song was written not long after I had met my birth family at 23. My Uncle Bill from my birth mothers side decided to jam out one night in Innisfail. This is the town where all my birth family come from. So I was adopted out at birth. To set the scene, Bill and I were sitting under the porch outside, it was raining lightly, occasionally a cane train would pass and a it was a full moon lit night. I had my guitar and Bill had his Harmonica, We pressed record on my old Fostex 4-track recorder and with the Chords D-C-G came up with the song 'Innisfail'. Here are the Lyrics:
Rain comes down
the rain comes down
rain comes down
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Cane farmers land
its cane farmers land
cane farmers land
CHORUS
Train rides through
the train rides through
train rides through
CHORUS
We made this up on the spot, I think you can even heat the train go past in the recording and the rain pitter patter on the roof top. Nice.
Cheers ABC.
Acland and others
Will they know when we are gone?
Will our grandchildren know that we tried?
When we are gone when we are gone?
Will they know we tried to save the town from mining?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
Will they know we tried to save the good farming land from mining?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
Will they know we tried to save wild life, parks and heritage?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
Will they know we tried to save them some water and clean air to breathe?
That we held meetings
Put in submissions to Politicians and papers
We tried and we tried
The town is gone
The people are gone
The farms are gone
The water is gone
The air is gone
There is a barren waste
Yes they will know when we are gone
that we failed
Lonesome Moonlight Traveller
Can you hear my song I sing on the wind
My lonesome moonlight traveller
Can you hear the song that beckons you
Back home again, back to Cunnamulla
That beckons you back home again, back to your true lover
We will sing the songs we sang before
On the porch near grandma’s garden
Townsfolk will come and sing harmony with each other
For that’s what they do on starry nights
In good old Cunnamulla
Chorus
We sing on the wind and we sing with one another
We will sing you back home again my lovely moonlight lover
Back home again, back to Cunnamulla
Back home again, back to your one true lover
I will sing a song to catch the wind, my sorrowful moonlight traveller
And you will remember a time of one star lit night in old Cunnamulla
When you said that love made music in the sky for all the moonlight lovers
Now the wind will carry my song so high
To the heart of my lonesome moonlight traveller
My Town Song entry
Chorus
Turn around Tamworth, what do you see?
Turn around Tamworth, look at me
An entrant in the Starmaker Quest
Someday I'm gonna be the best.
Turn around Tammie, you're a special place
Turn around Tammie, pick up the pace
With your tree lined leafy glades
You leave others in the shade
With my dusty old ute angle parked
I'm as happy as a mudlark
In my moves entrustin
While on the footpath buskin
So now I'll let the music rip
Pickin blue grass and country riffs
Country boy on the road to fame
Tamworth I'm glad I came.
I always long to get home to Chinchilla
In the winter time it will chill your chin
But you soon warm up with a nip of gin
It's the birth place of that movie man George Miller.
Ludwig Leichhardt did explore out there in 1844
The natives called the cyprus pine Jinchilla
Two years later Matthew Goggs got busy sawing up some logs
for the homestead at Chinchilla cattle station.
In the 1890's I do declare the place was choked with prickly pear
You couldn't move for thorns around Chinchilla.
They introduced the cactoblastis moth
And within a year by golly gosh
It destroyed the prickly pear. A real killer!
Charley's creek does sometimes flood
Plenty of water and lots of mud
it flows into the Condamine near Chinchilla.
The butter factory is a long time gone
But water melons still grow on
The February Melon festival's a thriller.
Now they're mining coal and gas
The folks are rich and dressing flash
The economy is booming around Chinchilla.
The frosty nights will chill your chin
But you soon warm up with a nip of gin
I long to meet you all back at Chinchilla
Let's have a big reunion at Chinchilla.
Vision for the outback
Verse 1
In May of 1928 south of McKinlay town
A stockman was injured when his horse had fallen down
From Squirrel Hills to McKinlay they nursed him day and night
The call was made that brought the first mercy flight.
Chorus
Flynn had a vision for the outback to bring help to their door
In a single engine aeroplane the Flying Doctor made the call
Verse 2
Soon people in the outback heard what he had done
Flynn’s quest for saving lives had only just begun
The peddle wireless was their lifeline in their hour of need
It wasn’t long ‘fore the world knew of the Flying Doctor’s deeds.
Chorus
Verse 3
(3rd verse optional) Many a night a call for help went over the air
Soon the doctor’s looking for an airstrip lit by flares
They’d hear the drone of the engine as the plane came into land
Their prayers had been answered the doctor’s on hand.
Chorus
Verse 4
Its over 80 years since that first mercy flight
All over Australia they fly both day and night
So we salute these brave heroes as they fly across the land
Spreading a mantle of safety under God’s guiding hands.
Last Chorus
Flynn had a vision for the outback to bring help to their door
In a twin engine aeroplane the Flying Doctors make the calls
So we salute these brave heroes as they fly across the land
Spreading a mantle of safety under God’s guiding hands.
" North Queensland Line " by Linz Norris
My grandad was a railway man
My old uncle was a railway man
My cousin Tony was a railway man
And for a time I was a railway man
On the North Queesland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't movin in
Then they ain't movin out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
My Uncle Georgie lost a leg on the line
Down south away in Proserpine
Shunting trains is a dangerous game
You only make the one mistake
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't movin in
Then they ain't movin out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Til the big wet comes....about
My grandad was a union man
The leading hand of a real tough gang
Yeah my grandad was a drinkin' man
In bush-camps pass the bottle around
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't movin in
Then they ain't movin out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
Railway man.......
it's such a long train
Railway man.......
it's such a long train
Railway man.......
it's such a long train
Yeah he's a railway man.
"Sugar Town " by Linz Norris ( a song about Ingham )
Oh the sites and the sounds
Of that little Sugar Town
Ah black snow coming down
From the fires all around
No I never wanted to go away
And I always thought I would
Stay in that Sugar Town
All the rain in those clouds
Fell on that little Sugar Town
Yeah the grass was so green
Tropical wonderland scenes
No no I never wanted to go away
And I always thought I would
Stay in that Sugar Town
Oh how they lit up the night sky
When they set that cane on fire
All the mills were crushing
Little cane trains rushing
No no I never wanted to go away
And I always thought I would
Stay in that sugar town
The scorching wind is blowing, ochre dust across the way
Heat haze shimmers gently as the children play
The scraggy shade of sunbaked trees, can’t cool the roasting ground
But the greatest warmth of living here is the friendship in this town
Chorus:
Helping hands are reaching out across the Barkly miles
And the golden desert sun is shining down
A flash of shared laughter and a careless easy smile
Can’t you feel the heart soaked in this town?
Dusty hats and scuffed up boots, the roar of ancient weathered utes
Cicadas humming as the sun goes down
Making our own fun... fair go for everyone
Thats what I love about this town.
The gentle touch of friendship comes through shining smiles
Can’t you feel the heartbeat of this town?
Six hours drive from Katherine, five from Alice Springs
Explore the Devils Marbles, take a Mary Anne swim
Drive up to the lookout, feast your eyes on the way down
But don’t forget the people, they’re the lifeblood of this town
Chorus:
Helping hands are reaching out across the Barkly miles
And the golden desert sun is shining down
A flash of shared laughter and a careless easy smile
Can’t you feel the heart beat in this town?
The gentle touch of friendship comes through shining smiles
Can’t you feel the heartbeat of this town?
"North Queensland Line " by Lindsay Norris
My grandad was a railway man
My old uncle was a railway man
My cousin Tony was a railway man
And for a time I was a railway man
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try and run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't moving in then they ain't moving out
Gotta keeo those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
My uncle Georgie lost a leg on the line
Down south a way in Proserpine
Shunting trains is a dangerous game
You only make the one mistake
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't moving in then they ain't moving out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes....about
My grandad was a union man
The leading hand of a real tough gang
My grandad was a drinkin' man
In the bushcamps pass that bottle around
On the North Queensland line
They try to keep 'em on time
Try to run 'em in and out
Before the big wet comes
If they ain't moving in then they ain't moving out
Gotta keep those long trains rolling
Before the big wet comes ....about
Railway man
It's such a long train
Railway man
It's such a long train
This is a song about the North Queensland town of Ingham.
"Sugar Town " by Lindsay Norris
Oh the sites and the sounds
Of that little Sugar Town
Ah black snow coming down
From the fires all around
No I never wanted to go away
And I always thought I would stay
In that Sugar Town
All the rain in the clounds
Fell on that little SugarTown
Yeah the grass was so green
Tropical wonderland scenes
No I never wanted to go away
And I always thought I would stay
In that Sugar Town
How they lit up the night sky
When they set that cane on fire
All the mills were crushing
The little cane - trains a rushing
No I never wanted to go away
And I always thought I would stay
In that Sugar Town
COPYRIGHT Terry Prowse Ph.0435688659
A jewel in the crown
By Terry Prowse
C F C
THE BRIDGE IS BENT AND BROKEN, NO MORE TRAFFIC TO PASS
G7
THE RAILWAY BRIDGE IS USED NO MORE IT, DID’NT LAST
C F C
THE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, PASSES THROUGH THIS TOWN
G7 C
GUNDAGAI N.S.W. A JEWEL IN THE CROWN
ITS STREETS ARE FULL OF HISTORY, THIS IS THE TOWN
WHERE YOU CAN COME AND STAY, PUT YOU’RE ROOTS DOWN
THE DOG SITS ON THE TUCKER BOX, THAT’S THE FEEL
GUNDAGAI NSW, THIS TOWN IS REAL
IN 1860 GOLD WAS FOUND,
THE RIVER IT FLOODED, SOME DROWNED
BUT THE SETTLERS THEY WERE TOUGH, THEY STOOD THEIR GROUND
GUNDAGAI NSW, YEAH! MY TOWN
THE TOWN IS NOW GROWIN’, PEOPLE MOVIN’ IN
EVERYONE WANTS A PIECE OF IT, TO START LIVIN’
RAISE YOUR FAMILY, BY THE MURRUMBIDGEE SHORE
GUNDAGAI NSW, SAY NO MORE
THE BRIDGE IS BENT AND BROKEN, NO MORE TRAFFIC TO PASS
THE RAILWAY BRIDGE IS USED NO MORE IT, DID’NT LAST
THE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, PASSES THROUGH THIS TOWN
GUNDAGAI N.S.W. A JEWEL IN THE CROWN
GUNDAGAI N.S.W. A JEWEL IN THE CROWN
GUNDAGAI, NSW, YEAH! MY TOWN
MINLATON…..YOU ARE MY PRIDE AND JOY
Minlaton, Minlaton, that’s the place where I was born,
Minlaton, Minlaton, bury me there when I’m gone.
One of the tidiest towns in South Australia you know,
With civic pride that we don’t hide, it’s always on the go,
Here in Minlaton, oh Minlaton, you are my pride and joy,
And I’m so glad I was born a country boy,
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Minlaton, Minlaton, past the ton and going strong,
Minlaton, Minlaton, due for mention in a song,
Over 60 businesses to choose from in the town,
More than a dozen sports are played to stop you feeling down.
Here in Minlaton, oh Minlaton, you are my pride and joy,
And I’m so glad I was born a country boy,
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Minlaton, Minlaton, called Gum Flat in years long gone,
Minlaton, Minlaton, it’s the place where I belong,
It’s the barley capital of all the world they say,
Farmers living here have worked the ground to earn their pay.
Around Minlaton, oh Minlaton, you are my pride and joy,
And I’m so glad I was born a country boy,
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Minlaton, oh Minlaton, when I call it a day,
I’m glad to know that you are here to stay.
Come on Down to our Pambula Town
Pambulas historic Toad Hall and Covingtons Retreat,
are some treasures found in Pambulas main street,
An old weatherboard bank is an interesting place to eat,
and two great old pubs where locals eat,drink and meet.
*Chorus
Pambula Village is famous for Mrs Macs old store,
where she sold habidashery and so much more,
Bennetts garage was in icon in old Pambula town,
when the old T Fords were driven by locals reknown.
* Chorus
Pambulas floodplains are popular as wetlands to wander,
Historic Oaklands is restored for the tourists to ponder,
so please visit our Pambula and discover the wonders,
of a freindly old village full of friendly locals asunder.
*Chorus
Discover modern shops, the historic town hall.
on the Princes Highway, Pambula has it all
Halfway between Melbourne and Sydney town,
Pambula is our town, so come on down.
Goulburn, come on in
90 minutes outta Sydney, drive south along the Hume
Theres a city they call Goulburn, come on in theres heaps of room
It's got a bloody light house but no beach or ship in sight
Its the local War Memorial shining out into the night
Weve got some famous sportsmen, theres Poidevin and Gray
and theres that fella they call Diamond, geez he can shoot the clay
Weve got the big Merino up the southern side of town
ya cannot bloody miss it, its the biggest sheep around
If ya driving north past Maccas have a look left over the rail
Youll see the walls of brick so tall, Thats the Goulburn Gaol
Full of years and years of stories and some of them are even true
Beleive me when i tell yas that place is not for you
Chorus
Dont drive along the bypass, turn off, come in to town
when you drive atop of Goulburn Hill its the bestest view around
You'll love it, stop at Belmore park, have a ride apon the swing
Enjoy your stay hava a great safe trip and remember, call again
Chorus:
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be
Verse 1:
Multicultural cuisine
Greatest batsman ever seen
Churches to keep you in good faith
Come here where the Murray ends
Taste our wine and make new friends
Adelaide's the place you'll wanna see
Chorus:
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be
Verse 2:
Finest beaches right at hand
Found on Aboriginal land
Tandanya "Red Kangaroo"
A town that follows Aussie Rules
Famous for it's festivals
The Parklands and WomAdelaide
Chorus
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be..
Verse 3:
And now we have our first PM
A woman that stands beside the men
Someone else this town can look up to
So don't go east and don't go west
Come down south where life's the best
Adelaide's the place for me and you
Chorus
Adelaide, Adelaide
The place where I was born and raised
The only place I know is meant for me
Seen many a city and many a town
Overseas and all around
But Adelaide's the place I wanna be..
SURF AND SUNSHINE - A ballad for Port Macquarie
(My entry for 2010 ABC Song Contest)
CHORUS:
Surf and sunshine, hey-hey-hey!
Port Macquarie, by the sea.
Every day's a holiday
in Port Macquarie by the sea.
Where the river meets the ocean there's a sighing in the pines
where the convicts built the church upon the hill.
Here the peaceful koori people made their home in ancient times
and the sea and lanch are rich with beauty still.
Old John Oxley came exploring and he knew this place would do
for a colony, where men could settle down.
It became a port for shipping, and a fishing village too;
- Australia's First Resort, a lovely town.
I can hear the magpies warbling in the gardens in the spring,
as the kookaburras greet the coming day;
and koalas hug the treetops, and the pelican takes wing
while the dolphins in the river frisk and play.
If you drew a line on the map in my part of western Sydney between the city and the country , it would run straight through Riverstone. (Rivo).
Boomgates ringin' loud and clear
Let's you know your round here
They say they'll be gone every year
But talk is cheap , a bridge is dear
Were just part of that special line
The city lies on the other side
Sometimes we'll be left behind
And I dont really mind
There ain't no airs and graces round here
Just old familiar faces year after year
We know it wont be long till our simple life is gone
In the meantime Rivo's hangin' on , Rivo's hangin on
Our fathers farms are doomed to be
Multi function factories
And the families in our backyards
Will need our homes to park their cars
And those of us who stay behind
We'll think about the better times
Or maybe they'll just pass us by
I can dream can't I
There ain't no airs and graces round here
Just old familiar faces you can get a feed you can get a beer
We know it won't be long till our simple life is gone
In the meantime Rivo's hangin on , Rivo's hangin on.
I was lucky enough to watch this recording live in the studio, Firstly i would like to thank both Kasey and the Staff at ABC for a wonderful evening
I LOVE the new song little bird I have not heard such brilliant lyrics in a long time, Not only did she sound AWESOME live she also tells you a bit of back ground on the songs and it was lovely to hear her talk about her kids and life journey
I love Kasey i think she truly emulates what we call the Aussie Spirit! she has a connection deep with in herself that radiates through her songs, She sings of the land as easy as water runs a stream and sets your mind racing with images of places you have never seen
It was the best and well worth watching...
i tried to call you guys at the ABC to say thanks for your wonderful hospitality but switch couldn't locate you.... so again THANKS
ELMORE...ONCE MORE.
Blink and you'll miss it, I use to tell my friends
This old town, really is the living end
'Progress Association', what a joke!
All I learn't here was how to drink and smoke.
Chorus
But that was then and this is now
I've learnt a lot, life is sweet and sometimes sour
This town has heart and depth and soul
From its shiny Silos to it's Water Hole
I use to find it hard to breathe here
Sought my freedom...a reprieve dear
Longed for anonymity, chance to make mistakes
Where no-one was keeping score, ready to burn you at the stake
Chorus
But that was then and this is now
I've learnt a lot, life is sweet and sometimes sour
This town has heart and depth and soul
From it's shiny Silos to it's water holes
Now I long for it's gold dusted paddocks
It's friendly houses with unused locks
My Aunts and Uncles, my cousins and my friends
A home to go to...time to make amends
Chorus
But that was then and this is now
I've learnt a lot, life is sweet and sometimes sour
This town has heart and depth and soul
Form it's shiny Silos to it's water holes
KENDALL (The Poet's Village) - NSW 2439
By Kendall valleys of soft dappled haze
where grey wallaby and dairy herds graze
waters to the Camden Haven go seawards hauling
from Comboyne's plateau of sudden storms calling
echoing yesteryear's songs of rainforest felling
of cross-saw and axe and bullockies yelling
where bound and free brought wealth to a nation
with black-butt and cedar on river navigation
when fine timbers felled by axes long still
floated down stream to Fagan's mill
by a pioneer township of Henry Kendall fame
in 1891 posthumously given his family name
Refrain:
Fed by Comboyne's plateau of steady rains falling
creeks bringing life to the river go seawards hauling
past satin bird bowers hidden in fern and thicket
where flits the blue-wren and hums the cricket
by frog-mouth mimicking twig and bough
posing in shadows until the sunset hour
in Kendall beauty where creek and river mix
inspiring Australia's first-born poet in 1876.
Come Spring the poet's village of once cedar kings
hosts the resounding music of violin strings
when September farewelling winter at rest
invites in national competition the instrument's best
part of a legacy of caring benefiting each as a whole
known to a long-ago poet seeking solace of soul
when troubled by illness and the hardships he knew
that were to hasten his death in 1882.
Softly the works of his pen in a stay of six years
by mountain and valleys of the waterfall's tears
echo of peace given a poet remembered in stone
within an inconic spirit uniquely Australia's own.
Long gone are the pioneer days of convicts in chains
where ribboned waterfall weep in Kendall rains
and later boom times of an old logging township
where bullockies language split the air like a whip
leaving in common with rural townships today
a reliance on a oneness of spirit alive and in play
where combined endeavour benefiting the whole
meets community needs of mind, body and soul.
Tuned to the now, Kendall moves on ever a part
of an iconic spirit nurturing a community's heart
by scenic beauty once easing a poet's pain
where magpie carolling sweet-talk the rain.
Batemans Bay
Life has taken me places but I'm heading home today
Back where I was born and bred, it's where my heart will stay
No matter where else I have been, I'll never feel this way
Just can't wait to get back home to the beautiful Batemans Bay
Chorus
This is where my heart is, this is my hometown
Where the people are fair dinkum, their feet firm on the ground
Where the bush meets the beaches and the water's sparkling hue
The only place that I call home, it's here I am true blue
The tide that flows is pulling me, taking me by the hand
And the waves so blue are singing their song as they crash on the golden sand
Throwing a line in the river Clyde, there's nothing quite so grand
You'll never find a better place across this brazen land
Chorus
The wildlife just roaming about across the lush green grange
Dining with the kangaroos is not a sight so strange
Solid as a rock she stays, her story will never change
Breathe the beauty of the Australian bush and the Great Dividing Range
Chorus
This was written about the City of Bendigo.
This Place I Know
Chorus:
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
These muscled trees,
Their leafy fingers trailing upward,
Their dark centres merging with the mud,
Fingers of light travel between their branches,
Because this is the only place,
They gather close,
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
Yellowed stones are my fool’s gold,
Silver rocks are my white crystal,
Follow the path of white,
My gold will wait,
For in this place,
I will become rich,
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
Patterns of red etched into walls,
Gentle lap of water on a stone edge,
Curling buildings and curving tunnels,
Trees far from home,
Dragons in the sound of snaps,
Shimmering in the circular sun,
I know this place, this city,
I see the dark gums gather close,
I know the call of the magpie in the early morning,
I see the stone buildings, curved and proud,
I know the riches that gather under this dirt,
I know this city, this place I know,
My Town Tully
Up where the hand clasp's a little stronger
Up where the smile last's a little longer
Up where the sun is a little brighter
And where the bonds of home are tighter
CHORUS ......
Now I must tell you for what it's worth
We are the fruit bowl of the north
Health and happiness here abound
No better little town can be found
Up where the hills with rain are white
Soaking the soil with all it's might
Keeping the prosperity of our town alive
Helping cane, bananas, pineapples thrive.
REPEAT CHORUS
The progress of Tully is in the making
Where fewer hearts with dispair are aching
That's where our beautiful town wins
Tully is where the North begins
REPEAT CHORUS
By Nessie Evans, Age 81 of Tully
Ph 40669291
care of Packsaddle Village via Newman 6753
if you wanna send snail mail way out here to me
where the sunsets create the most beautiful red ranges
and new residents quickly become mates, not strangers
after work its up to the wetty first, to quench our hard earned thirst
on mid strength beer, which really is quite queer
we chat about our day, while spending our pay
before having a power shower, at a later hour
then resting our clean heads on our green beds
for some well deserved rest, so we can wake up feeling our best
yawning, we all emerge out of our den
hi-ho off to work, to do it all again
rain, hail or shine, we're out here bright as a daisy
drivin' round in circles, going almost crazy
boredom can be my worst enemy
so I listen to conversations, quizzes and stories such as Lady Monda Gree
on my favourite radio channel, the ABC
when I find something that motivates me
I like to write songs to help break the monotony
just the lyrics though, I'll let you create the melody
scribbling lines and rhymes down at every opportunity
coz even though I'm young, I dont' trust my memory
Wauchope The Place To Be
K. Lindsay © 2010
There's a place here on the mid north coast and Wauchope is it's name
It's on the Hastings River timber was it's claim to fame
In days gone by old bullock teams pulled huge logs to the mills
Those bullockys and axemen displayed their true bush skills
Cadar, Rosewood, Brushbox passed through those spinning blades
Tallowwood and Ironbark split and into sleepers made
As time went by the the logs ran out and the mills closed one by one
But Wauchope kept on growing some thought that we were done
Dairy farmers and graziers all kept the town alive
You just cant stop a counrty town to prosper and survive
Wauchope now stands proud and tall and still we grow a grow
And if your passing through our town there's something you should know
Chorus
You'll be made feel welcome when you visit to our town
There's lot of friendly people and we'll show you around
With a true blue country atmosphere I'm sure that you'll agree
That Wauchope on the mid north coast is the place to be
There's lots of lovely sceenery all part of our surrounds
We're not far from the beaches where surf and sand abounds
The river runs right through our town if boating is your thing
You can water ski or paddle a canoe or try your luck fishing
So bring your friends and family and come and say good day
Im sure that once you visit us that you will want to stay
There's just one thing you need to bring to be welcome at our place
And it wont cost you very much just a smile upon your face
Chorus
You'll be made feel welcome when you visit to our town
There's lot of friendly people and we'll show you around
With a true blue country atmosphere I'm sure that you'll agree
That Wauchope on the mid north coast is the place to be
Here are the lyrics as my submission to the "Your Town, Your Song" competition for the 2011 Tamworth Country Music Festival. I have also written a melody to the lyrics, which I have posted to ABC Sydney.
A TOWN CALLED PORT MACQUARIE
1. We have moved up here from the great Big Smoke
To the town called Port Macquarie
To breathe fresh air and see the stars at night
In the town called Port Macquarie.
It is a great place to live even if you're broke
In the town called Port Macquarie.
The River Hastings and the beaches they're a sight
In the town called Port Macquarie.
CHORUS
And all the folk are nice and friendly
In the town called Port Macquarie,
Where the whales swim by
And the dolphins smile
In the town called Port Macquarie.
2. The big Glasshouse grand offers culture true
In the town called Port Macquarie.
Artists come this way from very far and near
To the town called Port Macquarie.
They sing and dance and play and they make music too
In the town called Port Macquarie;
Others paint the beach on sunny days so clear
In the town called Port Macquarie.
CHORUS
3. Brothers South and North and Middle Brother too
Near the town called Port Macquarie
Give a perfect view of the coastline fair
Up to the town called Port Macquarie.
Australian bush and plants and lots of wildlife too
Are near the town called Port Macquarie.
We're here to stay, enjoy the beauty oh so rare
In the town called Port Macquarie.
CHORUS
Gold In Gulgong
I was born in the small town of Gulgong
and all of my life i've lived here
I've lived with the strain of drought , fire and rain
I've lived with the laughter and tears
My children all grew up in Gulgong
but they had some plans of their own
and though they now are scattered near and far
whenever they can they come home
Now there's no gold in Gulgong
but there was once it's true
we were ten times the size, a golden paradise
back in 1892
We will sometimes leave Gulgong
but wherever we roam
whatever we see, whoever we meet
gulgong's still home.
The ten dollar note bore our picture
and Henry Lawson's as well
that was our claim, our 15 minutes of fame
but that's not all we've to tell
Our museum and our eisteddfod
keep our town rating highly
It's a great place to be to retire comfortably
or just live the life of Riley
There's no gold left in Gulgong
and we're gone from the note
and faces may change, but the feeling's the same
Gulgong's still gold
Yes, the gold's gone from Gulgong
now they're mining for coal
but for all of us here, year after year
Gulgong's pure gold
We've known all along, our town Gulgong
is pure solid gold.
'salt water sea' my song entry about my town Coolangatta on the Gold Coast QLD.
Salt water tingling, sunkissed skin
Living by the ocean
my town has always been
A place for gypsy souls to rest
to breathe the salty wind
Sand between my toes
salt water on my skin
No matter where my heart will lay
my home is on the waves
Sand between my toes
endless summer days
Listen to the birds that call
from the sparking sea
Salt water songs
are a part of me
My town by the ocean
the place my heart belongs
My town by the ocean
singing gypsy songs
Sunkissed skin, summer rain
skies blue and grey
No matter where I may roam
On the waves I'll stay
My town by the ocean
where my heart belongs
My town by the ocean
singing salt water songs.
IT’S JUST A PLACE
1.At Firefly we settle down, we found a nice house and piece of ground.
It’s just a place not quite a town at Firefly where we settled down.
2.Our Saturday nights with friends around, the grandstand calls a familiar sound,
With fire lit, friends sharing whit, felicity country show a certain hit,
It’s just a place not quite a town at firefly where we settled down
3.The Krambach cap at the old face club the Nabiac show and our local pub with
Beer all gone and fire burnt down, these friends of ours now all home would bound.
It’s just a place not quite a town at Firefly where we settled down.
4.On clear dark night where stars are bright ,
It’s a distant car with a red tail light,
Our milky way all clear and white, and the fading glow of a lone satellite
It’s just a place not quite a town at firefly where we settled down.
5.Our kids in bed all safe and sound , the wife and I finding common ground,
It’s just a place not quite a town at Firefly where we settled down.
( IN VERSE 5 if sang by girl)
My man and me finding common ground ( would like to see sung by duet )
Song Title; Sleepy Town
V1)
If I don't leave here,
If I don't go now,
If I don't live life then I won't know how to be myself,
to be unique so I will kiss you on the cheek
CHORUS
So what's there to do in a sleepy town
spending all your days just foolin around
not long now before I have to decide
but in a sleepy town what can you do with your life
V2)
Well it's been too long to remember why
I've stayed round here never said goodbye
you might be down at a girl like me
so ill say goodbye
I won't need the key
REPEAT CHORUS
V3)
Well the time has come to spread my wings
the hour has come to do my thing
you might be mad or you might be sad
well I don't care I'm oh so glad
REPEAT CHORUS
Long Flat Logger
The only job you ever knew was felling trees,
Over fifty years you spent up in the scrub.
First there were bullock teams and axes,
now there’s chainsaws trucks and tractors.
But the timber, well it still remains the same.
CHORUS
Long Flat Logger no more will you climb the hills.
Nor will the echo of your axe ring out in song.
But while you’re sitting in your chair,
breathing in the mountain air,
the smell of eucalyptus stirs within your mind .
Somehow its like it lets you go,
back to that time so long ago,
when you were young and strong with all the world to roam.
But when you wake up from your dream,
and your eyes take in the scene
its just you on your verandah all alone.
A blanket and a campfire, and a good dog next to you.
That was all it took to keep the cold away.
And you slept the deepest sleep every night upon the ground ,
With the sound of Dingoes howling all around.
Now your beds too hard to let you rest in comfort anytime,
and the hottest summer sun won’t warm your bones.
The legs that carried you so high into the forest every day,
Now barely get you to the Pub just down the road.
CHORUS
The hands that held your axe don’t seem familiar any more.
No longer do they have a grip as strong as iron.
But as your gnarled and knotty fingers grip your walking stick each day,
It’s like your hands remember what they used to do.
Your fingers just start moving to a memory all their own,
and that stick becomes an axe just for a while.
Then the swelling in your knuckles,
and the aching in your bones,
brings you back here to the front porch of your home.
And you realize what you’re doing ,
And you remember what you’ve done,
and the memories never fail to make you smile.
CHORUS
Yeah you’ve lived a good long life,
And been through your share of strife.
But there’s really not a single thing you’d change.
Except for maybe one, and that’s that now your race is run,
that you could turn around and live it all again.
Geraldton
The front porch views are awesome, wild birds everywhere
Mount Fairfax in the distance, God paints with colour there
This time of year’s my favourite, to walk among the trees
And see the nectar on the flowers, covered all by bees
Tawny frog mouths in the trees, a pretty special sight!
And then the kids saw ducklings, walk through school last night!
The Sydney memorial reminds us of people who died in war.
The fifty cent swing is famous, and colourful wildflowers call.
Hot white beach sand and scorching summer days,
Not much winter here, but lots of fish and crays.
Lavender and tree farms, rows of olives too,
Wineries and fisheries; but that’s not all to do!
Don’t forget the basketball, footy league and fishing,
There’s hockey, soccer, golf and cricket, harriers and swimming.
Kite surfing is popular; Australia’s most windy city.
The washing dries in half an hour; the dust, it is a pity!
Kilometres from anywhere, a five hour drive to Perth
Where is Geraldton you ask? Somewhere on this earth.
chorus
But life is what you make it, and Geraldton is home.
It’s really like a holiday, so I don’t want to roam
too far from here. Retirement? Well, I’m much too young as yet.
So I will just go fishing, grow vegies, or walk the pet.
Then just as we slow down a bit, the grandies come along,
And now the children have returned, so Geraldton’s my song!
THE GOLDEN GUITAR by Drew Deck
Chorus in
We're heading for the heart of the country
On the New England Highway
Searching for that golden guitar
At Tamworth on Australia Day.
Verse 1
Everybody's surely heard of Tmworth
The mecca of the country music scene
We head there in our Holdens and our Kenworths
Been there done that in every town between
CHORUS
I've heard about the buskers out on Peel Street.
The pubs and clubs are raging to the sounds,
A country heard won't ever miss a beat
And everywhere festivities abound
CHORUS
Verse 3
Tamworth keeps on calling me at Mogo
Even though it's 12 hours away
One day I'm gonna live to tell the tale
Of Tamworth on Australia Day.
MELTIN' IN MILTON by Drew Deck
Chorus in
Well I was meltin' in Milton I got hot under the collar
Hot under the collar, in Ulladulla
As I started to cook
I jumped into the ocean at Mollymook.
Verse 1
Summer vacation, summer fun
I got my hat and my 15 plus
Lyin' on the beach catchin' some rays
I got my sunglasses on and I'm checkin' the waves.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Chasing a ball for eighteen holes
The sun did burn and the wind did blow
Losing my balls I was losing my temper
The heat makes me feel like a glowing ember.
CHORUS
Verse 3
In the heat of the night there's Rowan's Arcade
Electronic games in a video haze
Using all my tokens trying to get a free go
All the buzzing and a ringing, my mind's about to blow.
CHORUS
NELLY by Drew Deck
A lot of people say Nelligen with a soft g. Others say Nelligen with a hand g. In this song, the second Nelligen is with a soft g, as in gin.
Chorus in
Is it Nelligen or Nelligen?
I'm gonna have to ask Nelly again
I'm gonna have to ask Nelly
If it's Nelligen or Nelligen.
Verse 1
Nelly....I'm nearly near you
Nelly....I'm nearly home
Nelly....I still adore you
Even after all the roads I've roamed.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Nelly....I'm thinking of you
Nelly....I need you now
Nelly....My heart beats for you
Nelly, won't you please take me home.
CHORUS
Verse 3
Nelly....I'll kneel beside you
Nelly....On the banks of the Clyde
Nelly....I'll whisper to you
Nelly, is it Nelligen or Nelligen?
LOST MY LOVE AT BATEMANS BAY by Drew Deck
Chorus in
I lost my love at Bateman's Bay
II turned around and drove away
This girl she was to be my bride
I left her there and drove home up the Clyde.
Verse 1
We were at Corrigan's Beach at the fair
When she went and left me standing there
Went on the rotor with another man
They got so close that they were holding hands.
CHORUS
Verse 2
I just stood and stared in disbelief
And wandered off to Casey's Beach
Had so many tears in my eyes
That I had to have one of Elaine's gourmet pies
CHORUS
Verse 3
At the fair the ydidn't know I was missing
All they were doing was ahugging and a kissing
I just turned and drove away
When I lost my love down at Bateman's Bay.
Final chorus
I lost my love at Bateman's Bay
I turned around and drove away
This girl she was to be my bride
I left here there and drove home up the Clyde
Yes I left her there and drove right off the Clyde.
MALUA BAY by Drew Deck
Chorus in
I stopped in for a moment at Malua Bay
I reflected on the day as it passed
It was such a magic moment at Malua Bay
I just wanted to make that moment last.
Verse 1
The winter sun shone strong and warm
I removed my shirt and stripped down to my shorts
I lay on the beach and watched the tide
And wondered how I could pause time.
CHORUS
Verse 2
An elderly man walked his dog on the beach
He let it run wild when he removed its' leash.
No dogs allowed it said on the sign
I thought that making rules is such a waste of time.
CHORUS
Verse 3
The children ran the children schemed
They laugh at nothing so easy to please
Chased each other little legs so swift
In the city its things like these you miss.
CHORUS
COME WITH ME TO BROULEE by Drew Deck
Chorus in
Come with me to Broulee, down by the sea
See some of the best beaches you will ever see
Let me take you by the hand, walk with me along the sand
I tell you that I love you more than any other can.
Verse 1
Broulee you've got me I could never leave you
I feel so alive walking on Coronation Drive
Broulee your beauty is second only to my love
When we're together I thank heaven above.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Broulee your bay just glistens in the sun
Inviting me to dive in where all the waters run
Frolice with my love frolic on the beach
In the summer time you are always in my reach
CHORUS
Verse 3
We stroll around your Island we wander hand-in-hand
All your shells and ocean smells seem under our command
Sand in between my toes, sand under my feet
When I'm here with my love my life seems so complete.
CONGO by Drew Deck
Chorus in
Congo oh Congo
I love to go to Congo
Where the waves roll
Along the beach I stroll
Verse 1
It is said this place is primitive
That's a saying that I really won't forgive
It's not hte way to describe the place I live
If this is primitive, give me more of this.
CHORUS
Verse 2
Every Friday night in town it's happy hour
At Congo we love to share our house
We sometimes gather at the camping ground
Laughing and drinking after the sun goes down
CHORUS
Verse 3
The height of our social calendar
Music in the park, when everybody's there
Music from the heart the way music should be
Music in the park, music by the sea.
CHORUS
THE MORUYA MARKETS by Drew Deck
Chorus in
I guess I'll run into ya
At the markets at Moruya.....on Saturday
I guess I'll run into ya
At the markets at Moruya.....sometime.
Verse 1
He holds a stall she stands in awe,
In the crown she gravitates nearby.
She only looks her courage small,
Maybe one day she will say to him "Oh, hi"
CHORUS
Verse 2
The buskers sing their guitars ring,
Sounding out the rhythm of her heart.
She often thinks it's a funny thing
When you do not know just where to start.
CHORUS
The hawkers yell they try to sell
Their brightly coloured clothing and their wares,
While she just stays nearby
Her eyes are fixed on him she only stares
CHORUS
LONELY IN NAROOMA by Drew Deck
Verse 1
I head a rumour you were lonely in Narooma
I'm sad to say I could not get here any sooner,
Oh those crystal blue green waters as you drive across the bridge
It just makes me think what a beautiful place to live.
Chorus
I heard a rumour you were lonely in Narooma
I just called to say hello
And now I'm here
I don't think I can go.
Verse 2
I had to see ya on my way through to Bega
When I phoned to see if I could see ya you sounded really eager
And when we met that day all the years were swept away
You were my childhood dreams, my adolescent schemes
CHORUS
Verse 3
I heard a rumour you were lonely in Narooma
We went to Obrien's and sank quite a few schooners,
And then you took me home over your bed I was thrown
I'm so glad I heard that rumour only wished I'd heard it sooner.
CHORUS
MOGO MOGO by Drew Deck
Chorus in
Mogo Mogo see that little town grow
Mogo Mogo is always on the go
The retailers retail which such an eye for detail
And everything in town is always for sale, for sale....
Verse 1
A crafty little village with so much charisma
Nowadays it's hard for you to find a place to park
It's history was Black and then goild,
And now its come right out of the dark, yes right out of the dark.
Chorus
Verse 2
A crafty little village tradition steeped in time
Traditionally tradition is a very find line
And there's a very fine line of goods
Available in Mogo all of the time, yes all of the time.
Chorus
Verse 3
A craft little village with so much history
There were 32 pubs when gold fever had begun,
Alas my friends how the times have changed,
These days we don't even have the one.
OBERON THE HILLS NEAR BATHURST by Drew Deck
Verse 1
It was Oberon the hills near Bathurst when I last saw you
It's been more than 50 years and I'm still feeling blue
My grandad took me by the hand beside your hospital bed
His tears were flowing as he whispered "Say goodbye to your Dad".
CHORUS
Oberon you lost me when I lost my Dad
You are indeed the hometown that I never had.
Oberon you lsot me you're a place I'd barely known
For I was only five years old when we left that town.
Verse 2
I remember seeing old cars and wondered how they'd changed
After starting out their lives as shiny new machines
I remember seeing apples that were bigger than my head
They're the biggest one you'll ever see if what my father said.
CHORUS
Verse 3
My father was the newsagent and he knew everyone
When he died the flags in town were halfway up the mast.
Everybody loved him, everybody cried
Oberon you are the town where my father died.
Song of Benalla
Lyrics by Residents of Cooinda Village Benalla
V1
The Gateway to the sunny North East
On the Hume corridor'
With snowfields and wineries
and much' much more.
We've gardens and cricket
And golfing and football,
There's bowling and horse-racing
There's something for all.
Chorus
We love our Benalla
The city of roses.
We're all fair dinkum,
Where the Broken River flows
We've Hector Waller and
Weary Dunlop true blue,
They're part of our history
And Ned Kelly too.
V2
Sir John Monash built the bridge
To make one town instead of two.
It's over Lake Benalla
With its swans and a duck or two.
The Art Gallery's a shiny beacon,
And the mural has more to tell,
It's still a work in progress
But we like it very well.
V3
We've cropping sheep and cattle,
Sometimes it's a real battle.
Facing floods and fire and drought,
Year in and year out.
We're a close and caring community,
And we live in close unity,
We value our happiness and health.
Who'd want to live anywhere else?
CARRIETON...FLINDERS RANGERS.
For many years I was called Yanyarrie
This name taken from the annuels of Time
Was changed in a time of Pride &
named it after the Beautiful daughter
of the govenor at the Time.
Caroline was chosen to represent
this town as a quest of Pride
So Yanyarrie became Carrieton
for as it was given a name
of Great Delight.
For Carrieton became a bustling
Town of the Flinders Rangers.
There was a grocer, a baker,
a carriage wheel maker, churches abound
and the Pubs were truely the Centre of Town.
For the Rangers were busy with wheat
and sheep.
The train line carried all the produce from all around
Wool and wheat were in abound.
That was in times past...
Now it is a community of 33
You know that 1 pub still stands
and the community itself maintains the town.
The store still is busy and open
The school transformed to a
great stopover for the many
travellers of the Flinders Rangers.
My Town..Carrieton
is open and welcoming
to all who travel the
South Australian
Flinders Rangers.....
TAMWORTH
I'm Tamworth fair city in Oxley Country
Where the lovely Peel River flows ever free:
It wends through the valley past mansion and shack
Its echoing murmur calls wanderers back.
Chorus
Tamworth! Tamworth! Country Music City
Where the ballards are great and the girls are all pretty:
To join in the fun folk come from afar
To cheer for the singer who wins a guitar.
Then let us sing for Tamworth - our hometown serene
And to the mighty pioneers in the year 1818:
They were men of foresight, dignity and might
Very soon the growing township switched on electric light.
There's always a kind greeting to folk from other lands
The "welcome mat" is ever out, placed there by caring hands:
When the mountains crumble and all the creeks run down
Haunting country music will waft over Tamworth town.
Chorus.
Coming Back to Tamworth - The Tamworth Song
I've travelled like a gypsy
Round this rugged land
I've travelled through the dust and rain
I've travelled through the sand
I'm coming back to Tamworth
To hear a country band
I've travelled like a gypsy
Towed the caravan
Spent the kids inheritance
Now I'm coming home
Coming back to Tamworth
Country music home
I've got a fridge of stubbies
Got a can of breans
We'll sit around the caravan
Play a few CD's
Now I'm back in Tamworth
With the river and the trees
Currawongs are calling
On the mountain side
Ripples on the river
Hills of misty blue
I'm coming back to Tamworth
Coming home to you.
I hear the buskers strumming
Good old country songs
All along in Peel St
They just want to be a star
They'll come back to Tamworth
And win a gold guitar.
Stand along in Peel St
Watch the big parade
Grab your water bottle
Looking for the shade
Carnival is over
Tamworth cavalcade
All the stars will come again
You've got to be on the show
There's Lee and both the Adams
Graeme, John & Colin
Troy & Brendon too
Lindsay, Chad and Tommy
Just to name a few
We'll have....
Melinda, Bec & Tanya
Kirsty-Lee and Shaza
And Gina Jeffries....
Sara and Felicity
Kasey and her crew
They'll be back in Tamworth
You'd better be there too.
So grease up all your swag straps
Put on your boots and jeans
Check the oil and water
Polish up the chrome
Come on back to Tamworth
Country music home
Come on back to Tamworth
Country music home.
GEORGES BAY
Well here's a little song
About a couple
John and Kell
They lived in the city
Didn't like it very well
Had some land over east
With a view of Georges Bay
So they sold up int he city
for a better kind of day
Down to Georges Bay
Come for a visit
Better still - stay
Just out of St Helens
Bout 5k or so
We look over the bay
Where the wild oysters grow
Bay of Fires to the left
Binalong Bay is there too
Surfing, Fishing, Beachcombing
Just too much to see and do.
Down in Georges Bay
You can visit if you want
But I'll bet you'll want to stay.
And dotted round the bay
Are others just like us
From Akaroa thru to Moulting Bay
The houses are asprouting up
The faces are all smiling
Caust they're here
Just like me
And when life is like that
It's a wonderful place to be
Down at Georges Bay
Comee on now
Visit if you want
But feel welcome to stay
Down in Georges Bay!
What a great album not a bad song on it my pick is old enough maybe a GG in it
I'm resubmitting my Song of Broken Hill as I realised there can only be three verses!
SONG OF BROKEN HILL
by Maureen Clark
Broken Hill in the Barrier Ranges
Near the state’s far western line
Where the hills are made of silver
And there’s a fortune in every mine
Once Australia’s mining giant woz ‘ere
Now our owners live overseas
And tourists can’t seem to get enough of
Our legendary art and history
(Chorus)
Oh, there’s a pub on every corner, sometimes two;
Kangaroos hop down the street
Followed by the odd emu
And the locals all drive rusty utes
And their dogs are all called Blue
That’s how outback legends are made here
And some of it may be true!
Barkindji roamed, Wiljakali too
Before Sturt and Burke and Wills,
And Rainbow Serpent and painted hands
Cover the rocks among the hills.
Pro Hart and the Brushmen of the Bush
Painted our city’s fame abroad
Now tourists appear from far and near
And when they leave, they’re overawed!
Some say the outback’s the Dead Heart
Of Australia, our fair land
Where the artist’s palette is set out
In the colours of the sky and sand
Orange soil and bones burned white
In blistering sun, no gentle hues.
Wild hops so red, looks like the hills have bled
Into the saltbush, of sage blue;
(Chorus) So come and see us…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
Ourl unions gave us Workers’ Rights
Like the 35 hour week
And the Hill lived by its very own rules
Thanks to the BIC
Once Cobb and Co brought travellers here
Now they fly in by jet it seems
While our camel trains and Mundi Mundi Plains
Are a film producer’s dream!
(Chorus) And they said that…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
haha love you Liam :). thanks for coming backstage with me the other night :). much appreciated babe
xx. your pretty great man
Digging Up The Coal 'Neath Yallingup
Verse 1
We camped the grounds of Smith's Beach shore
Listened to the crack as the waves implored
The dark night’s gift of the stars encore
But there ain’t no more camping there
They ripped the guts from the grass and bark
Built the condos and the gray car park
“Here have a dollar” said the shark
“Come and be a millionaire”
Chorus
If you dig the coal 'neath Yallingup
And scar us more with rot
Come the day the your sons will pay
And cry upon your plot
Blackened by your soot
And your greed afoot
Digging up the coal 'neath Yallingup
Verse 2
We explored the cape along the trail
And watched the roos and the humpback whale
Drew in breath of the salt on sail
But they’ll rape the country air
They’ll rip the guts from the grass and bark
Build the mine and the gray car park
“Here have a dollar” says the shark
“Come and be a millionaire”
Bridge
Here's a drink to the wine district
Fare the well my lady lady fair
Pack up your vines give the glass a lick
Brush the verdant from your hair
Chorus Repeat
CHORUS:
A long way from Sydney, between the hills and the coast
there's a town called Cobargo that I like the most.
With loggers and greenies and people I know
we're close to the beach and not far from the snow.
We've got spiders and snakes, roos and wombats,
kikuyu and eucalypts and lots of cow pats,
farmers and artists and those on the dole
and warm fuzzy workshops to get in touch with your soul.
CHORUS
There's floods and there's droughts and bushfires as well,
'though which one we get when, you never can tell,
But the volunteer sevices will save us we hope,
so long as they're not all out 'making rope'.
CHORUS
We poduce honey, milk, beef and cheese,
but don't come here in winter, you're likely to freeze,
and don't come here in summer, you surely will roast
in a town called Cobargo that I like the most.
How this old towns been good to me
looking back under this fig tree
all the times
of fun and laughter
lismore's the town that I come from
I love it so much its in this song
even the air
is fresh and familiar
the energy's great it is so real
the crystal in the ground you can really feel
that's why this town
sure is something
CHORUS
BRIDGE
I found my girl in my home town
she's true blue and true blonde
my girl and this town
is all that I live for
CHORUS
CHORUS
FINISH
When you're a tourist
Got on board the old Hound down in Melbourne
Headed north on highway Thirty one
Crossed the Murray river at Wodonga
Look out Sydney city here we come.
-------Chorus-------
When you’re a Tourist, When you’re a Tourist
You’ve gotta keep your eyes wide open
When you’re a Tourist, Yes a Tourist
Keep your eyes wide open all the time
Keep your eyes wide open all the time
----
Toured all round Sydney and the Harbour
Opera house and Bondi in a day
Headed north along the East Coast highway
Finally made a stop in lovely Byron Bay.
To ----Chorus----
You can go across to Hawaii, Visit all the states of USA
But you’ll never feel, the magic or the zeal
Till you’ve been to see controversy Byron Bay.
(To Chorus----)
Streets of Honour
We’ve had fires, floods and droughts along the beautiful Macleay
As it winds down from the highlands and out into Trial Bay.
There’s ghosts of Koori families, of timber men so brave,
Of sailors and their passengers lost down beneath the waves.
There’s early farming families, working from dusk to dawn
Trying to scratch a living, growing cane and wheat and corn.
There’s the cattlemen on horses riding through the ranges,
Searching for their stock, facing loneliness and dangers
Chorus
There are many passing memories of those who’ve gone before,
But Kempsey has something special for those who went to war.
They’re known as Streets of Honour that help us all recall
The memories of those young ones, standing proud, erect and tall.
We don’t have a harbour bridge or Opera House so grand.
We don’t have a Big Thing but you must really understand
We’ve got singers, artists, writers and sporting legends too.
We’ve got pride in our valley, its scenery and its views.
Our nearby national parks, our headlands and our beaches.
There’s always something happening, something there to teach us
And reminding us eternally of sacrifices made.
They’re our Streets of Honour, whose memories will never fade.
Chorus
There are many passing memories of those who’ve gone before,
But Kempsey has something special for those who went to war.
They’re known as Streets of Honour that help us all recall
The memories of those young ones, standing proud, erect and tall.
Repeat Chorus
Garry Munday. Kempsey. 7.9.2010.
BACKGROUND NOTES :
Marrawah, on the NW corner of Tasmania, was originally inhabited by the small tribal group, the Peerapper people.
The name Marrawah means Number One place.
Marrawah is most usually pronounced either Marrawah or Marrawoar. Nobody really cares too much about it.
(Mid tempo, maybe a bit reggae/ bluegrass feel)
VERSE 1 :
A long, long time ago the black man come
He was lookin’ for a good place, lookin’ for some sun.
He found lots of tasty game and seafood galore
So decided to stay and he called it Marrawah. (pronounced as if Marrawoar)
(spoken) : That’s Peerapper language, means number one place
(a voice) : It’s Marrawah mate, get it right.
CHORUS :
So Marrawah or Marrawoar, it’s all the same to us,
We don’t care how you say the word, we rarely make a fuss.
We’ve got clean air, good folk, it really is quite nice
It may be bloody windy, but it’s our own paradise.
VERSE 2 :
Much later came the white man, lookin’ for a home
Somewhere that he could clear some land and let his cattle roam.
He shot those pesky thylacines and devils by the score
They were hard, hard men who settled Marrawah (-oar)
(spoken – another voice) : That’s Marrawah mate, get it right
INSTRUMENTAL BREAK / VERSE
VERSE 3 :
And then there came the surfers, a dodgy, hairy lot
Looking for some waves at a west coast secret spot.
Some of them had football skills, could kick a ball quite far
So the welcome mat was rolled out if they played for Marrawah.
(spoken – another voice) : That’s Marrawoar mate, get it right.
CHORUS
I wrote this song about the small town of Trunkey, also known as Trunkey Creek, situated on the road between Bathurst and Goulburn NSW, not far from the Abercrombie River. Although a tiny town in size, it has a community with a big heart and pulls together for key events every year. It also has a very rich goldmining history.
On the road to Abercrombie is a tiny place called Trunkey
Nestling in the hills by the side of a silvery creek
Golden days
Summer haze
Shearing sheep in the shimmering heat
Going back over memories sweet
That's what Trunkey means to me
Chorus:
Take me back to Trunkey that's where I want to be
All my friends are there with stories to share, so much history
Oh, my heart belongs in Trunkey
That's the place for me
True gold can be found in this tiny town, why don't you come and see
There are yarns in the pub at Trunkey, that tell of days of yore
Billy cans, boots and sundries bought at Fred Davies' store
Frosty nights
Bright firelight
Gold in the ground that's never been found
You'll learn even more if you hang around
I like that...about Trunkey
Chorus:
Take me back to Trunkey, that's where I want to be
All my friends are there with stories to share, so much history
Oh, my heart belongs in Trunkey
That's the place for me
True gold can be found in this tiny town, why don't you come and see
There's gold in the hills of Trunkey, many will tell you so
Pan the creek for colours to seek in the sunshine it will glow
Time stands still
If you will
Your spirit free where you want to be
Dream in the shade of an old gum tree
That's what Trunkey means to me
Chorus:
Take me back to Trunkey, that's where I want to be
All my friends are there with stories to share, so much history
Oh, my heart belongs in Trunkey
That's the place for me
True gold can be found in this tiny town, why don't you come and see
(Last line of chorus repeated as follows)
True gold can be found in this tiny town, come fill your heart for free.
Lyrics by Melody Bland, Trunkey Creek NSW
[b]< ODE TO PINOCCHIO >[/b]
As cunning and as sly as an old vixen
and her word not worth a brass razoo
with smile just as false as her hair colour
and friends she'd count on fingers of two.
With the dial of an ugly old rodent
and snake eyes to put the taipan to shame
if she gets at you, you'll always remember
her litany of lies and self serving games.
She was born in the slums of old Britain
in the days before her giving a toss
learnt her trade from the dead beat commos
in the land of the great southern cross.
When the day came when she did travel
with no where in mind really at all
she slummed herself across to victoria
where the spin and the stories grow tall.
Then she humped her back pack into Lalor
looked around, with wrinkled brow
said somewhat upbeat, a safe Labor seat
that was thirty or so years ago now.
Together of times at the Workers Club
with a Chardonnay or two cross her chest
she'll tell of the MPs she slept with
and how they often lived up to the test.
And she'll tell of the PM she befriended
who's goal was to be number one in life
her eyes on Kev's back were fastened
a target waitin' for Pinocchio's knife.
On this day they witnessed the slaughter
the union thugs who organised the coup
she shared with them great satisfaction
then declared, Kev'll be in my cabinet too.
I've been there and back in my travels
and women like her I've known are few
thank God for this great blessing
he has been kind to me,what about you?
Cheers Tom.
Dreaming of Charters Towers.
Well It's been years since I've been home
I'm all depressed and all alone
All the wild times in the south I'll leave behind
I never tried to save a cent all my money I just spent
I'm dreamin of going home now for some time
Oh to be back home again at xmas time
Chorous:
Yes I'm dreaming of Charters Towers tropical gardens all the flowers
when the poinciana trees are all in bloom
It's december and I'm glad I'll be home with mum and dad
With a xmas tree in the corner of the room
Oh those happy days will be back with me soon
____
So tonight I'm heading north all my things are in one port
when I get back home there'll be much to recall
I don't fit in down here no more so when I would out through that door
I'll keep heading north untill I'm in "the world"
Charters Towers to me you'll always be my girl
Chorus:
Yes I'm dreaming of Charters Towers tropical gardens and all the flowers
when the poinciana trees are all in bloom
It's december and I'm glad I'll be home with mum and dad
with a xmas tree in the corner of the room
oh those happy days will be back with me soon
Just sittin around playin country tunes
Oh those happy days will be back with me soon
Bushy Boyd. ( Townsville )
THIS IS NOT A SONG ABOUT A SINGLE TOWN. IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY YOU GROW UP AND WORK THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE TERRITORY. THAT’S MY HOME …….TOWN.
Lite the fuse on a rocket………head’n south on’a Friday night
Splitt’n it through the traffic…..Gott’a put Darwin town out’a sight
Hit the Hayes Creek jump’n up…….Started grab’n gears slow’n down
Launched it off the otherside…and come slid’n into Katherine Town
I had that jukebox pump’n ……music echoed in the night
I snapped it back another gear and made that big dog bite.
CHOURS
Cause I love my hillbilly music…..love country rock and roll
Cart’n freight …going interstate… that music rocks my soul
It’ll make ya blood start pump’n….when ya mix it with a V8’s crack
Hang’n off that steer’n wheel it’ll make ya hair blow back
Sent it out’a K Town……..chase’n those tail lights down
Foot stuck through the firewall…..pull ya head in I’m come’n round
Put Mataranka in the mirror……shook the windows of Hi-way Inn
Dunmarra was back behind me as Saturday morn was ease’n in
CHOURS
Cause I love my hillbilly music…..love country rock and roll
Cart’n freight …going interstate….that music rocks my soul
It’ll make ya’ blood start pump’n…..when ya mix it with a V8’s crack
Hang’n off that steer’n wheel it’ll make ya’ hair blow back
Beat the sunshine into Tennent Creek ….and was gone before the crack of dawn
Everyone one was getting up…….and I aint begun to yawn
Cause it’s five hours flat to Alice …….and I aint stick’n round
I’m standing on the governor……. soot’n out a V8 sound.
Cause I love my hillbilly music….love country rock and roll
Cart’n freight going interstate… that music rocks my soul
It’ll make ya blood start pump’n …when ya mix it with a V8’s crack
Hang’n off that steer’n wheel it’ll make ya hair blow back
The territory makes ya hair blow back
Wanga 04
Song Competition
Riverlanders
She is the Hydraplat rider, up so high no one can hide her,
she moves from tree to tree like a sugar glider,
she climbs like a spider, that Hydraplat rider.
He’s the truck engine tuner looking forward to just one schooner,
he is a child under his dooner, he is the apricot tree pruner
he does it now or sooner.
They cross the Murray on the Lyrup ferry, situated near the Riverland’s Berri
They work outdoors and are suntanned very,
They pick a the cherry and the grape vine berry
He is the tractor driver, he spreads the organic fertilizer, the soil reviver
she swims in the river, that Lady Godiver, she is a sustainable life striver
she couldn’t be aliver, a real survivor.
She is the citrus sorter, she is the fruit grower’s daughter
she is the school teacher who taught her, he is the husband that caught her
AND THEY ALL NEED SOME WATER.
I wrote this song about my home town Benalla, but at the same time I try to use the features, weather and a little bit of history from here, to write about the nature of towns generally, and how they reflect who we are as a collective
Heart is where the home is
(Verse 1)
Built upon the Broken River,
The lifeblood of the lake
This town that always delivers
The bridge of memories free to take
(Chorus 1)
There’s magic hidden in her gardens
It’s the answer concealed in her art
She’s always a picture of beauty
Benalla’s forever residing in my heart
(Verse 2)
Leaves litter the streets in autumn
Pollen glides through the air in spring
This town fit for a drunken beggar
Tailored for any wandering king
(Chorus 2)
Eden's nestled within her gardens
Picasso's an admirer of her art
Mugs are bedazzled by her beauty
Benalla's the constant beat in our hearts
(Verse 3)
The summers are getting hotter
Frosty winters feel like they’ll never end
There's not a soul that isn't affected,
But not a soul that wouldn’t lend a hand
(Extension)
We won’t forget the floods,
The fires and the smoke filled skies
Even when the sun turns the color of blood
The thought of home will get us by
(Chorus 3)
Everyone's welcome in her gardens
Every painting’s a tribute to her art
Blind men speak of her beauty
Benalla’s always a mirror into the heart
Three Double Five O
Verse 1:
Hey boy, it's been too long
Just want you to know
We're missing you.
How are you geeting on?
So I've helped you out boy
I know you're busy son
Chorus:
Please find enclosed:
Stamped, self-addressed envelope
Postcode reads
Three Double Five O
This is your home boy
Remember Bendigo
Verse 2:
Sitting in my office
On this grey London day
My mind starts to wander
Back to times of work and play
Rousin' for Dad
When shearin' comes round
A clodie at the Shamrock
To wash the dust down
Saving me pay cheques
My heart's London bound
It couldn't be kinder
Ma's handwritten reminder . . .
Chorus:
Please find enclosed:
Stamped, self-addressed envelope
Postcode reads
Three Double Five O
This is your home boy
Remember Bendigo
Verse 3:
Motorbikes weaving
Through Iron Bark trees
How far removed
Could I possibly be?
When this 'letter' stands here
Ma starts sheding a tear
Final Chorus:
Please find at our door:
Stamped, self-addressed envelope
Postcode reads
Three Double Five O
Here I am Ma
I remember Bendigo
Here I am Ma
I'm home, Bendigo
Three Double Five O
Verse 1:
Hey boy, it's been too long
Just want you to know
We're missing you.
How are you geeting on?
So I've helped you out boy
I know you're busy son
Chorus:
Please find enclosed:
Stamped, self-addressed envelope
Postcode reads
Three Double Five O
This is your home boy
Remember Bendigo
Verse 2:
Sitting in my office
On this grey London day
My mind starts to wander
Back to times of work and play
Rousin' for Dad
When shearin' comes round
A clodie at the Shamrock
To wash the dust down
Saving me pay cheques
My heart's London bound
It couldn't be kinder
Ma's handwritten reminder . . .
Chorus:
Please find enclosed:
Stamped, self-addressed envelope
Postcode reads
Three Double Five O
This is your home boy
Remember Bendigo
Verse 3:
Motorbikes weaving
Through Iron Bark trees
How far removed
Could I possibly be?
When this 'letter' stands here
Ma starts sheding a tear
Final Chorus:
Please find at our door:
Stamped, self-addressed envelope
Postcode reads
Three Double Five O
Here I am Ma
I remember Bendigo
Here I am Ma
I'm home, Bendigo
BRIDGETOWN BLUES
1. Tapping up your heels, feel the beat of the drums
My hand in yours, we’ve only just begun
Melodies and guitars are buzzing in the streets
Bridgetown, Bridgetown Blues
Is where we love to meet.
Chorus:
Street stalls, water falls
Night skies, country life
Green hills, blue jeans
Black hats, cool cats
High heels, cold beers
Hand shakes and good mates
2. Kicking up our heels, dancing the night away
Cold beers and hot dogs until the break of day
Lazin on those green banks with the one you love
Listening to that music and gazing stars above.
Chorus
3. Memories of the Blues, makes me think of you
Good ol’ Country air, those flowers in your hair
The way you held me close, just makes me want to boast
Bridgetown Blues, Bridgetown Blues take me there.
Chorus
4. Follow down the river road to coffee at the Cow
Drive that Blackwood country mile
Just to see sweet Rubie smile
And hear the bands play
At “The Bridgetown”, the Bridgetown Blues.
Chorus
Tight! Nice picking..... Great country sound Greg..... keep'em coming.
BOOMIE...your song about Hedland is spot on. I LOVE IT. Hope you win.
my town is boonooroo queensland
Boonooroo
some newlyweds in brisbane
thought theyd like to get away
go driving in the country
on this lovely summers day
they headed north, then turned east
and right out of the blue
they found our little hide-away
a place called boonooroo
they didnt find a restaurant
or a fancy shopping mall
in fact they couldnt find themselves
any shop at all
but they did find pristine waterways
and lots of mangroves too
the birds and all the wildlife
that live in boonooroo
they gazed on fraser island
on the sandy straits so blue
and thought this is magnificent,
this place called boonooroo
as they headed out they found us
the locals at the 'hub'
the only shop in town as well
our little bowling club
theyd had no chance for coffee
or croissants for two
so they turned into the car park
of bowls club boonooroo
the bar was turned to silence
as is the country way
till they got their drinks and turned to us
smiled and said ' gidday '
they sidled up to terry
and were talking for a while
then the lady asked a question
that made old terry smile
" whats it like living in the country ?"
" i wouldnt know, young wife -
i was born right here in town you see,
and lived here all me life !!!"
eventually, they got the joke
and had a drink or two
but alas they had to leave us
and our lovely boonooroo
they would leave us to our peaceful nights
and our million billion stars
then head back home to brisbane
in that endless line of cars
theyd love this day for ever
and forever hold the view
they were bloody lucky
to find our boonooroo
c - copywrite guy hunter boonooroo qld. 1st september 2010
Home
See how the land lies; see all the blue sky
Listen to the magpies on a typical day.
See all the pretty girls best place in the whole world
Ride a tram to the beachside; take a swim in the bay.
Let your heart take it all in. There’s peace in the busy streets
Let your mind take it all in. Just follow your feet.
Meet me under the clocks babe outside the station
I’ll buy you a coffee in the middle of town
We’ll walk through the alleys buy you a pretty red dress
I’ll slip in beside you and watch while you change
Give a dollar to the busker. We’ll watch all the fast cars
Stand under the elm trees when it starts to rain.
I’m a Melbourne boy, born and bred
It’s in my talk it’s in my head
I’m a Melbourne boy; it’s in my soul
Wanna stand in the city square and watch it grow old.
I’ve worked underneath her
Aint nothing sweeter
Find a parking meter and leave the old car
We could go to the MCG hold my hand and walk with me
Once the bombers win the game babe, we’ll have a drink in the bar.
Love the work of the builders and singing ‘Waltzing Matilda’
While the city watches over me and I watch the stars…
(Van Morrison) I want to stay, stay a while with my own ones
One more day, one more day with my own ones
This old world is so cold it don’t care nothing for your soul
But this old town does…
Once you’ve learned to walk here pretty soon you learn to run
I’ve heard the people from Sydney say we never get the sun
But we get enough babe and you and me make it brighter
The ‘Old Lady Of The South’ is still a girl who has fun
Yeah the Yarra’s pretty dirty and there’s some people been hurt here
But if you love it like I do. Then the stories just begun.
LOVENING AND LIVING IN DARWIN
I love living in Darwin NT
She’s Home Sweet Home to me
I love the wet season especially the rain
It brings back life once again
The people are great a multicultural city
A big difference to folks living in the big cities
I love watching those dragon flies
A definite sign of the dry
I love me fishing and Jonahs my name
Yet to catch a fish but I’m game
I love the Mindil Markets Thursday nights
Asian foods delightful cooked just right
I love camping in the great outback
Sometimes I don’t feel like coming back
My grandchildren keep me on my toes
They help me forget all my woes
My children often visit me
Refreshing me like the sea breeze
I love living in Darwin NT
Close by the Arafura Sea
Luke S Morcom
1-9-2010
©
The sweetest town in all the State,
Two, four, five, eight
Just look and you'll appreciate
Two, four, five, eight.
Chorus: Merimbula, lovely with hills, lakes and sea
Always says welcome home to me.
Blue sea and sky predominate
Two, four, five, eight
Folk who smile have helped to create
Two, four, five, eight
Merimbula, lovely with hills, lakes and sea
Always says welcome home to me.
Whate'er my future or my fate
Two, four, five, eight,
Your charm will always captivate
Two, four, five, eight.
Merimbula, lovely with hills, lakes and sea
Always says welcome home to me.
"Mundubbera Magic"
What makes my town a special place,
what makes this jewel shine?
What holds my heart strings evermore
so I can call it mine?
It's every smile and G'day mate,
The "No Strings" helping hand...
The beauty and the bounty of Mundubbera's Promised Land.
CHORUS
So meet me at Mundubbera's gate
Come watch our world go by
Come taste a touch of magic
In the Burnett by'n'by
Come dream your dreams ---- dance the dance
Waltz into town and take a chance
To start anew or wipe away the tears
This little town's been doin' it for years
This little town's been doin' it for years
We're pretty good at cricket,
Martin Love can vouch for that .....
And we're magic on the footy field,
or any old creek flat.
There's chandeliers of citrus,
pearly grapes upon the vine...
And the sweetest cattle country that is ... so, so fine.
CHORUS
We will stand up and be counted ....
in the kitchen or the yards,
Standing up for values try'd'n'true,
we're holding all the cards ...
So with drumming heart and gentle grace,
It whispers "You Belong"
This town of past and present voices, hear them in the song.
See the people down by the river , drinkin` on the best strawberry wine , and you can see the smiles upon the peoples faces , guaranteed to make you feel real fine , and there`s a rope swing there up in the tree , man throws a line in for the fish to see , you can tell he`s a local `round here , `cause when the fish are biting you`ll see him there . ( Chorus ) Longtime a livin` easy when you find a place to live your life , Longtime a livin` here . Longtime a livin` easy ...yeah . (Verse 2 ) So come up here and take the time to look around you and , is it what you really wanted to find , and there`s nothing between it and The Great Dividing Range , and the people up here they got nothing to hide ... yeah . ( Chorus ) So relax and have strawberry and leave all your troubles behind you , and see the smiles upon the peoples faces down by the riverside we`ll have a goodtime ( Chorus - Add live - End ) Thanks Al Keating .
"GYMPIE"
Historic Gympic is just placed right
Handy to everything in sight
With friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle
Come for a visit and stay a while.
There's sport and shopping and plenty to do
Work or retirement could be for you.
CHORUS
You've just got to stop in Gympie
the best town in the Country!
We're farming nearby and fishing to
And lots of hills with pretty views
Ride the Rattler, a great trip by steam
Valley countryside - the prettiest ever seen!
Enjoy muster camping, music and fun
Goodd times with friends for everyone.
CHORUS
You've just got to stop in Gympie,
the best town in the Country!
Gympie's story should be told
Good for families - young and old
Go to the beach - a short scenic drive
Makes you feel great to be alive
Relax a bit - it will make you smile
Stay in Gympie and live in style!
CHORUS
You've just got to stop in Gympie,
the best town in the Country!
OH YEAH!!!
MY HOME
Morning mist on the river
A low sun casts a warm light ‘cross the flats
Two pelicans skim like Hercs from The Base
A lone rower’s insect legs cut across the water
Loaded trucks shift down to cross the bridge
Engines throb; then growl as lights turn green
It’s my home
It’s my home
Nowra’s home.
Chorus
The morning routine brings a smile
Head to the coast or pause a while?
Coffee’s hot; toast’s on the plate
And your smile brings me home.
Sleepy town awakens; the sun’s climbed through the trees
Off to school, kids laugh and chatter
Cambewarra watches over all
Mid day news on the phone
She’s in labour – doin’ it tough.
Share lunch under Jacarandas
As the river strolls to the sea
Kookaburras call from the gumtops
Laughing truants head to Bomaderry.
In Shoalhaven’s many villages
Neighbours laugh or lean and smile
Tenderly friends farewell a comrade
And a funeral cortege sobs on by.
Chorus
Life’s routine brings some wonder
Drive to the coast or sit at home?
Kettle’s hot ‘n’ hearts are ready
And your face is alive with love
The afternoon shadows stretch and yawn
Phone call at last – mum and baby girl doin’ fine
Your soft tears make me smile as it’s
Night time on the river
A full moon hovers in a Van Gogh sky
Trapped by the bridge’s steely arms
She breaks free and reaches for the stars
Chorus
Another day to bring a smile
All’s right with the world, pause for a while
It’s my home
Nowra’s home
Welcome home.
THE LURE
By Martin Pattie © 2010
My Grand-daddy’s Daddy crossed that saddle on Black Mountain
All them pack-track miles, way too many to be countin’
And the whistle of the water in the Little Annan River he could hear
And the Lions Den Pub . . back in 1882
From a perch at the bar with the mountain in view
And the glasses of beer made the dust in his throat disappear
All the bushies told their tales of the spirits of that mountain
‘mongst the coves and the scratchers there was very little doubtin’
That the callin’ of the curlew in the night time came too soon
And the old timber floors of the Lions Den rattled
As the timber cutters chewed through a hundred head o’ cattle
And a hundred weight of tin it was washed by the light of the moon
There was a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispered screaming near
Now there’s four wheel drives that are corrugation countin’
As they bust off the black top as they’re drivin’ past the Mountain
With their headlights piercin’ through a blanket of Helenvale dust
And the same tin and timber is the Lions Den Pub
While the Annan still flows out the back through the scrub
Where the old tin mine has been smothered by the jungle and the rust
And the Black Mountain boulders - still a big pile o granite
But the tourists think it’s lookin’ like it’s from another planet
And the Murri man won’t even go near the mountain at all
just a handful of K’s over Wallaby Creek
Through a rainforest maze under Finnegan’s Peak
Where the night time still hears the echoin’ curlew call
There’s still a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispers screaming near
And then the Mountain gets blacker and the flyin’ ants swarm
As the sky closes in and the thunderheads form
And the rumbling river it roars from the mountains high
And still the stories from the bar fill them Mango Trees
While the Annan and The Mountain make you feel unease
And the curlew calls they fill up the night time sky
And the scrub it comes alive with the stories told of tin
When the monsoon comes everybody’s rained in
And there aint no use for a modern day mobile phone
It’s a wild old ride on the Helenvale Track
When the Annan River rises there aint no goin’ back
Mother Nature as she does, always . . . she reclaims her own
Cos there’ll always be . . . a mountain, and a pub
And the Annan River through the scrub
But it’s rainin’ axe handles
And the curlew’s callin’ still
I inadvertantly neglected to include the title of entry August 28 2:37 PM.
It is:
Cheers Tom.
< POST CODE 2549 >
Chorus: Ride down unroll your bluey
at the town I claim to be mine
with a beer or two we'll G'day to you
at post code two five four nine.
--------------------------------
Verse 1: Dismount at the hitching rail
just outside the Bottom Pub
stroll inside for a cold one
and join me in a bite of grub
the oldtimers will grab your ear
about the history of their Shire
the little town of Pambula
its droughts floods and bush fires.
---------------------------------
Verse 2: They'll tell of the bushy they toiled with
who's attention in life was the lyre
claimed these birds, his saw they'd mocked
but with no rev control the results were dier
then there were the local larakins
who white washed old Dan's black steed
now Dan reported his prize horse stolen
replaced with an old white nag, he greived.
----------------------------------
Verse 3: There was the time in the long ago now
with flood waters high over the flat
the only way to the other side
was astride the Goana's back
now this big lizard a stubborn old cuss
often times he'd well jib at the bit
he'd pig root and do a belly roll
and give the rider the slip.
-----------------------------------
Verse 4: One night, Dan at the pub they'll recall
horse and cart he'd hitched to the fence
now the local yocals had a brillaint idea
they swore they meant no offence
from the shafts old Dan's horse they took
and slipped the poles through the paling slats
then reharnessed the steed on tother' side
and with beers in hand they settled back.
-----------------------------------
Verse 5: Come midnight, time for Dan the trail to hit
to his horse and cart at a drunken stride
with reins in hand all set to go
but Black Bessy just wouldn't abide
with a puzzled look upon his face
old Dan just couldn't work it out
on horse hair seat he settled back
declared,I think there's time for one more shout.
-------------------------------------
THE LURE
My Grand-daddy’s Daddy crossed that saddle on Black Mountain
All them pack-track miles, way too many to be countin’
And the whistle of the water in the Little Annan River he could hear
And the Lions Den Pub . . back in 1882
From a perch at the bar with the mountain in view
And the glasses of beer made the dust in his throat disappear
All the bushies told their tales of the spirits of that mountain
‘mongst the coves and the scratchers there was very little doubtin’
That the callin’ of the curlew in the night time came too soon
And the old timber floors of the Lions Den rattled
As the timber cutters chewed through a hundred head o’ cattle
And a hundred weight of tin it was washed by the light of the moon
There was a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispered screaming near
Now there’s four wheel drives that are corrugation countin’
As they bust off the black top as they’re drivin’ past the Mountain
With their headlights piercin’ through a blanket of Helenvale dust
And the same tin and timber is the Lions Den Pub
While the Annan still flows out the back through the scrub
Where the old tin mine has been smothered by the jungle and the rust
And the Black Mountain boulders - still a big pile o granite
But the tourists think it’s lookin’ like it’s from another planet
And the Murri man won’t even go near the mountain at all
just a handful of K’s over Wallaby Creek
Through a rainforest maze under Finnigans Peak
Where the night time still hears the echoin’ curlew call
There’s still a mountain, and a pub
And a river through the scrub
And the curlew calling whispers screaming near
And then the Mountain gets blacker and the flyin’ ants swarm
As the sky closes in and the thunderheads form
And the rumbling river it roars from the mountains high
And still the stories from the bar fill them Mango Trees
While the Annan and The Mountain make you feel unease
And the curlew calls they fill up the night time sky
And the scrub it comes alive with the stories told of tin
When the monsoon comes everybodies rained in
And there aint no use for a modern day mobile phone
It’s a wild old ride on the Helenvale Track
When the Annan River rises there aint no goin’ back
Mother nature as she does, always . . . she reclaims her own
Cos there’ll always be a mountain, and a pub
And the Annan River through the scrub
But it’s rainin’ axe handles
And the curlew’s callin’ still
ILFRACOMBE
If you travel west of Rocky
Across the Great Divide
You'll find our Inlfracombe
A town so full of pride
CHORUS
As we sit here on the verandah
Beneath the old gum tree
Listening to the birds sing
Mum, Dad and Me
The black soil plains are dry
With the lack of summer rain
The duststorms are brewing
Please God, send us rain!!
CHORUS
The wool scour is in action
It's 1963
And look here comes the Middlelander
Of what a sight to see!!
As we sit here on the verandah,
Beneath the oldd gum tree,
Listening to the birds sing,
Mum, Dad and Me.
I am a boarder from a village called Humula near Wagga Wagga. This song was inspired by my home and the feeling i get when i am on way back from the school to the farm. The lyrics describe the great memories and qualities of my home, and the almost indescribable feeling of happiness country life brings to me especially after being away from it, in the Sydney smoke, for way too long.
IM COMING HOME
It’s been too long my heart grows weary,
I miss the dirt, and the cattle grazing when I look out my window.
The cities alright, But it beckons me back,
The worn out road, musterin on horseback that’s my home, forever.
I travelled the world, and that was all good,
But my mind didn’t change like my momma said it would, I was homesick all the while.
(Bridge)
They say at home you’ll find your heart,
And it has been there from the start,
It time to go where it feels right,
Where you can sleep through all night,
Home is where I’m heading--------
(Chorus)
45 degrees, the eucalyptus trees,
That’s dusty red road, where the traffic is slow.
The fresh out back air, not a worry not a care.
I’m coming home, I’m coming home.
Dips in the dam, barbys with fam,
When the drought comes around, we'll tough it all out.
cause I’m coming home, yes I’m coming home.
The Ute gives a rumble, it won’t be long,
I’m sittin in my jeans, and my flannel’s on, I’ve almost reached my dream.
My families all there, there waiting for me,
I can barely hold it in, I just wanna scream, it been way too long.
The mailbox out front, the old tin can,
I swing the front gate wide, I take a look at the land, it is a view I’ve missed
(Bridge)
They say at home you’ll find your heart,
And It has been there from the start,
It time to go where it feels right,
Where you can sleep through all night,
Home is where I’m heading--------
(Chorus)
45 degrees, the eucalyptus trees,
That’s dusty red road, where the traffic is slow.
The fresh out back air, not a worry not a care.
I’m coming home, I’m coming home.
Dips in the dam, barbys with fam,
When the drought comes around, we’ll tough it all out.
cause I’m coming home, yes I’m coming home.
45 degrees, the eucalyptus trees,
That’s dusty red road, where the traffic is slow.
The fresh out back air, not a worry not a care.
I’m coming home, I’m coming home --- today.
This is a song I wrote about going back to my home town of Forbes and the road that I pass everytime I drive there, it's about five miles out of town and whenever I see it I know home is just around the corner, memories come flooding back of home:
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
When I see it rolling round the bend
I know that it ain't long till I get home.
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
Rollin over the bridge at sunset watchin stars collecting while I roam.
Nothing ever changes and my love is never wasted,
Feelings washing over me again.
I know I've been away for too long,
Livin my life and singing my song
It's time to come back home where I belong.
I see the lights as I pull in and hold my mum and dad again
wishing I could stay for evermore.
As I cherish every minute, watching my dad grinning
and listen to the stories geting told.
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
When I see it coming round the bend
I know that it aint long till I get home
Yellow Box Road, Yellow Box Road
Rolling over the bridge at sunset
Watchin stars collecting while I roam
If I could only keep it all beside me,
and take it all back with me when I go.
So I hold on to the memories of everything home means
to me and dream of clear skies shining round the bend.
But until I take those steps back home I'll keep on
driving down this road until I see old Yellow Box again.
Yes, until I take those steps back home I'll keep on driving down this road ... until I see old yellow box again.
Wattle, Daub & Rust
No ordinary house, the one where we lived
When I was a kid in Hill End,
Near the rubble of gold mines, now spent and deserted,
But where the old house was a friend.
Made of wattle and daub, a simple bush building
Protected now by the Trust,
The house where we lived is somehow still standing
Held together by rust.
Chorus:
Returning to visit my old childhood home
The highlights of memories flood,
Brought back by the sight of the tumble down house
Made out of the red Hill End mud
My old Uncle Tommy lived there for a while.
He said he had ‘done the place up’.
Well, he’d lined the walls with fresh sheets of newsprint
And a light globe was now hanging up.
A few extra boards were laid on the dirt
To help make a new kitchen floor.
But there’s still the lean-to, long-drop dunny out back,
Leaning-to just a little bit more.
Chorus:
Returning to visit my old childhood home
The highlights of memories flood
Brought back by the sight of the tumble down house
Made out of the red Hill End mud
I remember my mum patching holes in the walls
With handfuls of wet sticky clay
And warm days we’d run barefoot in the grass
And trees were fun places to play.
The ghosts of my childhood are haunting Hill End,
Nuggets of things said and done,
And somehow, the pieces still hang there together,
No ordinary childhood, that one.
Chorus:
Returning to visit my old childhood home
The highlights of memories flood
Brought back by the sight of the tumble down house
Made out of the red Hill End mud
CHERRY TIME IN MANJIMUP
WHEN IT'S CHERRY TIME IN MANJI
FOLKS COME FROM MILES AROUND
TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON
AND SEE CHERRY QUEEN BE CROWNED
THERE'S LOT OF THINGS TO SEE AND DO
WITH LOTS OF SPECIAL TREATS
THERE ARE SMILING FACES EVERYWHERE
AND CHERRIES THERE TO EAT
WITH VINTAGE CARS ON DISPLAY
AND BIKES AND TRACTORS TOO
THERE ARE EVEN COMPETITIONS
FOR FOLKS LIKE ME AND YOU
WHEN ITS CHERRY TIME IN MANJI
WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE YOU THERE
TO JOIN US IN THE GOOD TIMES
WE WOULD REALLY LIKE TO SHARE
< I'M GOIN BACK TO THE GONG >
-----------------------------------------
Chorus: I'm goin' back to the Gong
where the mountains meet the sea
where the sunshine swathes the beaches
and the lifestyle beckons me.
-----------------------------------------
Verse 1: I've had my share of country life
as peaceful as this may be
but I miss the bustle of city life
it's Wollongong again for me.
-----------------------------------------
Verse 2: With its coal mines and the steelworks
and the port facilities
I wouldn't trade the lights of Wollongong
for the bright lights of Sydney.
-----------------------------------------
Verse 3: From all corners of the world
folks have come to settle down
in the great city of Wollongong
in the long ago my home town.
-----------------------------------------
Repeat Chorus: I'm Goin>>>>>
Roy's tea, Linda's sugar, Dinah's tim tams ,Pauls milk
The tiny town of Woodridge, was heavily timbered then, that's going back, a hundred years and ten
we were just a stop-off, for coaches to the coast, water for the horses, folk got tea and toast.
the country side remained, unchanged for many years, then all the crowds came, lots of land was cleared
gone were trees of old and birds that they held, in their places homes were built, where families could dwell.
round that time i started, walking with my dog, firstly it was Pinto, nowadays it's Oz
frequently we visit, the Links at number 10, starting with a shy hello, now we're best of friends.
There's been lots of jokes, hundreds of debates, one or two disputes, but never over states
maroon is the colour, flying through our veins, we both love the sunshine state, even when it rains.
To-days logan locals, take a great big bow, we've grown up together,just look at us now
we're building new forests and though there's more to do, let's be like the pioneers ans stop.......
to have a brew! get the billy goin mate let's have a cup or twooooooooooooooooooo!
------------------------------
Chorus: Now this highway has all the signals there
It's a long way to go but a lot for all to share
I can see all the signs,feel the tie that binds
as I travel down the highway of my mind.
Verse 1: I can see the lights in the distance
can see reflections of days gone by
I shed what was of me, now far behind
the warmth of Perth still surrounds me
as the thread around my thoughts unwind.
Verse 2: I remember my first trip across the big paddock
my memry' of those days of heat and dust
corrugations we diddlybopped and held on tight
but something of the west stirred me deeply
when it's golden gateway came in sight.
Verse 3: Broome's cable beach,the turning of the tide
and the power of Perth's City overccome me
It wasn't only rays of Sunday mornin' sun
feelins' of those days are more than embers
a glowing fire of love for Perth had then begun.
Repeat Chorus: Now>>>>>>
So you're fed up with city life the constant cattle crush
You need a chance to clear out from the bustle and the rush
Then take the Way called Waterfall and up around the bend
You'll find a piece of paradise the town of Bellingen
There's cockies and there's hippies amd occasional celebs
Some of them are wealthy but most of us are plebs
On Friday at the local you can get into a stink
Then catch up on the gossip with your mates at Centrelink
(Chorus)
Oh, the locals call it Bello but it's really Bellingen
If I have seen a nicer place I can't remember when
You wake up every morning and you feel like yor in heaven
Mother Nature did her best when she made Bellingen
Our footy team's the Mighty Magpies all in balck and white
We've had our share of glory but it's fading out of sight
On Sunday arvo down the park we give the boys a cheer
Then head back to the Diggers to drown the loss in beer
One day I heard a chopper and it really shook the floor
The next thing there's this copper big and ugly at my door
He said "Now you've been naughty son, we've caught you growing dope"
I said "They're just tomato plants, I bought them from the Pope"
Three weeks later hair slicked down I'm up before the beak
He said " So what's your story son, its now your turn to speak"
I said "It's all a fit up and the copper is a clown
Why take a look around you, he's nicked half the flamin' town"
Chorus
Where once there was a cafe and it sold you pie and peas
There's now a string of coffee shops and french patisseries
There's festivals of every kind that run throughout the year
No matter what may float your boat your sure to find it here
So if you want to change the sea or simply change a tree
Go search Australia far and wide but take a tip from me
You'll find the place you're looking for up around the bend
That little piece of paradise the town of Bellingen
Chorus
The Gem of Central Queensland
Pull your wagons in a circle
And set you camp chairs down
‘cause you’ve just arrived in paradise
In our central highlands town
You’ve cut a trail thru sunflowers
Of paddocks gold and green
And there’s paintings on the hillsides
Just waiting to be seen
There’s gems of blue and yellow
And further up the road
You could find another fortune
In a little piece of gold
Sydney has its harbour
Melbourne has its bay
The highlands has the biggest lake
That man has ever made
At night the sky is clear above
The stars are bright and shine
And down here on the surface
There’s the bright lights of the mines
There’s a dragline working tirelessly
Bringing coal up from the ground
With an army of hardened miners
Working closely all around
We welcome the grey nomads
From the west and from the south
‘cause they already heard the secret
As its spreads from mouth to mouth
That here out on the highlands
there are wonders all around
and the friendly locals faces
Are the real jewels to be found
So come on caravaners
And campers of all size
Come out to the central highlands
And collect the worthy prize!
“Redback” – Emerald 0426167202
My Town…… By Ken Scott
Though city born, in my dreams I could see, our children all raised in rural country
So I packed wife & kids, no point hangin’ round & set our sites on Nabiac town
You’ll need a good cow, that’s what they all said, they couldn’t believe it as they rolled out of bed
‘Cause down the road in their gum boots they ran, how Fresians can run, my goodness they can!
And then there was Digby with his old cattle truck, when his run was over it was all full of muck,
He’d yell & prod & curse & swear till he had all those cows & calves right up there
Now Tom’s a short curly headed bloke, always good for a smile & a bit of joke
He’d don’ the glove & with a great long shove, “she’ll have a nice calf by next winter luv”.
The kids had no trouble gettin’ to school, cause Jim drove the bus, they said he was cool,
There goes the bus, guess we’re to late!, no problem at all he’ll wait by the gate
A cattle sale will be held next week, there’ll be a big crowd & they’ll all need to eat
the wife calls her new friend Valerie, she’ll help with the cakes & a nice cup of tea
Chorus
We moved to this town for a new way of life, away from the city its pollution & strife
Twenty years later much wiser is he, for he knows it’s not the grass or the green of the trees
It’s the people, their spirit & the character I see, that makes this small town the right place for me.
NOVOCASTRIAN SWEAT
I was born just a breath away from the ocean
Near a beach that is popular for surfin'
My youth days were filled with excitement
In Newcastle they're not short of entertainment
The blue collar boys taught me all about life
Not to forget some migrants that I knew from Fife
The steelworks once contributed to the bread
But no longer they do something else instead
But now I've moved away
And I'll go back some day
You know I've no regret
Growing up on Novocastrian Sweat
I got some friends they worked in a coal mine
They remember the strike back in 1949
And had to struggle to buy food and groceries
Helped by friends that worked in factories
They play a guitar and sing songs to greet
When busking in the mall in Hunter street
Ambassadors of nightlife fill the tavern
I've never ever driven an FJ Holden
But now I've moved away
And I'll go back some day
You know I've no regret
Growing up on Novocastrian Sweat
Merchant ships tied up from other ports
With hands that mix with blokes on the wharf
They share stories and a laugh and a brew
And invite them around for a barbecue
The weekends are enjoyed by all
That see their local side play football
I'd see jelly fish drifting up the Hunter river
And whales swim out at sea near a Clipper
But now I've moved away
And I'll go back some day
You know I've no regret
Growing up on Novocastrian Sweat
Beswick27/08/2010
Wheels keep on turning, travelling coast to coast
In B-doubles and on freight trains
They're carrying the loads
People ask you where you come from
Very few know the town
They know the name, that made us fame
THAT'S OUR BEGA TOWN
I've been around Australia, nearly been everywhere
Been in shops, in the outback, you'll find it everywhere
All sealed up in plastic with a look you can't mistake
Looking like gold, well lo behold
IT'S OUR OWN BEGA CHEESE
Wheels keep on turning, travelling coast to cost
In B-doubles and on freight trains
They're carrying the loads
I've been around Australia, nearly been everywhere
Been in shops, in the outback, you'll find it everywhere
There it is again, (BEGA)
MOPARRABAH
come track the willi willi road
along the toorumbee creek
where joy is part of living
leave your sorrows at your feet
there are creek stones like gold nuggetts
there's a story there to tell
of droving days and the dreamtime
with caves like wishing wells
the horses from up on ranges
were a line that farrells bred
mccoys creek hold their bloodlines
on the sweet flats where they fed
from the mountain tops of parrabell
taits brook flows softly by
where wedge tails nest in spring time
and we dreamt of what was nigh
moparrabah sings her own song
and her beauty takes me back
to childhood days when we would play
on the willi willi track
come track the willi willi road
along the toorumbee creek
where joy is part of living
leave your sorrows at your feet
lyrics by:coggie wilshusen
MY HOME TOWN PAMBULA.
------------------------------------
Chorus: Where there's eucalypts by the roadside
crimson brush nectar treat to the lorikeet
Yes, it's my historic home town of Pambula
but just a rooster's crow from the beach.
---------------------------------------
Verse 1: On the shores of the great Pacific ocean
below the mountains of the Kosiusko snow
rests a village pride of the Sapphire coast
where the rivers of the Bega Valley flow.
--------------------------------------
Verse 2: Where the wedgetail ever circles slowly
seeking cottontails with sharp eagle eyes
from far up in God's great heavens
from the sun drenched cloudless skies.
---------------------------------------
Verse 3: The eastern greys bound across the flat
the water hen seek refuge by the wetlands
while the king,rosella and the moutain larry
say g'day where the old church still stands.
----------------------------------------
Repeat Chorus:
NURIOOTPA
Stark and bare are the vines, sleeping, with arms outwide
Winter chills them, stills them, resting on the hillsides
Their feet tucked under crispy frost that lies in the hollows
Where green crops help to nourish the growth soon to follow
That is triggered by spring, with the vines unfolding
Bunches of hope brewing in the juice they are holding
These majestic vineyards make NURIOOTPA so grand
For the vineyards and the people go hand in hand
CHORUS
Vineyards and vignerons, vats and vines
It all ends up in premium class wines
We live in the valley, with beauty all round
Nuriootpa is buzzing, it's our kind of town
We all call it NURI, cos that's a lot easier
Barossa's northern gateway is waiting to please you
It's name means "meeting place"and we do that well
At cafes and coffee shops where we stop for a spell
Enchanting bush cottages will entice you to sleep
Cellar door memories you will just want to keep
For fresh local produce, there's only one place to go
It's the farmers market, where the best is on show
CHORUS
Vintage festivals and street parades often take place
Local brass bands excel, and they set a fast pace
Pop stars and jazz concerts bring crowds to the greens
At some of our wineries, they're great outdoor scenes
There are all types of sports here, to be played by all
Soccer, tennis and horses and the Tigers football
Swimming, netball and rugby, the list is too long
Whatever you choose, you'll be sure to belong
CHORUS
Gunnedah by Graham Finlay
I've travelled near,
I've travelled far,
But I'm sure I'll stick with Gunnedah,
Whether you go there by horse or car.
I've sen it cringe,
I've seen it smile,
But now it's moving on with style.
It was mainly built on wheat and wool,
With the odd guy giving cow's teats a pull.
Coal once played a minor part,
Now it's the towns main beating heart.
The soil around is rich and sweet,
some like dark chocolate you could eat,
a block will stand you on your feet.
With the Namoi river flowing clear,
And Keepit Dam so very near,
You can sail and fish all the year.
So whether your in retirement,
Or charging on full steam ahead,
Gunnedahs the place to stop,
Settle down you'll finish top.
Lyrics by Graham Finlay.
Hi Guys. I have already submitted an entry titled COUNTRY'S IN MY BLOOD, entry No 1, but I thought I would just share these few words with you. It is not about any particular town but rather outback Australia in general.I penned it in 1974 when I was working in Carnarvon W.A.
THE STOCKMAN COLOURED BLACK.
-------------------------------------------------------
The ominous purple hue of the horizon
gives a hopeful impression of impendin' rain
as a lonely Australian stockman
gazes across the solar baked plain
the emerald colour of this land has long since gone,
underfoot God's earth has began to crack
dreamtimes meander through the mind
of the Stockman Coloured Black
---------------------------------------
Through life right from a small lad
his own has been a battle
across this wild majestic land
every direction he has driven cattle
in his mind a question, God is it all worth it?
will the good times come back
times are past for dreamin'
ponders, The Stockman Coloured Black.
-----------------------------------------
Descending from this dark leaden sky
the life giving water soon must come
or fodder there'll be little of
and cattle there'll be none
the stillness of the air cradles a gentle wisp of smoke
slowly emitting from his shack
in the wilderness a palace
to the Stockman Coloured Black.
----------------------------------------
Sheer determination opposing instinctive wanderlust
which road should he take
if he chooses right ,what choice will he make
struggling in his mind, a restful thought to sleep upon
if he could wake to raindrops on his shack
with wistful smile upon his face
he slept, The Stockman Coloured Black.
----------------------------------------
He wakes to the sound of salvation
incessant rain, an unfamiliar sound
a raging torrent of water
where yesterday there was only parched ground
headin' for the door he is startled by a less familiar noise
an echoing thunderous crack
the awesome sound of thunder
long forgotten by The Stockman Coloured Black.
------------------------------------------
With wild abandon he hastened
a feelin' of immense triumph from within
into the water headlong he plunged
oblivious that he hadn't learned to swim
this source of life at other times and now a killer
will also bring life back
now a salvation to the cattle
took the life of the Stockman Coloured Black.
-----------------------------------------
Griffin: © 1974.
The Nannup Tiger is a mythical thylacine type creature that 'allegedly' lives in the forests of SW WA. Old-timers claim to have seen it, but there haven't been any recent sightings......
THE NANNUP TIGER
I live in southern forests deep
I roam the town when you’re asleep
I’m not a cow; I’m not a sheep
I am the Nannup Tiger
I’m very quiet on the prowl
I do not scream; I do not howl
I’m not a duck; I’m not an owl
I am the Nannup Tiger
(Chorus)
Keep looking ‘neath the jarrah and the karri -
Don’t give up
Keep searching - you might find me
In the forests of Nannup
I hide in places quite remote
I have a very stripey coat
I’m not a dog; I’m not a goat
I am the Nannup Tiger
I keep my four paws on the ground
I move myself around and round
I hide so that I can’t be found
I am the Nannup Tiger
(Chorus)
Some people think I don’t exist
A notion that you should resist
I am well loved, but never kissed
I am the Nannup Tiger
I’m proud to live near Nannup town
The people there won’t let you down
They do not cry; they do not frown
They all are Nannup Tigers
(Chorus)
Rob - Great lyrics! Would love to hear your song live.
Maurie
i remember back when i was eight
living on the floodplains outside goulburn
rusty wire wooden gate
i spent my days dreaming up ways
that i could leave this town
when i was thirteen there was only you and me
kissing down by the courner so your parents wouldn,t see
we spent our days dreaming up ways to leave this town
when i was sixteen i found my self sitting on a train
heading north on the midnight xpt in the summer rain
i was amazed id finaly found ways to leave that town
3 verses to original song leave this town written by luke wilton
Deloraine - The Big Green Train
If you need a bit of sparkle in your life
And your day is looking rather slow
Jump in your car and head to Deloraine
Because that’s the place to go.
It doesn’t matter if you’re old or young
There’s plenty to do that’s fun
Deloraine is a great little town
And has something for everyone.
When you reach the river that meanders along
Look out for the big green train
That’s the best known landmark
In the town of Deloraine.
It’s great place to get out
For kids to have a play
To feed the ducks, have a barbecue
And plan the rest of your day.
Take the time to look around
And discover what’s old and new
Everywhere in Deloraine
The locals will welcome you.
Chorus:
Meander River is the place to start
When you arrive in Deloraine
To feed the ducks and have a barbecue
In the park by the big green train.
Take the path around the river
And cross a bridge or two
Whichever way you’re walking
There’s another perfect view.
Deloraine is never idle
It’s a happy and busy town
People from around Australia
Move in to settle down.
There’s lots of arts and craftsmen
Who visited and stayed
To enjoy the Deloraine lifestyle
Where they live and work and play.
Each year in November
Deloraine hosts a giant fair
And thousands of people gather
To buy and sell craft wares.
It’s another of the reasons
Why Deloraine’s on the map
Why people come from all over
And keep on coming back.
Chorus:
Meander River is the place to start
When you arrive in Deloraine
To feed the ducks and have a barbecue
In the park by the big green train.
To find out lots more stories
That Deloraine can tell.
Wander through the Folk Museum
And the Visitor Centre as well
You’ll enjoy some fancy Yarns
Of four stories sewed in silk
Deloraine through all the seasons
Stitched by folk of every ilk.
Check out all the sculptures
While meandering up and down
They are the wonderful characters
Who helped to make this town.
There’s craftsman Jimmy Possum
And community groups on view
A farmer, publican and shearer
An extreme skateboarder too.
See the fish that caught the fisherman
And a guitar playing man
An Aboriginal girl and peace maker
And a tree protecting fan.
Chorus:
Meander River is the place to start
When you arrive in Deloraine
To feed the ducks and have a barbecue
In the park by the big green train.
MEANDER VALLEY HOME
There's a place that's called Meander
where I spent my childhoodd years,
Hunstman dam now stands, and it
looks so grand, underneath the
Western Tiers, where I was a bub up
in the scrub where the animals run wild
I have fond thoughts as I go back
in my memories as a child.
CHORUS:
I have memories of Meander
where the river winds its way,
where the folks are fine and
from time to time
in my mind they come to play.
There was lots of good in that neighbourhood
and the football team was fine.
There were dances in the local hall
that would help the folk unwind.
The joke about the local blokes
checking the school at start of year,
Pretty teachers start, and they looked so smart,
in their lovely teenage years.
CHORUS
REDLANDS RHAPSODY
Welcome to the Redlands, it's a Shire mighty fine
It's for you to enjoy - come one and all to wine and dine
Our very own winery sits on top of a hill
Down in the valleys it's tranquil, quiet and still
We're proud of our beaches and of our teachers
You'll love the many berries that grow in our red soil
Out on the bay the water is deep and inviting
A visit to our town will be intriguing and exciting
Chorus
So - come to the Redlands - wine and dine
Each day you will want to rise and shine
The roads are so smooth in this area of the State
Our service clubs are in abundance for you to debate
The outlying islands are accessible to one and all
You'll hear the birds singing their melodical calls
Agriculture and horticulture - we surely have it all
Industry and employment - that's an easy call
From day care centres to great old age care
Your residency will be welcomed, you'll not fear
Chorus
So - come to the Redlands - wine and dine
Each day you will want to rise and shine
There's highways and bikeways - shopping abounds
Come check out the Redlands where beauty surrounds
Aboriginal input is respected - no racial barriers here
Come to the Redlands, we welcome you with care
Whether it be the galleries or out on the bay
One thing is for certain you'll have a mighty great day
There's dolphins and dugongs frollicking in the sea
Inviting you to the Redlands - they're there for all to see
Chorus
So - come to the Redlands - wine and dine
Each day you will want to rise and shine
MY HOMETOWN SONG
There's a little town I know of
tucked 'neath the Western Tiers,
a friendly, little Tassie town
where I spent my childhoodd years,
'neath rugged blue, grey mountains
with snowcaps high above,
we flourished there as children
'tis the place I learned to love.
CHORUS
Meander is the name they gave
to this little country town.
'tween Quamby and the Western Tiers
our families settled down.
This place is by the river
from whence it got its name,
for it wanders from the mountains
through town and 'cross the plains.
The tiny country schoolhouse
still stands so proud and tall
The hub of the community
still used by one and all,
a singer and a dancer
once trod those old wood flooers
As household names, their worldy fame
has brought them much applause.
In those days the social life
was light to say the least,
The monthly dances at the hall
were something of a feast
Not only was the supper grans
but right on ten past ten
the local closed and then the rush
of all the nice young men
Without this dance, some may not be
in such a happy state
For this is where the local youth
quite often found their mate.
One time this place could boast three shops,
a school and public hall,
three churches and a football team,
we really had it all.
Our fathers, they all wored the land
or toiled at the old sawmill.
T'was the lifeblood of the Hunstman
I dream of the whistle, still.
The whining of those sharp saw blades,
the sawdust and the sap,
Our mothers, towels were ne'er the same
our dad's hands always black.
Those milling days are long since gone,
there's more to life at stake,
replaced there are by much, much more,
the magnificent Huntsman Lake,
Now when, at times, we do return
to dance in that old hall,
and a local friend says "welcome home"
THAT REALLY SAYS IT ALL.
Tasman, By Vanessa Macdonal
Verse 1
There’s a little dot on a map, in a little place faraway. I followed my husband and inherited his past, the photos on the mantelpiece tell of legacies once lived. And now our baby carries his name when she’s older I’ll tell her of
their lives.
Verse 2
The solider on the Waler in the light horse brigade, paints a sad picture for the sacrifice he made. We will remember the courage that was shown. We won’t forget that he never came home.
And in the seventy’s the apple orchards fell, not just the black spot but the markets as well. They bull dozed the fruit trees and the land was all sold, left were the giant sheds, decrepit and old.
Chorus
And in this raw land, that the Sea eagles own, surrounded by water and golden sandstone, this is my home, the Tasman its known, my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful home.
Verse 3
One thing I know is the love in her eyes, when Granma and Grandpa drive up and surprise. She runs to their side and into their arms, I’m so grateful, she’ll grow up on our family farm.
And on the Jetty that’s fading away, near the old headstones where sad convicts lay, that’s where he asked me to be his wife, we stood where his ancestors started their lives.
Chorus
And in this raw land, that the Sea eagles own, surrounded by water and golden sandstone, this is my home, the Tasman its known, my beautiful, beautiful, beautiful home.
DIMBOOLA
There's a small town in the Wimmera that people know so well
It's known around the world 'cause of the story it had to tell.
Nestled quietly amonst the gum trees that sway gently in the breeze
And surrounded by farmlands that try so hard to please
Starting up in the Grampians the Wimmera River flowers
Meandering slowly inland the cherished water goes.
Through the town of Dimboola famous for regatta crews
To Hindmarsh and Albacutya where it finally subdues.
There's a desert to the west
And a river running through
It's built around nin creeks
And there's a welcome for me and you.
There's a steam train in its parklands hauled by an old J class
The railways have been integral in this old town's past.
It's struggling for its future as many small towns do
But it's a part of Australia that we must help pull through
The Little Desert beckons you from beneath the great arch way
From Pomponderoo to Horsehoe Bend where grateful campers stay.
The kangaroos and emus feed peacefully on heath
And the banksia seed waits patiently to be freed by bushfires' heat.
There's a desert to the west
And a river running through
It's built around nine creeks
and there's a welcome for me and you.
The knowledge of its citizens is forged up on the hill
The grand old school gazes steadfast west with futures keen to fill.
Many of its students have roamed both far and wide
But some have stayed to till the earth and tend our countryside.
Now let's rejoice in what we've had and surge ahead once more
There's crops to plant and mouths to feed so we can prosper forth
And in times of peace let us reflect for what we're gratful for
That we came from Dombool and proud of that I'm sure.
There's a desert to the west
And a river running through
It's built around nine creeks
and there's a welcome for me and you.
BALLINA
Verse 1
On the far north coast of NSW, is the greatest country town;
The people there laid-back and cool, and rarely show a frown;
But sometimes things get on their goat, and they don't take it well;
They're gonna to lose their icon, and have to say farewell.
They're crying in their pretzels, everyone's forlorn;
Ballina is in mourning; It's gonna lose its Prawn.
Chorus
Stanthorpe has its Apple,
A big Axe stands in Kew,
The Banana's at Coff Harbour,
They all pose quite a view.
A Big Bull at Rockhampton,
And Bega spruiks its Cheese,
But no more Prawn at Ballina
Despite the desperate pleas.
Verse 2
Ballina folk keep busy, trying not to think;
What's about to happen, is driving them to drink.
The residents are all sombre, no smile upon their dials;
Shoppers dragging feet along the supermarket aisles.
Truckie's spit the dummy as they roll into the town,
Their roadside mark for Ballina is about to be torn down.
Chorus
The Big Bull's at Rockhampton,
Even Moonbi has a Chook,
The gold guitar's at Tamworth,
Such icons worth a look;
The dog is on his Tuckerbox,
A Cassowary by the seas,
But no more Prawn at Ballina,
The town is on its knees.
Verse 3
What will they do in Ballina, our Prawn's not just a shrimp;
No more cheery BBQs, it's all caused such a stink,
The publican has heard it all, the boys have spat the dummy,
"Don't come the raw prawn with our Prawn, us blokes don't think it's funny!"
The Prawn that drew us nearer, now never to be seen.
Just an empty space where our beloved Prawn has been.
Chorus
Tully has its Gumboot,
Kimba its Galah,
The Merino stands at Goulburn,
All icons, near and far;
There's the Pineapple at Gympie,
And Urunga's hive of bees;
But no more Prawn at Ballina,
Won't someone save it please…...?
Written by Lee Hillyard (Ballina NSW) - 19 August 2010
MY TOWN KEITH
CHORUS
[Where the Riddoch meets the Dukes
is a small South Aussie town
We will soon be famous
When the word does get around
That we are on the saintly track
To fortune and to fame
The only Aussie Saint to be
And McKillop is her name.
So head on down or over or up
Whatever the case may be
Remembering KEITH is the name of the town
That all will want to see!]
Our playground has a mighty train
Made only for tin lids
Up and down thr track they go
Kids just being kids.
Squeling with such great delight
As the train rumbles down
You can hear the sound of laughter
Echoing through our town.
CHORUS
There there is our "Landie" up the pole
Yes! It does sound rather odd
And of course there is our pizza hut
That's our house of God.
We all live by the water
But no sea change do you see
'Cause all the water's underground
Now there's a mystery.
CHORUS
Hender Street is the place to go
If you choose to meet and greet
Jack our icon he'll be there
A sitting on his seat.
We've got B&Bs and a fountain
And of course a farm stay too
Mount Monster is a sight to see
Yep! Our town is just true blue.
CHORUS
Belbora (with chorus)
Belbora’s rolling hills
Where wild angophoras grow
And gullies shelter creeks
That twist and gently flow;
I see the cattle graze
On pasture nature sows
A wholesome country scene
Just right for my abode.
Chorus:
Belbora, home sweet home,
Where I feel free to roam
Heart strings tie me to
My sweet Belbora home.
Farms are nestled there
Where neighbours have their home
In times of need or fun
You never feel alone,
And when at end of day
You pause and look up high;
Feel the peaceful wonder
Of a star-filled sky.
When you consider all
It’s easy to see why
Belbora is my home
No matter where I fly,
The pleasure travel brings
Will fade with passing time
But nothing stirs the heart
Quite like this home of mine.
G Jones
2732 Bucketts Way Belbora 2422
MY TOWN - By David Lawrence
MY TOWN SITS BESIDE THE RIVER
CLOSE ENOUGH TO WALK DOWN TO THE SEA
I HEAR THE WAVES ROLLING ON THE BEACH AT NIGHT
NORTH BROTHER MOUNTAIN WATCHES OVER ME
THE TREES AND FORESTS ARE ALL AROUND
I LOVE THIS COASTAL AIR THAT I BREATHE
I HAVE A FEW GOOD FRIENDS IN THIS PEACEFUL TOWN
SO I HAVE NO GOOD REASON ... TO LEAVE
THEY CALL THIS PLACE "A HAVEN"
PROTECTED BY THE MOUNTAIN
AND SHIPS COME IN TO REST A WHILE
BEYOND THE WINDSWEPT SEAS
THE FOREST YIELDS IT'S TIMBER
THE RIVER, LIKE A FOUNTAIN ...
BRINGS FORTH IT'S BOUNTY TO THIS TOWN
WHO REFUGE IN IT'S BREEZE
LIKE EVERY TOWN IT HAS IT'S SHARE OF HISTORY
THE NAMES OF EARLY SETTLERS AND THEIR KIN
FAMILIES WHO BUILT THEIR DREAMS ON NOTHING MORE ...
THAN HOPE, THAT HERE, THEIR NEW LIVES WOULD BEGIN
I'VE READ OF LONGWORTH, GEORGE DE FRAINE AND OXLEY
HIBBARD, ROGER, BIBBY AND MCKAY
DUN, BAGAN, BELL AND JOSEPH LAURIE
FROM WHOM OUR STREETS AND TOWNSHIPS HAVE BEEN NAMED
THEY CALL THIS PLACE A HAVEN
IT SURE LOOKS LIKE GOD'S COUNTRY
AND PEOPLE COME TO REST A WHILE
AND SOME WILL NEVER LEAVE
THEY BUY THEIR SLICE OF HEAVEN
ITS' VALUE MORE THAN MONEY
AND PLEDGE THEIR SOULS TO PARADISE
WITH HEART UPON THEIR SLEEVE
SO IF YOU'RE EVER PASSING
AND WISH TO TASTE OUR BOUNTY
YOU'RE SURE TO SEE A WELCOME SMILE
WHILE WALKING THROUGH THE TOWN
THE RIVER AND THE MOUNTAIN
THEIR FLAWLESS NATURAL BOUNDARIES
WILL COMFORT YOU AND THEN YOU'LL SEE
THE JEWEL WITHIN THE CROWN
YES!, BEAUTY'S OUR INHERITANCE
FOR ALL WHO WILL RECEIVE ... BUT
BE WARNED 'FORE YOU STEP INSIDE...
... IN MAGIC YOU'LL BELIEVE!
Heart of Town
There's a fine Art Deco theatre
At the heart of Tumut town,
It's had a big make-over
'Cause it was a bit rundown -
It was saved from demolition
To increase the car park space
By a crazy bunch of people
With their hearts in the right place.
Chorus:
It's a hill town
It's a mill town
Grazing country in the main
At it's backdoor are the mountains
At it's front the inland plains
It's a sport town
It's a horse town
Outdoor living is the call
But we also love our theatre
The historic Montreal.
Now it is the townsfolks' theatre
With a weekly movie show,
The Grand Ole Opry's been there,
Real live opera on the go,
Every sort of entertainment
You can think of passes through
And the local talent's brilliant -
For a country town - it's true.
Chorus:
It's a hill town
It's a mill town
Grazing country in the main
At it's backdoor are the mountains
At it's front the inland plains
It's a trout town
It's a boat town
Dam and river there for all
But there's an inside place that's magic
At our revamped Montreal.
The trains get cancelled all the time,
Graffiti is what locals do to bide their time.
Shops and stations are miles away,
You have to get up early to get on your way
Chorus:
Werribee doesn’t stink.
Cos the sewerage farm,
Is never on the blink.
Even though we are west
Our touristy icons are the best.
The first female PM,
Is our long standing Federal member,
Guess what,
I have never seen her!
Chorus:
The Zoo is pretty good,
The animals have room to roam
As they should.
The Mansion takes you back in time,
When people were dignified and very fine
HEAVEN
Chorus:
I want to go home
Where arms will embrace me
Where Im never alone
And time cannot chase me
v1
I want to go home
Where the oceans roar
Where the horses roam
Along heavens shore
v2
I want to go home
To my small country town
Where I am well known
I wear a royal crown
v3
I want to go home
Where there will never be sadness
Where pain is not known
And there will only be gladness
Birthplace -
2793.
I wandered ‘round Woodstock a few years in the past,
it didn’t bring memories, but it sure was a blast.
Ya see, I was too young to remember those days,
some are just figments, most a recounted haze.
My birth paper says, young Jim is a male,
apparently I was - hearty and hale.
But, Jim is a contraction of a much bigger name.
Perhaps, the two my folks chose, they thought would bring fame.
Well, it never happened. I don’t really care.
They’ve all served me well, no need for despair.
A small Private Hospital in the town of Woodstock,
I stood quiet on the footpath after walking the block
up from the station, yes - there once was a train,
maybe it whistled as it took on the strain.
The train does not run now. It’s probably lost and forlorn
in some rusty ol’ rail shed, it’s whistle long gorn,
but the footpath’s still dusty and perhaps in a fleet
- of a moment -
I saw the impressions of, my parents feet.
(C). Rimeriter - circa 2008.
Ode to Slim Dusty...(Singing in the wind!)
Slim. I won't forget you.
Your spirit's all aroumd.
Your face is in my campfires' glow.
Your voice is singing in the wind that blows,
through the streets of MY TOWN.
And over every dusty track that you went down.
Rainin’ Country By June Perkins
VERSE 1
It’s rainin’ and it’s pourin’
Country and Western tunes
I am stuck in the middle of town
Lookin’ for Tully’s runes.
I can see rodeos
Show time and cane trains.
I can see hungry hawks
In the fields crossed by aeroplanes.
CHORUS
The clouds are rainin’ country
The clouds are rainin’ dreams.
Time to put together life’s seams
Put together life's seams.
VERSE 2
We just saw the creek
Made a detour for a dip.
Kids are jumpin’ off the bridge
Headin’ home to play the didje.
They’re not scared of crocodiles
Lookin’ for some lunch.
They’re tellin’ me the locals
Are a super friendly bunch.
CHORUS
The clouds are rainin’ country
The clouds are rainin’ dreams
Time to put together life’s seams
Put together life's seams.
VERSE 3
As I head back on the road
I long to be free
Perhaps I’ll leave this small town
With all its festival crowns.
Say goodbye to rodeos
Show time and cane trains
Goodbye to hungry hawks
In the fields crossed by aeroplanes.
CHORUS
The clouds are rainin’ country
The clouds are rainin’ dreams.
Time to put together life’s seams
Put together life seams.
Where the Wattles Bloom (Canberra)
You can rest at ease, 'neath the blooming trees,
on a Springtime day smell the perfumed leaves.
Hear the white birds cry, see the white clouds fly,
from range to range through an azure sky.
You can find your space in the meeting place
There will always be room Where the Wattles Bloom.
See the sparkling snow, hear the river flow,
from the mountain top to the plains below.
You can find your space in the meeting place
There will always be room Where the Wattles Bloom.
Watch the heavens cross, see the gentle gloss,
of the silver stars of the Southern Cross.
You can find your space in the meeting place
There will always be room Where the Wattles Bloom
Cradle Mountain
They say that home is where the heart is
So I guess that I am part
Of a place called, Cradle Mountain
That, long ago, stole my heart.
That famous boat shed nestled on the Dove,
The soft, white snow drifting down from above.
The wombats ambling, as the pademelons play
I can't think of anywhere, I'd rather spend my day.
I first went there as a girl of maybe three.
My granddad took me so its wonders I could see.
The Enchanted Forest, is a place I won't forget
for I've never seen a view to compare with it yet.
That famous boat shed nestled on the Dove,
The soft, white snow drifting down from above.
The wombats ambling, as the pademelons play
I can't think of anywhere, I'd rather spend my day.
Cradle Mountain is the place my heart will always be..
It' holds some special memories for my granddad and me
Of climbing Marion's Lookout, or trudging through the snow
Cradle Mountain is one place ,I'm glad I got to know.
That famous boat shed nestled on the Dove,
The soft ,white snow drifting down from above.
The wombats ambling, as the pademelons play
I can't think of anywhere, I'd rather spend my day..
Made out here in Mudgee.
Chorus; Drink the Chardonnay today or Cab Sav that we have
Then linger while you're caught, with a lacal Tawny Port---
All the tastings that I pour, will bring them back for more---
Yes, they're coming for the wine, made out here at Mudgee.
1. When the vintage is released and we celebrate in Spring,
There's a festival in September in full swing;
Welcome folk from everywhere, come to visit without care,
Savour the delights fit for any Queen or King.
Chorus.
2. When the roses are in bloom and the honey's flowing too,
Artists paint their canvas with morning's valley view;
There's aroma on the street from the diners' breakfast treat,
The market's in the park the Cudgegong flows through.
Chorus.
3. Oldest town in New South Wales, hist'ry ev'rywhere abounds
Where pioneers settled down on fertile virgin grounds,
Grazing flocks of fine wool sheep, growing wheat and corn to reap
While fossickers sluiced gold from yellow mullock mounds.
Chorus.
Timber, sugar and steel works was the main stay of the day
Now add the pub crawl and mary poppins and we are here to stay
We live around the mighty Mary, a port for ships it be
Heritage is the backbone, now tourism is the key
The muddy mary flows along from Imbil to the sea
At times it floods, and when it does it is a sight to see
The people are all friendly, though conservative it seems
Sporting acholades have seen champions, the start of many dreams
Its safe to rear your family, everything close in one area
The beach and rolling farmlands makes it all the more merrier
The muddy mary flows along from Imbil to the sea
At times it floods, and when it does it is a sight to see
Tis Maryborough where I love to be, climate stable all year round
Sure we have our seasons, but no extremes abound
Just put a rod in my hand, from rivers, dam and sea
And look upon my face with glee, cause it's Maryborough twill be
The muddy mary flows along from Imbil to the sea
At times it floods, and when it does it is a sight to see
" My Goolwa Home" is a song which I wrote both the music and words for my Bush Band. This band is comprised of residents of Thornbury Park retirement village, and was formed so that we could have fun with music and we entertain at senior citizens clubs and nursing homes. We are all amateurs with no formal training but we love to get together and sing. We would love to hear it with a professional touch. Betty Dutton.
P.S.I can send a dvd but I am not up with all the computer technoloy .
My Goolwa Home.
I walk along the shore, see the waves and hear their roar.
I wonder at the awe this brings to me.
I watch the children play, their mum's not far away.
the beauty of the scene. A sight to see.
chorus.
Oh my Goolwa Home Where I love to be.
I travel and I roam , but I long to come home.
So much for me to do and my worries are few
My friends and company mean much to me.
Not too far away. the mighty Murray fails.
She's just a stagnant pool, her lakes are dry.
Please let the river flow, let her flow to the sea.
She gives the Coorong life, so let her live.
chorus..........Oh my Goolwa home .......
I watch the whales at play, the calves not far away.
Oh what can I say , who could ask for more.
there goes the cockle train, close by the shore
doing the tourist run, down through the port.
Last Chorus.
Oh my Goolwa Home where I love to be
I travel and I roam, but I long to come home.
So much for me to do and my worries are few
my friends and company mean much to me.
My friends and company and my Goolwa home.
Belbora
Belbora’s rolling hills
Where wild angophoras grow
And gullies shelter creeks
That twist and gently flow;
I see the cattle graze
On pasture nature sows
A wholesome country scene
Just right for my abode.
Farms are nestled there
Where neighbours have their home
In times of need or fun
You never feel alone,
And when at end of day
You pause and look up high;
Feel the peaceful wonder
Of a star-filled sky.
When you consider all
It’s easy to see why
Belbora is my home
No matter where I fly,
The pleasure travel brings
Will fade with passing time
But nothing stirs the heart
Quite like this home of mine.
Bell Bell beautiful Bell, at the foot of the Bunya mountains,
We have a green golf course and a race track too,
Icy cold drinks at the old Bellview.
Chorus:
Bell Bell beautiful Bell at the foot of the Bunya Mountains.
We have an RSL and a bowls club too,
Popey's shed with old motors to view,
Have a caravan park and a great butcher to,
A vet name Sam with lots to do.
Chorus:
Bell Bell beautiful Bell at the foot of the Bunya Mountains.
Dirt and dust flies at the Bunya Trail Ride,
That supports our school all year round
With plenty of cattle, sheep and pigs to,
So we have it all in the golden west
Bell Bell Bells the best.
Glen Alice.
The cliffs of yellow sandstone, tower upwards overhead,
Around the fertile valley, where wond'rous views are wed
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
where wond'rous views are wed---in Glen Alice.
The hues of splendid sunsets, are painted on the rocks
And native Aussie parrots, fly through in screeching flocks
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
fly through in screeching flocks---in Glen Alice.
Remote and off the highway and nowhere near the rail,
It's dinkum Aussie country, where settlers drove their trail
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
where settlers drove their trail---in Glen Alice.
Iron clad church by the graveyard and the hall across the road,
Are remnants of the Scotsmen, whose village life has slowed
In Glen Alice----------in Glen Alice---
whose village life has slowed---in Glen Alice.
SENSORY PERFECTION.
The lucerne flats are green below the peak of old Mount Frome
where settlers found the fertile soil and called this place their home;
Mudgee sits within her nest where the southern side is steep
and fossickers found fortune where the hills graze fine wool sheep.
The cattle thrive on pastures and the thoroughbreds breed well,
the honey flow is golden and the roses sweet to smell;
The Cudgegong flows westward as the lifeblood of the town
from the lake at Windamere, where the trout are big and brown.
Come September in our valley warmed by Spring's sunshine clear,
we celebrate with strangers and sample season's wine;
While singers soothe the senses, hear the morning bush birds' trills
where our name is Wiradjuri, meaning "Nest in the Hills".
Come and share the history, set in stone and firmly cast,
retained in civic buildings, stately structured in the past;
this sensory perfection for your nose and taste and eyes
will cause you to remember, never losing Mudgee ties.
Repeat last verse.
This is a song about our town, our city, our nation, Australia. I wrote it for my class years ago.
We Are a People
We are a people, ancient and strong
This land is our mother, to her we belong.
We know of our dreamtime, we cry for our past
We hope for the future, one people at last
Come share the spirit, Come a waltzing with me.
Come share our dreaming, and make this land free.
Come share the spirit, Come let your heart soar
One people, one nation, one land for us all.
We are a people, young and alive
This land is our homeland, We live and survive.
We all have our story, We know theres still time
To share in the future, Thats yours and thats mine.
Come share the spirit, Come a waltzing with me
Come share our dreaming, and make this land free.
Come share the spirit, come let your heart soar
One people one nation one land for us all.
STEEL CITY
verse 1
I am driving down the mountain on a winding road
heading to steel city on the south coast
magic views all around take you breth away
shimerring waters rustlig leaves all just want to say
chorus
In Wollongong the sand is whiter and the grass is greener
In Wollongong the trees are taller and the girls are sweeter
Its the place I like the most this steel city on the south coast
verse 2
People of all nations walking down the street
happy smiling faces you'd just love to meet
beautiful girls walk with certain kind of sway
men tough as steel all ust want to say
chorus repeat x 2
Bonnie Doon Vic
We're going to Bonnie Doon
We're going to Bonnie Doon
We're going to Bonnie Doon
We're going to Bonnie Doon
We're going to Bonnie Doon
We wrote this song this year for a show called 'Where I Belong'. As part of the process, students researched the history and attractions of our town. They sing it with gusto!
Bendigo
Intro - spoken:The gold rush was the starting point, of the place that we call home,
They came in search of fortune, from far away they roamed.
Life was hard, in cold and rain, in dusty times and drought.
They settled here, they made a town, we’re glad they stuck it out.
Chorus:Bendigo, the place we know, the place we know and love
Where families and friendships fit like a hand inside a glove.
Happy people, friendly folk, ready with a smile,
Nothing’s very far away, good living, country style.
We’re bigger than a country town, much bigger - than Shelbourne,
But smaller than the big smoke, much smaller - than Melbourne.
We have here all the things we need, and all the things we like.
You can walk down to the heart of town or get there on your bike.
The fountain is the central point, the place where main roads meet,
It was made in 1881, and is found near Mitchell Street.
The QEO in Bendigo is very well renowned,
The citizens from far and wide know that it’s our sporting ground. CHORUS
At the information centre they’ll tell you where to go
The poppet head, the Shamrock, are big in Bendigo,
The Central Deborah Goldmine, the very first Myer store,
The Goldfields library, Chinese Museum, and restaurants galore. CHORUS
When you come to Bendigo you’ll have a brilliant time,
The place is steeped in history and the food is just divine,
You’ll meet terrific people, and see amazing things,
Some day soon you’ll come right back to do it all again. CHORUS
I have just realised that I have left out the main word in my last entry (16 August 8.49pm).
Please delete this and replace with the following:
EDEN: MY TOWN
CHORUS:
I want to brag, I want to boast
About the best place to live, Eden, on the South Coast.
So pack up your bags, strap in the kids
and head for the highway, you’re welcome in our midst.
Beauty surrounds us wherever we go
That’s what regular visitors already know.
The birds with their twitter wake us up every day
Oh! Yes, with the modern world they’re so au fait.
The sun’s reflection glistens on the water so blue
it invites you to take part in things to do.
Stroll on the boardwalk along Aslings beach
where in Spring time you can see humpbacks breach.
Dolphins will greet you as they speed along
Loved by the old and also the young.
When you go angling for your dinner tonight
You’ll find it relaxing to wait for the fish to bite.
What Mother Nature provides for all to see
needs no tickets – the show is for free.
CHORUS:
I want to brag, I want to boast
About the best place to live, Eden, on the South Coast.
So pack up your bags, strap in the kids
and head for the highway, you’re welcome in our midst.
Visitors come across the locals on their daily walk
They stop, say “Hello” and enjoy a talk.
For those who like to bowl or give their clubs a swing
Friends at The Country Club will take you under their wing.
When the water is warm, pull on your bathers
And head for the surf, where the swimmers gather.
If something more challenging is for you
Climb Mt. Imlay and take in the view.
A place not to miss near the wharf side of town
Is The killer Whale Museum, a jewel in our crown.
Old Tom is displayed there in his last place of rest
The hours that you spend there will be some of the best.
In the evening when you are tired and spent
You realise this part of the world is Heaven sent.
CHORUS:
I want to brag, I want to boast
About the best place to live, Eden, on the South Coast.
So pack up your bags, strap in the kids
and head for the highway, you’re welcome in our midst
Can't wait to get to Gympie again. I think the best artist this year will be Todd Stewart who I saw on main stage as a runner up of the talent search at the Muster two years ago. I purchased his recent EP from Itunes and can't wait to see him live this year!!
In saying that though, all artists there do a top job and it is well worth doing the two day trip to get there again.
In these political times
Analytical times
It's good to be
On an old bush track
Sun on your back
Country free
Wild birds return by their own guiding star
Having flown so far
Natures secret rhythm and rhyme
The sky seeking eucalyptus trees
When I'm away the bushland breeze
Whispers to me
Come home
The wattle is blooming bright
Early spring rain on the track
Come back - Come back
I know the city life
The buzz, the nitty - gritty strife
From living close together
Now I listen to the 'Country Hour'
Stock and crop reports - primary power
Linking me.
Where Else ?
There’s a place up in Queensland, (V - I)
but I can’t tell you where.
It’s sort of a secret,
we’re not s’posed to declare.
It’s the tropical gateway,
and the sun shines all year.
There’s still cane in town paddocks,
and now there’s “flash” pubs for beer.
Where there’s……….
Barra for brekky and mudcrabs for lunch. (Chorus )
‘Bay folks are lucky, a real happy bunch !
They don’t “bolt for the gate”on the 5 o’clock bell.
Their grin says it all; yeh, everything’s “swell”!
Now because you’re polite, (V - II)
I’ll give you a hint.
Mid Capital and Capricorn,
just a small coastal splint.
Aazure seas ssheltered,
by the island of ssand.
Between ssunrise and set,
You’ll see best work of God’s hand.
And there’s……………..
Barra for brekky and mangoes as well, (Chorus)
‘Bay folks are lucky, and friendly as hell !
But don’t press them to argue that your place is best,
You’ll just get THAT grin : that’ll put it to rest !
Well, there’s gypsies and travellers, (V - III)
all come here to nest.
Both children and oldies,
the numbers attest,
that the story has spread,
and the populous grows.
Just who let the cat out ?
Well, nobody knows !
And they’ve got…………
Barra for brekky and scallops for tea. (Chorus)
‘Bay folks are lucky , a unique family.
But you won’t hear them boast, cos the secret’s within.
They’ll just give you a nod and a sly, knowing grin!
Yeh !
Barra for brekky, girt by rivers and sea, (Closing Chorus)
Where turtles and whales swim happy and free.
There’s no better place for my family and me,
but if you say where we live, you’ll be strung from a tree !
Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl
Versus 1
My hometown, the place where I am me. The laughs of a thousand lighting up all the streets. Helping each other from A to B. Helping little kids learn their ABC’S, 123’S. The only place where I am me.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Versus 2
Boys in the fields kickin’ that ball around. Girls up the road singin’ there hearts out. Day by day, going up and down. Rain falling, no ones calling. Lonely again. Birds in the sky, dogs in the parks, people everywhere. My little city livin’ it by day and night. Watchin’ the cars go on by. Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Versus 3
Sweet memories, from ma’ backyard to Albany. All the trees, runnin’ from bees, swimming by the seas. Rain, wind, stars and sun. Let’s go for a run. Cars, trucks, roads and more. Friends and family. Livin’ ma day by each tree. Singin’ this song, showin’ ma life to all of thee. Flowers in the fields, birds in the sky. I’m just ready to fly. Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Bridge
I’m just a Little, Lonely, Aussie girl. Runnin’ from the bees, runnin through the trees. Seein’ the sun go by. Playin’ with ma’ friends just being Plain old me. Just trying to be me.
Chorus
I’m just an Aussie Girl. Livin’ in this big, big world. Livin’ by the day, livin’ my life from A to Z. Clouds in the sky rain is fallin’ down. Sun in the sky, dryin’ up the towns. Rivers and the trees. Cars on the roads. Watching the city life go by. The joy and the pain. Livin’ my life as a Little, Lonely, Aussie Girl.
Little
Lonely
Aussie
Girl
Tryin’ to be me
I hope it is acceptable to enter the competition with this link
The lyrics are available on the vid
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGYKgwzJgpQ
Cabramurra © words and music by Doug Payne 2008©
It seems the word is all over town.
My baby heard my pants come down.
They also referred to the widow Brown.
Sugar sweet and curves that kill,
I feel the heat I can smell her still.
My heart beats up against my will.
Kangaroos can jump a fence.
Rabbits jump on one another
You can read all the evidence
On the snow in Cabramurra
I used to wonder how they know
everywhere a man might go,
late at night out there on the snow.
Kangaroos can jump a fence
A wombat will steal your burrow
Snow tracks make a lot of sense
To the wives in Cabramurra
She rings a bell that you can hear.
That´s the signal the coast is clear
and it´s ok to enter from the rear.
The locals know every thing you do.
The snow will blow your cover.
Careful when youre walking through
fresh snow in Cabramurra.
Gentlemen will jump a fence.
A wombat will srtruggle under
The whole thing made a lot of sense
when i lived in cabramurra.
Just have a question about the competition rules - in writing the song about the town am I required to include the name of the town? Thanks
__________________________
From Moderator:
No, there's no specific requirement to include the actual name - but, as mentioned in the Rules, the song does have to be about an Australian town.
Thanks,
ABC Country
THREE TIMES MORE FUN HERE IN REDCLIFFE
Down from the bush on holiday, on Redcliffe Strand I saw this guy,
He was well built and handsome so I smiled at him and said ,”Hi”,
We had a swim in the ocean pool, walked hand in hand through the sand,
And I had the thought on this sun drenched day, this Redcliffe is really grand.
Now I have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe,
The Sky’s the limit where the sea meets the shore,
There’s plenty of things that we could explore,
And have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe.
We went on a date on Moreton Bay and watched Whales put on a show,
We often dined on the esplanade, saw the sunsets golden glow,
We swam and sailed and fished the seas , till my head spun I was dazed,
Cause my feelings for this Redcliffe guy like a crazy bushfire blazed.
Now I have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe,
The Sky’s the limit where the sea meets the shore,
There’s plenty of things that we could explore,
And have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe.
After fish and chips at famous Morgans he got down on one knee,
Placed a diamond ring on my finger, said he’d love to marry me,
Redcliffe had so many charms but this man was number one,
We wed on the beach on a perfect day as our Love on Redcliffe shone.
Now I have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe,
The Sky’s the limit where the sea meets the shore,
There’s plenty of things that we could explore,
And have - Three Times More Fun here in Redcliffe.
This song was written not long after I had met my birth family at 23. My Uncle Bill from my birth mothers side decided to jam out one night in Innisfail. This is the town where all my birth family come from. So I was adopted out at birth. To set the scene, Bill and I were sitting under the porch outside, it was raining lightly, occasionally a cane train would pass and a it was a full moon lit night. I had my guitar and Bill had his Harmonica, We pressed record on my old Fostex 4-track recorder and with the Chords D-C-G came up with the song 'Innisfail'. Here are the Lyrics:
Rain comes down
the rain comes down
rain comes down
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Cane farmers land
its cane farmers land
cane farmers land
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Train rides through
the train rides through
train rides through
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
Family history
my family history
family history
In this town
in this town
in this town
Innisfail
We made this up on the spot, I think you can even heat the train go past in the recording and the rain pitter patter on the roof top. Nice.
Cheers ABC.
This is a story of a 17 year old whose parents move from Adelaide to the Gold Coast and take her away from her friends and boyfriend.
Hinterland
Remind me why you brought me here
Why you dragged me away
From all my friends and my one true love
On this God forsaken day
Your green belt awakens me
After many miles on the road
Comming down the gap from Cunningham, the scaters sing their sweet summer song
Of my future in this new home
Of my future yet unknown
Chorus
Rolling hills of velvet green
Touch my eyes like never seen
You fill my soul and you guide my hand
Sweet Hint-er-land
Your show my why you brought me here
To my new Hint-er-land, why you dragged me away
You offer me my own salvation
On this God given day
Chorus
Rolling hills of velvet green
Touch my eyes like never seen
You fill my soul and you guide my hand
Sweet Hint-er-land
YASS
Miss Selina Pembroke worked in Yass library
Now who knows her story, her hopes or her tears?
She knew every book when life was much slower.
She ran the Yass library for sixty one years.
Chorus:
The town has grown bigger and busier and bustlier.
Talk to young people, they don't want to know.
I was the same, when I was much younger.
I must have crossed over... some time ago.
Gloria showed me a picture; it's all in the archives.
She works in Yass archives; she's done it for years.
She holds all the records, of when life was much slower,
Stands in the breach as time disappears.
There isn't a headstone for Miss Pembroke's memory,
And who'll be our memory, when Gloria's gone?
Youth gives its soul to the latest technology.
With no voice from the past, there's no future song.
Chorus:
Now the town has grown bigger and busier and bustlier.
If I talk to young people they don't want to know.
I was the same, when I was much younger.
I must have crossed over... some time ago.
Oh, we'd like to be swimming in the Brim Weir Pool,
We'd love to go fishing with a rod and a reel,
If only there was water
Wouldn't that be cool
Down at the Brim Weir Pool.
Well, we've had a big drought since I don't know when,
The water's stopped flowing for a year or ten.
The crops they were a - dying,
And the tanks were dry,
And there was nowhere for a swim
Or a garden left alive.
But then they built a pipeline
To deliver us the water,
And then we had some liquid gold
To use just like we oughta.
And we're gonna be swimming in the Brim Weir Pool
Gonna be there right after school
A - splishing and a - splashing and having fun
Down at the Brim Weir Pool
Yeah we're all at the Brim Weir Pool!
My Home
It's where I live-the town of Allingham
It whispered to me this is what I am -
Bush curlews with their haunting call,
Leichardt trees so strong and tall
Orange grevilleas used as Christmas trees
White apple flowers that make you sneeze.
Scavanging ibis their prodding beaks dig,
Looking for food 'neath native figs,
Water birds probe amongst reed and logs
Chase crickets, beetles and bright green frogs.
Thunder, lightning brings wet season rains
Filling swamps unrestrained
Mauve water lillies lift blooms aloft
Soft oozing mud squelches underfoot.
An ocean voice forever resounds
Dying waves roll over soft white sands
Like a film of thread it leaves a line,
A seaweed necklace and shells that shine.
A sea that is calm, and then it turns
A cauldren, wind, froth, the water churns
Gyrating whirlpools, surge and churns,
Then calm returns, to meet evening hush.
Its where I live, the town of Allingham-
It whispered to me, this is what I am
You guys have opened the flood gates by allowing multiple entries!
This is my second.
Title: So What Do I Like About This Town?
Chorus:
So what do I like about this town?
What do I see when I’m looking ‘round?
There’s nothing unusual I agree,
But living in Yass feels good to me.
A few close friends could colour my view.
Childhood memories might do it too.
Seeing things familiar also may,
When returning home from a time away.
Chorus
At different times I might complain,
Of burning sun or driving rain,
But changes bring their pleasures too,
As life has seasons for living through.
Chorus
Perhaps my season is one of grace,
What I find outside takes second place.
My home town may not stand apart,
But it’s coloured by a contented heart.
Chorus
who is showing on main stage
LOCHIEL
Wedgi, Dead tree
Hilltop, gazing out to sea
Lyrebird, Lyrebird
Purest sound I've ever heard
Bubbling creek rolling green
Clearest skies, you've ever seen
Chorus
Lochiel, Lochiel
Love the country
Love the feel
No school any more
Years ago they shut the door
Halls gone
What a shame
Gone in one big ball of flame
Old Grey Box, Kurrajongs
Growing proud, Growing strong
Chorus
Lochiel, Lochiel
Love the country
Love the feel
Merino wether, 1st cross ewe
Grazing with the kangaroo
Kelpie dog, grey stock horse
Survive the drought
Stay the course
Seasons come seasons go
A place to watch the grand kids grow
Chorus
Lochiel Lochiel
Love the country
Love the feel
Thee Sweetness Has Gone From Nambour
The cane stood in the fields, growing green and tall
Putting a contented smile on the face of all
Until the big burn when the ash began to fall
And the smoke from the fires cast its eerie pall.
Now the sweetness has gone from Nambour and the sugar mill’s no more
The sickly scent of treacle doesn’t waft through every door
The sugar cane’s no longer Nambour’s essential core.
That’s all in the past. What does the future hold in store?
The cane's long gone and the fields lie bare
The hallowed ground's dotted with houses here and there.
People seem to have forgotten or they just don’t care
How Nambour, without its sugar cane, is really going to fare
Now the sweetness has gone from Nambour and the sugar mill’s no more
The sickly scent of treacle doesn’t waft through every door
The sugar cane’s no longer Nambour’s essential core.
That’s all in the past. What does the future hold in store?
The farmers have been trying out a new crop idea
And the housewives don’t dread the big burn every year.
The shops are full of goods and the pubs have got beer
But in the wind there’s a lament that the old folk hear.
The sweetness has gone from Nambour, the sugar mill ‘s no more
The sickly scent of treacle doesn’t waft through every door
The sugar cane’s no longer Nambour’s essential core.
That’s all in the past. What does the future hold in store?
Now that the sweetness has gone from Nambour
and it’s a sugar town no more.
"KIAMA IS FOR ME"
Chorus:
Kiama Kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but
Kiama Kiama is home for me, where beauty is all around Kiama
kiama Kiama is the place for me, where else would you rather be, but kiama
kiama is home for me.
Verse 1:
Where the blowhole is blowing, the waves at our beaches are roaring making
great for surfing, and the Jamberoo hills are really rollie, where the
mountains meet up high in saddleback mountain, what a view, where else would
you rather be but (go to the chorus x 1)
Verse 2:
Our eaters are fabulous we even have a Gloria Jean, our clubs are
competitive really community supportive, whether shopping for a bargain or
special antic, our shops are grand, whether young or old there's lots for
the whole family to do where else would you rather be but (go to the Chorus
x 1)
Verse 3:
Our icons have put us on the world map, we are full of beauty from head to
toe, from shades of blue to green, it's all here for you to see, so come see
for yourself where else would you rather be but (go to the chorus x 2)
My home town is Coober Pedy - the changes that are happening to it have inspired this song.
There's a town in Central Australia; Coober Pedy is it's name
The search for the elusive opal, has been it's claim to fame.
But things are now a'changing; The opal miners are all aging.
And a new breed of young miners have arrived.
Their search is for copper, gold and the iron ore
The big miners have now come to town.
Big money for our young ones, money for our town
But we don't really want things; in our town to change
For the beauty of this outback town, is not in gems or gold
But in our people, who come from near and far
For together we have formed a bond, that can't be found elsewhere
The gems of Coober Pedy, are it's people dark and fair.
CHORUS
Yes things are a'changing in our outback dusty town
The big miners are a'coming to our town
But the gems of Coober Pedy, are it's people you will see
If you can find the time to spend a day or two with me.
Written by Judy Underwood
11th August 2010
Bungarby
On the road to nowhere
Beside the Snowy Mountains
Are the ghosts of the past
And a town of yesteryear
Hidden in the hillsides
Are friends and neighbours
A close knit community
Open arms and open doors
CHORUS
The sun rises and sets in glory
The stars are brilliant in the sky
And there's plenty of mates
And plenty of cakes
At the fire shed morning tea
In down town, Bungarby
The McLaughln and the Snowy
Fight for pride of place
And there's s clash of the tribes
Between the roos and cows and sheep
CHORUS
The internet is satellite
The TV is just ABc
But there is a peace to be found
In those wide open skies
CHORUS
I Love That Town
I grew up by the Comet River on a place outside of Rolleston town
It's where i spent my childhood days, me and my friends would run around
There's not much to the town itself - school and park in the main street
old men sit and reminisce of how things used to be
Chorus:
What seemed so big is now so small
that town becames my home
Now I'm walking the empty streets
And i see how much I've grown
The windmill is still standing
but the cafe has closed down
I see so much love in this town
The road trains creep through with red dust tracks, full with cattle from the local stations
Tourists see just another country town - they think of big city destinations
Farmers now wear mining shirts - that's how it's come to be
families leave their home town behind, they've moved onto make end's meet
When I am old and grey, maybe 70 or more
I'm gunna bring my grandkids to the place that I adore
The windmill will still be standing, as I watch them run around
Everything I love is here in this town.
-Repeat Chorus-
I wrote this little song, walking along South Beach at Port Hughes SA York Peninsular
"Paridise Port Hughes"
The summer sunlight hugs the coast
Makes it feel sometimes the most
Attractive little place there is on earth
South beach sands running thought my hands
You can see and understand
Why folk from far away come here to stay
Boaties leave the ramp at dawn
Heading out in the early morn
To catch a feed of fish to have for tea
Coming back in the afternoon
Gather round the BBQ
For the fun and family lifestyle is all free
Chorus
We have million dollar views
And lots to see and do
At this peace of paradise [we call Port Hughes
Locals in this town of ours
With helping hands and loving arms
Make your stay the best you’ve ever had
We all love our town with pride
Makes all of us realise
This special place on earth is safe and free
Chorus
So come along enjoy yourselves
Tell your friends that it’s the most
Impressive little place you’ve ever stayed
We would like too see you back again
So bring your mates, and there friends
To this little country town down by the sea.
Chorus + 2
Toowoomba is my city
Toowoomba is my town.
Toowoomba is the diamond
In Queensland's golden crown.
She sits atop the ridge in
The good ol' Darling Downs,
Toowoomba is my city, Mate,
Toowoomba is my town.
I've lived in Goondiwindi
And watched old Gunsynd train,
I've played footy up in Innisfail
In twenty feet of rain.
I've knocked around the "Isa",
And many places west,
There's just one place for me, Mate,
Toowoomba - she's the best.
I've seen much of this country,
My work trakes me away,
And many a pretty little town
Has tempted me to stray.
But home is where the heart is,
And that will never change.
My heart is in Toowoomba,
Way up there on the Range.
Toowoomba, she's my city, Mate,
Toowoomba, that's my town.
She's at her best in Springtime
When she wears her floral gown.
The "Carnival of Flowers" is held in great renown.
Toowoomba is my city, Mate,
Toowoomba, that's my town.
SONG OF EDEN
VERSE 1:
Our Port is a haven for weary sailors who have come to rest
after the sapphire blue Ocean has put them to the test.
Our harbourmaster pilots huge ships to the safety of the dock,
one of the few ladies able to steer the vessels away from rocks.
When mishaps strike yachts in the Sydney to Hobart race
they limp into Eden and will find comfort and a welcoming face.
Mary Mc Killop’s connections to Eden are very well known,
her poor Mother drowned when the LY-EE- MOON went down.
CHORUS:
When George Bass first anchored in Twofold Bay
What would his thoughts be if that was today?
Would he be envious of what we have here,
or yearn for his home and shed a few tears.
VERSE 2:
Eager tourists arrive to explore areas far away from a mall.
They fish, swim, go on whale cruises and really have a ball.
Sporting and Art groups gather their friends, and together
with calendars full of events, they enjoy all their leisure.
We can drive to the mountains if we want to snowboard or ski.
Some prefer to stop at the Seahorse Inn at Boydtown for High Tea.
Visitors from all over the world want to see OLD TOM
in the Killer Whale Museum that is now his permanent home.
CHORUS:
When George Bass first anchored in Twofold Bay
What would his thoughts be if that was today?
Would he be envious of what we have here,
or yearn for his home and shed a few tears.
VERSE3:
Our Marine High School teaches subjects linked to the sea.
Exchanging classrooms for deep water, where students feel free.
For our seniors who need special attention and care
A new centre has opened so you can join those already there.
Because the climate in Eden is really quite mild
It attracts many to settle here from far and wide.
At times the city calls us and we wrestle with the noise and the stress
but we know that an hour on a plane returns us to a place truly blessed.
RIDE THE RAIL WEST
Born of sweat and Labour, from the burly miners hands
Built their character through hardship, carved their lives out on the land
Some carried all their dreams, on the sheep and cattle tracks
Then watched ‘em disappear, as the Bremer took ‘em back
Young families cleared the land, and slept among the crops
While miners journeyed deep, into the broken rock
So come and ride the rail west, into a sun burnt sky
Come and raise your family, come and feel the pride
Make a stand and stake your land, in a town where dreams exist
Fill the workshops, mills and foundries
Come build this City of Ipswich
A haven for the battler, filled with Aussie pride
Hard work’ll never kill ya’, just lets ya’ know that you’re alive
Now a City of achievement’s, we’ll boast of all her quests
The sportsman and the poet, have dug deep into her depths
We live among the V8’s and hear the big Jets roar
Cause no one makes em’ tougher, we’re Ipswich to the core
Does anyone know where I can get Dolly Parton's Treasures CD (other than from ebay/amazon, as i'm not a fan of e-shopping). Its a prezzie for my mum. Any help will be much appreciated.
Cheers
TOMERONG
Chorus
Aboriginals so black and so bold
Gave Tomerong its name
So the story is told my friends
So the story it goes
About a little town called Tomerong
That nobody knows
First came the farmers to clear the land
Working and working, they all lent a hand
Coming down the Wool Road with a couple of ton
Been out Goulburn way, doing a wool run
Timber cutters with their axes and their saws
Cutting down old gum trees, can you hear the bullocks roar
They're just shadows gone by
They're just shadows gone by
Little school on the hill, its still there today
The pub and the butcher, the baker's gone away
It was the hub of the land, all the councillors
Divided by four, by parish men
Chorus
Tomerong where the gum trees grow
The soil is fertile, the plants all know
Native animals still love this place
To live in Tomerong, its a grace
Aboriginals so black and so bold, Gave Tomerong its name
So the story is told my friends So the story it goes
About a little town called Tomerong
Nobody knows
Tomerong
Nobody knows
Tomerong............
Lithgow a place in History.
In a valley west of Sydney
On the Great Dividing Range
Was discovered then developed
and so began the chain.
Settlers came to start life anew
Roads were built and railway too
Pioneer skills were put to test
And progress made to build the rest
A town a City sure to be
Lithgow part of History
Coal was mined and steel was milled
Pottery fired and orders filled
To satisfy with so much pride
The needs of all from far and wide
The valley thrived and people strived
To make this town a place of pride
Friendships young and friendships old
Formed by people pure as gold
The future of our town was sure
With commerce industry and more
The signs were good for growth and life
Happiness, prosperity and not much strife
Though as the years passed this to changed
Some ups and downs and trouble ranged
But times still heals and hurts will be
Just memories in our History.
My Town – Eden, NSW, Twofold Bay
It’s the gateway to the Sapphire Coast, where the mountains meet the sea
On the far south coast of New South Wales, Eden’s the place we love to be
Situated on the shores of Twofold Bay it’s during Spring whales come to play
And if you want to see the Humpbacks feedin’ then you’ll have to visit Eden
Put on your boots & take a hike you can walk from Light to Light
From Greencape near Disaster Bay along the cliffs to Twofold Bay
Come & visit Twofold Bay
Watch the Humpback whales at play
Once you have been here you will want to stay
So visit Eden & say g’day
Launch your boat and drop a line – the fishing here is mighty fine
Kingfish, tuna, albacore – you’ll keep coming back for more.
Watch the boats unload their catch – fresh fish & chips there is no match
Enjoy the local chilli wine, the prawns and mussels are divine
Take a cruise around Twofold Bay, view landmarks built in Ben Boyd’s day
Dolphins, seals and Albatross, just some of the sealife you’ll come across
Come & visit Twofold Bay
Watch the Humpback whales at play
Once you have been here you will want to stay
So visit Eden & say g’day
A cruise ship enters Twofold Bay, we know they will enjoy their stay
In the thermals eagles soar, a patch of salmon swim close to shore
Boyd’s Tower, Edrom the Seahorse Inn- you need time to take all this in
Have you heard of Eden’s Killer Whales – visit the museum and hear the tales
Of Tom the leader of the pack – rejoice the whales are coming back!
As the sun sets over Mount Imlay, it’s time to reflect on a perfect day
Come and visit Twofold Bay
Watch the Humpback whales at play
Once you have been here you will want to stay
So visit Eden & say g’day
Rosalind Butt
This is my song. ( Kelmscott) It starts with the chorus and ends with it.
Chorus:
I'm crusing down a highway and it's highway number one
I'm heading back to Kelmscott going to have me some fun
trailer hitched up to the Holden as the country keeps unfolding
yes, I'm heading back to Kelmscott going to have me some fun.
1 I've left behind big cities and all their fancy lights
I'm heading for the country and starry starry nights
I'll be sitting around a camp fire with the billy on the boil
It's a simple country pleasure and reward for all your toil
the sights that I am seeing rate with the best on earth
and that makes me thankful for the fortune of my birth
Chorus
2 to see this big wide country in all its natural awe
makes you want to keep on moving and see a whole lot more
and now that I have told you my thoughts on how I feel
I hope that you'll remember when you get behind the wheel
and take a trip to somewhere where all these sights abound
to take it nice and easy and have a look around
Chorus
3 It's an Aussie kind of feeling and it gets you in the heart
and I know that when I get there I'll head back to the start
I'll keep right on a moving and take a different track
cause there's a lot more country to explore as I head back
Chorus
This is my Song of Broken Hill. It's a great place and deserves its own song. I think I may have been subconsciously channeling Slim Dusty and maybe a bush band could do it justice- a lagerphone, washboard, flute, fiddle... Or why not go all out with some brass?
Broken Hill in the Barrier Ranges SONG OF BROKEN HILL
Near the state’s far western line by Maureen Clark
Where the hills are made of silver
And there’s a fortune in every mine
Once Australia’s mining giant woz ‘ere
Now our owners live overseas
And tourists can’t seem to get enough of
Our legendary art and history
(Chorus)
Oh, there’s a pub on every corner, sometimes two;
Kangaroos hop down the street
Followed by the odd emu
And the locals all drive rusty utes
And their dogs are all called Blue
That’s how outback legends are made here
And some of it may be true!
Barkindji roamed, Wiljakali too
Before Sturt and Burke and Wills,
And Rainbow Serpent and painted hands
Cover the rocks among the hills.
Pro Hart and the Brushmen of the Bush
Painted our city’s fame abroad
Now tourists appear from far and near
And when they leave, they’re overawed!
(Chorus) Maybe they heard…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
Our unions gave us Workers’ Rights
Like the 35 hour week
And the Hill lived by its very own rules
Thanks to the BIC
Once Cobb and Co brought travellers here
Now they fly in by jet it seems
While our camel trains and Mundi Mundi Plains
Are a film producer’s dream!
(Chorus) And they said that…
Oh there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street… (etc)
Some say the outback’s the Dead Heart
Of Australia, our fair land
Where the artist’s palette is set out
In the colours of the sky and sand
Orange soil and bones burned white,
In blistering sun, no gentle hues.
Wild hops so red, looks like the hills have bled
Into the salt bush,of sage blue;
(Chorus) So come and see us…
Oh, there’s a pub on every corner, maybe two;
Kangaroos hop down the street…(etc)
WHITE BEACHES OF SHOALHAVEN
Stress down
Fun on the go
Playing around
Or taking it slow
The sky so blue
Sailing the bay
Just me and you
Rolling in the hay
Oh Oh Oh I'm in heaven
On the white beaches of Shoalhaven
Oh Oh Oh I'm in heaven
On the white beaches of Shoalhaven
Taking a walk
With a friend or two
Sit around and talk
Never feeling blue
Monday's here too soon
Back to hard grind
Singing a sad tune
Of heaven lef behind
Oh Oh Oh I was in heaven
On the white beaches of hoalhaven
Oh Oh Oh I was in heaven
On the white beaches of Shoalhaven
Here is my song about Emu Bay on Kangaroo Island SA - Long White Sands of Emu Bay
Sun sparkling, small waves lapping,
long, white shore and silver sands.
Seagulls rise, black dog chasing,
Wet tongue lolling as he runs.
Children squealing as foam water
Washes over castle on the shore.
Emu Bay, a restful haven
Curves, embracing, all hearts adore.
Chorus: Feeling free, so free riding
the long beach stretches away from me
Hooves beat on the sand, tails streaming
Leave the world so far behind.
Dark shadow of salmon, turn
Silver flashing on the tide
Dolphins roll , diving under
Give the fishers a cheeky grin.
Special beach, ancient history
Fossils hide in rocks at Emu Bay.
Kangaroo Island’s, beachside treasure
Invites all to come and stay.
Chorus: Feeling free, so free riding
the long beach stretches away from me
Hooves beat on the sand, tails streaming
Leave the world so far behind.
Winter sun shines on sheltered water,
Waves leave treasured shells to find.
Lazy township watches over,
stunning vista calm & wild.
A ketch called EMU once there sheltered
And left a namesake that has endured.
So endearing, is my hometown
Wish to linger, rest assured.
Chorus: Feeling free, so free riding
the long beach stretches away from me
Hooves beat on the sand, tails streaming
Leave the world so far behind.
TITLE " I Call Home " Verse 1 Where the Burnett starts it's trip to Bundy,and the beautiful Cania Gorge,where the Monal meets the Three Moon ,waters barley run at all..The soil is rich the air is clean, this lovely land of all. CHORUS: Between Mungungo an Mulgildie,a place where I call home, between Mulgildie an Mungungo a place we call Monto. Verse :2 It's freezing in the winter , but the stars are clear an bright,you can sit around the fire an drink, rum an Coke all night,well its . CHORUS: Between Mungungo an Mulgildie a place where I call home, between Mulgildie an Mungungo,a place we call Monto. Verse : 3 Summer if your lucky,the rains will come thundering down ,changing the brown land scape to green,bringing life through out the land.The cattle fat ,the sorhum growing ,it's just like a dream ,farmers cutting lucerne an baling with machines.Yes. CHORUS : Between Mungungo an Mulgildie a place where I call home, between Mulgildie an Mungungo a place we call Monto. ".END"
The train used to wind through the ranges collecting the milk on the way
Dairies were plenty and paddocks were green the cows contented all day
Today the station is missing the tracks rusty now on the hills
The dairies are gone no need for the milk the town growing empty and still.
Chorus
And the kookaburras still laugh in the mornings
And the curlews still cry in the night
Wide Bay Creek still trickles along
And Kangaroos frightened take flight.
Once there were dances and tennis people in buses would come
A butcher, a smithy a produce store, now we are left with just one.
Once cow cockies cries reached to the skies and cattle sales often were run
They flocked to the pub for a beer and some grub and their families joined the fun.
Chorus
Land is now selling and people are building and the school is teaching the kids
The rains are returning and beef cattle fattening and people are making the quids.
So maybe one day Woolooga will grow and again a new hey day will start
Whatever the mood or the industry there it will always be home in my heart.
Chorus.
CHORUS:
South of the Murray in the State's north-east, lies our little town of Rutherglen
We grew from a gold rush in the eighteen-sixties, to produce our most famous wine.
VERSE 1
They came from far and wide to mine the plains for gold
To build the town, the churches and the schools
They planted vines across the land and built the railway line
The pubs and banks and postal buildings too.
CHORUS:
VERSE 2
At the turn of the century Phylloxera hit the vines
It decimated growth and wealth alike
The gold was gone, the grapes as well, the population spiralled down
But there were some who stayed, prepared to fight.
The farmers and producers, the tradesfolk and the like
The publicans and bakers come to mind
The merchants and the teachers, the locals and their kin
But most of all the growers of the wine.
CHORUS:
VERSE 3
The vines they were replanted, the industry evolved
The tourists come to taste our liquid gold
It's been a century and a half of history in our town
With many more great stories yet untold.
CHORUS:
Towns
of the
Southern
Cross
Maggin’ with Macca.
They often ‘ave a mag with Macca,
people often ‘ave a yack with ‘im,
certainly on Sundy mornin’s
'bout anythin’ great or grim.
They ‘phone ‘im at the radio station
just to ‘ave a bit of a yarn,
discuss all kinds a topics,
which don’t do no one ‘arm.
They ring from Northern Australia,
from the South also,
from just about any old place
that Aussies want to go.
I remember, one was in the desert,
campin’ near that famous tree,
the next was callin’ from a ship
wallowin’ five miles out at sea.
Another one called from in the snow
atop Australia’s highest hill
down in the old high country
where brumbys run free still.
From the South of Western Australia
where wildflowers dapple the earth
to the East coast up and down the length,
near the ever poundin’ surf.
They tell ‘im about their good yarns.
They chat about this and that.
I recall, that even one ol’ bloke said -
“ Macca " - " Keep this under your ‘at.”
It’s all typical Aussie yarnin’
that seems ta be dyin’ out,
‘ow often now in the pub
does any one yell - “ My shout.”
But the one I think is real beaut
is the little bloke of five
tellin’of campin’ out with mum and dad
keepin’ ol’ time Aussie alive.
(c). Rimeriter. 28/9/04.
Thornton Town
With heavy heart I walk this town
Tears in my eyes, no smile, just a sad old frown
Houses I remember are there no more
No Picture Theatre, No Ice Cream Parlour, Not even the General Store
All of my friends have moved on now
I remember those good old days so clear
I wish I could have those days back again
Fond memories are clouded by the free flowing tear
CH
Bring back those days, those good old days
Please take me I plead
Just give me back my younger days
To see you again for a short period of time, is what I really need.
I turn around, and wipe my eyes
And the memories in vain
Im best off leaving this town right now
And ridding myself of this pain
Barraba
It’s just a little town nestled amongst the hills
Not real flash & don’t possess a lot of frills
A lot of empty windows surround a big locked door
But there was a time when the little town offered a whole lot more
We had three garages and a big wool store
A blacksmith’s shop where the furnace would roar
We had two cafes that did a roaring trade
And three pubs where a lot of deals where made
There was a railway line that brought the train to town
But it fell into disrepair so they pulled it all down
As business slowed down they pulled the bank managers out
Put new bar licenses in so it’s hard to get a shout
They’ve been knocking us about but we won’t lie down
We’re even working on getting the water back into town
It flows past us in the river and it all goes by
We just look at it and swallow but our throats are dry
It flows into Split Rock dam and then it all goes south
But they won’t let us bring any back to moisten our mouth
They say it is all for the good of the nation
While poor old Barraba’s on a big water ration
It’s just a little town nestled amongst the hills
Not real flash and don’t possess a lot of frills
But the people here are friendly and kind of heart
So don’t let the politicians tear our town apart
Missing man by Matt Christophers
First verse
There is a house in them there hills full of childish joy,
but something is a missing and its not a baby boy
For in this house in Woodside there is a lonely soul,
surrounded by his beauties, four girls, a wife, a hole.
Chorus
Its been a long time, And it’s a long long way, to know that missing man.
will i ever get there and what do i say, will it make me the best i can
Does it make me who I am?
Verse two
My family is my life...... and should i have a place,
for doubt and reservation have marred this special race.
Ive got this little spot that missing man should be
Better late than never, I found that half of me.
Chorus
Verse three
I broke that wall of silence, fake names and hazy past,
To find that drunkard exploits in number cant be passed.
They cost me that great hindsight of yarns with dad and beers,
To protect themselves its cost me many wasted years.
Chorus
So in this house in Woodside, a hole is almost filled,
For the missing man is found, and we both are thrilled.
When we meet old lefty your hand i will sure shake,
And the hugs from my four beauties,.....well they’re bloody great.
ALICE & ART
Dear friend I hope this letter finds you safe and well.
Read it before your journey west, there's a story I'd like to tell.
Five thousand acres of hills and scrub, trees and endless sky.
A hundred more of golden grass greets the viewer's eye.
Fence posts hewn from ancient trees, strung with barbed and rusting wire,
lead to a fancy wrought iron gate salvaged from a past bush fire.
Beyond the gate there's a concrete path that keeps you on the straight and narrow.
Walk that path and on the right there'll be a flower-filled wheelbarrow.
In front of you there's a timber door. Knock softly, don't give them a start.
It is the home of a friendly pair known as Alice and Art.
They know this place like to back of their hands, they've lived there for donkey's years.
The pair have seen the country change, over time they've shed many tears.
But when visitors call 'round, like you will today, to chat and share a cuppa,
the stories flow on, day turns to night, and there's an invite to stay for suppa.
Clear your thoughts, open your ears, listen carefully to this elderly pair.
You have much to learn, they have much to say, as their stories they openly share.
They farmed this land, did Alice and Art, since they married so long ago.
Their sheep and cattle, wheat and oats, some of the best the district could grow.
They entertained neighbours and government staff under the roof of their well-built home.
Bushrangers too, often called in when out that way they happened to roam.
Art tells of wild romance and visits by the likes of Kelly and Hall.
You'll listen, as I did, over again, and wonder, "Do I believe it all?"
Alice just listens, relaxed in her chair. Her turn will come, she smiles.
She drags out her wool and knitting pair and lets it roll out over the tiles.
As Art plays a tune and stomps his foot, remembering days of old,
Alice gets up and pours more tea before the water gets cold.
Listen for the story of Art's porridge and sweetener, our breakfast when we stayed over.
We didn't know the sugar pot was filled with salt as we poured it over and over.
It didn't sweeten the porridge much, although, Art insisted, his tasted fine, what's the matter with us - then his face went all bitter and twisted.
Ask Alice about the early days when she and Art first met.
She found out later that Art kissed her cheek to secure a friendly bet.
Alice still wears the same style of dress, though she's done away with the corset.
She said it didn't control her weight, and gave up trying to force it.
Now, that five thousand acres doesn't do much, it's reclaimed by rabbits and roos.
Alice spends most of her time in the garden. Art spends his mending countless pairs of shoes.
When you visit them on the Western Plains, please, give them my very best.
I haven't forgotten them, I'll be there soon, when work takes me back out west.
Mullumbimby 2482.
***********************
Mullumbimby's now a different place, (Chorus)
The Mayor said to his wife;
"These city folks....have changed the spokes,
That turn the wheels of country life ! "
The Baker left a month ago,
In a fit of robust pique.
He said " No more" when the store next door,
Became the " Chez Monique" boutique !
Before it's said, " Who bakes the bread ? "
I'll relieve your abject misery,
The Bakery's been freshened up,
To become Pierre's Patisserie !
French loaves and croissants fill the shelves,
It looks sparkling, bright and clean;
There's alfresco dining out the front,
To create the " Paris " scene !
Pierre seems like a friendly bloke,
Monique ?....she loves a natter,
In former life, they answered to
Perc and Meg - from urban Parramatta !
(Chorus)
Time will tell if they do well,
May we say, " Merci beacoup,
You've improved the mood....,
And the range of food....,
Good Luck !....and Allez-Vous ! "
And thank you to ABC Country !
Tullah town
Tullah town’s snowy and it’s cold tonight, goin’ to find my man, hold him so tight
Light a big fire, we’ll be heaven bound, as we listen to the sound of the sun going down,
On Tullah town
Silver and blood settled this ground, they dug for riches all around this town
Dug so deep but the best thing they found, was the sound of the sun goin’ down
On Tullah town
Hey hey hey sun going down
Hey hey hey
Love my man and Tullah town
Hey hey hey
There's riches in the rock, but more riches in the heart, poverty flows from where truth fears to start
But truth walks free, across our ground, as we listen to the sound of the sun going down
On Tullah town
Now there’s a big yellow moon risin’ ‘cross the trees, smiling tenderly on my man and me
Keeping company to the truth we’ve found, as we listen to the sound of the sun going down
On Tullah town
Hey hey hey sun goin’ down
Hey hey hey sun’s going down
Love my man and Tullah town
Love my man and Tullah town
The following half verse could be used in first part of second verse to add drama and use the second half of second verse as the final “half verse” here at this point.
It would thus go
Silver and blood....
There's riches in the rock...
chorus
Now there's a big yellow...
Or of course it could be left out!! Or left as is.
Silver and blood once ruled this town, and many good men had their lives cut down
Grandma said “We laid too many deep in the ground, as we listened to the sound of the sun goin down
On Tullah town
Something to do with the sea
The last time that I left Karumba
Was for a new job in the east
But I can’t seem to forget the orange sunset
As I sip my beer by the sea
Maybe it’s the way the sun hits the water
Maybe it’s the cool sea breeze
Cause the tears in my eyes as I say goodbye
Are rolling out to sea.
Upon my return to Karumba
Remind me when I have to leave
I’ll try not to cry when I say goodbye
This time I’ll kick and I’ll scream
The flat green brown wide-open spaces
The smiles on all the locals’ faces
Remind me of a time when this life of mine
Was connected to the sea
I tried not to stay in Karumba
I decided I just wouldn’t leave
It twisted my arm with its candour and charm
And the seafood I eat constantly
You’d reckon it’d be the warm winter days
Or the smell on the ground after in rains
But if you ask me why, I’ll say something like
It’s got something to do with the sea
The home is where the heart is they say , Frankston is where i work and play, The beaches are so inviting i want to stay. Australians far and wide we all love our towns and show our pride.
Come together let us rejoice ,after all we are all one voice.
The Aussie dream can come true for everyone not just me and you.
So sing along my fellow Aussie's and grab a beer and your cossies.
Australians through and through ,brothers and sisters me and you.
Australians through and through ,brothers and sisters me and you.
Frankston by the sea it's for yo
u as well as me.
There is a place in everyones heart that is dearer than another ,but be it country or by the sea it's a big Land let us all be happy where we stand.
G'day ABC Country.
Thanks very much for your earlier info.
I have been in contact via the link.
Time will tell. I s'pose everyone is very busy.
Perhaps 'Anonymous - July 4 is only looking for 'bites'. If not we can just ignore the nonsense.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE You are not alone when you live in the town of Ilfracombe, has the machinery mile and most of the locals have that genuine smile. chorus;Ilfracombe hub of the west, Ilfracombe thats my home, come by one day,come by one day.;We have had our fair share of floods, droughts,mirages across the plains.We even had amalgamation, which was the cause of many a heart palpatation.With its tourism beef and wool, the community does still rule.;chorus Ilfracombe hub of the west, Ilfracombe thats my home, come by one day, come by one day;;Have a drink at the Wellshot Hotel, doesnt matter if youre a grey nomad, a drover or the govenor general;;chorus Ilfracombe hub of the west, Ilfracombe thats my home, come by one day, come by one day
Travelling along high-ways,
Sun setting at my back
Parts unknown rolling hills
And meandering tracks
They're leading to Rochy
They're leading to Rochy
Travelling along highways
Passing through country towns
Past farmyards,schools and churches
Where people gather round
They're leading to Rochy
They're leading to Rochy
Chorus:
And when I reach there
I'll know what I will find
A place where I can call my own
Going home
Going home
Going home
Travelling along highways
Buildings up ahead
Lights that are shining
Welcome me around the bend
Home is here in Rochy
Home is here in Rochy
My Lyrics for the song competition.
Sands of Byron Bay
I walk my dog, well he’s just a pup, Along the sand, as the sun comes up
He looks at me, as he’s always done, So I let him go, for a run
He chases seagulls, on the beach, But they all stay, out of reach
Puffs and pants and, wags his tail, Doesn’t realize, he will fail
Chorus ------
It’s a long way from the city, A long way from LA
It’s a long way from the country, to the Sands of Byron Bay, Sands of Byron Bay.
--------
A jelly fish upon the beach, Driftwood too, seagulls screech
I watch a crab run down a hole, Dog lays down and has a roll
I wrote a message in the sand, with my finger, with my hand
Waves came in, washed it away, Same thing happened yesterday.
To Chorus ----
Bridge -----
I’m sick of life in the city, sick of the hurry and haze
If I don’t go back to the office, Then I’ll have no pay
I’ll buy a lottery ticket, Then I’ll hope and pray
I can spend the rest of my days on the, Sands of Byron Bay,Sands of Byron Bay
--------
A fisherman with his reel and rod, Gives me a wave and a friendly nod
Different people, that you meet, Makes this place, so unique
Not a worry, not a care. And there’s no polluted air
Leave my bags, I want to stay, Instead of working Saturday.
To Chorus ------
COUNTRY'S IN MY BLOOD.
---------------------------------------
Chorus:
City life aint so easy and friendships don't come in floods
I'm goin' back to the country cos' country's in my blood.
It's years since I left the stringies, the bloodwood and ironbark
for a life away from country, the lyrebird and the lark
but I miss my hometown Pambula on the sunny Sapphire Coast
where the beaches and the sunshine are a mutual matter of boast
I long to see again the wedgetail circling high above the flat
hear the hooting of the wise one ,shares night time with the bat
the warble of young magpie while Mom seeks worm in the loam
the tolling of the bellbird in the bushland of my home.
In dreams I see my childhood, the old folk and what they did
from stripping bark to rabbit trapping to feed us growing' kids
I go back through the decades to the stone house that's there still
I look down on the old place from my land up on the hill.
again to see the orb weaver, webs hold little beads of dew
sparkling like the sapphires early mornin's precious jewels
and somehow there's more beauty in nature's little ways
than the best parts of the city, concrete forests,all man made.
recall the drovin' of the cattle on wet and sometimes dusty tracks
to and there from lessons, our school bags on our backs
horse made little catchments left by hoof marks in the turf
oft' filled with crystal clear water, we drank to quench our thirst
the golden blossom of the wattle perfumes windshifts in the air
the gum we ate wen children, nature's golden chandelier
taste the fruit of wild cherry, now you don't often see
the one we used still laden for our annual Christmas tree.
Repeat chorus: Yes, city life>>>>>
As pleasant as this tune is the violence against men portrayed in this video is
unacceptable. If a man even simulated slapping a woman's face in a film clip
there would be an outrage and it would be removed from every ABC website.
Sorry Laura, your entitled princess routine might cut it with the pussy whipped but
not from men who have a modicum of self respect.
Hi all,
I saw greg (and Sara) on the first date of their tour at Katoomba. We went mainly to see Sara again - we had seen her in Taree several years ago. They were supported by Tracey Kileen who was fabulous. Then Greg took to the stage. We didn't know what to expect but came away delighted with seeing not only Sara, but her very talented brother Greg, He has the same natural and honest approach that his sister has and that approach is revealed in the passion with which he sings his songs. He has a great gravelly voice that copes as easily with traditional country ballad as it does with songs that have a blues edge to it. We really enjoyed Greg's set and have become instant fans. Looking forward to getting out and buying the album and hope to see him in concert again soon.
MR or MRS Anonymous On Jul 4, 2010. 10:10pm,
You seem a very bitter underachiever to think honouring a man that IS An Australian Country Music LEGEND is some how sick..He was the greatest alive and still is now he is gone, what is sick is that u think once dead you should be forgotten, shame really.Well you speak for few not many.. Every Year we hold a horse race we name after my late father in law and use it to keep his memories alive and fresh in our minds. He met Slim while working in the kimberly's and help slim with a flat tyre they had, am sure he is sitting having a beer listening to slim play right now!!,, sorry to hear no one will miss you so much but there is no need such comments,
LONG LIVE SLIM IN OUR HEARTS AND SOULS
Shane 34 South West W.A.
heyy u girls are awesome
excellent music keep it going strong
This show sounds fabulous!
How about bringing it to South East Qld?
Please!
I had never heard of Kasey Chambers and just listened to " the captain ". It immediately seduced me.
I had almost forgotten her solo voice! I love her stuff with Shane but I'm itchin' to hear something new too. Go Kasey!
Let Slim rest in peace!
I think it sick that a dead man can be up for awards!
I admired Slim for his courage and determination and all he gave for Country Music
but its time to let go .....
I speak for many people...
I am a contributor to the initial funding call.
Money was being raised by 'selling' pavers or something similar.
I have not had any news for ' Best part of sometime ' - How the heck are things going ??
Slim ‘n Me.
Slim Dusty was waitin’ on the back of a truck
a bloody big diesel, engine runnin’ with noise,
smoke from the pipe was puffin’ out muck,
in the front cabin were two army boys.
‘e was waitin’ ‘is turn to join the parade,
the ‘Journey of a Nation’ was soon to begin
so while ‘e waited alone in the shade
I wondered if me chances would be much too thin.
‘e seemed to be shiftin’ about on ‘is feet
with ‘is ol’ battered ‘at set square on ‘is ‘ead.
I thought if I was just ‘onest and fleet
I’d catch ‘im right now, cos that’s ‘ow I’m bred.
“ G’day mate ! Slim Dusty ? “ is what I did say,
‘e turned and looked down at me standin’ on tar,
smiled as ‘e paused cos that is his way
with strangers in Sydney not known from afar.
“ Will ya sign me parade ‘at” I asked ‘im at last
‘e nodded and reached down to grasp me blue cap
with anchors upon it that ‘ave not seen oceans vast,
but ‘e wrote upon it, ‘e is a fair dinkum chap.
The cap’s made from cloth that is so very thin,
so the writin’ is scrawly an’ tricky to read, but
‘e said to me “Cobber, I hope that will do”
“Just on the off-chance do you have some paper?”
I searched in a pocket of which there were few
found me a notebook then did a big caper,
passed it to ‘im, for ‘im to collate
some suitable words that might ‘glint in the sun’
so ‘e wrote on the page - ‘ Slim Dusty, your mate’
then put underneath it - 2001.
(c). Rimeriter.
3/1/01.
Both Catherine and Morgan are outstanding Australian talent
GO THE GRAFTON GIRLS!! i'm from grafton too
and the mcclymonts are probs the hottest
,coolest best talent to come out of this town
keep doin what u do cuz its amazingly good a long time fan x =]
go TROY!
Bloody Great Band Saw them Acoustic Awesome!!! Why have'nt uploaded daisey and took for granted?
Jay.
I have chosen songs that most people would know and will sing along with, I have all these song on a driving disc in my car and when I have friends in the car they always ask for this disc.
The Proclamers - 500 Miles
Jason Mraz - I'm Yours
Dixie Chicks - Goodbye Earl
All Saints - Never Ever
Miranda Lambert - Me And Charlie Talking
My suggested mixtape for Catherine and friends includes the following:
Hit the Road Jack as recorded by Ray Charles
Nice to be Here by Shane Nicholson
The First Cut is the Deepest – Cat Stevens - for flat tyre awareness
The Long Way Round by the Dixie Chicks
Fun Fun Fun by the Beach Boys
I think they are all great sing a long songs and include references to the road, friends, enjoying the moment and the beach. The Cat Stevens one is a bit out there but I can still link it in...just.
Graham,
ABC has limited bandwith for Digital TV. They have allowed us sufficient to squeeze in ABC Dig Music and ABC Jazz but no more. So I'm afraid ABC Country missed out. Foxtel rebroadcasts what is available on Digital TV so ABC Country is not on Foxtel.
Stuart Matchett
Content Director
ABC Country
Hi
Just a question. Why am I unable to get ABC Country on Foxtel? I can get ABC Jazz and Dig
Thanks
Graham
The mix I would make for the roadtrip would be;
The Road is Still My Home - Slim Dusty
St Kilda to Kings Cross - Paul Kelly
Tear in My beer - Hank Williams
Old Man Emu - John Williamson
Goin' Back Home - Troy Cassar-Daley
Firstly I am gonna assume (or pretend) Catherines friends are country fans, if not they'll have a crap roadtrip!
I chose the first and second songs because of the references to being on the road, the third and fourth songs I chose cos' they are just beaut songs and bloody good fun to sing along to. The last one by Troy Cassar Daley, because the coming home is sometimes better than the being away. .
Hi Jack
Can you post sar this message via her facebook site if possible, not sure that she would see it here (actually i doubt she would) I will make sure she gets it if you post it to her facebook site.
cheers
Donna
itunes should be on it's way soon....
Where can I down load or Buy the Disc With the Wild Colonial Boy on I live in
NSW Port Macquarie I want that track Regards Allen
This a great celebration of a truly wonderful aussie star. Thanks for playing!
OMG! this is just completely devastating as a country music fan i show my support today in posting this comment and in wearing my Nashville Tennessee tshirt! :)
great track !
Funniest/scariest moment on stage?
When did you realise that you could have a career in country music?
What's your earliest country music memory?
If you weren't in country music what would you be doing right now?
Who do you look up to in the Music Industry?
Can we expect another Album soon? Because the first one 'Wild Heart' is one of the best albums in Country Music that everyone should be listening too :) Doghouse and Girls with Girlfriends are my favourite :)
Do you have a pen?
Can you try and get Port Macquarie put on the GGG&B tour?
I really wanted to love this album. It’s got the T Bone Burnett sound and it’s full of old traditional songs that Willie has never played before. But it sounds dry. Doesn’t grab me.
This could be wonderful! TBone's Crazy Heart stuff was a worrthy Oscar winner and it'll be good to hear soem new takes on old Willie
just wondering if lee kernigan is playing this year like over years thankyou do you have pensioner rates
i love country singing and troy i sing along to Big Big Love p.s love yea
long time no see old mate. all the best deano
fantastic duo they rock love the song too
Sara when are u going to put ur new album on itunes.... would luv to down load it..Sounds great cheers
hello everyone and the team i can't waitfor lees concert
lol
xoxoxoxoxox
xoxoxoxoxoxo
I'd really like to see Sara Storer and Travis Sinclair come down to Melbourne. I really love both these artists' music. They are true storytellers.
Wow :) this is a great article. i love the 2009 Gympie Muster! :)
keep it up...
In response to Nomis: Never mind "living in Sydney or Melbourne", I live 2 hours out of Melbourne and would crawl over broken glass to see Nanci. I did and sat throught one of warmest, most genuine performances I have ever experienced.
I sat vacillating between a manic grin and tears - both of joy and elation at finally seeing live my hero, my "Brave Companion of The Road".
I will never forget the experience. So glad I made the trip.
Re Matt from Perth; Couldn't agree more, and this year the City Muster , which is usually only one week apart anyway, was on the same weekend as Boyup and we go the whole year with not much else.
You know there are alot of People in WA who love country music, but we never seem to get very many people coming this way unless it's for the Boyup Brook festival. Come on people treat us all fairly.
An shining beacon in a sea of mediocrity which is modern American music. Nanci is the 'real deal'. Her new album 'The Loving Kind' is outstanding.
If you live in Sydney or Melbourne and don't see her live, you will be sorry for the rest of your life.
kirsty is the best i saw and meet her at CMC rocks the snowys
she is great
love you kirsty xx
A National Treasure.
dmg
Well done John! Best wishes for your new life.
I first heard (and saw) The McClymonts when the came to Iraq and played for us during my tour. I fell in love with their style immediately and have been a fan of their ever since.
Gram is the greatest single influence in country/rock music ever - no exceptions. Music at its most powerful.
Old enough to remember when you started John - enjoyed every minute .May your retirement be long and happy.
Couldnt agree more with you Gregg, saw them last night at Hornsby RSL far too loud and distorted could not understand the lyrics , mix was awful , very ordinary and disappointed not a good first impression, maybe a better venue will be the way to hear these lovely girls.
These guys are changing country music in Australia as we know it. Simply AWSOME!!!!
Hi Allyson,
You're doing a great job as the marketing manager - I couldn't get to Tamworth this year (shame) but thoroughly enjoyed the photos - there should be more, though. Keep up the good work!
Good On Ya John, you are the best aussie witha true bue heart. I have many albums and just love your lyrics.
Hillbilly Road CD has a track 'Better than a Picture' and it is a wonderful song. Congratulations mate.
Saw the McClymonts at West Tamworth Leagues on Friday 22nd January 2010 and could not help but be disappointed, not at the quality of their renditions, with the quality of the sound produced via the mixer. It was so overboard in level that it was extremely difficult to understand the lyrics (except when Happy Birthday was sung to Sam). I'm looking forward to seeing them at another venue in the future when, hopefully, their wonderful talent will be better presented.
Go Tenielle! You're so talented and you deserve this!
we're setting off tomorrow! 5th year in a row and CAN'T WAIT
the guys are fabulous
Saw them last week and got album - every song is a Winner !!!!
can't wait to see more of them in Tamworth this weke
COunting down tha days! Tassie can't wait for Lee
Does anyone know if the festival is going to be affected by the current floods? does DiG Country know?
great to hear some local lads doing well
Junior Brown is excellent, very technical, very cool.
You did it again , great songs and a unmissable honesty.
I think Imogen Clark will win
what ever happened to Johno? has he disappeared off the face of the earth.??
sara, how are you? saw you at atherton recently,good show...is it possible to get a snail mail address for you as i have info on some of harrys belongings x camooweal you may be interested in ....hooroo.. jack
I have a guitar signed by the three of you in 2008.. Your latest album will be a great success story, it is no doubt a new chapter in your careers.It has to be fun to come to work, you show that to all of us.
Keep up the good work, so my guitar goes up in value.
Go train driving girl.D panel is behind you.
Go Tenielle.
You girls are fabulous no question You girls are going to make Tamworth singand dance to all your tracks in January 2010
Hi Molly, Brooke and Samantha how you girls doing It's Grant from Coonabarabran we met before in Tamworth i have a personally signed Cd from you three, you still remember that day you girls? you girls are awesome Wrapped Up Good Freshh EP is on sale January 2010 in tamworth you girls must be excited about this what shows have you girls got for tamworth?
Look forwrd to hearing from you girls soon
can't wait to see you girls in Tamworth Again
Yeha Kick it Up you Rock Girls
Yeha
It don't come any better than that.
Lee, acoustic, live and just so fantabulous.
DaveE
Great work - very proud!!! I would have come to watch if I didn't have my assignment to do. Will be at Tamworth to cheer you on!! (and Canada if you invite me!!! hehe) Good luck!!
hi im kealan vaughan your my 3hrd cousin i like the song the shake of a hand and the whole elbem i would like to meet you 1 day hopefuly we can if you could send me back a message in a week or two that would be great my dad robert vaughan wants to meet u to send me a message soon hope to meet you one day love the vaughans
An oldy but a goody!
Hi Terri Lynn Clark How are you today. My name is also Terri Lynn Hammer From Eastend Saskatchewan.
This piece and style is one of the best "Hedges" style ive every heard that was not Michael doing it.
Bravo...
Beautiful.
i love brooks and dunn why are yous pliting up oh well good luick to both of you i have all your cds i love to listen all the time love sheila
I've always liked Mama Get A Hammer (There's A Fly On Papa's Head)
A master song writer of his times. Capturing the pathos and humor of the day always relating to the common man. Check him out with the other songs of this self-titled album... "Sunday morning coming down"
Happened to catch him in Melbourne when he toured with Rita Coolidge...
Brilliant Mike, nice work, i'm totally buying your cd!
Good to see your giving O-Berg a plug aswell ;)
Good memories!
I knew kirsty when i only 4 years old my sister chrystal use to sing a maitland hall it has been a long time
since we have sang there.
it was so fun befor kirsty became famous.
76 and still going strong. Maybe marijuana isn't as damaging as some would have us believe.
I guess they have enough cash to pull this off.
great you canhear country when u want
Tori is a terrific talent and enjoy her songs! This young lady is heading for big things :-)
Your an amazing singer!! Can't wait for the next album....
There is a new music video on YouTube now for 'Precious Little'. Cover art can be right click copied from the website for the TAILWIND album.
Keep up the good work!
most entertaining girl.. every show that i seen her perform at .. she just entertains the crowd.. love her music. the Video are tops too..
Hi All,
Sincerly wondering why Lee Conway is not on your list..His music and talent is awesome.....
His songs have a huge range of different feelings to the mind, e.g The Bell, All i wanna Do,List goes on. Why not bring a legend back that has so much talent to offer to a variety of people?
Take the time to enquire...
Kindess regards Amber Jade.
How is the song by Ryan Adams called Gomme a Sign in any way country
the gympie MUSTER is a must do at least once while your still breathing.for a diehard fan like myself it is so good being out in the australian bush around campfires with people playing there own styles of guitar.its the type of event that still keeps the aussie aura alive in us all in this ever changing social environment.though you cant really compare it with tamworth as one is in the city and the other in the scrub the MUSTER does it for me bigtime,its like going home.i would suggest to anyone to allocate 10 days for this event though it actually runs for 6 days.on the sat/sun just prior to the MUSTER there is the imbil show and rodeo and steam train rides from gympie to imbil and return with period costume renactments at imbil.there is also horse trail riding with "adventure trail rides" held throughout the year.the races are also held in gympie and plenty of free live music held in gympie during the MUSTER week.volunteer workers at the various clubs such as scout and girl guides are most welcome and very rewarding.i was up there on friday 1st of august at 5.30am congregating with folks from all over australia in the icy cold conditions with a cup of cha for myself and others, waiting for poulsens paddock to open to reserve our real estate for the MUSTER.i hope you can join me this year,just keep an ear out for people singing to there hearts content into a mic and amp at a campsite and you have made it to hillbilly heaven. regards paul from Country Connection.
KIMBER IS GREAT! Play her mooooorrrreee PLEASE! xo
Tour the whole muster to FNQ - it'd be so popular. awesome bands but maybe not for a week just a weekend
I am amazed it took Willie and Asleep At The Wheel so long to record together but it was worth it.
Even though DIG/ DIG Country seem to like them, I don't see what all the fuss is about the Wilson Pickers. They seem to be a bunch of young guys who play rock and pop music who think bluegrass and country music is all about dumb hillbillys and a few 'yee hahs' - and therefore, easy to play. In contrast with 'real' bluegrass, their music lacks 'the high lonesome sound' that Buill Monroe, the Stanley Brothers, Flatt and Scruggs, etc. made the defining character of the music, along with technically brilliant musicianship.
A fantastic night very intimate, sound perfect, great artist, we had lots of fun .
I wish I'd been there!!!
ABC Country is a great innovation and addresses a very poorly served section of Australian music listeners.
A section for general comments would be useful. I know this one is for Troy, but I don't see anything for other comments.
The Internet transmission is a bit patchy this morning and keeps breaking up. I have a 1.5 MBit link and I have nothing else running - maybe you have a lot of web listeners at present.
Great anti-spam tool - have not seen that before!!
Gympie is a terrific festival for the whole family. Congratulations to the ABC for sponsoring such great artists. The most exciting new artist this year at Gympie will probably be Craig Morrison and Little Cowboys who rocked the joint last year!