So when we got to Melbourne town,
We were ready soon to slip
And get even with the captain -
All hands scuttled from the ship.

With my swag on my shoulder,
black billy in my hand,
I traveled the bush of Australia
like a true born native man.

We steered our course for Geelong town,
hen north - west to Ballarat,
Where some of us got mighty thin,
And some got sleek and fat.

Some tried their luck of Bendigo,
And some at Fiery Creek;
I made a fortune in a day
And spent it in a week.

With my swag on my shoulder,
black billy in my hand,
I traveled the bush of Australia
like a true born native man.

For many years I wandered round,
As each new rush broke out,
And always had of gold a pound,
'Till alluvial petered out.

'Twas then we took the bush to cruise,
Glad to get a bite to eat;
The squatters treated us so well
We made a regular beat.

With my swag on my shoulder,
black billy in my hand,
I traveled the bush of Australia
like a true born native man.

So round the 'lighthouse' now I tramp,
Nor leave it out of sight;
I take it on my left shoulder,
And then upon the right,

And then I take it on my back,
And oft upon it lie.
It is the best of tucker tracks,
So I'll stay here till I die.

With my swag on my shoulder,
black billy in my hand,
I traveled the bush of Australia
like a true born native man.