Advance, Australia Fair [The Worker, 24 March 1942]

[Editor: As The Worker was traditionally a pro-republic paper, it is somewhat of a surprise to see “Advance Australia Fair” published in its pages, as the second verse is viewed by many as pro-British; although, it could be noted that the fourth verse, which might be regarded as even more pro-British, was not included here. As this was printed in 1942 (during the Second World War), it is possible that the influence of war-time patriotism for the British Empire may have influenced its reproduction.]

“Advance, Australia Fair”

A bright prelude to the radio news from Canberra is “Advance Australia Fair” — now recognised as Australia’s national anthem. A surprisingly large number of people do not know the words of this song, though they may have heard and forgotten them. Written and composed by “Amicus,” the song is as follows:

Australia’s sons let us rejoice,
For we are young and free;
We’ve golden soil and wealth for toil,
Our home is girt by sea;
Our land abounds in nature’s gifts,
Of beauty rich and rare;
In history’s page, let every stage
Advance Australia Fair.
Chorus: In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance, Australia Fair.

When gallant Cook from Albion sailed,
To trace wide oceans o’er,
True British courage bore him on,
Till he landed on our shore;
Then here he raised Old England’s flag,
The standard of the brave;
“With all her faults we love her still,”
“Britannia rules the wave.”
Chorus: In joyful strains, etc.

Beneath our radiant Southern Cross,
We’ll toil with hearts and hands,
To make our youthful Commonwealth
Renowned of all the lands;
For loyal sons beyond the seas
We’ve boundless plains to share;
With courage let us all combine
To advance Australia Fair.
Chorus: In joyful strains, etc.

Source:
The Worker (Brisbane, Qld.), Tuesday 24 March 1942, page 5

[Editor: Corrected “ths song” to “this song”.]