Though I was but a youngster
It was many years ago
The memories are still alive
Of a place where kids can grow.
It was up near Charters Towers
Just near an old ghost town
Where they panned for buried treasure
Called gold beneath the ground.
That old ghost town is Ravenswood
It once bustled, boomed and grew
Oh what a grand impressive sight
It must've been when all was new.
Though now it stands a quiet town
With reflections of a past
When boom-time pride and splendour
They thought would always last.
'Tis true the years do take their toll
For only photos tell the story
Yet there it rests this little town
With a glimpse of former glory.
The cattlemen now run this land
Laying claim to miles around
It's a harsh and rugged country
With a beauty to astound.
But a beauty not like others think
Not of pretty hills and dale
But beauty such as parched brown land
Where wildlife does prevail.
Like the rare sight of the dingo
Running shyly on the hill
Amongst the soft tall grasses
No doubt to make his kill.
Even scarcer are the brumbies
With alert majestic frame
They race across the paddock
This mob you'd never tame.
Their gait it sounds like thunder
Taking fright with anxious stride
Their form is like a racehorse
But their freedom gives them pride.
A treasure trove of fauna
Like the roo and hawk and boar
And echidna, snakes and wallabies
Yet still so many more.
To a boy of barely ten years old
'Twas adventure to behold
Now cherished more as memories
To last me till I'm old.
Contented with these memories
Till sadness plays its part
For those who shall never hold
Such treasures in their heart.
Shane Allen
Brisbane
23 April 2000
Copyright © Shane B Allen 2000