The haunting phrases of Kutcha Edwards singing the Dulwich Centre’s alternative national anthem fill my ears, and a tear comes to my eye as I listen.
With lyrics by Judith Durham, Kutcha Edwards, Lou Bennett, Camilla Chance and Bill Hauritz, this alternative national anthem gives us a wonderful look at modern Australian values.
Ideas such as loving the land, peaceful relationships with our neighbours, acknowledgement of Indigenous Australians, and learning to “trust and understand” each other, are showcased.
This alternative anthem keeps the backbone and tune of Australia’s current anthem while providing new light for Australia’s people. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Australia, celebrate as one, with peace and harmony.
Our precious water, soil and sun, grant life for you and me.
Our land abounds in nature’s gifts to love, respect and share,
And honouring the Dreaming, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
Australia, let us stand as one, upon this sacred land.
A new day dawns, we’re moving on to trust and understand.
Combine our ancient history and cultures everywhere,
To bond together for all time, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
Australia, let us strive as one, to work with willing hands.
Our Southern Cross will guide us on, as friends with other lands.
While we embrace tomorrow’s world with courage, truth and care,
And all our actions prove the words, advance Australia fair,
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
And when this special land of ours is in our children’s care,
From shore to shore forever more, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance … Australia … fair.
