Our National Anthem

John Wren · Posted: Sat Nov 24, 2007 11:23 pm

Joffa's post about turning back theboat people got me thinking about when did we drop the singing of the second verse? I think it is one of the best verses that describes this great land. I want it back.

FFS, we have to put up with what seems like 27 verses of the NZ anthem and other anthems that go on for an age and just seem like a cocophony of noise conjured together for no apparent reason.

Who actually knows the words to the second verse?

Beneath our radiant Southern Cross
We'll toil with hearts and hands;
To make this Commonwealth of ours
Renowned of all the lands;
For those who've come across the seas
We've boundless plains to share;
With courage let us all combine
To Advance Australia Fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Australia Fair.

Also, who's seen this version of the anthem? http://youtube.com/watch?v=7imvZW5U0ss
Absolute gold.

stui magpie · Posted: Sat Nov 24, 2007 11:32 pm

I remember the referendum for a new national anthem. I really still think "God Bless Australia" which was sung to the tune of "Waltsing Matilda" is a far superior song.

Donny · Posted: Sun Nov 25, 2007 12:07 pm

When did we ever sing the second verse ??

Please, no. That would be agony.

Alec. J. Hidell · Joined: 12 May 2007

I don't think I have ever heard the second verse being sung

John Wren · Posted: Sun Nov 25, 2007 3:16 pm

it's the shortest anthem going around. maybe it was at school assembly every monday that we sang both verses.

John Wren · Posted: Sun Nov 25, 2007 3:52 pm

^ the school song?! though, come to think of it i'm sure we had one too. ghastly.

happy happy joy joy.

Pa Marmo · Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2007 8:05 am

I dont know about you Jock but before the singing of 1 verse of Advance Australia Fair it was God Save the Queen. I know the second verse as we sung it at school in the choir, but it was only one verse at assembly after it replaced God Save the Queen.