The Gathering
J C Munro

Thousands came to Ballarat from every place
From every occupation old and young
Hope and desperation shone in every face
The tumult grew the golden song was sung

Chorus:
So who will light the town
And keep the muddy streets from flowing
Who will keep the peace
And tend the dying as they're going
So many lured by gold
And so it's them who must endure
18 pounds for every digger rich or poor

The streets were muddy rivers made by teeming hordes
Humanity in every form was there
From California's goldfields and from Scotland's shores
They came to find the gold and take their share

Chorus

Flags of many nations flew above the fields
To them. the crown, a power full of dread
From places where the people rise
And tyrants yield
Uneasy lay LaTrobe's vice regal head

Chorus