Terra Novice Poem by Stefan Splawinski

pioneers and escape artists
you will adore a sunburnt land
set low in the southern seas
constructed by gods own hand

despite all good intentions
australis went beyond the pale
became a sheltered workshop
bludgers creek and fosters ale

from first savages and fleet
developed a socialist course
to assume wonderland status
hostage to the global bourse

charmed land of the self helps
became benefits under the sun
in place of miners and farmers
poker machine and gambling fun