G.M.Skinner.
Gertrude Skinner is the writer, of larrikin verse and pun,
As a bushman's wife she battled, before her poet days begun.
On properties in the outback,The depression years and wars,
With loneliness and hardship, long daily household chores.
No essential modern comforts, she learnt to sew and mend,
Cooked for gangs of shearers, as a highly respected freind.
Was made a full life member, for supporting Mungindi show,
The fine displays of products and produce crops she'd grow.
She moved from yarrawa station, on the Gilgil creek out west,
Gertrude decided on retirement, to enjoy a well-earned rest.
With her talented gift of writing traditional bush ballad ways,
The poems are true experiences from those early bygone days.
At eighty she still entertains, and recites her works of art,
Performed on Kookaburra music label filmed on video she took part.
So next time you're in Tamworth at the festival held each year,
Go and visit Gertrude Skinner, top bush yarns you're bound to here.
(c) Duncan Williams.
