A B (Banjo) Paterson.

Andrew Barton (Banjo) Paterson.

1864 – 1941 Died aged 77.

My favourite poet, I was fortunate enough to learn to love Banjo’s work
because my Dad loved him, and recited his favourite pieces with flair and enthusiasm.

Paterson published most of his works, both poetry and short stories, in the
Bulletin, or the Sydney Morning Herald. this was supplemented by 4 collected
works publications.

Paterson studied Law, and was a practicing solicitor until, at the age of 35 he
became a war correspondent covering the Boer War and the Boxer Rebellion
for the Sydney Morning Herald.

In 1903, while he and his fiancée were visiting friends near Winton Qld. they
picnicked at a billabong where Banjo wrote the words of Waltzing Matilda,
this has since become the unofficial National Anthem of Australia.

Later that year Paterson wed Alice Walker, they had 2 children a Son and a
Daughter.

When WW1 broke out in 1914 Paterson joined up, as a 50 year old he attained
the rank of Major, he was stationed in Egypt where he trained men and horses
for the Australian Light Horse Brigade.

The story of one of Banjo’s best loved poems, The Man From Snowy River, was
made into a wonderful and scenically beautiful movie with Tom Burlinson,
Sigrid Thornton, Kirk Douglas, Jack Thompson, playing the main roles.