Country Towns - Portland

Here she hides, an aged dame. Here she dreams beside the waves. Ever baulked of modern fame And the deep-sea trade she craves. Tall ships, riding at her port, Waking her to life anew - Here she hides, and holds the fort, Hoping yet dreams will come true. Charming lady, dignified, Proud, hospitable and kind; With full half her rights denied. Here she waits, and calls to mind Pictures of the olden days When the whalers, sailing down To her quiet waterways Gave first promise to her town. First came Dutton - half forgot - To establish well her claim As the land's historic spot. After him stout Henry came; Followed Major Mitchell then, Pushing forward with the task - Still she waits, denied by men All she has a right to ask. But Dame Portland is not done; For her pioneering blood Yet shall have ambition won, And her fortunes at the flood. Tall ships riding at her port Thriving life about her strand; She, the storehouse and the fort Of her fertile hinterland.