1. Jumbuck: This term is a colloquial Australian word for a sheep. In the song, the swagman is described as carrying his "swag," which is a bundle of belongings, and "tucker," which refers to food, on his "jumbuck's back." This indicates that he is carrying his belongings on a sheep's back.
2. Tuckerbag: A tuckerbag is a canvas or cloth bag that is used to carry food and other provisions, especially during outdoor activities like camping or traveling. In the song, the swagman carries his "tuckerbag" with him, which suggests that he is prepared for a journey or a nomadic lifestyle.
3. Billy: A billy is a tin or metal container used for boiling water or cooking outdoors. It is often associated with camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. In the song, the swagman is described as boiling his billy, which implies that he is preparing to cook or make a meal.
4. Billabong: A billabong is a term used in Australia to describe a waterhole or a pool of water, often formed when a river overflows its banks or when a creek or river changes course. In the song, the swagman is depicted as camped beside a billabong, which suggests that he is in the outback or a remote area.
These terms collectively paint a picture of a swagman, a transient worker or traveler, carrying essential items like his swag, tuckerbag, and billy, and camping beside a billabong in the Australian bush. The song "Waltzing Matilda" captures the spirit of the Australian outback and the itinerant lifestyle of many individuals during that era.
