Cairns in the mid-80s, changing rapidly from a hick town to a tourist Mecca; and yet there remained a string of classic old Queenslander pubs along the waterfront, known as the Barbary Coast. Visiting on family matters, a depressed Mexican was drawn to these parts, simply because the rest was so redneck and unappealing. But these were not laid back tropical establishments; rough as guts. Late morning: wandered in aimlessly and was immediately confronted by a towering Thursday Islander, who demanded a beer be bought for him - a bottle of the ubiquitous XXXX Castlemaine bitter; crook beer, but at least stubbies were available; the tap variety was a shocker.
Now a Mexican of slight build could claim generosity in acquiescing to the demand, but must in all honesty put fear of repercussions high on the list. Nevertheless, a very good decision. The Lifter soon had said Mexican communing with most of the bar - this man was funny and naturally positive. Sharing was his theme and that is what sets indigenous Australia apart from the rest, whether to their detriment or not. Lifter merged with the crowd and disappeared. Stayed quite a while and the depression lifted, aided somewhat by the XXXX, but the lift persisted, so not just an alcoholic high. I returned 'home' a better man.
lyrics
THE LIFTER
I was sad in tropic grey
I met a strange man near the bay
He said you shouldn't be so glum
If you've a buck you'll find a chum
You'll be feeling better in a little while
A bottle of bitter, then there's a little smile
You'll be feeling better in a little while
After the first sinks in
After the truth sets in
When you accept a new-found friend
By midday we were feeling fine
All my worries at least were mine
My friend passed to another bar
His work carried him afar
You'll be feeling better in a little while
A bottle of bitter, then there's a little smile
You'll be feeling better in a little while
After the first sinks in
After the truth sets in
When you accept a new-found friend
We dare to share, we care for rocks and sand
We dream, our theme, is we're part of our land
I returned home a better man
Blessed with much, I know I am
My friend's name I never knew
He had far too much to do
You'll be feeling better in a little while
A bottle of bitter, then there's a little smile
You'll be feeling better in a little while
After the first sinks in
After the truth sets in
You'll be feeling better in a little while
A bottle of bitter, then there's a little smile
You'll be feeling better in a little while
After the first sinks in
After the truth sets in
You'll be feeling better in a little while
A bottle of bitter, then there's a little smile
You'll be feeling better in a little while
After the first sinks in
After the truth sets in
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