Bondi Beach-“I am Australian”

In the 1960s there was a very successful pop group from Australia called “the Seekers”. They had several big hits including some number ones, at a very competitive decade in pop music. The Seekers disbanded in 1968 and went their separate ways.

In the early 1990s, the Seekers reformed for a twenty-fifth anniversary concert in Melbourne, which was recorded on a CD. As well as their famous hits there were some new numbers, including a song co-composed by Bruce Woodley of the Seekers. It is titled, “I am Australian”. Bruce and Judith performed the lead vocals. In its verses, it traces the history of Australia from the early days to the arrival of the first Europeans and to modern times. The chorus is very moving and, I understand, that it has become a sort of Australian anthem.

We are one but we are many
And from all the lands on Earth we come
We’ll share a dream and sing with one voice
I am, you are, we are Australian.

In a few words, this chorus expresses the idea of diversity and unity at the same time, with people from all different heritages and backgrounds living peacefully together in a democracy where the rights and traditions of all are respected.

The terrorist attack at Bondi Beach was appalling beyond description at all levels. It was certainly diametrically opposite to the hopeful sentiments expressed in the above song.

I do not know whether the Seekers’ performance of this song is still available, but the song is on a current CD by the Australian soprano, Mirusia Louwerse. She was a regular singer with the André Rieu Orchestra. André often tours in Australia. On his 2011 tour the Seekers made a guest appearance with André, and met up with Mirusia. It seems that there was mutual admiration between them. She loved their songs and they were impressed with her wonderful voice. Following their meeting, she made the CD: “A Salute to the Seekers”, in which she perform many of their 1960’ hits and also “I am Australian”.
Mirusia joined André in his 2018 Christmas concert in Sidney Town Hall, where she performed the song with the backing of his orchestra and choir, and with the audience enthusiastically joining in the chorus. The concert is available on DVD. Her performance of the song can be found on YouTube.

To me this song expresses the spirit of Australia and hopefully may bring comfort to its people (whatever their background) at this time of grief and sorrow.

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