-------------------------------------- I served my time, in the days gone by, In the railway's clash and clang, And worked my way to the end, and I was head of the 'Flying Gang'. 'Twas a chosen band that was kept at hand In case of an urgent need; Was it south or north, we were started forth And away at our utmost speed. If word reached town that a bridge was down, The imperious summons rang -- 'Come out with pilot engine sharp, And away with the flying gang.'
Banjo Paterson - The Bulletin, 18 July 1891. ---------------------------------------