waltz Matilda
To travel around jobless and homeless, with one's possession tied up in a bundle and typically carried on a stick over one's shoulder. Primarily heard in Australia. Many were left with nothing after the war, forced to waltz Matilda across the country in search of work.
waltz (or walk) Matilda
carry a bundle of your personal possessions as you travel the roads. Australian The name Matilda was one of a number of names given to the swag or pack carried by bushmen in Australia. The expression was famously used by A. B. (‘Banjo’) Paterson ( 1864–1941 ) in his 1903 song ‘Waltzing Matilda’.
waltz Matilda
Australian To travel about, especially on foot, carrying a swag.