Austral English / A dictionary of Australasian words, phrases and usages with those aboriginal-Australian and Maori words which have become incorporated in the language, and the commoner scientific words that have had their origin in Australasia - Edward Ellis Morris

"The Kiwi, although flightless, has a small but well-formed wing, provided with wing quills."

<hw>Knockabout</hw>, adj. a species of labourer employed on a station; applied to a man of all work on a station. Like Rouseabout (q.v.).

1876. W. Harcus, `Southern Australia,' p. 275:

"Knockabout hands, 17s. to 20S. per week."

1881. A. C. Grant, `Bush Life in Queensland,' vol. i. p. 80:

"They were composed chiefly of what is called in the bush `knockabout men'—that is, men who are willing to undertake any work, sometimes shepherding, sometimes making yards or driving."

1884. Rolf Boldrewood, `Melbourne Memories,' xvi. p. 118:

"I watched his development through various stages of colonial experience—into dairyman, knockabout man, bullock-driver, and finally stock-rider."

<hw>Knock-down</hw>, v. generally of a cheque. To spend riotously, usually in drink.

1869. Marcus Clarke, `Peripatetic Philosopher' (reprint), p. 80: