1888. D. Macdonald, `Gum Boughs,' p. 25:
"What a number of swallows skim about the `billabongs' along the rivers in this semi-tropical region."
1893. `The Argus,' April 8, p. 4, col. 1:
"Let's make a start at once, d'ye hear; I want to get over to the billabong by sunrise."
<hw>Billet</hw>, <i>n</i>. an appointment, a position; a very common expression in Australia, but not confined to Australia; adapted from the meaning, "an official order requiring the person to whom it is addressed to provide board and lodging for the soldier bearing it." (`O.E.D.')
1890. E. W. Hornung, `A Bride from the Bush,' p. 267:
"If ever she went back to Australia, she'd remember my young man, and get him a good billet."
<hw>Billy</hw>, <i>n</i>. a tin pot used as a bushman's kettle. The word comes from the proper name, used as abbreviation for William. Compare the common uses of `Jack,' `Long Tom,' `Spinning Jenny.' It came into use about 1850. It is not used in the following.
1830. R. Dawson, `Present State of Australia,' p. 48:
"He then strikes a light and makes a fire to boil his kettle and fry his bacon."