The correct line from the Gordon lyrics is:

"Oil bottles on our shoulders,
We are marching to the stope."

The need for the oil bottles was discussed above. "Stope" is a mining term referring to an excavation in the form of steps used when mining ore from a vertical or steeply inclined vein.

sources- lyric sheet for "Mining For Gold" James Gordon (2000 Borealis Recording Co. BCD129)

English dictionary

Jargon terminology often causes problems in lyrics if you don't know the jargon. I have often been befuddled by it.

rich r