Background
He was born near Nerang, where his mother’s mob was camped at that time.
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Billy Drumley
Edit ProfileCareer
Drumley hailed from the Yugambeh clan in central Queensland. In his youth he competed successfully in athletics, cricket and boxing. He was also exceptionally skilled at woodworking with the broadaxe.
He was known as a strong leader at a time when his people needed him most.
His wisdom and foresight kept his extended family together at a time when many Aboriginal clans were being torn apart. Whilst his visits were ostensibly sociable, his underlying motive was to ensure the protection and survival of his clan.
Drumley was still doing his walk when he was more than 80 years old. Billy Drumley is remembered by many Aboriginal elders and local people in the regions of Beaudesert, Tamborine, Nerang and Southport.
He was known for performing rain dances to calm down storms and would speak in Aboriginal language.
The Drumley Walk - was a three-day pilgrimage from Beaudesert to Southport - was established in 2005 to commemorate the courage of Billy Drumley and his talent at bringing the community together. The walk who is organised by a local indigenous museum (Yugambeh Museum). Mr Drumley is the most well known aboriginal in the tribe.
