Clarence Grogan

Clarence Grogan (Deceased 1993) INDUCTED 2009

Clarence Grogan was born on 17 August in 1932 and was from Mona Mona Aboriginal Mission near Kuranda. One of six children, he later went on to have 12 children of his own. He was a champion boxer in the 50s and 60s and a strong advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights for most of his life.

He became interested in health through personal experience and wanting to contribute to the betterment of his people. Clarence commenced voluntary work in the early 70s for health, housing and land rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He was instrumental in establishing many Indigenous organisations in and around the Cairns district, such as Wuchopperen Health Service, Mookai Rosie Bi-Bayan, Woompera Muralug Housing Society, Douglas House and Rose Colless Haven just to name a few. Clarence canvassed the streets and the politicians looking for funding with the help of Uncle Joe McGinness, Mick Miller and Rose Colless. Mick Miller and Clarence also fought for Mapoon to be handed back to the Traditional Owners. They paved the way for Professor Fred Hollows to visit many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to provide appropriate eye care for the community. Clarence was truly dedicated to helping his people. He had a great sense of pride and continued tirelessly until his death in early 1993. Clarence loved Kuranda and dedicated a song to his beloved home. The lyrics were, “take me back to the old Kuranda Ranges, that’s where my heart will always be”. He often played this on the gum leaf, something he enjoyed doing. No matter where he went, he always had a trusty gum leaf or two in his pocket. He was a dedicated father and even though he passed away many years ago, his name is still mentioned within the community. “We sometimes just mention our last name and that person, whether they be black or white, would answer, I knew Clarrie. That is something we will always be very proud of.”