The Yugambeh people lived between the Rivers Logan and Tweed

And for over thousands of years they followed their creed

Of hunting for Kangaroo and Wallaby plus Land Fowl and Fish

And gathering nuts and berries for a flavoursome dish.

They would perform eye catching dances known as corroborees

And some played the fool so the crowds they could please

Their bodies were canvases for feathers and paint

And their tribal movements held very little restraint.

Early European settlers moved in on the land

And eight boys worked hard from  the O’Reilly’s clan

They faithfully helped out on their dairy farm

And guarded the McPherson Range with  fierce-some charm.

Lamington National Park was formed and preserved

For generations to come, to see and observe

Although at times the conservation battle seemed lost

Signed petitions and letters were sent at all cost.

It was agreed the park would be preserved with pride

So the city folk could experience the magic inside.

Native birds and animals were to be protected and preserved

And documentation carried out and constantly observed.

A National Park Ranger was appointed defender of the park

And he could often be seen spotlighting animals after dark.

Tracks through the rain forest enable visitors today

To chase all their cares and worries away.

The pristine waterfalls cast their magical spell

And the blue rugged mountains nurture the soul oh so well

Birds homogenise with the native flora and fauna

While pretty-faced wallabies scamper just round the corner.