A Yugambeh Elder and longtime teacher in Logan is continuing the legacy of one of south-east Queensland's most recognised Aboriginal leaders.

Uncle Ted Williams, a descendant of Bilin Bilin, has spent decades working in education while sharing culture and encouraging younger generations to take pride in their identity.

Bilin Bilin was a prominent Yugambeh leader remembered for maintaining culture and identity during the period of British occupation in south-east Queensland.

Historical records note that in 1875 Bilin Bilin was presented with a king plate recognising him as "King of the Logan and Pimpama".

Uncle Ted has carried forward that commitment through a lifetime of teaching and cultural guidance.

He explains how his connection to Logan began.

"I've grown to love the place not just for its location, but for its multicultural nature," Uncle Ted said.

"Logan is a microcosm of Australia."

Uncle Ted moved from Brisbane to Logan in the 1970s through teaching postings across local schools and Griffith University campuses.

His career in education began as a physical education teacher, combining his interests in school and sport.

Over time his work extended across preschool, primary school and university settings, with a focus on upper primary education and Indigenous studies.

Teaching was always about more than delivering academic lessons.

"I liked having a class come to me in January and leave in December better than when they arrived," Uncle Ted said.

"Socially, cognitively, and hopefully as better readers."

His impact in the classroom continues to be felt across the community.

Former students regularly approach him in Logan to say hello, including children of students he once taught.

The area also holds deeper significance for his family.

His grandfather's grandfather, Bilin, was a Gugingin man who lived in the Logan and Albert valleys and worked alongside Pastor Haussmann during the establishment of the Eagleby mission in the 1860s.

Uncle Ted says recognising that history remains important.

"It's important to me that Bilin's contributions are recognised," he said.

"The Logan area has been inhabited by people for tens of thousands of years."

His work representing culture has also taken him beyond the region.

Uncle Ted was invited to Buckingham Palace to speak during the launch of the Queen's Baton Relay for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

He described the opportunity as an important moment for Aboriginal representation.

"It was good to see that organisers wanted a serious Aboriginal connection," he said.

"I was proud to speak and represent our people."

With the 2032 Olympic Games approaching, Uncle Ted hopes First Nations culture will continue to be acknowledged.

"I would like people to understand they're travelling through ancient lands," he said.

"Logan's multicultural community is perfectly placed to benefit from the Games."

His connection to the city also extends to the natural environment.

Uncle Ted enjoys bushwalking through areas such as Eagleby Wetlands and Plunkett Reserve and often reflects on Logan's diverse community.

"Logan has so much to offer... it's easy to pass through and not see it, but if you look, you'll find beauty, diversity and harmony," he said.

Despite his long career, Uncle Ted says his focus has always been simple.

"I'm not looking to be a leader, I just want to be useful," he said.

Furthermore, he hopes the students he has taught will continue contributing positively to their communities.

More information about Logan Legends are available online.