Originally from Binda, near Goulburn, Mr Druett was an active member of the Junee community, contributing across a large number of groups.

St Vinnies, the rugby league judiciary, Schoolboys carnival, Junee Legacy and as president of the RSL sub-branch among others.

Mr Druett had a love of cricket from childhood and played for both Junee and Wantabadgery, also coaching for younger players.

He scored 801 runs for the Binda cricket team – a record at the time.

A survivor in life, one of his biggest battles was on the Kokoda Trail during the Second World War.

Serving in the 3^rd Battalion, he fought in the Battle of Oivi, a seven day siege where less than 2000 men from 10,000 survived.

Seeking help, he walked 16 kilometres to Kokoda for help despite contracting malaria, scrub typhus and dengue fever.

Returning from the war Mr Druett settled at Wantabadgery, living with his wife Joan for 30 years.

They were married in 1950 and started from scratch at the property, known as “Oivi”, as there were no fences or buildings, water or electricity, but plenty of rabbits to eradicate. They were later joined by four daughters.

Mr Druett and his wife left the farm in 1980 for Junee and then 30 years later moved to Settlers Village in Wagga.

At his funeral, held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church on December 30, a large congregation paid tribute to a great Australian who gave great service to his country and to Junee. 

Mr Druett is survived by his wife Joan, his four daughters, eight grandchildren and nine great-grand children.