Douglas Seaton was a sign writer who grew up and lived in Cairns, Queensland. One of his main interests was studing Aboriginal culture, specifically the Tjapukai.

He was known within the community as a gentle man, well respected and had a wealth of knowledge about the Tjapukai people.

At age 65 both Seaton and his wifes eyesight had deteriorated and they sold their home and posessions and moved to Brisbane into a masonic old-folks home. Not long there they realised it was too soon and decided to go to Cooktown to think things through. They then moved back to Cairns and built a new house. Seaton's wife died 4-5 years later and with a broken heart Seaton followed within a few months after.

They did not have any children.