Beruk, the son of Bebejan spent his childhood learning the heritage of his ancestors. In 1835, twelve year old Beruk watched the signing of John Batman's Treaty with his father and uncle (Billibellarg). When he was older, he changed his name to William Barak, and became arguably the most significant historical figure to pursue a better life for his people. One of the last clans head of the Wurundjeri willam, he established the settlement of Coranderrk where many Woi Wurrung lived until the 1920s. His petitions to parliament won support from settlers, journalists, church leaders and politicians. Barak was instrumental in preserving the Kulin nation culture and documented his knowledge with anthropologist Alfred Howitt.