Ernie was born on the 1st February 1935 to John & Chloe Grant of Murray Upper.

Ernie is an elder of the Jirrbal tribe from the Tully area in Far North Queensland. He was raised in the traditional culture of his people and credits his mother Chloe, for instilling in him a great desire to learn all the facts about his Aboriginal heritage.

He has also had wide experience in western society including many years in research. He is now widely recognised in both cultures for his deep understanding of the unique characteristics of indigenous languages and culture.