Pam Dunstan (Marryatt) Oral History

DETAILS

Alternative NamePam MarryattPam DunstanOverview
Pam Dunstan (née Marryatt), born in Cooroy in 1932, offers a rich account of childhood, family life, and community in mid 20th century Cooroy and Noosa. She recalls a carefree rural upbringing marked by barefoot schooldays, roaming paddocks, swimming in creeks, and regular family trips to Noosa, where she learned to body surf during holidays at Laguna House. Wartime framed much of her early life—her father served overseas, her mother managed the family shop, and rationing shaped household routines—though Pam remembers childhood as secure and happy.

After completing primary school in Cooroy, she attended Somerville House in Brisbane as a boarder, later returning home to work at the Bank of New South Wales. Seeking broader opportunities, she entered accelerated teacher training and began a long career in primary education, teaching in Wallumbilla, Charleville, and later Redcliffe. She met her husband, Bob, through teaching; he later trained as a pilot with TAA, prompting the family's eventual move to Brisbane and then Redcliffe, where Pam continued teaching for many years.

Pam reflects fondly on Cooroy’s tight knit community—the family stores, social life centred around the Memorial Hall, and holiday traditions—but acknowledges that the town has changed significantly. Her story highlights resilience, strong family networks, and the enduring influence of small town childhood.

Photograph

Pam Marryatt

Oral History Transcript

Pam Marryatt Oral History - Transcript

Audio

Pam Marryatt Oral History - Audio

Video

Pam Marryatt Oral History - Video

CONNECTIONS

LocalityCooroyPersonPam DunstanFamilyDunstan FamilySchoolCooroy State SchoolCollectionPam Marryatt CollectionMenuLocation | Cooroy