Brian Cooney Oral History

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Overview
Brian Cooney, born in Brisbane in 1943, reflects on more than five decades of surfing life in Noosa. Cooney first visited Noosa in the early 1960s with friend Marvin McGee, discovering empty line ups and powerful, long walled swells that left a lasting impression. He describes the exceptional surf conditions of the era—consistent offshore winds, large cyclone driven swells, and long rides from the Boiling Pot through Little Cove—conditions he believes have since diminished due to changing weather patterns.

Cooney and his wife Lynne settled in Tewantin, becoming part of a close knit surfing community that included influential figures such as Bob McTavish, Nat Young, the Walker brothers, and board maker Trevor Hewston. Cooney shaped many of his own boards, favouring pintails for their hold and performance in Noosa’s long, hollow point waves. His early experimentation—particularly a cut down board later trialled by McTavish—coincided with design shifts that helped usher in shorter, more responsive surfboards.

He recalls an era when Noosa was quiet, free spirited, and deeply community minded, describing informal surf culture, local parties, and the early “Haunted House” surf hangout. Cooney notes increasing crowds, shifting local character, and environmental pressures but continues to visit the points daily, valuing the memories, lifestyle, and freedom surfing has given him.

Photograph

Brian Cooney, Tewantin, 31 March 2023

Oral History Transcript

Brian Cooney Oral History - Transcript

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Brian Cooney Oral History - Audio

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Brian Cooney Oral History - Video

IDENTIFIERS

Subject (Keywords)SurfboardsSurfing

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PersonBrian CooneyProjectNoosa History of Surfing

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Brian Cooney Oral History