Keith and Alexis Young Oral History

DETAILS

Overview
Keith and Alexis Young provide a rich, multigenerational account of life in Noosa and Tewantin, reflecting both deep family roots and personal memories of a rapidly changing region. Keith traces his lineage to the Parkyn family, early settlers whose influence shaped local industry, transport, tourism, and river life. He recounts the story of his grandparents, Jack and Daisy (Jane) Parkyn, whose migration from Cornwall and settlement in Gympie and later Tewantin formed the foundation of the family’s longstanding connection. Jack Parkyn’s roles as miner, builder, ferryman, and tourism pioneer—operating the Miss Tewantin, constructing holiday houses, and establishing early campgrounds—feature prominently, as do vivid stories of prawn trapping, mullet netting, and legendary giant cod catches.

Keith’s recollections highlight a Noosa River once abundant with fish, lined with sandy beaches, and navigated by hand built boats. He also explains the origins of Parkyn’s Hut, later used as the Tourism Information Centre.

Alexis adds her own memories of growing up in Tewantin from the 1950s, describing her father’s work in Noosa National Park and at the golf club, her mother’s employment at the Royal Mail Hotel, and childhood experiences such as roller derby at the old picture theatre, sand dune play in Noosa Woods, swimming at the baths, and yabbying near home.

Together, their account illustrates a tightly knit, slower paced community deeply connected to land and water—contrasted with today’s busier, more commercial Noosa—and expresses concern for preserving the health and navigability of the river for future generations.

CONNECTIONS

PlaceNoosa National ParkNoosa RiverParkyn's HutPersonKeith YoungAlexis YoungFamilyParkyn FamilyMotels & Guest HouseRoyal Mail Hotel

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Keith and Alexis Young Oral History