Susie Osmaston Oral History

DETAILS

Overview
Susie Osmaston reflects on more than four decades of life in Noosa, charting both her personal journey and her deep involvement in local governance and community advocacy. First visiting Noosa in 1974, she relocated permanently in 1976, initially living unconventionally in a large mobile home on Witta Circle. Over the years she worked in a variety of roles—from Pine Trees Resort to political and media positions—before becoming Publicity Officer for Noosa Shire Council, where she served for seventeen years.

Osmaston provides a detailed account of Noosa’s 2007 amalgamation into the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and the subsequent, highly organised community movement to regain independence. She describes petition campaigns, public rallies, political negotiations, and the pivotal leadership of former mayor Noel Playford. The eventual de amalgamation, supported by an overwhelming community mandate, remains one of the defining achievements of local governance.

Her recollections also highlight Noosa’s strong planning framework, environmental protection ethos, limits on building height, and resistance to overdevelopment. She discusses key local issues—including the preservation of Noosa Woods, the establishment of dog friendly beaches, and the enduring importance of National Park expansions.
Osmaston concludes by expressing her profound emotional attachment to Noosa, regarding it as both home and a community whose values she has spent decades defending.

Oral History Transcript

Susie Osmaston Oral History - Transcript

Audio

Susie Osmaston Oral History - Audio

IDENTIFIERS

Subject (Keywords)DevelopmentEnvironment

CONNECTIONS

LocalityNoosa HeadsPersonSusie Osmaston Organisation & ClubNoosa Shire CouncilMotels & Guest HousePine Trees Motel and Caravan ParkMenuDecade | 2020-2029Location | Noosa Heads