Will West Oral History

DETAILS

Overview
Will West offers a detailed personal account of life in Boreen Point and the wider Noosa region, drawing on decades of lived experience. He recounts his early visits to Noosa in the 1950s, his family’s connections with longstanding Gympie families, and the gradual development of Boreen Point from a sparsely populated lakeside settlement into a modest residential and recreational community. West discusses the early land subdivisions, the limited agricultural viability of the area, and the remnants of industries such as sawmilling, dairying, and fishing.

He reflects on local histories including the Massoud family’s fishing legacy, the evolution of prawning and oyster harvesting, and the environmental impacts of beam trawling. West also describes community institutions over time—the sailing club, local shops, caravan parks, and the Cootharaba Community Association—and how tourism, housing pressures, and Airbnb have reshaped the demographic and social fabric.

Professionally, West worked as an electrician specializing in remote generator systems, later volunteering at the Double Island Point Lighthouse. His personal stories—from childhood holidays to maintaining local fishing boats—contribute to a rich narrative of community change, environmental shifts, and the enduring character of Boreen Point.

Photograph

Will West

Oral History Transcript

Will West Oral History - Transcript

Audio

Will West Oral History - Audio

IDENTIFIERS

Subject (Keywords)Fishing

CONNECTIONS

LocalityBoreen PointPersonWill WestOrganisation & ClubLake Cootharaba Sailing Club

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Will West Oral History