Long-term Bargara residents and community stalwarts Jim and Beth Watson are swapping their ocean views for the elevated views from Buderim on the Sunshine Coast, but will be taking a lifetime of memories with them.
Jim and Beth have lived in their current home at 24 Woongarra Scenic Drive since 1987.
The residence had been three very run down flats when they bought it.
With a lot of hard work and love, they turned it into their family home and beautiful garden that has given joy to the neighbourhood for over 30 years.
Jim recalls the Bargara of 1987 when they first moved there.
“Bargara at that time was quite undeveloped and had great potential,” Jim said.
“There used to be a diving board on Moneys Creek and Nielson’s Park had a roller skating rink which was a major drawcard for the children and adults.
“They also had little change huts at Nielson’s Park.”
Lifetime of service to the community
Beth and Jim have given a lifetime of service to the community, both through their work and community involvement.
Jim was involved in designing and developing machinery for the cane harvesting industry and worked for a number of major local manufacturers, as well as privately providing design and drafting services.
Beth worked for over 30 years for the Australian Bureau of Statistics, travelling widely in the Wide Bay Burnett area.
Up until recently both Beth and Jim have worked as exam supervisors for CQ University’s Bundaberg campus.
Community work has also been a large part of their lives in Bargara.
Jim was involved with Bargara Rotary Club for more than 25 years and became an expert sausage chef, recommending the onions go on the bbq first!
He has been actively involved with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , holding leadership roles for many years.
Both Beth and Jim have worked as consultants in the Family History Library at the Church which is open to the public to assist them to research their genealogy.
Beth similarly has worked tirelessly in leadership roles within the Church and has been a member of Inner Wheel for many years.
She volunteered at the Tourism Board for over 30 years, as well as arranging flowers for patients at the Mater Hospital for many years.
Beth also assisted teachers at Kepnock High School for many years after both her daughters attended the school.
They have also pursued their love of gardening, as part of the Coral Coast Garden Club.
Spending time with family the goal
Though Jim and Beth Watson are looking forward to spending more time with family at Buderim, especially their first great grandchild, they will cherish the memories of their lives here in the Budaberg region and the special place they call home, opposite Archie’s Beach.
“We love watching the sunrises and moon rises over the sea and the myriad of different people enjoying the area.
“The drumming sessions at Bargara for full moon and the Brass Band concerts at the Turtle park are highlights too.
“The best part has been the wonderful neighbours in our community.”
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