Some destinations become famous because of their landscapes.
Others become unforgettable because of the people who believed in them before anyone else did.
For Coral Bay, one of those people was Bill Brogan.
When Bill first arrived in Coral Bay in the early 1970s, it was little more than a fishing destination on the edge of the Ningaloo Coast. What began as a family camping trip quickly became something much bigger. After purchasing the region’s glass-bottom boat and fishing charter operation, Bill saw not only the beauty of the reef, but the potential for Coral Bay to become a place where visitors could experience one of the world’s greatest marine environments.
Bill wasn’t someone who waited for opportunities—he created them.
In 1978 he developed the original Coral Bay Caravan Park, providing much-needed accommodation as tourism began to grow. When the town faced a lack of fresh water, Bill mortgaged his family home to drill for an artesian water supply after recognising it was essential for Coral Bay’s future. Against the odds, he succeeded. That single decision transformed the town, allowing trees to flourish, new accommodation to be built and Coral Bay to continue growing into the destination so many Australians know today.
His vision extended well beyond tourism.
Bill believed that protecting the Ningaloo Reef was just as important as sharing it. Following a significant coral event in the early 2000s, he established and supported the North West Research Association, donating facilities so marine scientists from around the world could study and better understand the reef. That research continues today, helping safeguard one of Australia’s most remarkable natural environments.
He also believed in creating opportunities for others. Bill took immense pride in seeing Coral Bay grow, supporting new businesses and welcoming generations of visitors to experience the Ningaloo Coast.
At the Gascoyne Food Festival, we celebrate more than exceptional food—we celebrate the people and places that make this region extraordinary.
In 2026, with the generous support of the Brogan family, guests aboard the Coral Bay Sunset Cruise: Seafood, Sundowners & Coastal Sounds heard Bill’s story as part of an evening that celebrated not only the flavours of the Ningaloo Coast, but the people whose vision helped shape it.
As the sun set over the Indian Ocean, guests raised a glass to a man whose legacy continues to inspire everyone who visits Coral Bay.
Celebrate the Man Behind Coral Bay
The 2026 Coral Bay Sunset Cruise celebrated the life and legacy of one of Coral Bay’s great pioneers. Guests cruised across the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef at sunset before returning to Bill’s Bar to enjoy exceptional local seafood, live music from The Family Shoveller Band, and hear the remarkable story of the man whose vision helped create the Coral Bay we know and love today.
Whether Bill was part of your story, you’ve holidayed in Coral Bay for decades, or you’re discovering this remarkable destination for the very first time, this promises to be an unforgettable evening celebrating the people, places and stories that make the Ningaloo Coast so special.
The experience honoured a life that helped shape one of Western Australia’s most treasured coastal communities, sharing Coral Bay through the story of the man who believed in it first.