His father William was a tin miner and leader of the Glen Innes and District band, and taught all his five sons to play brass instruments.
He played trombone and trumpet, arranged music, and led the band at the Sydney Trocadero both before and after service in World War II.
'Miff' Mole, the American trombonist, inspired Coughlan's musical approach, and he began playing at the local Bondi Casino in Will James's dance band.
England welcomed Coughlan and his wife in 1929, and he was privileged to perform at prestigious venues such as the Kit Kat Club and the Savoy Hotel, Claridges, among others.
His recording experience at that time was shared with Fred Elizalde, Arthur Rosebery, Jack Hilton's Band, and the New Mayfair Orchestra.
The Great Depression shortened his stay abroad to one year, after which he returned to Australia and worked "in dance bands in Melbourne and Sydney.
Six years after returning to Australia, Frank's reputation culminated in a job as band director for Sydney's newest jazz and dance club, the Trocadero.
[2]" As an arranger, trumpet-player, and trombonist, Coughlan not only made an indelible mark on the jazz world, but also encouraged and advanced many young performers' careers.
When Coughlan returned from his military stint, he continued to lead the jazz orchestra at the Trocadero until the night club closed on 5 February 1971