OED (Online) has it derived from 'Way-goose' & the earliest citation as -
1683 - J. Moxon Mech. Exercises ... It is also customary for all the Journey-men to make every Year new Paper Windows‥; Because that day they make them, the Master Printer gives them a Way-goose; that is, he makes them a good Feast, and not only entertains them at his own House, but besides, gives them Money to spend at the Ale-house or Tavern at Night‥. These Way-gooses, are always kept about Bartholomew-tide. And till the Master-Printer have given this Way-goose, the Journey-men do not use to Work by Candle Light.
Also some reference to a "stubble-goose", which is one "fed on the stubble".