Freshwater
QLD 4870 • Rest of QLD
About Freshwater
Freshwater is a leafy residential suburb of Cairns in Far North Queensland, located approximately 9 kilometres northwest of the Cairns CBD. With a population of 2,142 at the 2021 census, it sits along the banks of Freshwater Creek at the base of the Macalister Range. The suburb has a rich history dating back to the 1870s gold rush era and is on the traditional lands of the Yidiny people.
Freshwater offers a tranquil tropical lifestyle with beautiful views, established gardens, and easy access to both the rainforest hinterland and northern beaches. The historic Freshwater railway station serves as the departure point for the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway. The suburb is popular with families and professionals seeking a quieter alternative to central Cairns, with good schools, cafes, and parks within easy reach.
Freshwater falls under postcode 4870 and is governed by Cairns Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Barron River electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- 1B, 1C — Cairns CBD via Stratford and Sheridan St 20-25 min
- 2B — Redlynch to Cairns via Freshwater 15-20 min to CBD
Commute to Cairns CBD
🛣️ Freshwater railway station is tourist-only (Kuranda Scenic Railway). Bus services run hourly.
A car is essential for most daily needs. Bus services to Cairns CBD are available but infrequent. Local streets are quiet and pleasant for walking.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
-
Brinsmead Road
-
394 Sheridan Street
-
418 Mulgrave Road
-
Cnr Sheridan and Upward Streets
-
251 Draper Street
-
177 Abbott Street
-
18 Balaclava Road
-
254 Pease Street
-
10 Corkill Street
-
50-60 Cowley Street
-
5 Atkinson Street
-
Hoare St
-
Mayers Street
-
122 Mulgrave Road
-
13 Loeven Street
-
Intake Road
-
Jungara Road
Housing 2021 Census
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 113
- 2. New Zealand 49
- 3. Japan 36
- 4. Papua New Guinea 26
- 5. Germany 23
- 6. Scotland 17
- 7. South Africa 16
- 8. United States 11
- 9. Canada 9
- 10. Poland 9
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)