Parrearra
QLD 4575 • Rest of QLD
About Parrearra
Parrearra is a waterfront suburb on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, informally known as Kawana Island due to its unique geography — it is bounded to the west by the Mooloolah River and to the east by the Pumicestone Passage tidal flats, creating an island-like setting within the broader Kawana Waters urban area. With a population of approximately 4,661 residents across 2.37 square kilometres, it is a relatively compact and established community, with a mix of canal-front homes, townhouses, and mid-density residential properties. The suburb is about 12 kilometres south of Mooloolaba and 80 kilometres north of Brisbane.
Parrearra has a notably older demographic, with a median age of 52, reflecting the suburb's appeal to downsizers, retirees, and those seeking a peaceful waterfront lifestyle. The surrounding Kawana precinct provides excellent amenities including the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Birtinya Shopping Centre, Sunshine Coast Stadium, and extensive cycling and walking paths around Lake Kawana. Water activities — including kayaking, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding on the Mooloolah River — are popular among residents. Mooloolaba Beach and Bokarina Beach are both accessible within a short drive or bike ride.
Parrearra falls under postcode 4575 and is governed by Sunshine Coast Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Kawana electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- 600, 615 — Maroochydore / Mooloolaba 20-30 min
Commute to Brisbane CBD
🛣️ Car is the primary mode for longer trips. Local Translink buses serve the Kawana precinct. Sunshine Coast Airport (Maroochydore) is ~25 min north.
Walkable within the Kawana precinct; car needed for most retail and CBD trips. Extensive cycling paths around Lake Kawana.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Cnr Tumut Street and Iluka Avenue
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Sportsmans Parade
Housing 2021 Census
4 state housing + 3 community housing dwellings (ABS 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 331
- 2. New Zealand 249
- 3. South Africa 59
- 4. Scotland 41
- 5. Germany 38
- 6. Netherlands 34
- 7. United States 23
- 8. China 22
- 9. India 22
- 10. Canada 19
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)