Calvin is a French trained chef who makes everything on site at Cafe Viin, a local favourite in Pearce. Photo: Daniella Jukic.
Pearce is a quiet little suburb in Woden, located at the foot of Mount Taylor and tucked away between the neighbouring suburbs of Chifley, Mawson and Torrens.
Its well-established, leafy neighbourhoods and quality homes together with sought-after schools and proximity to nature means Pearce has plenty to offer residents. Locals love being close to the buzzing shops and restaurants in the Woden Town Centre, and having easy access to the nature reserve for exercise. Those keen to make the steep climb all the way to the top of Mount Taylor are rewarded by spectacular views across Canberra and beyond.
Thinking about visiting or moving to Pearce? Here’s what you need to know.
History
You can find the many friendly dog owners of Pearce at Mount Taylor reserve. Photo: Daniella Jukic.
Like many of Canberra’s suburbs, Pearce is named after a prominent politician, Sir George Pearce, who remains the longest-serving senator and longest-serving minister in Australia’s federal history. It was established in the 1960s.
Residents say Pearce is full of friendly dog owners (you’ll find them taking their pets for walks on Mount Taylor and the ovals), vibrant restaurants and families.
Shops and eateries
Mini Gaundar, owner of Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant in Pearce, has been serving the Canberra community since 1991. Photo: Supplied.
Pearce’s local shopping centre on Hodgson Crescent is perhaps best known for its eateries. It’s the home of the long-standing Rama’s Fiji-Indian Restaurant, Ethiopia Down Under and Saigon Restaurant.
There is also a small supermarket and a chiropractor in the small complex.
Places of interest and things to do
- Walk up Mount Taylor. The path on the Pearce side of Mount Taylor is well maintained and zigzags all the way to the top. It’s a good workout and the views over the Woden Valley are worth the effort.
- Try out some Fijian-Indian food at Rama’s. In 2018, Sophia Brady wrote: “Step into the colourful dining room with its red and yellow walls and cosy booths, and you quickly see the service out front is as warm and nurturing as the food being cooked up in the kitchen. In its 27th year of business, the restaurant – along with the team behind it – is a cherished member of the Pearce community, with their place taking pride position at the local shops overlooking the square.”
Daya, head chef at Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant. Photo: Supplied
Parks and playgrounds
While there are small parks and green spaces dotted around Pearce, the jewel in the crown is the nature reserve that surrounds part of the suburb and continues onto Mt Taylor. The easiest access is off Parkhill Street and MacFarland Crescent and there are numerous access points.
Pearce Neighbourhood Oval is a lush green space with plenty of space for the kids to run around, and it’s often a hive of activity on the weekends when junior sport is being played.
The view to Mount Taylor from Parkhill St in Pearce. Photo: Daniella Jukic.
Getting around
Transport Canberra Route 62 is the only bus to run through Pearce, and takes residents on the short hop to Woden. But with the town centre just a short stroll away, many locals prefer to get there by bike or on foot.
There’s a network of cycle paths that runs across the suburb, so getting around is easy.
Schools
Pearce is home to three schools: Sacred Heart Primary School, Marist College Canberra and Melrose High School. Marist and Melrose are both located on Marr Street, which can get busy during school drop off and pick up times.
Sacred Heart Primary School is one of the local schools in Pearce. Photo: Daniella Jukic.
Why the locals love it
“My first job out of uni was in Pearce. I’d never even been there until then, but when it came time to buy a townhouse, the quiet and well-located suburb was at the top of my shortlist. People ask me why I’d want to live and work in the same area and my answer is always the same: it’s a small, friendly and welcoming community, the area is peaceful and quiet, and nothing’s too far away. It’s green, well-established and has a great vibe. I can’t see myself living anywhere else.” – Katie, mid 30s.
Quick facts
- Median age: 42 years
- Median weekly household income: $2030
- Median weekly rent: $370
- Houses vs. apartments: 62.9% houses; 32.7% townhouses
- Suburb sales record (excludes land sales): $2.3 million in 2015
Source: 2016 Census.
Want to find the latest real estate listings for sale and rent in Pearce? Zango can help you find them:
Do you live, or have you previously lived, in Pearce? What are your favourite things about the suburb? What advice would you give to people considering moving there? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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