Our Story

Operating since 1974

THE MOOLOOLABA REGION

The Mooloolaba Beach Pharmacy acknowledges the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara people as the traditional custodians of the Sunshine Coast, and wish to pay respect to their elders past, present and emerging. 

Mooloolaba derives from the Aboriginal word Mulu, meaning snapper fish or red-bellied black snake. The Kabi Kabi led an idyllic life along the coast, with Aboriginal groups building a number of permanent huts from wattle and tea trees, every five kilometres along the beaches. The tribes then moved from one hut to the next to allow the regeneration of local foodstuffs to occur.  The plentiful diet of the area and fertility of the land also appealed to European settlers, who travelled to the area in the 1800s. By the 1890s, Mooloolaba had become the holiday suburb of Buderim farmers, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that a more permanent town was established. 

Current Location

HISTORY OF OUR PHARMACY

Mooloolaba has always been directly associated with the ocean and a laid back beach lifestyle, something which attracted the Mooloolaba Beach Pharmacy’s owner, Mario, here in 1970s. At this time, the town was beginning to attract visitors from all over the country, with a burgeoning tourist trade complementing the farming and fishing industries already established. When Mario walked onto the beach from the Esplanade, a fresh faced Pharmacy graduate, he was transfixed and immediately knew this would be his home.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE THE 1950's

The original Mooloolaba Beach Pharmacy was established in the 1950’s and this (see original photo) was located at 95 Mooloolaba Esplanade, with Mario and John Horn buying the pharmacy in 1974. Over the next 45 years and from its present location since September 2009, they have helped the local community and tourists stay safe and healthy. Mario Barbagallo continues to own the pharmacy, contributing his professional knowledge and experience with staff and customers. 

Mooloolaba is a fast growing family friendly region of the Sunshine Coast

OUR PHARMACY OUR MOOLOOLABA

When he arrived, Mooloolaba was a sleepy fishing village with very seasonal and distinct periods of holiday trade. Now, surrounded by holiday apartments, restaurants and boutiques, Mario remains proud of and passionate about his town. As he begins to (very) gradually step back from the front desk, a new generation of just as proud, professional and highly qualified locals are carrying on this magnificent tradition. Providing healthcare to Mooloolaba Beach Pharmacy’s customers with dignity and respect will always be Mario’s enduring legacy.  

  • Family friendly place for a holiday
  • Strong core of passionate locals who care about their community.
  • Patrolled beach safe for all levels of swimming ability
  • Picturesque area of the Sunshine Coast, with endless ocean views.
  • Bustling business, shopping and hospitality district.

ABOUT OUR AREA

Mooloolaba is a pristine area of stunning natural diversity and beauty, world class shopping and dining, and a thriving community presence. It’s no small wonder this is a holiday destination favoured by beach lovers and suns seekers the world over. 

Sitting just over the road from Mooloolaba Beach Pharmacy, the curving north-east to north facing beach lies on the sheltered side of Port Cartwright and is one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand to swim, surf and enjoy the sunshine at. Looking out over the ocean from here is an absolute joy for all our staff! Heading along the beach to the north are beautiful rock pools and Alexandra Headland. Walk the pathway to the top, sit down on the grass and take in the sweeping views of the coast.

The protection of Port Cartwright also offers an excellent port for fishing and recreational boats. The modern fishing industry in Mooloolaba has been established for over a century, with the famous ‘Mooloolaba Prawns’ a quintessential Australian product. Served at an informal lunch with a glass of white wine at home, or as the star of a dish at an acclaimed high-end restaurant, Mooloolaba Prawns are the pride of the area.

Mooloolaba is also the only shopping and dining precinct on the Sunshine Coast to have unimpeded ocean views from along the entire Esplanade. With a wonderful selection of boutiques and restaurants designed to cater to every tastebud and budget, this is a truly unique, eye-popping experience! And if the sound of the ocean is too loud, the breeze too stiff or you just fancy some truly cutting edge dining, try the Mooloolaba Wharf. Overlooking the yachts and boats of the Sunshine Coast, there are plenty of excellent restaurants, bars and boutiques to delight.

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