A Queensland Icon Gets a New Lease on Life

For generations of Australians, a trip up the Bruce Highway wasn't complete without pulling over for a photo at the Big Pineapple. Since opening in 1971, the heritage-listed attraction has become one of Queensland's most recognisable landmarks and an enduring symbol of the Sunshine Coast. It's even played host to King Charles III and Princess Diana back in 1983 during their official tour of Australia.

Now, the landmark is getting a significant upgrade, with the Queensland Government committing $5 million towards The Big Pineapple Rejuvenation Project, with the site's owners matching the investment through the Tourism Icons Investment Fund. The funding will help transform the Sunny Coast attraction into a modern tourism destination while preserving its heritage.

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Recognition of a landmark

In 2009 the Big Pineapple was officially recognised as part of Queensland's cultural identity, named one of the Q150 Icons during Queensland's 150-year celebrations. That same year, it was added to Queensland's Heritage Register, securing its place as a protected piece of the state's tourism and agricultural history.

Its influence stretches beyond Australia. In 1990, a replica Big Pineapple was built in Bathurst, South Africa, as a tribute to the region's pineapple industry.

The Big Pineapple in South Africa is 2ft taller than Queensland's version.

A new chapter

The Big Pineapple is owned by Peter Kendall, Executive Chairman of Civil Mining & Construction (CMC), who has overseen ongoing efforts to revitalise the precinct while maintaining its heritage value and community connection. Under his stewardship, the site has continued to evolve from a nostalgic roadside attraction into a broader tourism and events destination.

Peter Kendall with the Big Pineapple

The project will deliver upgrades to the site's existing buildings, including glazing replacement, verandah repairs and energy efficiency improvements. It will also introduce a range of new attractions and hospitality venues, including:

• A family-friendly microbrewery

• Cafés and retail spaces

• A restaurant and sports bar

• Function and event facilities

Together, these additions aim to attract more visitors, encourage longer stays and strengthen the Sunshine Coast's tourism offering.

What It Means for Jobs

While the finished precinct will attract visitors, the real impact starts well before the doors open.

Projects like this create demand for the people who deliver them – project managers, engineers, supervisors, construction professionals and skilled trades during the build, followed by ongoing roles in hospitality, tourism, retail and facilities management.

The Big Pineapple Rejuvenation Project is a great example of how investment in tourism supports employment across multiple industries, creating opportunities both on and off the construction site.

More Than Just a Tourism Project

The investment forms part of Queensland's Destination 2045 strategy, which is focused on growing the state's tourism industry ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.

For professionals working in civil infrastructure and project delivery, developments like this are another reminder that opportunities often extend well beyond traditional transport and utilities projects.

The Big Pineapple has evolved from a roadside curiosity into a recognised heritage icon with global reach and deep cultural roots.

Its next evolution will generate jobs, support regional tourism growth, and continue shaping the Sunshine Coast story for the next generation.