Microbrewery, cafés: Big Pineapple resurgence continues with major upgrades
The Big Pineapple is set for another major step in its revival, with $5 million in Queensland Government funding announced for upgrades to the heritage-listed Sunshine Coast attraction.
The funding will support the Big Pineapple Rejuvenation project, aimed at continuing improvements to one of Queensland’s best-known tourism landmarks and encouraging more visitors to spend time at the Woombye site.
The project will deliver upgrades to the main building complex, including glazing replacement, veranda repairs and energy efficiency improvements.
The revitalised precinct is also expected to include a family-friendly microbrewery, cafés, retail outlets, a restaurant, sports bar and function facilities.
The funding follows a major refurbishment of the internal structure of the Big Pineapple, completed in 2024.
The $5 million commitment has been made through the Queensland Government’s $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund, under Destination 2045. Projects funded through the program must have government funding at least matched by the proponents.
Big Pineapple owner Peter Kendall said the attraction had been loved by generations of locals and visitors, and the funding would help preserve its heritage while adding new experiences.
“The rejuvenation of this iconic tourism attraction will include a family-friendly microbrewery, cafés, retail spaces, and a high-quality restaurant and function facilities – upgrades that will attract more visitors to the Sunshine Coast, while creating jobs and boosting the local economy,” Mr Kendall said.
“Thanks to this Queensland Government support, we can continue to preserve this iconic attraction while introducing exciting new experiences, ensuring The Big Pineapple remains a vibrant and cherished destination for years to come.”
Member for Nicklin Marty Hunt said the funding was a major win for the community. “The Sunshine Coast is open for business and rolling out the welcome mat, with plenty to see and do today and even more to come,” Mr Hunt said. “The Big Pineapple upgrade is a win for our local community, creating jobs and new opportunities while giving visitors even more reasons to come and experience this iconic destination.”
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Mark Stoeckel said the Big Pineapple remained one of Australia’s most loved tourism icons. “Almost everyone has a story, memory or photo connected to it, and it has played an important role in shaping the Sunshine Coast tourism industry over many decades,” Mr Stoeckel said. “It’s incredibly exciting to see the redevelopment of the precinct progressing through this grant support.”
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the investment was designed to give visitors more to see and do, encourage longer stays and support local jobs and tourism operators. “This is what the Home of the Holiday as part of Destination 2045 is all about, investing in our icons and giving people more reasons to visit. “We’re delivering new experiences that give visitors more to see and do, encourage longer stays and support local jobs and tourism operators.
Marty Hunt MP, Minister Powell, Peter Kendall (Owner) & Matt Stoeckel (Visit Sunshine Coast).
Big Pineapple owner Peter Kendall.