- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a $5 million funding boost for the iconic Queensland tourism attraction the Big Pineapple.
- The $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund supports the delivery of world-class tourism experiences across Queensland.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after Labor planned to gut tourism funding.
The Crisafulli Government has committed $5 million to bring more visitors to one of Queensland's biggest landmarks and encourage them to stay longer.
The Big Pineapple Rejuvenation project will deliver major upgrades to the heritage infrastructure and new facilities on site.
The project includes upgrades to the main building complex, such as glazing replacement, veranda repairs, and energy efficiency improvements.
The revitalised space will house a family-friendly microbrewery, cafés, retail outlets, a restaurant, and a sports bar, ensuring the Queensland heritage-listed Big Pineapple remains a vibrant tourism icon.
A major refurbishment to the internal structure of the Big Pineapple was completed in 2024, and this new funding will deliver even more attractions on site, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
The project is funded through the $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund under Destination 2045, highlighting the Crisafulli Government's commitment to building a sustainable tourism sector and establishing Queensland as the Home of the Holiday.
It's just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and a plan for Queensland's future after Labor planned to gut tourism funding during their decade of decline.
The funding builds on the more than $7.6 million committed earlier this year to 30 regional tourism experiences, supporting tourism growth in communities across the state.
Round 1 of the Tourism Icon Investment Fund has also committed $1 million to deliver The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach, $1.8 million to the Great Keppel Hideaway Renewal, $2.1 million to boost eco-tourism around the Brisbane River, $677,000 for a new Queensland Big Icon and upgraded flood-resilient infrastructure at Barron River Rafting in Far North Queensland and $3 million to expand the BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort.
For all Tourism Icon Investment Projects, the funding contributed by the Crisafulli Government is at a minimum matched by the proponents.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was investing in opportunities that deliver lasting benefits for tourism operators.
"The Big Pineapple is already big, and with the Crisafulli Government backing it, it's only getting better," Minister Powell said.
"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.
"The Crisafulli Government is investing in Queensland's tourism future unlike the former Labor Government who had a secret plan to gut the tourism budget by 95 per cent."
Member for Nicklin Marty Hunt said the Crisafulli Government's 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."
Owner Peter Kendall said The Big Pineapple had been a beloved icon for generations, and the funding would allow new life to be breathed into its heritage infrastructure.
"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."
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Mark Stoeckel said the Big Pineapple was 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.
"Projects like this help preserve the character and nostalgia people love, while creating a new generation of experiences that will attract visitors, support local jobs and strengthen the region's tourism future."
Further Tourism Icons Investment Fund Round 1 projects will be announced this financial year, while applications for the next round of the Tourism Icons Investment Fund will open later in 2026.
