- Sunshine Coast set to welcome $5 million boost to local economy.
- This year's event marks 10 years of the Big Pineapple Festival.
- Event supported by the Crisafulli Government's Homegrown: Destination Events Fund.
- The Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 plan cements Queensland's budding reputation as the events capital of the nation.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and is celebrating the 10th birthday of Queensland's iconic Big Pineapple Festival.
More than 16,000 people are expected to descend on the Sunshine Coast for a spectacular celebration of music, community and local heritage, thanks to the monumental milestone.
The Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 plan cements the State's budding reputation as the events capital of the nation.
The influx of visitors is set to generate $5 million for the local economy, serving a sweet boost for local jobs and businesses.
Taking centre stage in the pineapple fields of Woombye, the festival is a brilliant display of the power of Queensland events – one of the core pillars of the Crisafulli Government's visionary Destination 2045 tourism plan.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell joined Olympic gold medallist Steven Bradbury in warming up the crowd with a demonstration of the highly-anticipated Pineapple Toss.
Minister Powell said this playful tradition celebrated the Sunny Coast's agricultural roots and serves as an excellent drawcard to the region.
"The Big Pineapple Festival draws visitors from across Australia and beyond not only to the Coast, but further into our iconic hinterland," Minister Powell said.
"The Crisafulli Government has an ambitious plan to make Queensland the events capital of the country, and we're proud to support homegrown events like this one in paving the way."
Member for Nicklin Marty Hunt said the Big Pineapple Festival represented 'big' opportunities for the region.
"This is a great chance for local businesses to reap the rewards and for local arts and culture to flourish," Mr Hunt said.
"Our community is celebrating a decade of unforgettable moments, world-class music and the spirit of a region I am lucky enough to call home, the Sunshine Coast."
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the festival is a shining example of how creativity and collaboration can help a region thrive.
"Celebrating 10 years, the Big Pineapple Festival has become a cornerstone of the Sunshine Coast's cultural calendar, bringing together artists, audiences and the wider community in a shared love of live music," Mayor Natoli said.
"Sunshine Coast Council is proud to support this popular event through the Major Event Sponsorship Program, which not only showcases our region's creative spirit and hinterland hospitality but also delivers real economic benefits for local businesses - from accommodation and attractions to suppliers and services."
Winter Olympic gold medallist, and umpire of the festival's 'Great Australian Pineapple Toss', Steven Bradbury said it takes a village to put on the 'big' show.
"Managing and promoting a successful festival is a team sport, and it's great to see the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council supporting the Big Pineapple Festival as one team," Mr Bradbury said.
"Including the pineapple toss competition into the mix of entertainment shows how this uniquely Queensland festival has innovated and remained ahead of the pack for 10 years."
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said a festival of this calibre is an important part of the Sunshine Coast events calendar and provides a welcome boost to the region.
"The Big Pineapple Festival is one of the Sunshine Coast's most iconic and beloved events," Mr Stoeckel said.
"It's a sweet celebration of our region's vibrant culture, creativity, and community spirit.
"Each year, it attracts thousands of visitors who stay, explore, and experience everything the Sunshine Coast has to offer."
Festival highlights:
Live music featuring top Australian and international acts.
The Superlove Arena – a new dance music stage with immersive visuals.
Lantern Parade, Ferris Wheel and roaming street theatre performances.
Health & Wellness Zone with yoga and relaxation spaces.
Overnight camping and vibrant art installations.
