Art

The Big Pineapple: An Icon Worth Illustrating

The Big Pineapple - Art-By-Simone

Nestled in the lush hinterland of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the Big Pineapple stands as a towering testament to Australia’s love for quirky roadside attractions and its rich agricultural heritage. Since its grand opening on August 15, 1971, this 16-metre-tall fibreglass fruit has become an enduring symbol of Queensland’s tropical identity and a beloved stop for generations of road-tripping families.  

A Juicy Beginning

The Big Pineapple was conceived by Bill and Lyn Taylor as part of the Sunshine Plantation, aiming to celebrate and promote Queensland’s thriving pineapple industry. Located in Woombye, the site quickly became a must-visit destination, drawing over a million visitors annually during its peak in the 1970s and 1980s. Visitors could climb the spiral staircase inside the pineapple, ride the Plantation Train through the surrounding fields, and indulge in pineapple parfaits at the on-site café. The attraction even caught royal attention, with Prince Charles and Princess Diana making a visit in 1983.     

Decline and Revival

Despite its early success, the Big Pineapple faced challenges in the ensuing decades. Changes in tourism trends and infrastructure developments led to a decline in visitor numbers, culminating in the site’s closure in 2010. However, the story didn’t end there. Recognising its cultural significance, the Queensland government added the Big Pineapple to the Queensland Heritage Register in 2009.  This designation paved the way for restoration efforts, and under new ownership, the site began a comprehensive redevelopment. 

A Modern Makeover

Today, the Big Pineapple has been revitalised, blending nostalgic charm with contemporary attractions. The site now features the TreeTop Challenge, Australia’s highest ropes course, offering adventurous experiences amid the treetops.  Wildlife HQ, a relocated zoo, provides opportunities to encounter native and exotic animals. The Big Pineapple Music Festival, launched in 2013, has become a major event, attracting music lovers from across the country.  Additionally, the iconic train ride has been restored, allowing visitors to once again tour the scenic plantation grounds.   

Cultural Significance

Beyond its entertainment value, the Big Pineapple serves as a cultural landmark, reflecting Queensland’s agricultural roots and the broader Australian penchant for “Big Things.” Its inclusion in the Q150 Icons list in 2009 underscores its importance in the state’s history.  The attraction’s resurgence not only preserves a piece of local heritage but also contributes to the regional economy, with redevelopment efforts expected to inject significant investment and create numerous jobs.    

Looking Ahead

As the Big Pineapple continues to evolve, plans are underway to further enhance the visitor experience. Proposals include the development of eco-tourism accommodations, expanded food and beverage offerings, and educational facilities to deepen the connection between visitors and the region’s agricultural history.  These initiatives aim to ensure that the Big Pineapple remains a vibrant and relevant destination for future generations. 

In celebrating its storied past and embracing a dynamic future, the Big Pineapple exemplifies the enduring appeal of Queensland’s iconic attractions. Whether you’re revisiting cherished memories or discovering it anew, the Big Pineapple offers a sweet slice of Australian history that’s ripe for exploration.

I am proud to officially add “The Big Pineapple” to my Sunshine Coast Retro Travel Poster Collection of illustrations.  The art captures the newly renovated viewing platform and refreshed glass fibre pineapple, drawn with a hint of retro inspiration.