Big Banana Fun Park starts construction on new Plantation Coaster

April 8, 2025

Attractions / Tourism /

Coffs Harbour attraction The Big Banana Fun Park has broken ground on the construction of its highly anticipated $5.5 million attraction, The Plantation Coaster, with a sod-turning ceremony alongside State Member for Coffs Harbour, Gurmesh Singh and Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams.

Set to be only the second of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, the 863-metre toboggan-style ride will take thrill-seekers on a high-speed, heart-racing journey through the Big Banana’s iconic banana plantation. Unlike traditional roller coasters, The Plantation Coaster puts riders in control of their own speed, offering an unparalleled, interactive thrill ride that combines adrenaline and breathtaking views.

Speaking about the development, Michael Lockman, Chief Executive of The Big Banana Fun Park Michael Lockman, stated “this is a defining moment for The Big Banana Fun Park and the Coffs Coast.

“The Plantation Coaster will be a game-changer for attractions in the region, setting a new benchmark for adventure and excitement. We’re proud to once again collaborate with Wiegand, the world-renowned company behind our famous toboggan ride, to bring this thrilling attraction to life."

Leading the project is Development Manager Scott Baxter, who is working closely with Wiegand and local contractors to ensure a seamless delivery of new ride.

By blending global innovation with local expertise, the team is delivering a next-level attraction that will elevate The Big Banana Fun Park’s reputation, while driving tourism and supporting regional jobs.

Wiegand, a world leader in coaster design, is crafting The Plantation Coaster to be a thrilling, yet safe experience, solidifying it as a must-ride attraction. Expected to launch in late 2025, this project cements The Big Banana Fun Park’s status as one of Australia’s top adventure destinations.

Image: The Big Banana Fun Park's new Plantation Coaster is being supplied by Wiegand. Credit: The Big Banana Fun Park/Wiegand.

14th January 2025 - ArtHouse at RACV Goldfields Resort hosts ‘Big Things’ Art Exhibition

8th December 2024 - The Big Banana launches new axe throwing attraction

8th November 2024 - The Big Banana launches new duelling raft slides

16th August 2024 - Latest TEA/AECOM global attractions report shows theme parks, waterparks and museums as having ‘closed the chapter’ on recovery

13th September 2023 - The Big Banana Fun Park to introduce Bumper Car attraction

4th September 2023 - Royal Australian Mint launches Big Things coin collection

5th September 2023 - The Big Banana welcomes its recognition on Australian legal tender coins

28th December 2022 - Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana lodges plan for new toboggan ride

15th December 2022 - Big Banana Fun Park prepares to open long-awaited waterpark expansion

23rd June 2022 - New Shareholders and Directors to drive expansion of Coffs Harbour’s The Big Banana

15th March 2022 - Death of Kevin Rubie, former owner of The Big Banana

24th December 2020 - 20-year expansion plan announced for Coffs Harbour’s The Big Banana

3rd January 2019 - 4D Ride Simulator opens at the Big Banana Fun Park

9th January 2018 - Toboggan Hill Park passes 30 year anniversary

18th March 2017 - Australia’s Big Things go green for St Patrick’s Day

16th August 2015 - Australia urged to embrace its iconic ‘big things’

Support our industry news service
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?

As an independent publisher, we need reader support for our industry news gathering so ask that - if you don't already do so - you back us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine and/or our online news.

Click here to view our subscription options.