Designed by Charles Sutherland from a sculpture by Robert Owen, the Skyneedle is more than just a structure. It is a symbol of Brisbane’s transformation. The Skyneedle’s story began with World Expo 88.
Expo 88 was held in Brisbane. It ran for six months. The theme was “Leisure In The Age of Technology.” Over 16 million people visited. The Skyneedle was constructed especially for the event. The 88-meter landmark was a prominent feature.
Originally, the Skyneedle was to be moved to Tokyo Disneyland after Expo 88. But hairdresser Stefan Ackerie purchased it. He relocated it to his Stefan HQ in South Brisbane. Ackerie added his firm’s rainbow rings logo to the top. This became his signature.
The Skyneedle’s light could be seen 60 kilometers away. However, it is rarely used today. This is due to safety concerns for flight paths.
In 2006, the Skyneedle caught fire. An electrical fault caused the fire. Bird droppings were likely the cause. Ackerie restored it. He also added a sound system.
In 2009, the top section was removed. It was rebuilt with new laser technology. The new lightshow debuted in April 2009. It included an RGB LED display and German-made spotlights. But as of 2019, the light system stalled again.
Ackerie sold the Skyneedle in 2015. The Pradella Group bought it and the surrounding land. They incorporated the tower into a residential apartment complex. The Brisbane City Council approved this development. A café was opened underneath.
The Skyneedle was granted heritage listing in 2002. It remains an undeniable landmark of Expo 88. It reminds us of Brisbane’s exciting past.