Matilda the Kangaroo

Matilda the Kangaroo is a significant piece of Australian sporting history located in the township of Cooran. This thirteen-metre tall mechanical mascot gained international fame during the opening ceremony of the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games. After moving between several locations over the decades, the structure now stands as a permanent attraction at a local service station. Visitors can view the oversized kangaroo, which remains a notable example of late twentieth-century event engineering and design. Situated in the Noosa hinterland, the site provides a convenient stop for travellers exploring the Sunshine Coast region. The attraction is located near the Noosa Shire boundary and is a short drive from the Cooran Lookout, offering a blend of cultural history and natural scenery. The display allows for photography and provides information regarding the mascot’s mechanical functions and its role in Queensland’s sporting heritage. It serves as a prominent landmark for those navigating the rural roads of the hinterland district.