Australia’s BIG things – what you may not know about them
When taking a road trip within Australia, you’re likely to stumble upon one of the country’s many ‘BIG things’.
From bulging pieces of fruit and oversized statues to massive creatures and ‘what the?’ objects, Australia’s collection of big things is many and varied.
And when we dug a little deeper we discovered there are many interesting stories behind these structures. Looking to fill gaps of silence on your next road trip? Entertain your travelling audience by sharing these fun facts from our selection of Australia’s BIG things.
BIG things in NSW
The Big Banana, Coffs Harbour
You’d be bananas to think this giant structure is merely a quick stop-off point for a cheesy photo. Instead, it’s home to an action-packed fun park that includes waterslides, toboggan, laser tag, and mini-golf. More on point is the inclusion of a theatre and a short tour of a banana plantation that provides an educational and entertaining insight into this popular fruit.
See it when…staying at BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park, BIG4 Sawtell Beach Holiday Park, or NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Park.
The Big Prawn, Ballina
Opened in 1989, the Big Prawn was ‘off’ for several years before gaining a new lease of life in 2013. This 9m-tall crustacean creation will whet your appetite for the abundance of delicious, fresh seafood that can be sampled throughout Ballina and surrounds.
See it when…staying at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - Ballina.
The Big Merino, Goulburn
This mega monument has had a colourful life in its 30-plus year history. In 2007, it moved 800m to its present site, which was no mean feat considering this structure is 15.2m high, 18m in length, and weighs a mind-blowing 97,000kg! From these greener pastures you can learn about the history of wool in Australia, grab various wool products, and even climb this big beast to soak up great views.
See it when…staying at Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park or Crestview Tourist Park.
The Big Golden Guitar, Tamworth
This 12m-high statue pays tribute to Tamworth’s billing as Australia’s country music capital and was unveiled by legendary musician, the late Slim Dusty. An on-site tourist complex includes a wax museum featuring country music royalty. Somewhat off topic, there’s also a museum containing the largest privately owned collection of memorabilia relating to cricketing legend Sir Donald Bradman.
See it when…staying at BIG4 Paradise Tamworth or City Lights Holiday Park.
The Big Playable Guitar, Narrandera
In Narrandera, the strumming continues thanks to the inclusion of the Big Playable Guitar, situated within the local visitor info centre. And visitors are encouraged to belt out a tune.
See it when…touring around central NSW.
Big Tennis Racquet, Barellan
In nearby Barellan, the town chose to honour former local and tennis great, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, by erecting a massive tennis racquet modelled on her signature Dunlop frame. It makes for a…dare we say it…smashing photo. Ace.
The Big Bowl, Lake Cathie
While this isn’t the most imposing of Australia’s big things, it does come with its advantages. If the bright blue Big Bowl inspires you to get on the green for a casual roll, you can do so with ease. That’s because the structure is located in front of inviting Lake Cathie Bowling Club, just south of Port Macquarie. Marketing genius.
See it when…staying at nearby Ingenia Holidays Bonny Hills, Jacaranda Holiday Park or Leisure Tourist Park.
The Big Trout, Adaminaby
Trout fishing is a big deal in the Snowy Mountains region, so what better way to celebrate this than by constructing a gigantic, fiberglass trout? Once you have your obligatory pic, head to Lake Eucumbene to fish for rainbow and brown trout, or simply admire these glorious surrounds.
BIG things in QLD
The Big Pineapple
Where: Woombye (Sunshine Coast)
This sweet attraction is a heritage-listed Queensland icon and has hosted a stream of celebrities since it opened 35 years ago. It has also overcome several hurdles to etch its positioning as a must-visit tourist attraction. Here, you can learn about pineapple farming, take a scenic train ride, and enjoy sparkling views from the observation deck.
See it when…staying at BIG4 parks on the Sunshine Coast.
The Big Mango
You might recall the news of the Big Mango’s ‘disappearance’ in 2014, which was a publicity stunt by a fast-food chain. Whatever the case, this 10m-tall creation celebrates the area’s fine collection of mango orchards. Stop by this structure for a quick snap, then sample the to-die-for mango sorbet at the on-site visitor info centre.
See it when……staying at NRMA Bowen Beachfront Holiday Park.
The Big Captain Cook and the Big Marlin, Cairns
Cairns has embraced the big things spirit by creating two sizeable structures, both with coastal connections. The Big Captain Cook measures a whopping 14m in height and is a nod to the famous explorer who once scouted along these shores. Meanwhile, the 8m-tall fish statue celebrates the Marlin Coast, a stretch of coastline south of Cairns that extends all the way to Cooktown in the north.
See them when…staying at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Cairns Coconut or Tasman Holiday Parks - Cairns Cool Waters.
The Big Cassowary, Mission Beach
The flightless cassowary records strong numbers throughout Mission Beach and its surrounds. However, if you’re having trouble spotting one, you can be assured of spying this 5m-tall version at Wongaling Beach.
See it when……staying at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - South Mission Beach or BIG4 Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park.
The Big Golden Gumboot, Tully
Many of us groan about the rain but in the Cassowary Coast region of Australia they celebrate it with pride. There’s a long-running battle between Tully and nearby Babinda for the title of the ‘wettest town in Australia’, and the debate is so fierce that Tully locals stamped their claim to the ‘honour’ by erecting a giant gumboot. Just remember to have an umbrella handy when posing for that selfie.
See it when…staying at nearby BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - South Mission Beach or BIG4 Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park.
The Big Bull (x6), Rockhampton
Rockhampton regards itself as the Beef Capital of Australia and stamps its authority with a bunch of giant bull creations. Six bull statues are scattered around this vibrant city, so hold that smile for a series of selfies.
The Big Cane Toad, Sarina
Nicknamed Buffy, this statue recognises Sarina’s rich cane-farming heritage. Yes, cane toads are considered pests but remember they were introduced into Australia to combat beetles that were destroying Queensland’s sugarcanes. We’ll steer clear of any debates about cane toads and enjoy Buffy for what he is: number 6875 of Australia’s big things (note: this number may be exaggerated and/or inaccurate).
See it when…staying at nearby at BIG4 Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park or Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park.
The Big Pie, Yatala
Could there be anything more Aussie than a giant pie? This big object signals your arrival at Yatala Pies, which will be familiar to many Australians. This is one of Australia’s most famous pie shops, so a stop here is essential.
See it when…driving between the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
The Big Rum Bottle, Bundaberg
If you’re taking a Bundaberg Rum Distillery tour, have the camera handy to capture this iconic Australian beverage in giant form. This big bottle is so huge that it could fit all of the rum for Jamaica.
See it when…staying at BIG4 Cane Village Holiday Park, BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Bargara or NRMA Woodgate Beach Holiday Park.
BIG things in SA
The Big Rocking Horse, Gumeracha (Adelaide Hills)
There’s plenty to keep you entertained at this oversized creation, particularly for families. For starters, you can climb atop this massive pony for sweeping views of the wonderful surrounds. Then poke your head in the on-site toy factory, and finish by feeding animals at the wildlife park.
See it when…staying at nearby in Adelaide.
Map the Miner, Kapunda
Just north of the famous Barossa wine region, Map the Miner is a salute to Cornish miners who played an integral role in the development of the town. Sadly, this towering creation was damaged by fire several years ago but has since been rebuilt.
See it when… staying at BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park or on a day trip from BIG4 West Beach Parks.
BIG things in WA
The Big Camera, Meckering
Pardon the pun, but the Big Camera offers so much more than just a photo opportunity. Within this structure is a top-notch photographic museum that retraces the history of photography, and it’s well worth a look. Check this out on your way to Kalgoorlie.
The Big Crocodile, Wyndham
This big beast was created to serve as a reminder to visitors of the need to be aware of the presence of crocs in the area. And this ferocious-looking structure should do enough to succeed in its aim.
See it when… staying at Lily Lagoon Resort.
BIG things in NT
The Big Boxing Crocodile, Humpty Doo/The Big Jumping Crocodile, Mary River
Partially hidden in the surrounding vegetation, the 6m-tall boxing croc at Humpty Doo was, believe it or not, built to commemorate Australia’s epic win in the 1983 America’s Cup. Sure, crocodiles and sailing boats don’t mix, but crocs and the Top End go hand in hand.
This is further emphasised by the addition of the Big Jumping Crocodile at Mary River, which you can spot at the entrance to treasure-laden Kakadu National Park.
See it when…staying at Mary River Wilderness Retreat, BIG4 Howard Springs or BIG4 Hidden Valley Holiday Park in Darwin, or BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks - Katherine.
BIG things in VIC
The Big Murray Cod, Swan Hill
Murray cods are pretty big fish as it is but this monstrous beast takes it to a new level. The huge structure once appeared as a prop in a film called Eight Ball after which the big cod was embraced by locals and planted near a railway station. Why not?
See it when…staying at BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill or BIG4 Swan Hill.
The Giant Koala, Dadswells Bridge
This big unit has been a long-time fixture in the Grampians region. While one of the scarier koalas in the area, it’s worth a stop for the addition of a petting zoo that will please younger members of your touring party.
See it when…exploring the Grampians region.
The Big Miner, Ballarat
Saluting the many prospectors who swarmed on Ballarat and its surrounds during the Gold Rush is the Big Miner. But what makes it such a tempting stop is its location on the site of two themed mini-golf courses – one indoor, the other outdoor. Strike your own gold!
See it when…staying at BIG4 Ballarat Windmill or NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park.
The Big Ned Kelly, Glenrowan
Ned Kelly is Australia’s most famous bushranger, and what better way to remember his story than build a bigger, bolder version of him? This 6m structure of big Ned is spotted in Glenrowan, the site of the Kelly Gang’s last siege. There’s plenty more bushranger history to soak up in these parts, too.
See it when…exploring Victoria’s High Country region.
The Big Tap, Phillip Island
Phillip Island packs so many treasures into its small frame, and it punches above its weight when it comes to big things, too. You can spot a handful of gigantic structures here, including a worm, wave (the surfing variety), and cows. However, we’re choosing to focus on the Big Tap because of its optical illusion effect. Oh, it also helps that it’s part of one of Phillip Island’s leading attractions, A Maze ‘N Things.
See it when…staying at BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island, Phillip Island Park Lane Holiday Park or NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park.
BIG things in TAS
The Big Penguin, Penguin
This inviting location is so named for the penguin rookery found nearby. However, the big statue was actually erected in honour of Penguin earning town status back in 1975. If you don’t care much for big things, you’ll at least love the spectacular coastal vistas from this foreshore setting.
See it when…staying at nearby BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park or BIG4 Stanley Holiday Park.
The Big Tasmanian Devil, Mole Creek
Ever seen a real Tasmanian devil? If not, let us tell you that their size is a bit underwhelming, particularly given their menacing title. The solution? Build a big Tassie devil, which is far more threatening than the real thing. You can spot it outside Trowunna Wildlife Park where you’ll see proper Tasmanian devils and a whole host of other creatures.
See it when…taking a day trip from BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park or BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park.
The Big Wickets, Westbury
You’ll be bowled over by the sight of the Big Wickets in this charm-filled, English-style village. These massive stumps are an ode to local cricketer, Jack Badcock, who was the first Tassie player to score a Test birth with Australia. Moreover, Badcock was the first Tasmanian to notch up a century on the international scene, and that deserves the formation of an oversized set of stumps. Now we just need a giant beer can for Boonie.
See it when…staying at nearby BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park.
Isn’t it time you enjoyed a big break with BIG4?