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Crikey, mate! You haven’t really seen Oz until you’ve checked out some of Australia’s Big Things! Ask an Aussie to make you a fibreglass prawn according to an agreed universal prawn scale, and they’ll laugh in your face and then give you a Vegemite sandwich for recalibration.
In this post, we’ll take you through 10 Australian Big Things we’ve visited, and 5 honourable mentions that may one day make the list.
There’s nothing we love more than hitting the road and finding some elusive Big Things scattered across this great southern land.
Imagine pulling up in your typically Australian Suzuki Swift, and seeing the Big Prawn towering over Ballina NSW – or the massive Big Lobster in Kingston South Australia – now that’s a sight that’ll make you feel like a true blue explorer!
With over 150 of these colossal icons, the Aussie Big Things are more than just photo ops; they’re a part of our heritage, each one with its own unique story.
Take the Big Prawn in Ballina, for instance. By day, it’s a harmless, even amusing sight—a giant crustacean towering over the town. But as dusk falls and shadows lengthen, it transforms into something else entirely. Watch as it casts a long, dark silhouette that seems to reach out, as if trying to tell you what it needs from the Bunnings it resides beside … (it’s sausages).
The Big Koala in Dadswells Bridge, with its cold, unblinking eyes, watches over the desolate roads, a sentinel in a land where time seems to stand still. Does it stand even stiller? Yes.
And then there’s the Big Lobster. An enormous, crimson beast that looms over the landscape like a creature from a nightmare, its claws frozen mid-snap. But you can stand near those mighty claws and get a selfie for free! It loves it!
Each of Australia’s Big Things, stand as a testament to human ambition and the strange, almost supernatural allure of the Australian wilderness. Visiting the Big Things isn’t just a quirky road trip—it’s a journey into the heart of a land that dreams fibreglass dreams and wishes you a bright and giant future.
* Disclaimer – these Big Things do exist (hence my visiting them), however their backstories in this post may have been altered for humorous purposes.
In the tranquil Queensland town of Stanthorpe, stands an extraordinary monument: the Big Apple. This imposing structure, rising majestically against the backdrop of lush orchards, will hypnotise you into wanting apple pie before you can say ‘Hey, didn’t we just have breakfast?’.
This colossal fruit invites visitors to reflect on the agricultural heritage that defines Stanthorpe, while also providing a hollow home to the mysterious and enchanting creature known far and wide as the Lizard Wizard.
Legend has it that this magical reptile emerged from the depths of the orchard’s enchanted soil centuries ago, wielding powers beyond mortal comprehension. With red delicious shimmering scales and eyes ablaze with ancient knowledge, the Lizard Wizard quickly became a revered guardian of Stanthorpe, using its mystical abilities to ensure bountiful harvests and protect the land from harm.
Farmers are known to leave offerings of freshly picked apples at the base of the Big Apple, hoping to earn the Lizard Wizard’s favour and receive blessings for their crops. It’s unknown how the Lizard Wizard feels about apples.
To this day, the Lizard Wizard continues to watch over Stanthorpe’s Big Apple. Its legacy lives on in the whispered tales of its magic, weaving a tapestry of mystery and wonder that adds to the charm of this quaint town nestled in the Australian countryside.
Still in the picturesque town of Stanthorpe Qld, you’ll find an impressive and unique monument: the Big Thermometer. This towering structure not only marks Stanthorpe’s reputation as one of Australia’s coolest towns, in terms of temperature, but also marks a gateway between worlds.
In the heart of Kingaroy, Queensland, amidst vast fields of rich red soil, stands an iconic and intriguing monument: the Big Peanut. This impressive structure proudly symbolises Kingaroy’s status as the peanut capital of Australia.
Legend has it that those who dare to peer through the hollow centre of the Big Peanut, are granted a rare and wondrous vision: a glimpse of their own birth. Memories long and thankfully forgotten are suddenly brought into sharp focus, revealing the miraculous journey of the peanut-gazer’s own existence.
With each passing second, the scene unfolds like a tapestry of life, from the tender embrace of infancy to the first tentative steps of childhood, and each peanut-filled year beyond. It is a transcendent experience, one that prompts the time-traveller to buy a selection of nuts from the Peanut Van adjacent to help absorb the shock.
For those who dare to peer through the Big Peanut, it is a journey of self-discovery unlike any other, a fleeting moment of clarity in an otherwise chaotic world. And though the vision may fade and the memory dim, the profound truth revealed in that singular moment remains etched in the soul forevermore.
Anyone want a peanut?
In the serene coastal town of Lake Cathie, New South Wales, there stands an extraordinary and captivating landmark: the Big Bowl. This enormous structure, modelled after a classic lawn bowl, pays homage to the beloved sport that has long been a cornerstone of community life in the region.
This monumental bowl also serves as a reminder of the towering giant whose colossal strength and boundless energy once roamed the shores of Lake Cathie, guiding the mammoth bowl down grassy local verges.
With each mighty stride, he would send the massive sphere rolling across the landscape, carving a path of wonder and amazement for all who beheld his monumental task. Thunderous footsteps echoed through the tranquil valley, stirring the very earth beneath him as he tried to make the Big Bowl roll towards his friend Jack who remained stubbornly to the left.
Though the giant has long since faded into myth and memory, his legacy lives on in the Big Bowl that stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unmatched prowess. On a side note, the Big Bowl also mirrors the colour of the giant’s one unblinking eye.
In the charming coastal town of Port Macquarie, New South Wales, there stands a remarkable and endearing monument: the Big Koala. This towering sculpture celebrates Australia’s beloved marsupial and the rich biodiversity of the region.
In the coastal town of Ballina, New South Wales, there stands an iconic and striking monument: the Big Prawn. This towering crustacean is a testament to the region’s rich maritime heritage and its vibrant fishing industry.
Approach the Big Prawn in Ballina with reverence, for this crustacean colossus demands only the finest of accompaniment. Only the boldest and most flavourful sauces will suffice to enchant it to life and complement its majestic presence.
How do you choose the right seafood sauce? While many contenders may vie for the title of best sauce, there is one that reigns supreme: a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, and chilli, known far and wide as the Prawn Prince’s Delight. This tantalising concoction, with its perfect balance of tanginess and heat, elevates the succulent flavours of the Big Prawn to new heights.
Beware, however, for the Big Prawn is a discerning connoisseur, and woe betide those who arrive with a lesser sauce in hand. Should you dare to bring the wrong one, prepare for a battle of epic proportions, as the Big Prawn defends its honor with claws raised and taste buds primed for victory.
In the historic town of Goulburn, New South Wales, stands an imposing and majestic figure: the Big Merino. This towering monument, a tribute to Australia’s wool industry, commands attention with its grandeur and symbolism.
The Big Merino, with its woolly coat and dignified stance, stands as a sentinel at the gateway to Goulburn – embodying the resilience and resourcefulness of rural communities. It’s also really close to the service station, so fill up on gas while you’re there.
The Big Merino offers surprising travel options for the savvy tourist. Here are 5 things to ask the Big Merino before he whisks you way to Paris on his appropriately sized unicorn for two:
In the picturesque town of Gumeracha, nestled within the Adelaide Hills of South Australia, there stands a whimsical and enchanting landmark: the Big Rocking Horse. This towering structure, a beloved icon of childhood nostalgia, captivates visitors with its playful charm and towering presence.
This monumental rocking horse is more than just a roadside attraction; it is a symbol of the joy and innocence of childhood, inviting visitors to reminisce and reconnect with simpler times. It serves as a reminder of the power of imagination to transport us to magical realms and inspire endless adventures.
For those travellers intent on utilising the Big Rocking Horse in their strategy for storming the city of Troy, we’re here to remind you that the only Troy this horse will be visiting is Troy McDonald – the guardian of the last VHS rental store in Gumeracha.
Troy McDonald is used to visits from the Big Rocking Horse and knows to batten down his VHS tapes against the relentless rocking – lest his last bastion of analog entertainment falls to the whimsy of the Big Rocking Horse’s wooden embrace.
Weekly rentals are 10 for $10.
In the quaint coastal town of Kingston, South Australia, there stands a magnificent and imposing landmark: the Big Lobster. This colossal crustacean, towering over the landscape, is a tribute to the region’s rich maritime heritage and its thriving fishing industry.
Standing sentinel against the backdrop of the sea, it reminds visitors of the vital role that marine life plays in sustaining coastal towns like Kingston.
To coax the Big Lobster into a graceful waltz, one must first learn the secret melody that stirs its crustacean heart. As the sun dips below the horizon and casts a soft glow upon the towering lobster, serenade it with a tune as enchanting as the sea breeze itself.
Only the lilting strains of “The Lobster’s Lunar Lullaby,” a melody whispered by the waves and passed down through generations, will suffice to stir the creature from its slumber. With each note, the Big Lobster’s antennae will twitch with delight, and its claws sway in time with the music.
Should you strike the right chord, the majestic crustacean will join you in a dance as ancient as the tides themselves, gliding across the ocean floor with a grace that belies its massive size. But heed this warning: the Big Lobster is a discerning partner, and only those who sing the melody with sincerity and passion will earn the privilege of its company on the dance floor of the sea. And also the land.
In the serene countryside of Dadswells Bridge, Victoria, stands a remarkable and endearing symbol of Australia’s unique wildlife: the Big Koala. This towering sculpture, with its gentle yet dead-eyed gaze and “welcoming” demeanour, serves as a tribute to one of the country’s most beloved icons.
If you find yourself facing the imposing gaze of the Big Koala at Dadswell Bridge and fear the wrath of laser beams shooting from its snout, it’s crucial to act swiftly and diplomatically.
First, remain calm and avoid any sudden movements that may exacerbate the situation. Then, quickly assess the colour of your attire, ensuring it aligns with the Big Koala’s preferences. If your outfit is deemed unsuitable, attempt to rectify the situation by offering a humble apology and rolling around in the dirt.
Remember to maintain respectful eye contact and speak in soothing tones to defuse any tension. With luck and tact, you may yet avoid the fiery nasal passages of the Big Koala and emerge unscathed from this precarious encounter.
You can buy a magnet in his belly gift shop.
Born on the red plains of Mars, Barry Gibb’s musical odyssey began amidst the rust-colored dunes and alien landscapes of the Martian frontier. With a penchant for cosmic melodies and otherworldly rhythms, Barry and his brothers forged their musical destiny under the crimson skies of their extraterrestrial home.
Fuelled by a diet of chocolate cereal, a delicacy imported from Earth, Barry’s creative genius soared to new heights, as he composed celestial anthems that echoed across the Martian valleys.
His arrival on Earth in the late 20th century ignited a disco revolution, as the Bee Gees’ ethereal harmonies and interstellar grooves captivated audiences around the globe. Today, Barry Gibb’s cosmic legacy as a musical pioneer continues to transcend planetary boundaries, inspiring generations of stargazers and dreamers across the cosmos.
You can also get a killer blueberry tart from the cafe close by.
In the quaint town of Stanthorpe Qld, an ingenious solution emerged to combat an unexpected invasion of moths.
As dusk descended and the tiny-winged creatures swarmed, threatening to overwhelm the town, the resourceful locals devised a clever strategy of erecting a Big Floood Sign to throw the moths off track.
Repurposing this massive flood sign, normally reserved for warning of impending deluges, it became a beacon of protection against the moth onslaught. Towering in the local park, the sign serves as a deterrent, casting a shadow of uncertainty over all potential fluttering invaders.
This innovative use of a seemingly mundane object not only averted a potential disaster but also showcased the resilience and ingenuity of small-town communities in the face of adversity.
In the heart of Brisbane, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant cityscape, stands a solitary figure that has defied the passage of time: a Dalek.
The metallic exterior weathered by the elements, conveys an unyielding resolve. For uncountable years, this extraterrestrial sentinel has remained vigilant, patiently awaiting its chance to shine. While its origins remain shrouded in mystery, rumours abound of a bygone era when the Dalek arrived on Earth, perhaps stranded or forgotten in the chaos of a distant conflict.
Yet, despite the ebb and flow of civilsations, it has remained steadfast in its purpose, a silent guardian watching over the city from the shadows. Wanting to exterminate just a little bit, but woven into the fabric of Brisbane’s identity – nay, it’s heart.
A symbol of resilience and endurance in the face of adversity. And though the Dalek’s time to shine may yet come, for now, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of determination and hope that persists even in the darkest of times. If you put your ear close to its shell, you can hear him whispering love sonnets to Davros.
Beyond the whimsical exterior of this Big Hollow Koala, lies a surprising array of health benefits waiting to be discovered by those adventurous enough to enter its embrace.
Stepping inside this oversized marsupial, one is enveloped in a cocoon of tranquility, shielded from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The gentle curves of the fiberglass walls provide a sense of security and comfort, easing tension and promoting relaxation.
Over time, frequent visits to this unique sanctuary have been said to enhance mental clarity and intuition, unlocking hidden depths of insight and understanding. Some even whisper of an extraordinary phenomenon—an ability to glean snippets of thoughts and emotions from those nearby, as if the koala itself were imparting ancient wisdom.
Whether attributed to the power of suggestion or something more mystical, the health benefits of standing within this Big Hollow Koala remain a curious and captivating enigma, drawing curious visitors from far and wide to experience its wonders firsthand.
In the heart of the city’s largest park, beneath the shade of ancient trees, stands a bronze statue commemorating a legendary military figure: Konrad Butterchops.
Born into obscurity, Konrad’s rise to prominence began on the battlefield, where his strategic brilliance and unwavering courage earned him the respect and admiration of his comrades. As he ascended through the ranks, Konrad became known not only for his military prowess but also for his eccentricities, chief among them his fondness for persimmons, which he claimed granted him strength and clarity of mind.
After retiring from active service, Konrad chose to spend his days in the park, holding court beneath the watchful gaze of his statue, regaling passersby with tales of his adventures and dispensing wisdom gleaned from a lifetime of rich fruit.
Though he may have passed into legend, Konrad Butterchops’ legacy lives on, a reminder of the indomitable spirit and singular character that shaped the course of history.
Hats off to Butterchops! Cheers! Cheers!
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