Big Things in Australia

As the world’s biggest island, with a vast and unspoiled expanse of territory, Australia’s affection for all things large is understandable. But the oversized adoration doesn’t end at rock monoliths and ancient rainforests—here we’re also partial to big (and occasionally baffling) roadside attractions. Here’s a few of our most iconic Big Things to keep an eye out for on your next round-Australia road-trip. 

The Big Pineapple, Queensland

One of the more iconic attractions of the ‘Big’ bunch, the Sunshine Coast’s Big Pineapple was so popular in its heyday, it even made it onto the run sheet of Prince Charles and Lady Diana’s 1983 Royal tour of Australia. Millions have stopped to visit the giant fruit since its 1971 construction, with a full site of attractions popping up around it over the years, including a ginger beer factory, water park, zoo, and even a small-batch distillery. So, there are plenty of reasons to add this landmark to your road trip itinerary! 

The Big Banana, New South Wales

It’s big, it’s bendy, and you simply can’t miss it! Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana has been luring in onlookers in droves since its 1964 opening—and from those humble plantation beginnings, its surrounds have expanded to encompass a fun park with everything from laser tag to ice skating! If that’s not enough, you can even get your mitts on an iconic choc-dipped banana or banana split to sweeten up your stop. 

The Big Lobster, South Australia

Road-tripping lobster fans will probably already be eyeing off South Australia’s Limestone Coast for a tasty pitstop, but in case you’re unsure, Larry the Lobster will give you an idea of where and why to take pause. Built in 1979 to draw passers-by to the adjoining seafood restaurant, Larry now houses a fish n’ chip takeaway joint in his tail, and remains a bona fide selfie magnet even after all these years. 

The Big Penguin, Tasmania

Town mascot for Penguin, on Tasmania’s north coast, this chipper fibreglass and cement chap is the embodiment of what can only be described as a penguin mania that takes over the town every September to March. This is when a fairy penguin colony descends on the coastal stretch to breed, as well as draw huge crowds to marvel at their adorable comings and goings. The Big Penguin is rather festive, getting in the spirit for many annual celebrations including Anzac Day and Christmas Day, with fatigues and Santa attire included in his sartorial repertoire. 

The Big Prawn, New South Wales

Just when we thought Ballina’s Big Prawn couldn’t get more Australian, upon facing demolition when its service station home shut up shop, another notable Aussie stepped in to keep this famous crustacean right where it belonged. Bunnings Warehouse coughed up $400,000 to restore the 33-tonne icon and promptly moved in next door. So now you can get your roadside landmark and hardware fix at the same time.

The Big Stubbie, Northern Territory

Speaking of Australian icon, no list of Big Things in our fair land would be complete without the Big Stubbie. The road between Darwin and Alice Springs is a long one, so it’s unlikely you’ll need much convincing to take a break at the Larrimah Hotel. But just in case, the giant stubbie replica will likely result in a whet whistle and character-packed repast to remember. 

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