The world’s largest island is renowned for its obsession with big attractions. Depending on how you measure it, there are over 200 colossal versions of animals, fruit, vegetables, or Aussie outlaws to add to your Australian road trip itinerary. Many of these iconic structures, captured in family photo albums for generations, are now essential stops for the ultimate in selfie kitsch. Here’s a roundup of some of these favourites—some have seen better days, but they all have their charm.
Big Pineapple – Woombye, Queensland
A classic of the “big things” stable, the Big Pineapple celebrates Queensland’s tropical fruit in Woombye. It was famously part of the 1983 royal tour by Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and in 2009 it received heritage listing. Rising 16m (52ft) above the pineapple fields of the Sunshine Coast, it has been a draw for decades. Recently, the site has reinvented itself as a music venue hosting the Big Pineapple Music Festival. This renewal may include additional attractions such as a brewery and adventure park, making this pineapple a standout along the Bruce Highway.
Big Banana – Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
As perhaps the original giant attraction, the Big Banana at Coffs Harbour has been entertaining travelers since 1964. Located on the Pacific Highway, this iconic site has stopped millions of passing motorists, despite once being voted the “most bizarre tourist attraction in the world.” Each year, more than a million visitors stop for a selfie, enjoying the waterpark nearby, which provides a refreshing break from long drives. The shop there is stocked with banana-themed souvenirs, making it a must-visit for any road trip itinerary.
Big Lobster – Kingston SE, South Australia
South Australia’s southeast coast is well known for its hefty lobster catches, but nothing compares to the massive Larry the Lobster that oversees Kingston. Built in the 1970s, this giant lobster stands at 17m (56ft) tall and weighs about 4 tonnes. Initially designed for a seafood restaurant, Larry has remained a popular attraction after the restaurant’s closure. He even received a facelift through a community campaign aimed at supporting his upkeep. Just 292km (142mi) south of Adelaide, Larry continues to be a famous roadside stop on the way to Robe.
Big Boxing Crocodile – Humpty Doo, Northern Territory
The Big Croc in Humpty Doo is a unique roadside attraction, complete with boxing gloves on its 8m-high (26 ft) frame. Many visitors stop for a photo with this grinning crocodile as they travel from Darwin to Kakadu National Park. The town of Humpty Doo was established following a post-war plan for rice cultivation; however, when that plan failed, it embraced this large crocodile as its defining feature.
Big Merino – Goulburn, New South Wales
The Big Merino, also affectionately known as Rambo, overlooks the sheep country surrounding Goulburn. As a tribute to Australia’s wool industry, this giant sheep exemplifies the country’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore the gift shop laden with merino wool products and even climb inside the sheep for a unique view of the area. Rambo’s story includes a colorful history, including a campaign to raise awareness for men’s health.
Big Penguin – Penguin Tasmania
In Tasmania, the township named Penguin is home to a giant penguin made from fibreglass and cement. This landmark is well-known for its festive costumes during Christmas and Anzac Day. Located along the foreshore, visitors can find the Big Penguin surrounded by penguin-themed trash bins and souvenir shops, making it a delightful photo opportunity during your travels.
Big Rocking Horse – Gumeracha, South Australia
The Big Rocking Horse in Gumeracha, South Australia, serves as a unique family-friendly attraction. Towering at 18m (59ft), visitors are welcome to climb through the horse to access various viewing points. Positioned in front of a wooden toy factory, this attraction is a fun stop for families exploring the Adelaide Hills.
Big Galah – South Australia
As you traverse Australia, the Big Galah in Kimba is a whimsical sight to behold. Standing at 8m-high (26ft), this cheerful galah represents one of Australia’s most lively bush birds. It has celebrated over 20 years at this location, marking the halfway point across the nation with a photo opportunity sign nearby.
Sam the Giant Koala – Dadswell Bridge, Victoria
Standing tall at 14m (46ft), Sam the Giant Koala is an iconic landmark built in 1989. Initially nameless, it was later named Sam in honor of a koala that survived devastating bushfires. Situated on the Western Highway, this giant marsupial is a visible highlight between Melbourne and Adelaide.
Golden Gumboot – Tully, Queensland
The towns of Tully and Babinda in Queensland engage in friendly competition over who is Australia’s wettest town. The winner showcases a massive 7.9m (26ft) Golden Gumboot, adorned with a green frog. Visitors can enjoy views of Tully from a spiral staircase within the gumboot, making it a remarkable stop on the Bruce Highway.
This article offers a glimpse into Australia’s captivating roadside attractions, perfect for enhancing any road trip experience while exploring unique landmarks that define the culture and spirit of the nation.
