‘Bert, the magic dragon lived near ErnieAnd frolicked in the autumn sun in Shepparton, you seeLittle Bigs Bardot loved that rascal ‘BertAnd brought him strings, and funny things, and even peach yoghurt Norbert the Yellow Dragon is friendly chap – and the Gaffy family, who constructed the creature as a holiday art project, couldn’t be more disappointed. If they had their way, Norbert would be … Continue reading Norbert the Yellow Dragon, Mooroopna, VIC
She’s green, she’s a queen, and she needs to be seen – get your sourdough toast ready for the scrumptious Big Avocado. This four-metre marvel can be found at Tropical Fruit World, and is exocarp-ly guac you’ve been looking for. The Big Avocado was revealed to a curious public in 1983, promoting what was then known as Avocadoland. Still a working farm, the renamed Fruit … Continue reading The Big Avocado, Duranbah, NSW
Long before the humble ‘avo’ became the brunch of choice for perpetual children the world over, the Big Avocado was providing comfort and companionship to the damaged kiddies of Australia – including a very young Biggles Leticia Bardot. Aw, just look at how gosh darn cute we both were! The riboflavin-rich ragamuffin stood sentinel outside the House with No Steps in leafy Alstonville for time … Continue reading The Big Avocado, Alstonville, NSW
Bright red and perfectly spherical, the Acacia Ridge Big Apple lures in unsuspecting visitors with the promise of a wholesome photo opportunity. But be warned, because this scarlet woman is rotten to the core. Disarmingly located in a suburban car park, the innocent-looking treat is surrounded by a dog-grooming salon and a well-stocked ethnic supermarket. It’s an idyllic slice of Australiana – or so I … Continue reading The Big Apple, Acacia Ridge, QLD
Listen up, pardner. If you’re planning to pinch a caravan from Airdrie, north of Calgary, think again. Western Wayne, a 30-foot cowboy with a huge hat and a mean disposition, guards the Western RV caravan shop… and this Big shoots first and asks questions later! Wearing a tough-guy snarl reminiscent of a young Sam Elliott, Wayne’s towered over Alberta’s desolate prairies for decades. He’s impossible … Continue reading Western Wayne, Airdrie, Alberta
Dropping the little ones off at pre-school is a heart-wrenching experience for any parent. But the mummies and daddies of Ipswich can rest easy in the knowledge their kiddies are being cared for by a bizarre giraffe/alpaca/human hybrid with a stylish bob. Ally the Alpaca is the star employee at Ally’s Kindy in the trendy suburb of One Mile, and is the wackiest Big Thing … Continue reading Ally the Alpaca, One Mile, QLD
Howdy pardner, this is your hat-wearing hawtie Biggie the Kid! I don’t mind a cockatoo, so when word rang round the holler that a gang of giant birds was causin’ trouble out near Ipswich, I jumped on my trusty stead Liberace and moseyed on out to the badlands of Camira. The settlement’s welcome sign has long been a thing of cotton-pickin’ beauty, and a source … Continue reading The Camira Critters, Camira, QLD
This is not a drill! Please drop everything and make your way to the PetSmart store in north-eastern Vancouver. I repeat this is not a drill! What you’ll find when you reach the designated assembly point is a drill, however – The Big Drill Bit! Don’t ask me why a pet shop has a gargantuan gimlet out the front. The Canadians are a quirky bunch … Continue reading The Big Drill Bit, Vancouver, BC
Feeling famished on the long trip between Brisbane and the Gold Coast? Then bake a stop in Yatala for the best snacks money can pie. The pastries from world famous Yatala Pies receive g-rave-y reviews and are truly to pie for! This crust-see attraction is easy to spot – just keep a pie out for the super-sized snack out the front, which sits atop a … Continue reading The Big Pie, Yatala, QLD
Do you have a viper-active child with heaps of ser-pent-up energy? Want to put a great big reptile on their face? Maybe you’re just after a quiet spot to sit and enjoy a meat pie-thon? Then give the Big Red Belly a try-pan! Located in sprawling Gibirrngaan Park within Maudsland’s exclusive Huntington Estates (which, sadly, doesn’t offer anaconda-miniums), the Big Red Bellied Black Snake is … Continue reading The Big Red Belly, Maudsland, QLD
The old man’s hands belied their age as he nimbly manoeuvred the thawing prawn onto the hook; in through the head and out through the belly, as always. I feigned disgust, of course, but the process fascinated me. “Next time, Bigs, you’ll be baiting your own hook,” he said in his usual brusk tone, then handed over the rod and reel. Our eyes and smiles … Continue reading The Big Marlin, Iluka, NSW
Coffs Harbour is the town built on bananas – quite literally. The bendy yellow wonders are so abundant that the locals have been making their houses out of banana peels and leaves for years. Ripe that smile off your face! It’s a berry serious safety issue and has led to a bunch of serious accidents over the years. The upshot is that the good folk … Continue reading Cunningham’s Bananas, Coffs Harbour, NSW
There once was a Big Thing named DreamerWho was created by Patti WarashinaShe looked quite delishAdmiring her fishOh, what a positive demeanour! On the corner of Westlake and RepublicanDreamer tempts like no other canShe’s 18 feet longAnd great at ping pong!With tootsies larger than those of a pelican One day came a boy from AustraliaWhose hunt for Big Things was no failureBardot was his nameLarge … Continue reading Dreamer, Seattle, Washington
Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Macklemore. Seattle has produced some of the world’s greatest musical acts, so it’s no surprise that even their Big Things love to sing. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Sonic Bloom onto the stage! Wander cautiously up to one of these 40-foot-tall flowers and he or she will regale you with a melodic ditty. Each of the five blossoms has a unique personality … Continue reading Sonic Bloom, Seattle, Washington
SugarOh, honey, honeyYou are my Big BeehiveAnd you got me wanting you For an adventure that’ll leave you buzzing, visit the sweetest place on the NSW North Coast – the Big Beehive! This spiracle of modern architecture stands four metres tall and serves as the entranceway to bee-loved local business the Honey Place. No need to comb the surroundings, because it’s easy to find at … Continue reading The Big Beehive, Urunga, NSW
The benevolent bowerbird is nature’s great recycler, borrowing anything bright and blue to beautify his abode. Bonza bloke Nick Warfield is the mid-north coast’s great recycler, borrowing anything bright and blue to build the beautiful Big Bowerbird. The metal marvel has been lovingly pieced together from door handles, garden equipment, bike parts and even a few fans. I assume Nick used a crow bar and … Continue reading The Big Bowerbird, Raleigh, NSW
The delicate clink of plastic on plastic raises the crowd to a raucous crescendo, and my heart flutters as a sturdy set of hands fall upon my youthful shoulders. Peter, an older boy who has taken me under his wing and vowed to guide me through the cutthroat world of amateur youth lawn bowls, leans in a little closer. “Great shot, Bigs,” Peter whispers. “You’re … Continue reading The Big Bowl, Lake Cathie, NSW
As an admirer of all things Big and an ally of repressed minorities, I’m hesitant to present a roadside attraction that discriminates against those of us unable or unwilling to grow a full head of hair. My buzz cut is a fashion choice and I could boast a luxurious mane of amber curls at the click of a finger, but I stand in solidarity with … Continue reading The World’s Tallest Barber Pole, Forest Grove, Oregon
Kamehameha the Great united the warring islands of Hawaii in 1810, bringing a new age of peace and prosperity to this tropical paradise. The inimitable Bigs Bardot united the world’s Big Things and roadside attractions under one website in 2021, bringing love and happiness and greater awareness of roadside attractions to every corner of the world (yes, even Нады́м, Россия – did you think I … Continue reading King Kamehameha, Hilo, Hawai’i
Give peace a chance… or should that be give peace a HANDS. This massive set of mitts was created by the ever-talented Stephen Kaltenbach, and can be found right near the State Capitol in downtown Sac. When the world needed a hero, Steve was there to lend a hand, knuckling down to bring Sacramentonians a message of glove and harmony. The results, as you can … Continue reading Peace, Sacramento, California
Aloha, and greetings from the tropical wonderland of Hawai’i. Millions of people travel to this Pacific paradise for the golden beaches, bottomless drinks and topless women. But the most popular reason for visiting this alluring archipelago is the assortment of Big Things, with the Water Giver at the top of the list. Just look at his rippling muscles, square jaw and G-string that leaves little … Continue reading The Water Giver, Honolulu, Hawai’i
“(Sittin’ With) the Crab for the Day” Sittin’ in the San Fran sunThe Crab’ll be snippin’ when the evenin’ comesWatching Bigs Bardot roll inThen he’ll make an excuse and scuttle away forever, yeah I’m sittin’ with the Crab for the dayWondering which way he sways, oohBecause it’s scientifically proven crabs can be gayCrustacean time! I left my home in GosfordHeaded for the Frisco Bay‘Cause I’ve … Continue reading The Big Crab, San Francisco, California
We are familyI got all my koalas with meWe are familyGet up to Port Mac for this Big Thing Good things come in threes… or should I say Big Things come in TREES! Either way, this trio of torpid titans are the perfect embodiment of the modern euc-lear family. The Big Koala Family stand a grand total of eight metres tall and take pride of … Continue reading The Big Koala Family, Port Macquarie, NSW
H2-oh-my-gawd-it’s-awesome! The mesh-merizing Big Drip stands a pants-wetting 4.5 metres tall and can be found by the banks of the mouthwatering Cowarra Dam. The Drip made a splash when she was unveiled to a curious public in 2005, and has been making waves in the community ever since. Designed by aqueous artiste Peter Allison and crafted from rainless steel, the Drip is one of the … Continue reading The Drip, Cowarra, NSW
London. New York. Rio de Janeiro. Taree. There was a time, not too long ago, when this coastal oasis was one of the world’s great tourist destinations. With the Big Oyster luring fascinated fans in their millions, Taree was the playground of the rich and famous, and the centre of the Big Thing universe. Then this riverside paradise was bypassed by the Pacific Highway and … Continue reading Joanna the Goanna, Taree, NSW
This supersized scooter celebrates his 25th birthday in 2022, so it really let the air out of my tyres to find him discarded amongst a thicket of overgrown bushes in a rough part of Chullora. Although, given his location in Western Sydney, the only things more appropriate than a Big Abandoned Pushbike would be a Big Meth Pipe or a Big Single Mother. Ah, stereotypes, … Continue reading The Big Bicycle, Chullora, NSW
Get your motor runnin’Head out on the Pacific HighwayLooking for a huge motorbikeThat will really make your day Yeah, the folks of Nabiac made it happenTheir National Motorcycle Museum is aceEnough room for everyone to visit at onceEight hundred classic bikes you’re not allowed to race Normal-sized bikes are frightenin’Almost make me chunder!But if that bike’s a Big ThingI just stare at it in wonder! … Continue reading The Big Motorcycle, Nabiac, NSW
Knights once roamed the vast plains of Penrith, slaying dragons and making inappropriate comments towards fair maidens. But with a severe shortage of snarling serpents in Sydney’s suburbs and the rise of the #MeToo movement, this silver stud was forced to transition into a new career. Meet Big Joe – friendly neighbourhood mechanic and undisputed King of the ‘Wood! This great big grease monkey is … Continue reading Big Joe, Kingswood, NSW
“Gimme Fish Head” by The Stingray-diators Gimme fish head babyGimme fish head like you did just last nightAh, ah, ah! Even when Khancoban‘s a hundred degreesThere you are smiling at me amongst the treesYou stink in the sun, but are still funWith no body, you must be dead, are you dead?But I don’t care, I love you, Big Fish HeadYou’re a fish headYou’re a fish … Continue reading The Big Fish Head, Khancoban, NSW
Hey hey hey, good old Big Eagle Rock’s here to stayI’m just crazy ’bout his wings – so smoothDoin’ the Big Eagle RockOh oh oh, don’t drive past, he’s nicer than a crowI’m just crazy ’bout his wings – so smoothDoin’ the Big Eagle Rock Watch out, there’s a hat thief about! This enormous Wedge-Tailed Eagle soars through the skies of northern Victoria, on a … Continue reading The Big Eagle, Mt Alfred, Vic
The tranquil hamlet of Corryong has been besieged by a plague of colossal creatures – and the locals couldn’t be happier! Since 2018 the verdant fields beside the mighty Murray River have welcomed friendly fish, a happy yabbie and an enormous eagle as focal points of the monumental Great River Road project. Fearing Corryong would lose its status as a world class travel destination, the … Continue reading The Big Bogong Moth, Tintaldra, Vic
Yibbida yibbida, this is fishing expert and notorious philanderer Rex Bardot, on the hunt for the Big Rainbow Trout! And look, there she is, out front of Mountain Fresh Trout & Salmon Farm. Trust me, folks, it doesn’t get any better than this! If she looks familiar, that’s because the Big Rainbow Trout was the star attraction of the 2006 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony in … Continue reading The Big Rainbow Trout, Harrietville, Vic
“The Big Octopus’s Garden” I’d like to beRight by the seaIn the Big Octopus’s gardenWearing suede He’d let me inTo see his collectionOf shells and coral and evenA model railway I’d ask my friendsTo come and seeThe Griffith’s Sea Shell MuseumWith me I’d like to danceThrough Lakes EntranceTo the Big Octopus’s gardenWithout my pants His cuddles have charmsBecause he has eight armsAfter admiring him for … Continue reading The Big Octopus, Lakes Entrance, Vic
Ladies and jellyfish, barras and gilas, pilchards of all ages. Please welcome the mystical, magical, great Big Clownfish! Bright and beautiful, this silly sausage is trapezy to find outside Lakes Caravilla Caravan Park, and you’ll feel like a bozo if you pass him by. He’s certainly hard to fish – I mean miss – because the tropical delight is right beside the main road into … Continue reading The Big Clownfish, Lakes Entrance, Vic
Come to Churchill, dear boy, see the CigarYou’re gonna ooh and ah, you’re gonna sighYou’re never gonna cryYou can even touch it if you tryThe Cigar’s gonna love you Holy smokes, this stupendous stogie will light up your life! The 32-metre-tall Big Cigar was unveiled by the Victorian Housing Commission on December 21, 1967, as a symbol of hope for the fledgling community of Churchill. … Continue reading The Big Cigar, Churchill, Vic
Howdy pardner, this is your old friend Biggie the Kid! Your regular host Bigs Bardot is struggling through a low-carb diet, so it’s up to me to tell you all about the Big Spuds and Forks. Just look at my tough-guy hat and genuine 18th-century baby blue short-shorts – yee-haw! Every man comes to a fork in the road at some point in his life, … Continue reading The Big Spuds and Forks, Trafalgar, Vic
Please welcome the flag waving, money saving, always smiling, quite beguiling, 18-foot-high, super-nice guy… Ernie the Giant Tractor Salesman! This gregarious goliath has been Shepparton’s most eligible bachelor for more than three decades, and currently works at the family-owned Konigs Agricultural Supermarket. The eternally-eleemosynary Ernie started work way back in 1992, and is yet to miss a day! He’s polite, kind and never shies away … Continue reading Ernie, Shepparton, Vic
Brussels sprouts; two words that strike fear into the hearts of children. The bitter, chartreuse vegetables have been responsible for countless dinnertime meltdowns and turned generations of youngsters off their greens for life. But one gentleman has risen up against the hatred, with a cheeky smile and a zealous thumbs-up as his only weapons. Arthur Sprout, who stands sentinel in front of Adams Farms, has … Continue reading Arthur Sprout, Coldstream, Vic
Should you visit Rutherglen’s Big Wine Bottle? Wine not! This 36-metre-tall flagon is a real corker, so it stands to riesling that you should make a chardo-day of it and head to Victoria’s premier wine-growing region. The Big Bottle looms large over Rutherglen, and can be seen from most of the town’s leafy streets and verdant parks. It casts an imposing figure, with its mixture … Continue reading Rutherglen Wine Bottle, Rutherglen, VIC
He’s more than just a Big BatHe’s the source of Coota’s prideHe’s more than just one Big ThingHe has some stumps by his sideFathers take their sons to Bradman’s Bat ’cause they find it’s really, really grand! The rustic regional village of Cootamundra has plenty to be proud of, but the locals hold cricket legend Don Bradman closer to their hearts than anything else. And … Continue reading Bradman’s Bat, Cootamundra, NSW
Fee-fi-fo-fumLook at me with my massive chumHe be large and he be hairyBut the Coota Giant is never scary! Now THIS is a Giant worth climbing up a beanstalk for! The Cootamundra Giant is enormous, approachable, fun to take a photo with… and, best of all, he won’t try to gobble you up! But this big boy has a story even larger than his smile, … Continue reading The Giant, Cootamundra, NSW
He’s chimp-ly irresistible! This 15-metre-tail repro-douc-tion of the Hindu monkey god Lord Hanuman sits on primate real estate in front of the Batu Caves, and promises a gorill-a-minute experience – but that’s a gibbon! You may have ape expectations for this marmoset-piece, and I’m happy to lesusa-nnounce he’s a total babe-oon, from his simian-kles to his capu-chin. He’s also a very urakaring individual. They just … Continue reading Lord Hanuman, Batu Caves, Malaysia
He might be the Hindu God of War, but Lord Murugan just wants to win the battle for your heart. This tall, dark and handsome gentleman is 42.7 metres from fetching feet to friendly forehead, and can be found in front of the world-renowned Batu Caves. Murugan is the tallest statue of a Hindu deity in Malaysia, the third-tallest Hindu on Earth, and the biggest … Continue reading Lord Murugan, Batu Caves, Malaysia
When I heard rumours of a giant bicycle rolling through the verdant hills of Lac d’Annecy, I contacted someone who knows a thing or two about riding around the Alps – former Tour de France champion Cadel Evans. ‘Cuddles’ is a self-confessed Big Thing tragic and became a professional cyclist to finance a trip to the Big Oyster, so he was only too happy to … Continue reading Le Grand Velo, lac d’Annecy, France
Yo, yo, yo! Put your hands in the air like you just don’t care about anything other than Big Things! This is Fatboy Big in da house… or, more precisely, betwixt the Big Headphones! Should you hip hop long to see these merry music-makers? Tune in to find out! Looming loud and proud in the Beats-ing heart of Newcastle, it’ll come as music to your … Continue reading The Big Headphones, Newcastle, NSW
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The World Trade Center. Nambour’s Big Pineapple. Time has claimed many of mankind’s greatest achievements, and it’s with a heavy heart that I add one more wonder to this sombre list; the Big Boomerang. This curved cutie welcomed visitors to the Murrook Cultural Centre for many years, and was taken down in late-2018 due to renovations. The owners promised his … Continue reading The Big Boomerang, Williamtown, NSW
My unquenchable thirst for Big Things has taken me to some of the most beautiful and wondrous places on earth. It also dragged me through the frozen wastelands of northern Siberia, to the decaying industrial town of Nadym. I was lured to this remote corner of Russia by fellow Big Thing enthusiast Yevgeny Kafelnikov. No, not the world famous tennis player – every second Russian … Continue reading Mammoth and Baby Mammoth, Nadym, Russia
The Big Doc Martens make for a socking sight in the middle of Newcastle, and I certainly wouldn’t like to bump into the miscreant large enough to wear them! Their punk rock swagger and detailed feet-ures are more than enough to earn my heel of approval. These hedonistic headkickers live outside the Famous Rock Shop, which is overflowing with leather jackets and vinyl records from … Continue reading The Big Doc Martens, Newcastle, NSW
I know what you’re thinking. “Bigs, you’ve lost your mind! The Mini Harbour Bridge can’t possibly be a Big Thing because it’s substantially smaller than the object it’s modelled after. Look, it’s even there in the name. Mini. Mini! Next you’ll be inducting Cockington Green!” Your concern is appreciated, but the only thing I’ve lost is 5kg due to a controversial new exercise regime, and … Continue reading The Mini Harbour Bridge, Warwick Farm
Call me Bigs Bardot. Some weeks ago – never mind how long precisely – having little or no money in my Dolce & Gabbana clutch purse, and nothing particular to interest me on Netflix during those dark days between the final episode of Squid Game and the premiere of Tiger King 2, I thought I would ride my super-cute carnation pink Vespa about a little … Continue reading Moby Big, Nelson Bay, NSW
Oh, you want more-itius Big Things from around the world? Here’s a really stat-huge one hidden within the gorgeous Black River Gorges National Park, on the island paradise of Mauritius! The world’s biggest statue of Hindu goddess Durga took six years to complete and lives above the pristine Grand Bassin crater-lake. As the official Big Thing consultant to the Mauritian Government, I oversaw the closing … Continue reading Durga Maa Statue, Mauritius
He gets knocked down, but he gets up againYou’re never gonna keep him down! The Brasileiros are gutter-ly in love with Big Things, and this striking stud was right up my alley. In fact, I was totally bowled over by this perky pinhead! The four-metre-tall Tenpin lives outside the delightful Boliche Beer House in Curitibanos, Santa Catarina, where cerveja and sensational service flow freely. To … Continue reading O Grande Pino de Boliche, Curitibanos
Koalas aren’t endangered in scenic Port Stephens, with a pair of massive marsupials lazing about beside the main road into town. The Big Koalas fiercely guard the entrance to Oakvale Wildlife Park, where visitors kan kuddle a kangaroo or kiss an ekidna. All those animals are regular-sized, though, so who cares. Known as Blinky and Bill, these silver studs are around 150 centimetres tall. Not … Continue reading The Big Koalas, Salt Ash, NSW
He’s supple, shiny and perfectly proportioned – but enough about the inimitable Bigs Bardot! We’re here to talk about the scrumptious Big Apple of Darkes Forest. Whilst he’s not the biggest of the many apples south of Sydney – that honour goes to the Tallong Apple – this red delicious is a real man of the people. He’s super close to the ground and perfectly … Continue reading The Big Apple, Darkes Forest, NSW
We need to discuss the true star of the 2000 Sydney Olympics… or should that be discus? The stunning, circular Discobolus lies within the shadows of the Olym-big stadium, and serves to link the Aussie sporting extravaganza with the ancient Greek games. Well, it’s certainly a more family-friendly option than a bunch of naked gentlemen wrestling each other. Crafted by Australian artist Robert Owen, Discobolus … Continue reading Discobolus, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW
Please rise for Her Royal Wetness, Queany the Platypus! The 500kg mammalian monarch rests regally by the Queanbeyan River, ruling the hearts of locals with a strong yet webbed fist. Queany is the crowning achievement of Neil Dickinson and ascended to the throne in 2016. She was designed to put Queanbeyan – which has long stood in Canberra’s shadow – on the map. She’s certainly … Continue reading Queany the Platypus, Queanbeyan, NSW
Hey gang, I have some bad news. I’ve been shrunk down to a fraction of my normal height! Just look at me sitting here on a normal, regular-sized chair. Tee-hee, only kidding! I’m still as Big as I always was, it’s just that I’m perched upon the immense Googong Giant Chair. Although I must say that being smaller would have its perks, such as Big … Continue reading The Googong Giant Chair, Googong, NSW
Don’t be sluggish if you want to see the world’s largest snail, just escar-go to beautiful Queanbeyan. There you’ll find shy, reclusive Morty hiding in the town’s sensory garden. And despite his relaxed demeanour, he’s fast becoming a local legend! Artist Neil Dickinson has worked wonders on this sheepish slowpoke. Morty’s handsome head is quirky and exotic, yet cheerful and comforting. He is at once … Continue reading Morty the Snail, Queanbeyan, NSW
Alright, stop your hooting! Let’s get the obvious out of the way – the Big Powerful Owl looks more like the Big Powerful Male Appendage. But don’t let that scare you away from this eight-metre avian, who was erected in 2011. The Owl was pumped out by Bruce Armstrong and cast from steel, hard wood and lots of nuts, based on a design doodled on … Continue reading The Big Powerful Owl, Belconnen, NSW
Cauliflowers are the sexiest and most sophisticated of vegetables, so of course there’s a massive one living in the trendy inner-city suburb of Waterloo. The Big Cauliflower lurks above the historic Cauliflower Hotel, where it’s happy flower all the time! The Hotel dates back to 1862, but the vast veggie isn’t that old. In fact, he looks quite fresh! The original publican, a Mr George … Continue reading The Big Cauliflower, Waterloo, NSW
Set your heart to ‘swoon’ and say hello to a big, burly bloke who’s good with his hands and could build a rat trap out of some paper clips and a broken zip-tie. Oh no, not me! I call Hire-a-Hubby to change my toilet paper. I’m talking about the hunky Hardware Man, who I was lucky enough to have a drilling encounter with during a … Continue reading The Hardware Man, Unanderra, NSW
I’m a handsome teapotThere’s no doubtHere is my handle, here is my spoutWhen I find a Big ThingThen I shoutStop the car and let me out! Although I’m not one to spill the tea, I must say that this ‘pot is really brew-tiful! You can find her in front of Bygone Beautys, which houses the world’s largest private teapot collection. There are more than 5,500 … Continue reading The Big Teapot, Leura, NSW
You’ll go nuts for these king-sized kernels, which loom large over the National Arboretum Canberra and double as a playground. Just make sure to behave yourself, or you’ll end up in the naughty acorner! The Pod Playground burst open on June 22, 2013, and I’m not oaking when I say it’s nutting short of incredible. Not only are there all sorts of slippery dips and … Continue reading The Big Acorns, Molonglo Valley, ACT
For a ’room with a view, you can’t beat this monstrous mushie! She sprouted up beside the Belconnen Fresh Food Market in 1998, with a well-appointed playground beneath her colossal cap. Just be warned that, with so many slippery dips and see-saws, there’s not mushroom inside for adults. With a diameter of almost 16 metres, the Giant Mushroom is the grandest Big Thing in the … Continue reading The Giant Mushroom, Belconnen, ACT
Love is in the air, everywhere in Canberra townLove is in the air, no native bird has a frownAnd I don’t know feather I’m being foolishDon’t know feather I’m being wiseBut Big Galah love’s something I believe inBeak-ause they’re making out in front of my eyes As a hopeless romantic who aches to discover love, the allure of Australia’s most passionate Big Things proved irresistible. … Continue reading The Big Kissing Galahs, Watson, ACT
Everything’s going pear-shaped in the nation’s capital, and that’s just how they like it! Please welcome this incom-pear-able bunch. Officially known as Pear (version No.2) despite there being seven of the fruity fellows, they were created by George Baldessin in 1973. The Pears rest enticingly at the entrance to the National Gallery of Australia, and appear to be scattered around as if as if displayed … Continue reading The Big Pears, Parkes, ACT
You’ll be drawn to these winged wonders like a moth to a flame! The Big Bogong Moths rest peacefully beside the Australian Institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies. Based on a design by indigenous artiste Jim Williams, and crafted by Matthew Harding, they celebrate the history of the local Ngunnawal people. No, no, no, the Ngunnawal aren’t some sort of human-moth hybrid tribe, … Continue reading The Big Bogong Moths, Acton, ACT
Crumb one, crumb all to see a true work of tart – the Bilpin Apple Pie! The sweet treat rests on the back of an old truck, a few kilometres north of the sleepy township of Bilpin. He’s certainly not a short crust, in fact he’s quite tall! My encounter with this homemade hottie proved to be a pie-opening experience. The round rascal is certainly … Continue reading The Bilpin Apple Pie, Bilpin, NSW
He is a sk8er boyBig like the Potato boyHe is good enough for meHe has a pretty laceTakes up quite a lot of spaceYou need to come down to Penny Roll out the red carpet, because I rink this colossal clog is wheely exciting! The lone loafer lives atop the entrance to Penrith Skatel, and is a shoe-in to send you head-over-heels in love! Widely … Continue reading The Big Roller Skate, Emu Plains, NSW
If it’s wrong for a 38-year-old man to dress up as a pansy and dance in front of The Big Flower, then I don’t want to be right. What can I say – this daisy is drivin’ me crazy! As tall as he is handsome, the Big Flower has a kitschy charm and refreshing innocence that’s granted him cult status on the Central Coast. For … Continue reading The Big Flower, Ourimbah, NSW
Wood you like to visit a towering tomahawk and grab a load of quality kindling at the same time? I’ll go out on a limb and take that as a yes, so hatchet a plan to swing by Big Axe Firewood in beautiful Box Hill! The Axe lives beside busy Windsor Road, ready to welcome anyone lumbering along. He’s behind a fence, so I asked … Continue reading The Big Axe, Box Hill, NSW
What’s cute, cuddly, and widely beloved despite being considered daggy by zoomers? These three guys right here! Sardonic alien Gordon Shumway joined me on this visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park, where we met the un-bear-ably handsome Big Koala. He’s not the biggest arboreal herbivorous marsupial around – that distinction goes to the Giant Koala in Dadswells Bridge, Victoria. But he’s 1.5 metres tall and made … Continue reading The Big Koala, Doonside, NSW
Darwin’s one of the best cities to have a BIG adventure, with all sorts of giant animals to meet! Those willing to brave the heat can find a frightening fish, a charismatic turtle, and one of the biggest dinosaurs to ever roam the Earth. Follow this delightful guide to Australia’s northern capital, and your next holiday to the Territory is sure to be a Dar-winner! … Continue reading The Awesome Big Things of Darwin
Without feather ado, I’d like to in-duck-t this oversized owl – and I’m talon you, be prepared to fowl in love! Say hello to Chinute Chinute, who’s so nice they named her twice! The 1.8-metre-tall avian landed outside the Northern Territory’s Supreme Court in 2010, and is modelled after a Dreamtime spirit who’s watched over the Top End for thousands of years. Aboriginal elder and … Continue reading Chinute Chinute the Big Owl, Darwin, NT
These burgundy bud-dies have been bravely garden the entrance to Gosford for a few years now, and have blossomed into the city’s top tourist destination. The nine nice guys stand by the shore of the gorgeous Brisbane Water, and I’m not pollen your leg when I say it’s a bloomin’ beautiful place to spend an afternoon! The Big Poppies were brought to life by local … Continue reading The Big Poppies, Gosford, NSW
2B or not 2B, that is the question. And the answer, of course, is not 2B, as the perky Pencil is clearly an HB, the most princely on the graphite grading scale. Positioned beneath the jaw-droppingly beautiful Nobbys Lighthouse along Newcastle’s eastern beaches, he doubles as a seat from which to enjoy this glorious part of the world. Despite what you may think, the area’s … Continue reading The Big Pencil, Newcastle, NSW
You don’t need to leave the Land of the Bigs to have a memorable encounter in the African wilderness. Just pop over to the Botanic Gardens in sunny Darwin, where a monstrous metallic maneater meanders through the Madagascan-modelled meadows. Mmmmm… marvellous! Surrounded by breathtaking baobabs and bubbling brooks, Gorgeous George delights with his size and looks. The 10-metre-long lizard was cast from steel by local … Continue reading George the Big Crocodile, Darwin, NT
As a passionate supporter of the LGBTQI+ community, it’s my pleasure to introduce Australia’s very first transgender Big – the voluptuous Wo-Man! Xe is loud and proud and shimmers like a disco ball, bedazzling all who venture into the backwoods of Wollombi. This remote location is a surprising home for such a progressive Big, who’s happy to show off xis ample bosom and metallic member … Continue reading Wo-Man, Garland Valley, NSW
Let me take you down‘Cause I’m going to Big Strawberry FieldsThe size is realAnd something to be amazed aboutBig Strawberry Fields forever Bright red and bursting with life, the Big Strawberry looks delicious enough to gobble up with a dollop of cream. But this blushing beauty is actually an unstoppable tough guy, having defeated a crazed cyclone in 2013. The turbulent tempest tore through Koonoomoo … Continue reading The Big Strawberry, Koonoomoo, VIC
Never smile at Daryl the CrocodileNo, don’t get friendly with Daryl the CrocodileDon’t be taken in by his games and larkOr the fact he lives at the Aussie Reptile Park Never smile at Daryl the CrocodileNever kiss his handsome head and stop to talk awhileNever listen to his hopes and dreamsOf gobbling up six football teams You may very well lose your bodyJust up the … Continue reading Daryl Somersby the Croc, Somersby, NSW
You can’t pan-dle the truth! Actually, you probably can, because it’s an indisputable fact that the Big Gold Pick and Pan are ri-pick-ulously magnificent! The cheerful chums were built by another legendary pair – Peter Mason and Tony Durham – under the supervision of the Grenfell Men’s Shed, in recognition of Grenfell’s history as a gold town. But first, a confession. When I was told … Continue reading The Big Gold Pick and Pan, Grenfell, NSW
BREAKING NEWS: It’s with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of the beautiful, whimsical Big Prawn. Our fearless friend was found dismembered on the morning of August 5, 2023, his head and legs sawn off by an angle grinder and stolen. Police believe they could turn up on the black market. Next time you pick up a bag of frozen prawns, please, please … Continue reading The Big Prawn, Crangan Bay, NSW
Pining for some Bigs with a view? Then cone on down to splendid Caves Beach, which boasts sparkling blue water, resplendent golden sand, and two of the largest pine cones you’re ever likely to see! Officially known as Norfolk – after the spiky spheres dropped by the many Norfolk Island pines growing in the area – these stately seed pods were created by Newcastle-based artist/beekeeper … Continue reading The Big Pine Cones, Caves Beach, NSW
“Oh my cod, isn’t he big!” Visitors to the river village of Tocumwal have been exclaiming this for almost six decades, and this water-dwelling dreamboat has lived a life most of us would be en-fish-ious of. This bulky baby boomer’s story starts in the swingin’ 60s, when three of the more rebellious members of the local Chamber of Commerce decided the town needed something exciting … Continue reading The Big Murray Cod, Tocumwal, NSW
Tilly bounced her way into our hearts during the 1982 Commonwealth Games, taking centre stage at the opening ceremony in front of 50,000 enamoured fans. The cute kangaroo flirted with the crowd, winking her long lashes and swivelling her perfectly-proportioned head as a forklift flittered her around the track. The world drew breath as one when the voluptuous Matilda lingered in front of the Duke … Continue reading Matilda the Kangaroo, Traveston, QLD
Open the door, get on the floorEverybody walk with Digby the Dinosaur! She might be 65 million years old, but this delightful dino is still a big kid at heart. Digby lives in Albury Botanic Gardens’ wonderfully-presented Children’s Garden and is more than happy to be kissed, cuddled and climbed upon. It’s safe to say she’s dinos-awfully popular! Digby’s not as famous as her aunty … Continue reading Digby the Dinosaur, Albury, NSW
Cairo has the Pyramids, Paris has la tour Eiffel. Bundy has its own tribute to the culture of its people – this fantastic flagon of the good old fighting juice! The Big Rum Bottle wearily outside the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, which is a mecca for barflies Big Thing fanatics. The rum-filled Romeo was constructed for World Expo ’88 in Brisbane. He overshadowed the futuristic monorail … Continue reading The Big Rum Bottle, Bundaberg, QLD
The good people of Bundy are so obsessed with ginger beer that a regular-sized barrel full of it could never satisfy them. So in 2005 they built the Big Barrel – lovingly referred to as Darrel by his swarm of admirers – in the middle of the city. This soft drink paradise is certainly sweet! Darrel serves as a shrine to the region’s enviable fizzy … Continue reading Darrel the Barrel, Bundaberg, QLD
There was a time, long before the age of man, when enormous creatures roamed the wasteland we now call Australia. From Tiddalick the Frog to Biladurang the Platypus, these behemoths filled the rivers with water, shaped the mountain ranges, and cast the stars into the sky. Dreamtime stories, passed down through a thousand generations, keep the history of our homeland alive. Gubulla Munda, a carpet … Continue reading The Big Snake, Ayr, QLD
Victorian bushranger Ned Kelly is known for his handsome beard, wacky armour, and penchant for ruthlessly slaughtering innocent people. He is not, however, known for taking relaxing holidays in sunny Queensland. So how did this seven-metre-tall tribute end up in Maryborough? Your fearless reporter, Bigs Bardot, headed to the scene to find out! My quest for the truth started by asking Ned himself, but the … Continue reading The Big Ned Kelly, Maryborough, QLD
Have you heifer herd the udder-ly moo-diculous story about the two-story cow who become a Sunshine Coast icon, fell into a life of depravity, climbed out of the gutter to become a leader of the lost, and eventually retired to a leafy farm near beautiful Toowoomba? Yeah, I know it sounds like a load of bull, but be-hoove yourself because it’s true! The Big Cow … Continue reading The Big Cow, Highfields, QLD
Queenslanders love guzzling icy cold XXXX beer almost as much as they adore their Big Things, so Koumala is like honey to the bee for those up north! The colossal can stands like a beacon outside the well-presented Koumala Hotel, luring in travellers from the Bruce Highway for a cool drink and a bite to eat from the expansive bistro menu. The titanic tinnie is … Continue reading The Big Beer Can, Koumala, QLD
For a bloomin’ great time in the Garden City of Toowoomba, visit Picnic Point to see the Big Sunflowers. The popular petal-heads have plenty of pollen power, with piles of plant-o-philes posy-ing for a picture. The bud-dies sprouted in 2012 as a tribute to the people of the city, the local schools, the Lions Club, and Toowoomba legend Ian Orford. I’m sure there were half-a-dozen … Continue reading The Big Sunflowers, Toowoomba, QLD
The Southern Highlands of New South Wales has Big Things apple-nty, but none are as scrumptious as this crimson cutie! The Big Apple is of epic proportions, astonishingly detailed – just look at his hyper-realistic leaf – and always in season! Tallong legend Jim ‘The Apple Man’ Watling set the peels in motion in 1988. He commissioned a chap named Carl Zeschke to build a … Continue reading The Big Apple, Tallong, NSW
Put the Mortein away, he’s friendly! Ossie the Mossie watches vigilantly over the much-loved Hexham Bowling Club, and after giving him a good insect-ion I’m pleased to report that he certainly doesn’t suck! Hexham Grey mosquitos have long been the bowlo’s symbol, so in 1994 members cobbled together $17,200 to build a personable pest of epic proportions. Basing his design on an oversized chicken displayed … Continue reading Ossie the Mossie, Hexham, NSW
Itsy Bitsy the Big SpiderClimbed up the water towerDown came the rainAnd made the spider cowerOut came the sunAnd dried up all the rainAnd Itsy Bitsy the Big SpiderClimbed up the tower again! You’d hate to be a fly in the cosy village of Urana, because it’s home to a spider the size of a small car! But don’t be scared, because this aspiring web … Continue reading Itsy Bitsy the Big Spider, Urana, NSW
Roll out the red carpet, because we’re in the company of some Hollywood bad boys… Ribbet Redford and Dennis Hopper! The amphibian actors squat smugly out the front of the salubrious Ramada Suites, just a hop, skip and jump from Darwin’s waterfront. Ribbet and Dennis spawned at the humorously-named Get Stoned Masonry, before re-croak-ating to their current spot when the shop shut. Their identical sisters … Continue reading The Big Frogs, Darwin, NT
Young is a prosperous inland city with a rich agricultural history, and having their very own Big is the cherry on top! This trio of tasty treats were unveiled in 1983 to rapturous applause, cementing Young’s reputation as the cherry capital of the world. If you’re cherry-picking your favourite Bigs, take a fruitful journey out to see them! The red rascals hang daintily next to … Continue reading The Big Cherries, Young, NSW
Sunglasses, cheeky grin, rockstar swagger. No, I’m not talking about myself, I’m describing the coolest cat in the Goulburn Valley, the legendary Big Cherry! The bright-red dude with ’tude has been breaking hearts for the past two decades, so I decided the time to meet this cherry was ripe! As I researched the Cherry in my la-big-atory, I discovered that rumours of his current whereabouts … Continue reading The Big Cherry, Wyuna, Vic
What’s chookin’, good lookin’? This king-sized cockerel really is something to crow about, and you’ll have egg on your face if you don’t chick him out! A Western Sydney icon for decades, the Chook is an extremely charismatic old-school Big. He looks a bit homemade, like the Big Golden Dog and fellow feather-head the Big Parrot, but that just makes him more relatable. He stands … Continue reading The Big Chook, Mount Vernon, NSW
