Locally owned and independent
December 14, 2023
The Northern Rivers Times
TRAVEL 37
The ‘Big’ Things in NSW
The Big Golden Guitar, Tamworth.
New South Wales is home to some of Australia’s most iconic “big” attractions. These enormous sculptures, often inspired by local
produce or wildlife, are quirky landmarks dotting the landscape and offering fun photo opportunities and a glimpse into local culture
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and humour. They serve as larger-than-life emblems of the towns they reside in and are a testament to Australia’s love for the eccentric and the extraordinary. The Big Banana, Coffs Harbour One of the first of Australia’s “big things” and arguably the most famous, The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour is a homage to the region’s rich banana-growing industry. This massive banana has been a beacon for visitors since 1964 and is now part of a fun park with a water park, ice skating rink, and a cafe where you can indulge in banana-themed treats. The Big Banana is more than just a sculpture; it’s an experience that symbolises the sunny and playful spirit of NSW’s coastal tourism. The Big Prawn, Ballina Not far behind in fame is The Big Prawn in Ballina, another coastal town known for its seafood industry. The Big Prawn has undergone renovations over the years, adding a tail to its original design. The sculpture is situated adjacent to a Bunnings Warehouse, making it a… interesting… yet unmissable stopover. The Big Merino, Goulburn
Venture inland to Goulburn and you’ll be greeted by the towering figure of The Big Merino. Dubbed ‘Rambo’ by locals, this giant sheep stands as a tribute to the region’s wool industry. Visitors can visit the sculpture and browse the gift shop that sells a range of merino wool products, a cosy reminder of the rural heartland of NSW. The Big Potato, Robertson In the small town of Robertson, The Big Potato may raise a few eyebrows for its abstract shape, but it nevertheless represents the area’s potato farming history. While it’s one of the more unusual and less polished of the “big things”, it’s a cultural icon that inspires curiosity and puzzlement, embodying the Aussie sense of humour and the laidback, self-deprecating nature of local rural communities. The Big Golden Guitar, Tamworth A testament to Tamworth’s status as the country music capital of Australia, The Big Golden Guitar is a colossal replica of the instrument that has come to define the musical soul of the town. It stands at the entrance to the Tamworth Country
Music Hall of Fame and is a popular backdrop for tourist photos, especially during the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival, the second-biggest country music festival in the world. The Big Oyster, Taree Although it is no longer part of an operating oyster farm, The Big Oyster in Taree is still a shiny shell of the town’s once-thriving oyster industry. Set against the backdrop of the Manning River, it’s a spot where visitors can reflect on the aquatic lifeblood of the region and the richness of the local rivers and estuaries. However, if you want to visit it, be prepared to get approached to buy a new car, because it has now been turned into a car dealership. The Big Guitar, Narrandera Celebrating Narrandera’s musical heritage, The Big Guitar isn’t as renowned as its Tamworth counterpart, but it’s equally significant. This guitar is a symbol of the town’s contribution to the country music scene, making it a place of pilgrimage for music lovers trekking through NSW. The Big Murray Cod, Tocumwal In the small town of
Tocumwal, The Big Murray Cod is a tribute to the region’s reputation as a fishing haven, specifically for Murray cod. This fish sculpture not only attracts those with a rod and reel but also visitors looking to catch a glimpse of Australia’s affinity for celebrating local wildlife in grand form. These “big things” of NSW offer a road trip itinerary that’s both unique and steeped in local flavour. They are often located near playgrounds, picnic spots, or visitor centres, making them perfect rest stops for travellers. Each structure tells a story, not just of the object it represents, but also of the town in which it resides. They are monuments to community pride, local industry, and Australian culture. Visiting these sculptures is more than just a sightseeing adventure; it’s a journey through the heart of regional NSW, showcasing the area’s industry, agriculture, and creativity. From the coast to the countryside, these giants beckon tourists to look beyond the beaten path and discover the quirky character of New South Wales.
