Australia isn’t just about stunning beaches, sprawling outback, and unique wildlife—it’s also home to some of the quirkiest roadside attractions you’ll ever see. From oversized food items to giant crustaceans, the Land Down Under has perfected the art of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Join us on a cheeky tour of Australia’s weirdest landmarks, where “bigger is better” and weirdness is a badge of honor.
Why Does Australia Love Big Things?
Australia has a curious obsession with “Big Things.” These oversized sculptures are scattered across the country, often located in small towns that otherwise wouldn’t make the map. Originally built to attract tourists, they’ve become beloved cultural icons—proof that Aussies can make anything fun, even a giant mango.
The Big Pineapple: Sweet, Sticky, and Iconic
Located in Woombye, Queensland, the Big Pineapple is a 16-meter-tall tribute to one of the country’s juiciest exports. Built in 1971, this colossal fruit has become a must-visit for road trippers and Instagrammers alike.
Fun Fact: You can climb inside the Big Pineapple for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. There’s also a zoo on site, because why not pair giant fruit with adorable animals?
Cheeky Commentary: Honestly, nothing screams “tropical paradise” like a massive fiberglass pineapple. It’s sweet, it’s kitschy, and it’s Australia at its finest.
Larry the Giant Lobster: A Crustacean Worth the Drive
Down in Kingston SE, South Australia, you’ll find Larry the Lobster, a 17-meter-tall monument to the region’s seafood industry. Larry looks equal parts majestic and mildly terrifying, but he’s beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Fun Fact: Larry was originally intended to be 1/10th of his size, but the architect miscalculated the scale. The result? A lobster that could crush your car.
Cheeky Commentary: If Larry ever comes to life, we’re all doomed. Until then, he’s the perfect spot for a quirky selfie.
The Big Prawn: Seafood You Can’t Eat
You’ll find The Big Prawn towering over Ballina, New South Wales. At 9 meters tall, this bright orange crustacean is one of Australia’s most famous “Big Things.” It was almost scrapped in 2009, but locals rallied to save their beloved prawn, proving that you can’t keep a good seafood sculpture down.
Fun Fact: The Big Prawn underwent a makeover in 2013, gaining a tail that it originally lacked. Because, obviously, authenticity matters when you’re a giant prawn.
Cheeky Commentary: If you’re not tempted to stop and yell “throw another prawn on the barbie,” are you even Australian?
Other “Big” Wonders You Have to See
Australia has no shortage of bizarre roadside attractions. Here are a few honorable mentions:
- The Big Banana (Coffs Harbour, NSW): The original “Big Thing,” complete with a banana-themed amusement park. Yes, that’s a thing.
- The Big Mango (Bowen, QLD): Proof that even mangos deserve their moment in the sun.
- The Big Merino (Goulburn, NSW): A giant sheep that doubles as a tribute to Australia’s wool industry.
- The Big Guitar (Tamworth, NSW): A nod to Tamworth’s country music scene, because nothing says “yee-haw” like a massive guitar.
Why We’re Obsessed with These Oddities
What makes these attractions so popular? Maybe it’s their unapologetic weirdness, or the sheer audacity of turning everyday objects into giant landmarks. Whatever the reason, these “Big Things” embody the laid-back, quirky spirit of Australia.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, stopping at one of these roadside icons is more than just a photo op—it’s a celebration of Australia’s ability to have fun with the mundane.
Conclusion
Australia’s weird roadside attractions are more than just oversized sculptures; they’re a testament to the country’s sense of humor and love of the absurd. So, next time you’re planning a road trip, make sure to add these landmarks to your itinerary. Because where else in the world can you visit a giant pineapple, a colossal lobster, and a massive prawn all in one go?
Disclaimer: No seafood was harmed (or eaten) during the creation of this article, but we can’t promise the same for the road trip that inspired it.
See Also: Unusual Australian Laws: What You Didn’t Know Was Illegal
