Australia's Big Things
In the interest of celebrating all things Australian, and with the release of the recent Big Things Coin Collection, I thought I'd share some of these interesting 'Big Things' around Australia. Let's start with my favourite (as I lived in this town for a while)
The Big Penguin: Tasmania's Coolest Giant Bird
Australia is famously home to a quirky collection of “Big Things” — enormous roadside sculptures that dot the landscape and serve as both tourist magnets and local pride. You’ve heard of the Big Banana, the Big Pineapple, and maybe even the Big Lobster. But nestled on the north-west coast of Tasmania, one chilly contender might just steal your heart — the Big Penguin.
Meet the Big Penguin 🐧
Standing proudly at over three metres tall, the Big Penguin resides in the coastal town of Penguin, on the North West coast of Tasmania — a place as charming and aptly named as its star attraction.
Constructed in 1975 to celebrate the town’s centenary, the Big Penguin has become a beloved local icon. Built from fiberglass and steel, this tuxedoed titan gazes out over the Bass Strait, just a short stroll from the beach. Whether you're road-tripping through Tasmania or just passing through, it’s a must-stop photo op.
Why Penguin?
The town of Penguin got its name from the little penguins (also known as fairy penguins) that inhabit the nearby coastline. These tiny, adorable seabirds can be seen waddling ashore at dusk during breeding season, making the town not only symbolically tied to penguins, but biologically too.
With penguin-themed garbage bins, murals, and even penguin-shaped street lights, it’s safe to say the town has embraced its feathered friends with open wings.
A Bit of Local Love
The Big Penguin isn’t just a quirky roadside statue — it’s a symbol of community pride. Locals dress it up for holidays and special events. At Christmas, you'll often find it wearing a Santa hat. During winter, a cozy scarf or beanie might appear. And on Tasmania Day, expect some true-blue Aussie decorations.
These regular costume changes keep the statue feeling alive and connected to the rhythm of the town.
Tips for Visiting
📍 Location: Main Street, Penguin, Tasmania — right near the waterfront.
📷 Photo Tip: Visit around golden hour (just before sunset) for the best lighting and backdrop of the ocean.
🐧 Penguin Viewing: Head to Penguin Point or nearby Lillico Beach at dusk if you're hoping to spot real-life penguins.
🛍️ Souvenirs: The local shops are full of penguin-themed gifts — everything from plush toys to handmade crafts.
Why the Big Penguin Matters
Australia’s Big Things aren’t just kitsch — they represent the spirit and identity of the towns they inhabit. The Big Penguin is a celebration of local wildlife, community character, and that uniquely Australian love of the whimsical. It's not just a statue. It’s a snapshot of regional pride, coastal charm, and a town that knows how to embrace what makes it unique.
So, next time you find yourself in Tasmania, take the scenic coastal route and pay a visit to the Big Penguin. Snap a selfie, enjoy a coffee by the sea, and maybe—just maybe—spot a little penguin waddling home.
Thanks for reading!
