These oversized icons are stuck in our memories, having created a sense of fun and discovery.
Certainly, Australia has a rich history of ‘big things,’ from the iconic Big Banana in Coffs Harbour to the Big Pineapple in Woombye, Queensland (pictured below).
Although they may lack the prestige of the Sydney Opera House or the MCG, these oversized landmarks have become symbols of local pride (mostly) drawing visitors from near and far.
In Shepparton in Victoria, a proposal for a “Big Pear” taps into the town’s deep agricultural roots and its place within the Goulburn Valley, where more than 95% of Australia’s pears are grown.
This addition to Australia’s collection of ‘big things’ could help strengthen the identity of both Shepparton and the Goulbourn Valley as the nation’s food bowl, while also boosting tourism and supporting local businesses.
While it is unlikely that many visitors will come just to see the Big Pear, it will certainly add to the overall destination appeal.
This fruity attraction will draw the attention of those passing through the town, encouraging them to stop, explore and spend money in local cafes, pubs and restaurants.
The proposed cost of the Big Pear is an estimated $1.3 million. This raises the question of who will pay for this project.
Funding could come from local and/or state government, generous contributions from local businesses and community leaders, and/or community fundraising efforts.
Whatever the source, the success of securing these funds will be crucial in producing the Big Pear.
The novelty of ‘big things’ makes them highly shareable on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Visitors could capture and share their experiences with the Big Pear, providing free advertising for the region through user-generated content such as photos, videos and comments.
This social media buzz could significantly enhance the visibility and attractiveness of the region as a tourist destination.
However, for this to be truly beneficial, it will need to be more than just a pear on steroids.
Effective design, incorporating interactive and engaging interpretation – think storytelling, digital features, or hands-on displays – will be key to enticing today’s modern tourist and to ensuring the stop is more than just a quick photo opportunity.
Location is also an important consideration. The site for the Big Pear should be somewhere highly visible and easily accessible to passers-by.
Ideally, it should also be near other amenities and attractions, to help prolong visitors stay and maximise the economic benefits.
Introducing a Big Pear in Shepparton could help build the town’s identity and by tapping into the quirky appeal of ‘big things’, it would give travellers another classic stop to add to their list and encourage more visitors to explore the region.
Who knows, during those long, lonely drives, it might even get the kids to look up from their screens and say, “Whoa, that’s a giant pear!”
Written by Dr Ryan Jopp, Senior Lecturer/Researcher – Management, Sustainability & Tourism, Swinburne Business School
