Big things (Australia)

Big things are oversized tourist attractions and landmarks found throughout Australia. These structures are typically sculptures or novelty architecture designed to attract visitors to a particular town or region. While the term is informal, "big things" have become a recognized and popular aspect of Australian tourism and culture.

The phenomenon started in the 1960s and 1970s and continues to the present day. The precise number of "big things" varies depending on the criteria used for inclusion (size, historical significance, etc.), but it is estimated that there are over 150 such attractions spread across the country.

These attractions often represent a local agricultural product, animal, or historical event relevant to the area. They serve as photo opportunities, rest stops for travelers, and a means of promoting local businesses and the region in general. Some "big things" are attached to shops or tourist centres, while others stand alone as roadside attractions.

The appeal of "big things" lies in their novelty, their often kitsch aesthetic, and their ability to break up long journeys across the vast Australian landscape. They have become a self-aware part of Australian identity, representing a lighthearted and sometimes ironic appreciation of the country's rural character. They frequently appear in advertising and popular culture as symbols of Australian travel and tourism.