New South Wales, a state renowned for its vibrant cities, stunning coastlines, and picturesque landscapes. It harbors a unique array of attractions that captivate both locals and tourists alike. Beyond the iconic landmarks and natural wonders, there’s a whimsical side to NSW that’s often overlooked: Discovering Big Things in NSW.” These larger-than-life sculptures, scattered across the state, range from the famous Big Banana in Coffs Harbour to the lesser-known but equally charming Big Trout in Adaminaby.
Each of these colossal creations tells a story, reflecting the local culture, history, and sometimes, a sense of humor. Embarking on a journey to discover these big things offers a delightful way to explore the diverse and quirky heart of New South Wales, providing a fresh perspective on this beautiful part of Australia.
A to Z of Locations to Find Big Things in NSW
Albert- Big Rabbit Trap On Pub
Albert is a small, charming town in New South Wales, located in the state’s central west region. Known for its rural appeal, Albert offers a glimpse into the quiet, laid-back lifestyle typical of Australia’s countryside. The town is perhaps most famous for being home to the Rabbit Trap Hotel, a classic Aussie pub that has become a local icon and a popular stop for travelers exploring the region. It has a large Rabbit Trap on the roof of the Hotel.
There is also across the road a big beer can beside John Owens trapping hut. John owns the hotel and is an Australian Country music singer. You are able to camp across the road and there are a few cabins also to stay in. There is also a fuel station near the hotel if you need to fuel up.
It is now on travelers bucket list to detour to take a look at the Big Rabbit Trap. When stopping to take a look, other people traveling also were stopping to see the Rabbit Trap.
Barellan- Big Tennis Racquet
The Big Tennis Racquet in Barellan, NSW, is an iconic tribute to the town’s most famous sports star, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, a former world No. 1 tennis champion. The enormous racquet, standing at 13.8 meters long and weighing 1.8 tonnes, was built to celebrate Goolagong Cawley’s remarkable achievements and her connection to the small country town where she grew up.
The racquet, a replica of the wooden one she used to win her first Wimbledon title in 1971, symbolizes both her sporting legacy and the pride of the local community. Unveiled in 2009 during the Barellan Centenary celebrations, it has since become a popular landmark and a must-visit attraction for tennis enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Broken Hill- Big Bench Seat
Perched atop the Line of Lode, overlooking the historic mining town of Broken Hill, stands the Big Bench Seat. A massive structure that offers more than just a place to rest. This oversized bench, painted in a striking shade of red, is not only a quirky attraction but also a symbol of the town’s resilient spirit and rich mining heritage.
Standing 2.5 meters high and 8 meters long. The Big Bench provides visitors with a unique vantage point to take in the sweeping views of Broken Hill and its rugged surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect spot for tourists to snap a memorable photo and reflect on the town’s enduring legacy as the “Silver City.” Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply in search of an unusual pit-stop, the Big Bench Seat offers a charming and panoramic pause in your journey through New South Wales.
Griffith- Big Wine Bottles
The Big Wine Bottles in Griffith, NSW, symbolize the region’s rich wine-making heritage. Located at the entrance to Griffith’s Airport, the 8 towering wine bottles are replicas of local varieties, celebrating the town’s long history as a major wine-producing area. Griffith is in the heart of the Riverina, one of Australia’s largest wine regions, known for producing premium wines, especially fortified and table wines.
The Big Wine Bottles, which stand at an impressive height, highlight the significance of the wine industry to the local economy and culture. Visitors can explore the nearby wineries, enjoy tastings, and learn about the wine-making process, making Griffith a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Hay NSW- Big Koala
In the yard of The Convent cafe there is a Big Koala. There is also accommodation available at The Convent in Hay NSW
Location: 160 Pine Street, Hay NSW
Lockhart NSW- Big Kangaroo and Emu
Just out of the town of Lockhart, NSW, the striking figures of a big kangaroo and emu stand proudly. They symbolize the vibrant community spirit and artistic flair of this rural region. These impressive sculptures, crafted from reclaimed metal, capture the essence of Australia’s unique wildlife and the creativity of local artisans. Standing at about 7 metres tall.
The second weekend in October, Lockhart comes alive with the Spirit of the Land Festival. A celebration that honors the town’s agricultural heritage and showcases the talents of artists from across the country. In 2007 was one of the worst droughts in the area and that was the year that the festival started. There are a spectacular array of farm art sculptures, live music, markets, and family-friendly activities.
Drawing visitors to experience the heart and soul of rural Australia. Amidst the festivities, the towering kangaroo and emu serve as iconic landmarks, embodying the town’s dedication to preserving its cultural legacy and fostering a sense of community pride.
Around the town you will find art sculptures made out scrap metal. These sculptures are amazing. There are also some of the sculptures in the next town Urana.
Urana NSW- Big Spider on Town Water Tank
Urana is located between Jerilderie and Lockhart. It is a small country town, but it is well worth stopping to take a look at different interesting spots. There is a small caravan park beside a lake which is peaceful and has a walking track around it. There are picnic areas with BBQs beside the lake.
Across the road is a restoration of the Dexter Horizontal Turbine Windmill. It was one of four that where brought out from USA and erected on a farm near Urana in 1885. During a bushfire it was burnt and then in 2002 with a grant from the government the Dexter Horizontal windmill.
Not far from the windmill near the stock yards there is an old tractor sitting up on a pole. Across the road you will see a big Spider on the town water tank. Back when there was a football team at Urana, they were called The Spiders and that is why the artist made a spider.
A bit further along the same street closer to the town. There is sheep, men and a horse made out of corrugated iron, and other bits of scrap metal.