Victoria’s Goulburn Valley, a region celebrated as the food bowl of Australia, may soon gain another claim to fame: the home of a giant pear. A group of local business leaders is championing the construction of a three-storey-high pear in Shepparton, aiming to honor the area’s rich horticultural past.
Rocky Varapodio, the steering group chairperson and a former fruit grower, emphasized the landmark’s potential to celebrate the industry that shaped the region in the late 1800s and early 1900s. “The plan is to have an interactive display inside it, so that you know the story can be told of horticulture in our region and how important it has been,” Mr. Varapodio stated.
The Giant Pear Vision
With 90 percent of Australia’s pears grown in the Goulburn Valley, the fruit was a natural choice for the landmark. Early estimates peg the project’s cost at $1.3 million, with the group actively seeking government and stakeholder support to bring the vision to fruition. “It’s really in the preliminary design phase,” Mr. Varapodio noted.
A commissioned report suggests the giant pear could attract thousands of visitors, potentially injecting over $2 million into the local economy annually. “The response has been great. People we’ve pitched the idea to really can see the benefit of telling this story through an attraction,” Mr. Varapodio added.
Australia’s Love for “Big Things”
Australia’s “big things” have long been a staple of the country’s tourism landscape, with more than 150 such structures scattered across the nation. From the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour to the Big Prawn in Ballina, these oversized icons continue to draw visitors and spark curiosity.
Lauren Douglass, chief executive of Australian Regional Tourism, highlighted the importance of these landmarks. “When they reflect something truly unique or significant about a place, like Shepparton’s proud history as Australia’s pear capital, they become powerful tools for destination branding and storytelling,” she said.
“They help create a sense of place, spark curiosity, and often become much-loved symbols of community identity,” Ms. Douglass remarked.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Douglass further explained that a giant pear could not only celebrate the region’s agricultural legacy but also offer a playful, memorable experience for visitors. “These types of attractions tend to do well because they’re accessible, shareable, and provide a unique photo opportunity that ties directly into the local story,” she added.
Lessons from the Big Banana
Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana, one of Australia’s most famous big things, serves as a testament to the potential success of such ventures. Michael Lockman, chief executive and company secretary of The Big Banana Group, described its impact beyond being a quirky roadside stop.
“Since 1964, it has been a major drawcard for tourists travelling along the Pacific Highway, helping to establish Coffs Harbour as a must-visit destination,” Mr. Lockman said.
This steady influx of visitors has bolstered the local economy by creating jobs and supporting surrounding businesses such as cafes, hotels, and shops. Mr. Lockman emphasized that the icon had become a symbol of regional identity and pride, putting the region on the national map.
Looking Ahead
The proposal for Shepparton’s giant pear represents more than just a new tourist attraction; it is a nod to the region’s historical roots and a potential catalyst for economic growth. As the project moves beyond the preliminary stages, the community’s support and involvement will be crucial in bringing this vision to life.
With the potential to become a beloved symbol of Shepparton, the giant pear could soon join the ranks of Australia’s cherished “big things,” offering both locals and visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s storied past.
