Victoria’s Goulburn Valley is known as the food bowl of Australia, but it could soon be known as the home of the giant pear.
A group of business leaders is advocating for a three-storey-high giant pear to be built in Shepparton to celebrate the region’s proud horticultural history.
Steering group chairperson and former fruit grower Rocky Varapodio said the giant pear would recognise the industry that helped shape the area 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 said.
With 90 per cent of Australia’s pears grown in the Goulburn Valley, the fruit was an obvious choice.
Early estimates suggest the project could cost $1.3 million, and the group is seeking government and stakeholder support to bring the idea to life.
“It’s really in the preliminary design phase,” Mr Varapodio said.
A report commissioned by the group suggests the landmark could attract thousands of visitors and could potentially inject more than $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 said.
Powerful icons
Australia’s iconic “big things” play a meaningful role in tourism, according to Lauren Douglass, chief executive of Australian Regional Tourism.
The Big Pineapple on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. (Supplied: The Big Pineapple)
“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,” Ms Douglass said.
“They help create a sense of place, spark curiosity, and often become much-loved symbols of community identity.”
She said a big pear could not only help 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.”
Proven big success
Coffs Harbour’s Big Banana is one of the country’s most famous big things.
The Big Banana has become an icon and a symbol of pride for the region. (Supplied)
But Michael Lockman, chief executive and company secretary of The Big Banana Group, said it was more than just 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,”
he said.
“This steady influx of visitors has contributed to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting surrounding businesses such as cafes, hotels, and shops.”
Mr Lockman said the icon had become a symbol of regional identity and pride, putting the region on the national map.
