Height
3 meters
Year Built
2005
Address
Matilda Highway, Augathella, QLD 4477
The Lowdown
The Big Ant at Augathella is a testament to the quirky sense of humor found in outback Queensland towns. This oversized insect sculpture celebrates the tiny creatures that seem to appear at every outback picnic and campsite. While Augathella is also famous for its meat ants (which inspired the 'Meat Ant Capital' claim), this Big Ant represents all the determined little insects that share our great southern land. Standing in the middle of Queensland's outback, it's a whimsical reminder that even the smallest creatures can make a big impression - and that Australian towns will find any excuse to build something big.
Did you know?
"Meat ants are known for their aggressive defense of territory"
History
The Big Ant was installed to give Augathella a unique attraction and celebrate the region's connection to meat ants. The town embraced its quirky claim to fame, creating a roadside stop for travelers on the Matilda Highway.
More Fun Facts
- •Australia has over 1,300 known species of ants
- •Meat ants are known for their aggressive defense of territory
- •An ant can carry 50 times its own body weight
- •Some Australian ant colonies have existed for decades
- •Augathella claims to be the Meat Ant Capital of Australia
Visiting Tips
- 💡Augathella is on the Matilda Highway to Longreach
- 💡Stock up on fuel - services are sparse in the outback
- 💡The town has a pub with cold drinks and character
- 💡Carnarvon Gorge is within driving distance
- 💡Watch for real ants if you stop for a picnic!
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
More Big Things Nearby
Big Barramundi
A 6-metre long fibreglass barramundi celebrating Normanton's status as the 'Barramundi Capital of Australia'.
Big Golden Gumboot
A 7.9-metre tall golden fibreglass gumboot celebrating Tully as one of Australia's wettest towns.
Big Mango
A 10-meter tall, 7-tonne fibreglass tribute to Bowen's mango industry, famously 'stolen' by Nando's in 2014 for a viral marketing campaign.