The Big Melon
Height
4 meters
Year Built
1994
Address
Warrego Highway, Chinchilla, QLD 4413
The Lowdown
The Big Melon at Chinchilla celebrates this Western Downs town's status as the Melon Capital of Australia. This massive watermelon slice sculpture - complete with juicy red flesh, white rind, and black seeds - represents the fruit that has made Chinchilla famous, with the region producing around 25% of Australia's watermelons. Every two years, Chinchilla hosts the legendary Melon Festival - a celebration of all things melon featuring melon skiing, melon bungee, melon pip spitting, and the crowning event: melon chariot races. The Big Melon stands as a year-round reminder of the town's quirky obsession with this refreshing fruit.
Did you know?
"The festival includes melon chariot races"
History
Chinchilla's melon industry began in the 1940s, and the town now produces a quarter of Australia's watermelons. The Melon Festival started in 1994, coinciding with the Big Melon's creation.
More Fun Facts
- •Chinchilla produces 25% of Australia's watermelons
- •The Melon Festival features melon skiing and bungee
- •Melon pip spitting is a competitive sport here
- •The festival includes melon chariot races
- •Over 20,000 people attend the biennial Melon Festival
Visiting Tips
- 💡Check festival dates - it's held every two years
- 💡The festival is usually in February
- 💡Try melon-themed activities at the festival
- 💡Farm gate sales offer fresh melons in summer
- 💡Miles Historical Village is nearby
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
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