Height
3 meters
Year Built
2005
Address
Tropical North Queensland
The Lowdown
The Big Paw Paw celebrates North Queensland's thriving tropical fruit industry. This oversized papaya, rendered in vibrant orange and green, represents the sweet, juicy fruit that thrives in the region's tropical climate. Paw paw (as papayas are called in Australia) has become a breakfast staple across the nation, with most of Australia's supply grown in Far North Queensland. The fruit's bright colors and refreshing taste embody the tropical lifestyle of the region. The Big Paw Paw honors the farmers who cultivate this delicious fruit under Queensland's warm skies.
Did you know?
"Green paw paw is used in Asian salads"
History
Queensland's tropical fruit industry has grown dramatically since the mid-20th century. Paw paw became a popular breakfast fruit, and the Big Paw Paw celebrates this tropical success story.
More Fun Facts
- •Australians call papayas 'paw paw'
- •North Queensland produces most of Australia's paw paw
- •The fruit is rich in vitamins A and C
- •Paw paw trees can produce fruit within a year of planting
- •Green paw paw is used in Asian salads
Visiting Tips
- 💡Try fresh paw paw at local markets
- 💡Add lime juice for the classic Australian breakfast treat
- 💡Visit tropical fruit farms for tours and tastings
- 💡North Queensland grows many tropical fruits
- 💡The Atherton Tablelands is a major growing region
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
More Big Things Nearby
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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.