Height
3 meters
Year Built
2005
Address
Flinders Highway, Thomson, QLD 4871
The Lowdown
The Big Thong in Thomson celebrates the humble rubber thong (flip-flop to Americans) that has become Australia's unofficial national footwear. This oversized bright blue thong captures the simple design that has graced Australian feet from beaches to backyards, BBQs to quick trips to the shops. The thong represents the laid-back Australian lifestyle - a rejection of formality in favor of comfort and practicality. Made famous by generations of Australians who wear them everywhere (sometimes controversially, to weddings and fine restaurants), the thong has become as Australian as the beach, the sun, and saying 'g'day'. The Big Thong invites visitors to celebrate this unique piece of Australian culture.
Did you know?
"Australians call flip-flops 'thongs' - no giggling, please"
History
The Big Thong was erected in 2005 as part of Thomson's quirky roadside attraction collection. The rubber thong became popular in Australia after World War II, when soldiers returning from Southeast Asia brought back the practical footwear. Australian company Dunlop began manufacturing them in 1959, and they quickly became a beach and backyard staple. Today, thongs are sold by the millions annually in Australia.
More Fun Facts
- •Australians call flip-flops 'thongs' - no giggling, please
- •Havaianas alone sells over 6 million pairs in Australia annually
- •The thong was introduced to Australia after WWII by returning soldiers
- •Some pubs and clubs still have 'no thongs' dress codes
- •There's an annual 'Thong World Championships' at various Australian events
Visiting Tips
- 💡Thomson has several quirky Big Things - make a collection
- 💡Perfect photo opportunity for showing Australian humor
- 💡Wear your own thongs for an authentic photo
- 💡The outback road trip from Cairns to the Gulf passes through here
- 💡Stock up on water and fuel - this is remote country
Opening Hours
The Big Thong can be viewed at any time.
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 Lizzie
Australia's largest traction engine at Red Cliffs, VIC, a working piece of pioneering history.