What Is The Big Thing In Cairns?
Australia is full of exceptional landmarks and natural world wonders - many of which reside in Cairns, from Daintree Rainforest to the Great Barrier Reef. But one of the most beloved attractions that can be found across Australia is its collection of iconic ‘Big Things’.
Whether it's a 'Big Mango' in Bowen or a 'Big Golden Guitar' in Tamworth, Australia is covered top to tail in ‘big things’ that make for excellent stops on any road trip. Today, there are at least 200 ‘big things’ dotted around Australia. In Cairns alone, you can find a few. But what do they mean? Where can you find them and why are they there? We’re here with all the answers!
The Big Marlin, Cairns
The Big Marlin can be found standing proudly outside of Stockland Shopping Centre in Earlville, Cairns. Like many of the other ‘Big Things’ around Australia, the Big Marlin statue represents the produce that comes from the area. Cairns is a major fishing destination, with tropical marine life thriving right off the coast. Among the throngs of exciting and diverse fish living in Cairns waters is the majestic black marlin. Fishermen come to Cairns from all over during the marlin season, which runs from September to December, to try and catch one of these enormous creatures, which can weigh up to 700kg.
The Big Scout Hat, Cairns
The Marlin isn’t the only ‘Big Thing’ you can find in Cairns! If you happen to be heading down Grafton Street in Cairns City, you might spot an exceptionally large scout hat sitting on top of an old military building. The ‘Big Scout Hat’, made entirely of fibreglass, has been a Cairns landmark since 1982.
The building that holds the giant hat was once a World War II control room used to defend against air raids by the Japanese. Today, though, it’s better known as the Cairns Scout Hut and serves as a local headquarters for the Scouting Organisation of Queensland.
The Big Captain Cook, Cairns
Not that long ago, Cairns was also home to the ‘Big Captain Cook’ - an eight-metre-tall structure designed to resemble the British explorer who charted the Australian east coast. The ‘Big Captain Cook’ was erected in 1972 and could be found on Sheridan Street in Cairns up until 2022, when it was removed after being the subject of some controversy. Over the years, the statue had sparked a number of political protests due to Captain Cook’s association with colonialism and genocide among other things. Although the ‘Big Captain Cook’ has been removed from where it once stood, it has been preserved and could likely return to Australian streets again one day.
Things to see in Cairns
Of course, these ‘Big Things’ barely scratch the surface on the list of things to see in Cairns. For one thing, Cairns is the most popular gateway to the one and only Great Barrier Reef. There are countless day and overnight tours leaving from the Queensland city that can take you out to see the natural wonder in all its glory. Snorkel, scuba dive, or take a scenic flight and get a closer look at the magnificent Reef.
Prefer to stay on land? No problem! Cairns is also home to Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world and a personal favourite destination of the one and only David Attenborough. Visit some of the most stunning waterfalls and natural swimming spots in Australia from Barron Falls to Babinda Boulders. Or, take the Scenic Railway or Skyrail up to the stunning rainforest village of Kuranda.
