Big Prawn
Nine metres high and weighing 35 tonnes, the Big Prawn is one of Australia’s most famous Big Things. It’s hard to miss as you drive east along River Street, the main road into Ballina. It’s also hard to imagine the town without it.
However, a prawnless Ballina was almost a reality. Twenty years after its birth in 1989, the giant crustacean was looking a bit long in the pincers, and locals debated fiercely over what should be done about it, there was even talk of demolition. Thankfully, hardware store (which lives next door) came to the rescue, and following a substantial makeover, the new-and-improved Big Prawn was unveiled in 2013. For the first time, it even had a tail.
Taking a picture with the prawn is a must-do if you’re in Ballina. And if the sight of all that seafood makes you peckish, fear not: there are some great places selling fresh catches on the other side of the road or discover the best seafood spots around Ballina.
Once you have seen the Big Prawn, spend some time exploring Ballina.
Looking for unique prawn merchandise? The Ballina Visitor Information Centre has a great variety of souvenirs featuring the loved prawn – from bucket hats, socks and custom plush toys to mugs, stubby coolers and tshirts!