How old is the Big Banana?

Asked by: Rachele Berlingo

Built in 1964, this iconic yellow tourist magnet started the trend foroversized objects – giving way to big apples, avocados, rams, beer cans, guitars and much more. The genesis for the Big Banana came over 50 years ago when John Landi was looking for a means to stop passing traffic at his roadside banana stall.

What year was the Big Banana built?

1964

Builder Alan Harvey started the construction in September 1964 with the work to be completed before Christmas. The biggest banana in the world and Australia’s first “Big Thing” was officially opened on December 22 that year.

How long has the Big Banana been around for?

Built in 1964, it was one of Australia’s first Big Things. Other attractions include a downhill toboggan ride, ice skating rink, a water park and the World of Bananas educational experience.

Did the Big Banana get smaller?

Many people think the Big Banana has shrunk, secretly replaced by a smaller version a few years ago. “We did move the banana a few metres forward and a metre or so higher in 1995 to give it better visibility from the Pacific Highway, but it definitely hasn’t shrunk,” says Rubie (the previous owner).

What is the Big Banana made out of?

concrete

The Big Banana itself is made out of concrete. It was designed by engineer Alan Chapman and built by Alan Harvey, opening on 22 December 1964.

How old is the Big Banana Coffs Harbour?

Bananas have been grown in the Coffs Harbour region since the 1880s, but the industry peaked in 1960. Today, the town relies upon tourism as its main source of income. Thanks to the local oversized fruit, this hasn’t been a problem.

Is the Big Banana a statue?

The Big Banana – Coffs Harbour NSW
Standing 5m high by 11m long it would be hard to miss it! The Big Banana is suitably located out the front of a Gift Shop surrounded by a Banana Plantation. This 40+ year old sculpture was one of the very first of Australia’s “Big Things.”

How old are bananas?

Bananas are believed to have originated up to 10,000 years ago and some scientists believe they may have been the world’s first fruit. The first bananas are thought to have grown in the region that includes the Malaya Peninsula, Indonesia, the Philippines and New Guinea.

What was the original banana called?

Gros Michel (French pronunciation: ​[ɡʁo miʃɛl]), often translated and known as “Big Mike”, is an export cultivar of banana and was, until the 1950s, the main variety grown.
Gros Michel banana.

What is so special about the Big Banana?

With 10 fantastic attractions including a 6 lane Giant Slide known as “The Racer” which is the biggest slide of its kind in the country, a 600m Toboggan ride, a state-of-the-art Laser Tag arena, Water Park (Available Sept – Apr) including 4 heart stopping thrill slides and kids aqua play area, magnificently sculpted 36

Can you go inside Big Banana?

The Big banana Fun Park is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day. Many of our attractions are indoors. The only thing that may be affected by rain is the Toboggan.