Penguin, Tasmania has long worn its name with pride, but now its most iconic resident – the Big Penguin – has officially earned a place in the history books. On 16 April 2025, the Tasmanian Heritage Council announced that the beloved statue had been permanently placed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register (see Tasmanian Heritage Register Datasheet), becoming only the second of Australia’s 150 ‘big things’ to be so honoured, after Queensland’s famous Big Pineapple.

Standing on the foreshore at Penguin Beach since 1975, the Big Penguin was originally built to celebrate the centenary of the township’s proclamation. Over time it has become much more than a roadside curiosity. With its handmade holiday costumes, nearby penguin-themed bollards, litter bins and plaques, the statue is the feathered heart of a community that embraces its identity with warmth and whimsy.

A Symbol Forged by Community

The story of the Big Penguin is one of grassroots creativity and determination. Conceived by local grocer George Daniels and backed by the Penguin Community Council, the project gained momentum just weeks before the town’s 100th birthday. When an original construction partner withdrew, the call went out to Goliath Cement, a local company that stepped in to build the statue in record time – just one week. Goliath employee Andrew Bennie designed and completed the statue using the company’s resources, turning sketches and plaster into what would become a regional icon.

The Big Penguin’s construction – improvised from wire, hessian and moulded cement over a steel frame – speaks to both the technical ingenuity and the spirited urgency behind the city’s centenary celebrations. Later reinforced with fibreglass and painted in its signature black and white, the statue has stood the test of time and Tasmanian weather as a symbol of resilience and community pride.

Why Heritage Listing Matters

Inclusion on the Tasmanian Heritage Register is more than just prestige. It protects the Big Penguin under strict conservation laws, ensuring its design, materials and significance are preserved for future generations. No inappropriate alterations can be made and any updates must be in keeping with the statue’s cultural and historic value.

But the Big Penguin is more than a monument – it is a symbol of Penguin identity, closely linked to the Little Penguins that nest nearby. It attracts visitors from around the country and beyond, becoming a must-see for fans of Australia’s ‘big things’ and lovers of local charm.

A Cultural Landmark

What makes the Big Penguin so special is that it wasn’t built as a commercial gimmick – it was born out of community passion. Locals continue to dress it up for everything from ANZAC Day to NAIDOC Week to Christmas, making it a vibrant part of the town’s celebrations.

The official heritage listing also recognises the statue’s role in the broader story of 20th century roadside attractions, the importance of Goliath Cement and the innovative ways small towns like Penguin attract visitors and express their identity.

Plan Your Penguin Pilgrimage

If you haven’t yet visited this beautiful corner of Tasmania’s north-west coast, now’s the time. Explore the free self-guided audio tour, discover the stories behind the town’s landmarks and meet the Big Penguin face to face. Stay a while to enjoy local cafes, craft shops and the scenic beauty that surrounds this friendly, walkable town.

Whether you’re a heritage buff, a ‘Big Thing’ enthusiast or just looking for a unique getaway, Penguin promises charm, history and a warm welcome.