Fifty years ago, on a rainy October afternoon in 1975, crowds gathered on the Penguin foreshore to see the unveiling of a three-metre-tall cement penguin. Built to mark 100 years since the town’s proclamation, what began as a centenary monument soon became one of Tasmania’s most celebrated icons.
The Big Penguin was the brainchild of local grocer George Daniels, who proposed the idea as part of the town’s centenary celebrations. Designed by R.M. Foster and Associates and built by the Goliath Cement Company of Railton, the statue was completed in just over a week thanks to the skill of craftsman Andrew Bennie and his team. The company donated all time and materials as a gesture of goodwill – a true example of Tasmanian community spirit.
When the Big Penguin was unveiled on 25 October 1975 by Qantas executive and former local John Rowe, it instantly became “the pride of the town.” Painted in classic black and white, it drew the attention of thousands who couldn’t resist stopping for a photo with Penguin’s newest resident – a tradition that continues today. Over the decades, it’s estimated that hundreds of thousands of visitors have taken their photo with the Big Penguin, making it one of Tasmania’s most photographed landmarks.
In the years since, the statue has become part of everyday life in Penguin. It’s worn Santa suits and other costumes for community celebrations, and even survived a national media scare in 2008 when asbestos was detected in its original materials — later confirmed to be perfectly safe. Through it all, the Big Penguin has stood tall, weathering sea winds and selfies alike as a much-loved local icon.
Now, as it turns 50, the Big Penguin has been recognised on a national stage – featured by Australia Post and the Royal Australian Mint in their Big Things campaign, celebrating Australia’s most iconic roadside attractions. Visitors can view the limited-edition coins and stamps on display at the Penguin Visitor Information Centre and Hive in Ulverstone.
So next time you’re driving the coast, stop for a photo, say hello, and wish our famous friend a happy birthday. After all – it’s not every day you turn fifty!
Acknowledgement:
With thanks to the Penguin History Group, Hive volunteers and Elizabeth Nickols, author of The Story of the Big Penguin (2013).
