Here are last week’s results. A family member advised against letting a public vote determine my journey, concerned about unpredictability. Personally I like the added mystery and excitement. Cycling Australia is going to be easy in my opinion, compared to Africa. Adding elements of chance, surprise, uncertainty — will keep things interesting for everybody.
In any case it is only an experiment. Random users online would likely put me in the middle of the Great Victoria desert given the opportunity. We will abandon the idea if it isn’t working.
From last week's vote, the decision was to head south from Perth (choice 4). Using ChatGPT, I gathered points of interest in the southern third of Australia and plotted them on a map. You can access the same map via the live link at the top of this web page in the navigation bar.
Scraping with ChatGPT I learned that Australia is known for its “big things” - there are over 150 of them scattered across the country. Here are (9) in the southern third of the country that I could potentially hit. Each one promising to offer a delightful break from the saddle.
1) The Big Potato
Nestled in the town of Robertson, NSW, the Big Potato exemplifies Australia's love for quirky landmarks. This big spud raises eyebrows, often compared more to a lump than the tubers you find in the grocery store. Nonetheless she pays respect to the history of farming in Robertson.
2) The Big Guitar
Located in Tamworth, NSW, known as the "Country Music Capital of Australia," the Big Guitar celebrates this musical heritage. The monument is a precise replica of the famous Golden Guitar Trophy awarded at the annual country music festival in Tamworth.
3) Various Grain Silo Murals
Scattered across Australia, these murals painted on towering grain silos bring art to the rural landscapes. Each mural tells a unique story, reflecting the history, people, and wildlife of the surrounding area. From what I can tell there are dozens if not hundreds of them.
4) The Big Bogan
In the small town of Nyngan, NSW, stands a tribute to Australian culture in the form of the Big Bogan. This sculpture features a typical "bogan" complete with a fishing rod, mullet, and a singlet.
5) The Big Winch
Overlooking the opal mining town of Coober Pedy, SA, the Big Winch is an iconic representation of the mining gear used in the local industry.
6) The Big Penguin
Situated in the coastal town of Penguin, Tasmania, the Big Penguin honors the town’s namesake. Erected in 1975 to commemorate the town’s 100 year anniversary, the penguin is a favorite among visitors at the shore of the Tasmanian strait.
7) The Giant Ram
Also known as "Rambo," the Giant Ram located in Wagin, Western Australia, celebrates the region’s strong history of wool production.
8) The Big Galah
Precisely halfway across Australia in Kimba, SA, the Big Galah stands tall by the Eyre Highway, marking the midpoint between the east and west coasts of the country. This huge bird sculpture, representing one of Australia's most iconic parrots, is a bright beacon for photos.
9) The Big Banana
Found on the cliffs of Coffs Harbour in New South Wales, the Big Banana stands as a tribute to the region's banana farming heritage. Promises to “peel back” layers of entertainment and lore. My personal favorite “big thing.”
And since you made it to the end here is a bonus video - featuring a completely useless product that you didn’t even know existed.
Have a great week,
Ian
Cool bananas!