Spicy Take Alert: Bowen’s Big Mango is the most underrated big thing in Australia. It’s more classy than the Big Prawn. It’s more handsome than the Big Merino. And unlike the Big Potato, it’s not a dreadfully painted boulder.
What’s more, the Big Mango has gone a tad viral today. This is because the Big Mango is having its 21st birthday and being featured on Google’s homepage. Like many icon’s before this enby, the Big Mango is being “Doodled” into Google’s icon seminal logo.
“Australia’s love for mangoes is pulpable, so we are delighted to celebrate the Big Mango in today’s Google Doodle,” said Google’s Search Communications Manager, Camilla Ibrahim.
“As Aussies see this artwork on Search today, we hope it’s a reminder not just that Bowen’s Big Mango itself is ripe for a visit but of Australia’s wonderful local produce.”
Now, while this is all hype, we can’t let Google have all the fun. I too want to commemorate this chungus mango. So here are a whack of Big Mango deets you should know.
The History of the Big Mango
On May 25 of 2002, the Big Mango made its debut. This Queensland structure is ten metres tall, made from five tonnes of fibreglass, and sits next to Bowen’s Tourist Info Centre.
But why was the Big Mango made in the first place? Well, it’s an ode to the Kensington Pride, a type of mango. This variety is a staple of the Bowen region.
However, the history of the Big Mango hasn’t always been a chill vibe. In 2014, it was temporarily ‘stolen’ by Nando’s as a part of a publicity stunt.
Since being returned, the Big Mango has been estimated to attract around 80,000 people a year. Additionally, over the course of its life, an estimated 1.5 million people have had their photo taken in front of it.
So, do yourself a favour and go to Google’s Big Mango homepage. Or, better yet, go past this beast on a road trip. After all, it’s the most underrated big thing in Aus.
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