Burnie's Giant Freshwater Lobster Sculpture
If you’re passing through, don’t miss Burnie's own "Big Thing", the Giant Freshwater Lobster sculpture in Burnie Park, it’s big, bold, and uniquely Tasmanian. Created by local artist Tony Woodward in 2002, this colourful mosaic-covered sculpture is a playful tribute to one of Tasmania’s most remarkable (and little-known) creatures. At about four metres long and weighing eight tonnes, it’s hard to miss and kids love climbing on it!
The sculpture celebrates the Astacopsis gouldi, Tasmania’s giant freshwater crayfish, also known locally as the giant freshwater lobster. This amazing animal is the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world and can live for up to 60 years. You’ll only find it in northern Tasmanian rivers, and it's now a protected species due to habitat loss and past overfishing. Conservation projects are working hard to restore their habitat and help populations recover.
Tony Woodward’s work brings this shy river-dweller into full view: bright, fun, and larger than life. It’s not just a sculpture; it’s part of Burnie’s charm and a great spot for photos. So if you’re in the area, bring the family, have a picnic in the park, and meet Burnie’s biggest (and most colourful) crayfish!
About the Artist: