Shepparton's Big Pear: A Community-Led Tribute to Our Horticultural Heritage
An artist's impression of the proposed giant pear. (Supplied: Bruce Mactier Building Designers )
Shepparton, renowned as Australia's "Fruit Capital," is poised to embrace a new emblem of its rich agricultural legacy—a towering Big Pear. This proposed three-storey structure aims to celebrate the region's pivotal role in Australia's pear industry, with the Goulburn Valley producing approximately 90% of the nation's pears .
A Vision Rooted in Community
The Big Pear initiative is the brainchild of the Shepparton Big Pear Steering Group, chaired by retired fruit grower Rocky Varapodio. The concept envisions an interactive center within the pear structure, narrating the stories of local horticulture and the migrant communities that have shaped the region's identity
"It's not just about pears," Varapodio explains. "We settled on the pear concept because our region is ideal for pear growing, and where 90% of Australia's pears come from."
Economic and Cultural Impact
An Urban Enterprise report commissioned by the steering group estimates that the Big Pear could attract over 63,000 visitors annually, injecting more than $1 million into the local economy . The proposed site at Emerald Bank, adjacent to the Museum of Vehicle Evolution, positions the Big Pear as a complementary addition to the region's tourism offerings
Destination Goulburn Valley Chair Eugenie Stragalinos supports the project, stating, "It's a new asset that not only grows our visitor economy but also pays tribute to the many growers in our region and the history of the Goulburn Valley."
Community and Stakeholder Support
The initiative has garnered backing from various community leaders and organisations. State Member for Shepparton Kim O'Keeffe describes the Big Pear as "a unique opportunity to showcase our region and to create something quite special and different." Fruit Growers Victoria also supports the project, recognising its potential to honour generations of growers.
While the project is currently a community-led endeavour, discussions with local council and potential stakeholders are ongoing to explore funding opportunities.
Celebrating Our Roots
The Big Pear stands as a symbol of Shepparton's resilience, diversity, and commitment to honoring its roots. As the proposal progresses, it embodies the community's collective effort to celebrate its heritage and invite others to experience the richness of the Goulburn Valley.
Sources:
"Proposal to build $1.3m giant pear in Shepparton to celebrate history," ABC News, June 24, 2025. archyde.com+3abc.net.au+3ground.news+3
"Plans for Shepparton to have a ‘big’ icon," Shepparton News, June 20, 2025. sheppnews.com.au
"How Shepparton could join 'Big Things' list," Herald Sun, June 24, 2025. heraldsun.com.au
"Support offered for Big Pear concept," Shepparton News, June 26, 2025. sheppnews.com.au+1countrynews.com.au+1
"Support offered for Big Pear concept," Country News, June 27, 2025. countrynews.com.au+1sheppnews.com.au+1
Note: This blog post is based on information available as of July 1, 2025. For the latest updates on the Big Pear project, please refer to recent articles in the Shepparton News and other local news outlets.