Swinburne University tourism expert Dr Ryan Jopp says the project could boost the region's identity and tourism appeal.
“Given more than 95 per cent of Australia's pears are grown here in the Goulburn Valley, this provides an opportunity to further build a sense of identity for the region as the food bowl of Victoria,” he says.
The Big Pear would join the ranks of other famous Australian landmarks like the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour and the Big Pineapple in Woombye, Queensland.
Dr Jopp suggests the structure could benefit local businesses by increasing visitor numbers to Shepparton and surrounding areas.
“Although its unlikely many visitors will come to just see the Big Pear, it will add to the overall destination appeal and certainly has the potential to attract the attention of those passing through the town,'” Dr Jopp explains.
The tourism expert also highlights the social media potential of such attractions. 'The novelty of "big things" makes them highly shareable on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, enabling a form of free advertising for the region through the sharing of user-generated content such as photos and videos.'
The project is being driven by a steering group led by former orchardist, Rocky Varapodio.
The group is planning on seeking priviate and public funding for the idea, which could incorporate an interpretive centre explaining the growth of the horticultural industry in the Goulburn Valley.
Consultants Urban Enterprise have drawn up a report on the project.
