The Big Fish near Millaa Millaa is a historical big thing structure for a business that has changed from fish to platypus.
Originally a fish farm, the Tarzali Lakes Aquaculture Centre became a haven and tourist attraction with one of Australia’s most elusive native animals, The Australian Platypus Park.
The campaign to convert the fish farm into a conservation park began after an increase in the platypus population at the lakes.
We were lucky to spot a platypus close by at the Platypus Picnic Area in Yungaburra, twice on the same morning. For many, this is a rare experience.
Outside of a zoo, it is estimated only 10% of Australians will see a wild platypus in their lifetime. For foreign visitors, it is even less.
Around 98% of visitors to the park, spot a platypus in their natural habitat. When we spoke to various locals on the Atherton Tablelands, many mentioned the best place to spot a platypus is at The Australian Platypus Park near Millaa Millaa.
The big fish still stands outside the entrance catching your attention from the roadside. Perhaps there should be a new big thing, the big platypus, to better represent the change.