NEW AUSSIE LANDMARK: giant Budgies for Whitsunday Coast

NEW AUSSIE LANDMARK: giant Budgies for Whitsunday Coast
By James Harrison


Australia’s fascination with giant icons is about to be further indulged with plans released today for the ‘Big Bonza Budgies’ in Airlie Beach.

The oversized take on iconic Aussie swimwear is born from excitement locally for the launch of Bonza, Australia’s only independent low-cost carrier, which announced a historic partnership with Whitsunday Coast Airport in February.

A mockup of the installation is being released today and the hope is it will become an attraction in its own right just as the Sunshine Coast has the Giant Pineapple, Newcastle has Giant Ugg Boots, The Big Bogan at Nyngan and Tamworth’s Big Golden Guitar. 

“Last month, we announced a game changing partnership with Bonza that will see seven new flights each week from the Whitsunday Coast to Sunshine Coast, Newcastle and Toowoomba Wellcamp,” said Whitsunday regional council mayor Andrew Willcox.

“Since then, the excitement amongst locals and the tourism industry has been so infectious we thought it would be fitting to mark the occasion with regional Australia’s next big thing.”

What started as a bit of a laugh has fast grown into a symbol of Bonza’s commitment to Allstralia, said Bonza CCO Carly Povey.

“When we launched our initial route map, instead of traditional ribbon and cake cuttings – we handed over Bonza Budgies and Cozzies to local Mayors and Airport CEOs,” Povey said.

“The swimwear has become the topic of so much conversation that we’re currently preparing enough stock for them to be sold onboard.”

The installation will take pride of place at Airlie Beach Lagoon and will provide additional shade for visitors who come to the region.

“Following our route announcement, I had the personal pleasure of visiting the Whitsunday Coast and meeting with over 150 industry members,” Povey added.

“The energy, excitement and passion for the Whitsunday Coast is so infectious and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see Australia’s next big thing as our very own Bonza Budgies. Kudos to Whitsunday Coast for a unique way to celebrate the partnership.”

Despite this being very exciting news, it should be noted that Bonza made this announcement on April fools day, bringing the accuracy of the report into question.

Bonza recently announced a massive recruitment drive to fill about 200 new pilot and cabin crew positions.

There has been more than 5,500 registrations of interest for roles since Bonza was announced in October 2021.

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