A giant tractor statue in Carnamah, Western Australia, has significantly boosted local tourism since its unveiling a year ago. The statue, which is the largest of its kind in the world, has attracted thousands of visitors to the small town, located 300 kilometers north of Perth.

Brendon Haeusler, chair of the Big Tractor Committee, reported that the statue has increased visitor numbers throughout the year, not just during the busy wildflower season. "Wildflower [season] is always fairly busy around here, but it’s also increased [tourism] in the off seasons as well," he said. This influx of tourists has helped to smooth out the peaks and valleys of local tourism.

The town, which has a population of about 400, has seen a financial boost as well. Haeusler noted that merchandise sales, including embroidered shirts and hats, generate approximately $750 weekly, along with around $300 in donations. These funds have been used to build a new shed that will house an original Chamberlain 40K tractor, the first locally manufactured tractor in WA, providing a size comparison to the giant statue.

Visitors are not just stopping by; many are extending their stays. Haeusler mentioned that tourists often book additional nights at the local caravan park. "They usually book another night or two in the caravan park," he said. "So instead of just passing through, they’re stopping, spending money in town, getting to know a bit about the town and the history."

The local cafe has also felt the impact of increased tourism. Chef Cassie Killick, who has worked at the cafe for three years, said customer numbers have nearly tripled since the statue's opening. "The last couple of months have been absolutely hectic," she said. On busy days, the cafe can serve over 100 customers.

Killick noted that the tractor has become a part of the cafe's identity, even inspiring themed baked goods. She started making tiny tractor cookies to celebrate the statue's grand opening, and now produces nearly 300 cookies each week.

Sue Sivyer, president of the local tourism society and a resident for 40 years, stated that the number of visitors to Carnamah has doubled. "It's just gone bonkers," she said. She acknowledged the challenges of a declining and aging population in the area but emphasized that attractions like the tractor help draw people in.

"I think it's important because they need to see how the small towns are actually coping with the reduction of numbers," Sivyer added.

Stuart Taylor, the chief executive of Carnamah, believes that creating large attractions can benefit other regional towns as well. "Honestly I've been amazed by the amount of people that stop and the traffic down the main street," he said, noting that it is common to see 20 to 30 caravans lined up to visit the statue.

The giant tractor has not only become a tourist attraction but also a symbol of community resilience and local charm in Carnamah.