Cyclone Alfred thought it would try and peel our Big Prawn, but only after removing a feeler from our leading tourism icon, did the tropical tempest relinquish its grip and move on up north.

The feeler has been in safe keeping at Bunnings and Ballina News Daily approached the hardware chain last week to ask what was planned for the reattachment. 

Bunnings Director of Property and Store Development, Garry James replied that repairs were due to be completed in the coming weeks depending on the weather.

“We know the Big Prawn in front of our Ballina store is loved by locals and tourists alike,” Mr James said.

“Following some minor damage during recent weather events, we are conducting repairs on the Prawn and look forward to having it restored.”

Well, there was no wait – they got right onto working and now the Big Prawn is intact once more.

According to Bunnings, the internal structure of the tentacle is reinforced steel which had to be repaired and reinstated at great height.  Nine metres up, to be precise. 

The end pieces of the feeler had collapsed in the cyclonic winds.  These were cut and new sections of steel added.  The renovated feeler was then welded back on to the prawn in its proper location.

The Big Prawn is resting and recovering from the operation, but as always, is happy to welcome and receive visitors.