Tumut aims to be Australia’s giant pumpkin capital

When Mark Peacock grew a massive 407-kilogram pumpkin that won at the Royal Easter Show in 2024, the people of Tumut in the NSW Snowy Mountains were inspired to step up their gardening game. They aim to make Tumut the giant pumpkin capital of Australia. The Tumut Show, which has been around for over a century, even created a new category in its produce section for these giant veg. Last year, 40 hopefuls planted seeds with dreams of growing gigantic pumpkins, despite less-than-ideal growing conditions. While many faced challenges due to a tough season with frost, heatwaves, winds, and little rain, the community remains enthusiastic about the quirky competition.

Chris Kobier, a horticultural scientist, even aims to grow a pumpkin large enough to paddle down the Tumut River, setting up a friendly rivalry with Mark Peacock. Despite setbacks in previous attempts, Kobier remains determined and is looking forward to this year’s competition with his 80kg gourd. He finds joy in the community spirit and fun that comes with growing these oversized veggies, even if he’s not a huge fan of eating pumpkin himself. The community has embraced this unique hobby, with Mayor Julia Ham hoping to cement Tumut as the giant pumpkin capital and even considering a giant fibreglass pumpkin as a town monument.

Despite the challenges faced in growing massive pumpkins, the Tumut community remains dedicated to this fun and unusual competition. While not everyone may be a fan of giant veggies, the community spirit and shared passion for growing pumpkins create a unique and engaging cultural phenomenon in Tumut.