Written by Jake Mitchell· Updated Mar 2026Quick Actions
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About The Big Tap
Giant water tap sculpture in Broken Hill commemorating the Menindee Lakes pipeline, which brought reliable water to the outback mining city for the first time.
About
Giant water tap sculpture in Broken Hill commemorating the Menindee Lakes pipeline, which brought reliable water to the outback mining city for the first time.
History & Significance
The Big Tap commemorates the Menindee Lakes pipeline, a vital water infrastructure project that transformed Broken Hill's reliability as a mining city. Before the pipeline, water scarcity was a major constraint on the outback settlement. The sculpture celebrates this engineering achievement and the region's water security.
Sources & References
Getting There
Located in Broken Hill, NSW. On the Barrier Highway, about 1,200 km west of Sydney. Accessible by car; nearest major town is Broken Hill itself. Limited public transport to the region.
Parking
Free parking available on-site. Suitable for cars, caravans, and campervans. Wheelchair accessible. Limited formal spaces, but generally not crowded.
Visitor Tips
- •Stop early morning or late afternoon for best photography light
- •It's a quick 15-minute stop — combine with other Broken Hill attractions
- •Bring water and sunscreen; there's minimal shade in the outback
- •Wheelchair accessible, making it family-friendly for all mobility levels
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- Regional
Plan Your Visit
- Duration
- 15 minutes
- Best Time
- Early morning or late afternoon for photography. Avoid midday heat in summer (November–March). Any day of the week is fine for this quick roadside stop.
Location
- Region
- Broken Hill
- State
- New South Wales
Good to Know
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages
- Shade/Cover
- No shade
- Pram Friendly
- Yes
Food & Drink
No food facilities at the Big Tap itself. Grab supplies in Broken Hill before visiting.
Features
Facilities
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