The Big Tap

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.

Big Thing in New South Wales

Big Thing Regional

Written by Jake Mitchell· Updated 10 May 2026

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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.

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.

Nearest airport

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

At a Glance

The Place

Significance: Regional

Plan Your Visit

Entry: Free
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.
Hours: Open 24 hours. Viewing anytime.