Find Nearby Accommodation
Hotels, apartments, hostels and luxury stays
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
About The Big Koala
14-metre koala sculpture at Dadswells Bridge on the Western Highway between Melbourne and the Grampians. Built in 1989, it stands next to a gift shop and wildlife display.
About
14-metre koala sculpture at Dadswells Bridge on the Western Highway between Melbourne and the Grampians. Built in 1989, it stands next to a gift shop and wildlife display.
History & Significance
Built in 1989, the Big Koala is a classic Australian roadside attraction designed to draw travellers on the Western Highway. It stands alongside a gift shop and wildlife display, combining tourist kitsch with local promotion.
Getting There
On the Western Highway at Dadswells Bridge between Melbourne and the Grampians. About 90 minutes west of Melbourne, roughly 30 minutes before Halls Gap.
Parking
Free parking available on-site. Wheelchair accessible. Capacity for standard vehicles; designed as a quick stop for highway travellers.
Visitor Tips
- •Stop on your drive between Melbourne and the Grampians — it's right on the Western Highway
- •Perfect for a quick photo stop and leg stretch
- •Bring a camera for the classic Big Thing photo
- •Gift shop has souvenirs if you want a memento
Find Nearby Accommodation
Hotels, apartments, hostels and luxury stays
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- Regional
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- 15 minutes
- Best Time
- Any time during daylight hours. Best for clear weather to avoid shadowy photos. Weekdays are quieter if you want to avoid other travellers.
- Hours
- Open 24 hours. Viewing anytime.
Location
- Area
- Koo Wee Rup
- Region
- Melbourne South East
- State
- Victoria
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- Yes
Food & Drink
No food services on-site. Bring snacks or eat in nearby towns.
Features
Facilities
Travellers also visited
Tap + to build a trip
Find Nearby Accommodation
Hotels, apartments, hostels and luxury stays
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Nearby
Campsites(5)
Trails(3)
Toilets(3)
Groceries(5)
Fuel(5)
Dump Points(3)
Pakenham Caravan Park
caravan-park · 15.7km
Showground
Free · 37.8km
Korumburra Showgrounds
Free · 37.9km
Pubs(5)
Fast Food(5)
Golf Courses(5)
Wineries(5)
Weigh Stations(5)
State Forests(1)
National Parks(5)
Woodlot Lane Nature Reserve
Nature Reserve · 6.5km
North Western Port Nature Conservation Reserve
Conservation Park · 9.7km
Lang Lang Bushland Reserve
Nature Reserve · 11.1km
French Island Marine National Park
Nature Reserve · 12.3km
French Island (east) Reference Area
Nature Reserve · 13.7km