The Big Beer Can
Height
Unknown
Year Built
Address
Stuart Highway, near Ghan, NT
The Lowdown
The Big Beer Can near Ghan in the Northern Territory is a quintessentially Australian roadside attraction - an oversized XXXX beer can standing in the middle of the outback. XXXX (pronounced 'four-ex') is one of Australia's most iconic beer brands, brewed in Queensland since 1878 and beloved across the country's northern regions. This Big Thing celebrates the outback tradition of a cold beer after a hard day's work, a ritual that has defined Australian bush culture for generations. Standing along the Stuart Highway, the Big Beer Can greets travellers making the epic journey between Darwin and Adelaide.
Did you know?
"Queenslanders drink more beer per capita than any other Australian state"
History
The Big Beer Can celebrates XXXX, one of Australia's most iconic beer brands. XXXX has been brewed in Brisbane since 1878 and became the dominant beer in Queensland and the Top End. The name comes from an old naming convention where X marks indicated the quality or strength of beer - four Xs meant premium quality. In the outback, where temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, a cold beer isn't just refreshing - it's a survival strategy and a social ritual that brings communities together.
More Fun Facts
- •XXXX has been brewed in Brisbane since 1878
- •The name comes from an old quality rating system
- •Queenslanders drink more beer per capita than any other Australian state
- •The Stuart Highway runs 2,834 km from Darwin to Port Augusta
- •Beer has been brewed in Australia since convict times
Visiting Tips
- 💡Never drink and drive - enjoy responsibly
- 💡The Stuart Highway has limited services - plan fuel stops
- 💡Kakadu National Park is nearby for incredible wildlife
- 💡The Top End is crocodile country - never swim in rivers or billabongs
Opening Hours
Roadside sculpture accessible at all times.
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