The Big Bulls
Height
Life-sized
Year Built
1978
Address
Various locations throughout Rockhampton, QLD 4700
The Lowdown
Rockhampton proudly proclaims itself the Beef Capital of Australia, and the Big Bulls are its most visible tribute to this bovine heritage. Seven life-sized bull statues are positioned at key locations throughout the city, each representing different beef cattle breeds. Five of these impressive sculptures were created by renowned sculptor Hugh Anderson starting in 1978, while two additional bulls have been added over time. The bulls can be found at locations including the entrance to the city from the south, the airport, and various central locations. Together, they form a unique self-guided tour for visitors, turning Rockhampton into an open-air gallery celebrating the cattle industry that has shaped the region since the 1850s.
Did you know?
"Each bull represents a different beef cattle breed"
History
The first Big Bulls were installed in 1978 as Rockhampton embraced its identity as Australia's Beef Capital. Sculptor Hugh Anderson was commissioned to create life-sized representations of various beef cattle breeds, eventually producing five of the seven bulls. The statues were strategically placed at city entrances, the airport, and prominent locations to reinforce Rockhampton's cattle heritage. The city's association with beef dates back to the 1850s when the region's open grasslands proved ideal for cattle grazing, and the industry continues to dominate the local economy today.
More Fun Facts
- •Seven bull statues are scattered across Rockhampton
- •Five of the seven were sculpted by Hugh Anderson
- •Each bull represents a different beef cattle breed
- •Rockhampton calls itself the Beef Capital of Australia
- •The region has been cattle country since the 1850s
- •You can do a self-guided tour to find all seven bulls
Visiting Tips
- 💡Pick up a Big Bulls trail map from the visitor information centre
- 💡The most accessible bull is at the southern entrance to the city
- 💡Rocky's Restaurant Row on Quay Street offers excellent steaks
- 💡Combine with a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village
Opening Hours
Outdoor public sculptures at various locations
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