
Big Cows
Height
Life-size to slightly oversized
Year Built
Address
Newhaven, Phillip Island, VIC 3925
The Lowdown
The Big Cows of Newhaven stand at the gateway to Phillip Island, one of Victoria's most popular tourist destinations. This collection of oversized dairy cattle sculptures welcomes visitors as they cross onto the island, celebrating the area's historical connection to farming and dairy production. While Phillip Island is now famous for its penguin parade, wildlife, and motorsport circuit, agriculture - particularly dairy farming - was once the economic backbone of the island community. The Big Cows serve as a reminder of this heritage while providing a popular photo opportunity for the millions of tourists who visit Phillip Island each year.
Did you know?
"Phillip Island is home to the famous Penguin Parade"
History
The Big Cows were installed at Newhaven to celebrate Phillip Island's agricultural past. Before tourism became the island's primary industry, dairy farming and agriculture were the mainstay of the local economy. Many island families made their living from the land, grazing cattle and producing dairy products. As Phillip Island transformed into a major tourist destination - particularly after the establishment of the Penguin Parade - the Big Cows were created to acknowledge this earlier era and provide a welcoming landmark for visitors crossing the bridge onto the island.
More Fun Facts
- •Located at the gateway to Phillip Island, welcoming millions of annual visitors
- •Phillip Island is home to the famous Penguin Parade
- •The island also hosts the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix
- •Agriculture was once Phillip Island's primary industry
- •The sculptures are one of the first things tourists see when arriving on the island
- •Perfect photo opportunity before heading to the penguins
Visiting Tips
- 💡Stop for photos on your way to or from the Penguin Parade
- 💡The sculptures are visible from the road - easy access for quick photos
- 💡Combine with visits to Churchill Island, Koala Conservation Centre, and The Nobbies
- 💡Newhaven has shops and cafes for refreshments
- 💡The island can be windy - bring a jacket even in summer
- 💡Peak tourist times are sunset (for penguins) so plan accordingly
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculptures visible from the road at all times
More Big Things Nearby

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Big Cow
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Big Crocodile
Big Crocodile in Wyndham is a massive 20-metre long concrete saltwater crocodile sculpture serving as both tourist attraction and swimming safety reminder in Australia's far north.
