Height
3 meters
Year Built
2005
Address
Station Street, Koo Wee Rup, VIC 3981
The Lowdown
The Big Garlic at Koo Wee Rup celebrates the pungent bulb that flavors cuisines worldwide. This oversized garlic sculpture honors the region's market garden heritage and the farmers who supply Melbourne with fresh produce. While Australia imports most of its garlic, local growers produce premium varieties prized by chefs and home cooks alike. The Big Garlic reminds visitors of the simple ingredients that transform cooking, and the importance of supporting local food production. It's a tribute to the unsung hero of the kitchen that makes everything taste better.
Did you know?
"Garlic festivals are held in growing regions"
History
Koo Wee Rup has a long market gardening history, with the rich peat soils of the Koo Wee Rup Swamp ideal for growing vegetables. The Big Garlic celebrates this agricultural heritage.
More Fun Facts
- •Australia grows premium garlic but imports most consumption
- •Garlic has been used medicinally for thousands of years
- •Koo Wee Rup means 'blackfish swimming' in local Aboriginal language
- •The region's peat soils are excellent for vegetables
- •Garlic festivals are held in growing regions
Visiting Tips
- 💡Buy fresh Australian garlic at farmers markets
- 💡Koo Wee Rup is a gateway to South Gippsland
- 💡The region has excellent produce and wineries
- 💡Phillip Island is a short drive away
- 💡Try smoked or black garlic for something different
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
More Big Things Nearby

Big Lizzie
Australia's largest traction engine at Red Cliffs, VIC, a working piece of pioneering history.

Big Mango
A 10-meter tall, 7-tonne fibreglass tribute to Bowen's mango industry, famously 'stolen' by Nando's in 2014 for a viral marketing campaign.

Big Ned Kelly
A 6-meter tall fibreglass statue of Australia's most famous bushranger, standing guard over the historic township where Ned Kelly made his last stand.

