Big Rocking Horse

Gumeracha•SA

Height

18.3 meters (60 feet)

Year Built

1981

Address

Main Road, Gumeracha, SA 5233

Free Entry

The Lowdown

Standing proudly at 18.3 meters tall and weighing 25 tonnes, the Big Rocking Horse in Gumeracha is one of South Australia's most beloved roadside attractions. Originally conceived in 1973 by Wal Wilkinson for his wooden toy factory, this monumental structure was designed by David McIntosh and John Twopenny and opened in 1981 after eight months of construction. The rocking horse features three internal viewing platforms accessible via stairs, offering spectacular views of the Adelaide Hills from the head, saddle, and base levels. The complex includes a wooden toy factory, café, miniature golf course, and a 7-acre wildlife park featuring emus and kangaroos, making it a complete family destination.

Did you know?

"It cost $100,000 to build in 1981, which would be equivalent to several hundred thousand dollars today"

History

The Big Rocking Horse's story began in 1973 when Wal Wilkinson conceived the idea as a roadside attraction for his wooden toy factory. The site evolved from featuring a wooden giraffe to progressively larger rocking horses before the monumental 18.3-meter structure was finally realized. After eight months of construction and an investment of $100,000, the Big Rocking Horse opened in 1981. The attraction faced challenges over the years, including closure to public climbing from 2001 to 2004 due to liability concerns. In April 2004, Anthony Miller reopened it to the public, and subsequent owners have continued to enhance the complex. The current owner, Mell Penno (since 2023), has maintained the tradition of welcoming visitors. The site's popularity soared from 65,000 annual visitors in 2003 to 200,000 by 2006, cementing its status as a South Australian icon.

More Fun Facts

•The Big Rocking Horse weighs 25 tonnes and is 17 meters long, making it one of the largest rocking horses in the world
•It cost $100,000 to build in 1981, which would be equivalent to several hundred thousand dollars today
•The steel frame is set in 80 tonnes of concrete to ensure stability
•Visitor numbers increased from 65,000 to 200,000 annually after entry fees were removed in 2004
•The complex features a 7-acre wildlife park where you can meet emus and kangaroos up close
•There are three internal viewing platforms accessible via stairs, offering panoramic views of the Adelaide Hills
•The site has changed ownership several times since 1981, with each owner adding their own special touches
•The original concept started with a wooden giraffe before evolving into the massive rocking horse we see today

Visiting Tips

💡Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for climbing the internal stairs to the viewing platforms
💡Bring your camera - the views from the top platform are spectacular, especially on clear days
💡Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the rocking horse, wildlife park, and toy factory
💡Visit the wooden toy factory to see traditional Australian toys being made and pick up unique souvenirs
💡The wildlife park is great for kids - bring some coins for animal feed dispensers
💡Stop by the on-site café for refreshments and homemade treats
💡Combine your visit with a drive through the scenic Adelaide Hills wine region
💡Check the miniature golf course opening times if you want to play a round during your visit