Height
5 meters
Year Built
2002
Address
Docklands, Melbourne, VIC 3008
The Lowdown
The Big Sailor stands tall as a tribute to Australia's rich maritime heritage and the men and women who have served in the Royal Australian Navy. This impressive sculpture depicts a sailor in traditional naval dress, representing the thousands of Australians who have served at sea from the earliest colonial days to modern peacekeeping operations. Australia's island nation status means the navy has always been crucial to defense, trade, and maintaining connections with the rest of the world. The Big Sailor honors not just naval personnel but all those who have made their living from the sea - fishermen, merchants, and the pioneering sailors who first explored Australia's vast coastline.
Did you know?
"HMAS Australia was the first RAN ship to fire a shot in WWI"
History
The Big Sailor was installed in 2002 as part of Melbourne's Docklands development, transforming old industrial waterfront into a modern precinct. The sculpture honors the area's maritime history - for decades this was a working port where sailors, wharfies, and ships from around the world came and went. The statue also commemorates the Royal Australian Navy, which has protected Australia's waters since 1901.
More Fun Facts
- •The Royal Australian Navy was established in 1901 with Federation
- •Australia has 36,000km of coastline - one of the longest in the world
- •HMAS Australia was the first RAN ship to fire a shot in WWI
- •The RAN operates submarines, frigates, and amphibious assault ships
- •Melbourne's Docklands was Australia's busiest port for decades
Visiting Tips
- 💡Explore Melbourne's Docklands waterfront precinct
- 💡Visit the nearby Mission to Seafarers building
- 💡Marvel Lego exhibition and other attractions are nearby
- 💡The Melbourne Star observation wheel offers great views
- 💡Water taxis connect Docklands to other Melbourne waterfront areas
Opening Hours
The Big Sailor can be viewed at any time.
More Big Things Nearby
Big King Neptune
A giant King Neptune statue at Two Rocks, WA, originally from the defunct Atlantis Marine Park.
Big Lizzie
Australia's largest traction engine at Red Cliffs, VIC, a working piece of pioneering history.
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.