Height
6 meters
Year Built
1993
Address
Tasman Highway, Scottsdale, TAS 7260
The Lowdown
The Big Scotsman in Scottsdale stands as a magnificent tribute to the Scottish settlers who shaped this corner of Tasmania. This impressive sculpture depicts a Highland warrior in traditional Scottish dress, complete with kilt, sporran, and tartan, standing proudly at the entrance to the town. Scottsdale was established in 1855 and named after a prominent Scottish settler, James Scott, and the region attracted many Scottish immigrants who found the cool climate and green hills reminiscent of their homeland. The Big Scotsman welcomes visitors to explore Tasmania's beautiful northeast, from the lavender farms of Bridestowe to the stunning Bay of Fires coastline, while honoring the pioneers who built this agricultural community.
Did you know?
"Tasmania has a higher percentage of Scottish ancestry than any other Australian state"
History
The Big Scotsman was erected in 1993 to celebrate Scottsdale's Scottish heritage and boost tourism in the region. The town was surveyed in 1855 and named after prominent settler James Scott, who was instrumental in developing the agricultural potential of the northeast. Scottish immigrants flocked to the area throughout the late 1800s, drawn by land grants and the familiar climate. The Big Scotsman commemorates these pioneers and has become an important landmark marking the gateway to Tasmania's spectacular northeast region.
More Fun Facts
- •Scottsdale was named after settler James Scott, who arrived in Tasmania in 1849
- •The northeast Tasmania region has a climate similar to the Scottish Highlands
- •Scottsdale is the gateway to Bridestowe Lavender Estate, one of the largest lavender farms in the world
- •The Big Scotsman wears a generic tartan rather than a specific clan pattern
- •Tasmania has a higher percentage of Scottish ancestry than any other Australian state
Visiting Tips
- 💡Combine your visit with a trip to Bridestowe Lavender Estate (45 minutes away)
- 💡The drive from Scottsdale to Bay of Fires is one of Tasmania's most scenic
- 💡Try local produce at the Scottsdale Farmer's Market (Saturday mornings)
- 💡Visit the Forest EcoCentre to learn about sustainable forestry in the region
- 💡The nearby Legerwood carved memorial trees are worth a detour
Opening Hours
The Big Scotsman is located in a public area and 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 Penguin
An iconic 3-metre tall ferro-cement penguin statue that has welcomed visitors to Penguin, Tasmania since 1975.
The Anmatjere Man
A 17-meter tall Aboriginal stockman statue at Aileron, NT, one of Australia's most striking roadside sculptures.