Height
8 meters
Year Built
1985
Address
Lloyd Street, Moe, VIC 3825
The Lowdown
The Big Shovel at Moe is an impressive tribute to the Latrobe Valley's brown coal mining industry that powered Victoria for over a century. This massive mining equipment represents the scale of operations at nearby open-cut mines that supplied fuel for Victoria's power stations. The Latrobe Valley's abundant brown coal deposits drove the region's development and provided electricity to Melbourne and beyond. The Big Shovel stands as a monument to the workers who operated these enormous machines and the industry that shaped the region.
Did you know?
"Mining equipment in the valley is enormous scale"
History
The Latrobe Valley has been Victoria's energy heartland since the 1920s. Brown coal mining powered the state's growth, and the Big Shovel commemorates this industrial heritage.
More Fun Facts
- •The Latrobe Valley has vast brown coal deposits
- •Open-cut mines here are among the largest in the world
- •Brown coal powered Victoria for over 100 years
- •Mining equipment in the valley is enormous scale
- •The region is transitioning to new industries
Visiting Tips
- 💡Visit the Latrobe Valley coal mine viewpoints
- 💡Old Gippstown heritage park is nearby
- 💡The Big Worm at Bass is not far away
- 💡Walhalla historic town is worth a visit
- 💡West Gippsland has beautiful countryside
Opening Hours
Outdoor display 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 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.
Giant Koala
A 14-meter tall bronze and fibreglass koala weighing 12 tonnes, marking the gateway to the Grampians region on the Western Highway.