Height
4 meters
Year Built
1990
Address
Various heritage locations
The Lowdown
The Big Slab Hut celebrates the humble dwellings that sheltered Australia's early pioneers. Slab huts were built from split timber slabs, bark roofs, and whatever materials settlers could find in the bush. These simple structures provided protection from the elements as colonists spread across the continent, clearing land and establishing farms. The Big Slab Hut honors the resourcefulness and hard work of early settlers who built lives in unfamiliar landscapes. Many original slab huts have been preserved as heritage buildings, offering glimpses into pioneer life.
Did you know?
"Some slab huts are over 150 years old"
History
Slab huts were the standard dwelling for early Australian settlers. Built from split timber slabs and bark, they were rough but effective shelters. Many original examples have been preserved.
More Fun Facts
- •Slab huts used split timber propped between posts
- •Bark roofs were common before iron became available
- •Some slab huts are over 150 years old
- •They were often a single room
- •Many pioneers eventually built more substantial homes
Visiting Tips
- 💡Visit heritage villages to see original slab huts
- 💡Old Dubbo Gaol has preserved slab buildings
- 💡Many regional museums have pioneer exhibits
- 💡The architecture shows incredible resourcefulness
- 💡Learn about early settler life through these buildings
Opening Hours
Outdoor structures accessible at all times.
More Big Things Nearby
Big Golden Guitar
A 12-meter tall fibreglass guitar monument celebrating Tamworth's status as Australia's Country Music Capital, opened by Slim Dusty in 1988.
Big Lizzie
Australia's largest traction engine at Red Cliffs, VIC, a working piece of pioneering history.
Big Potato
A 10-metre fibreglass potato built in 1977, modelled on a Sebago potato, sitting in a field in Robertson.