Height
6 meters
Year Built
1995
Address
Stuart Highway, Katherine, NT 0850
The Lowdown
The Big Stockwhip celebrates one of the most iconic tools of the Australian outback - the stockwhip used by drovers and stockmen to muster cattle across vast distances. These braided leather whips, when cracked by an expert, produce a sound that can be heard for kilometers, guiding cattle without needing to touch them. The Big Stockwhip honors the drovers who moved millions of cattle across the Australian outback, the skill required to handle these tools, and the unique culture of the Australian bush that developed around cattle stations and long-distance droving.
Did you know?
"Some droving trips lasted months"
History
Stockwhips have been essential tools on Australian cattle stations since the 1800s. Skilled stockmen can crack whips to guide cattle without touching them, a unique Australian bush skill.
More Fun Facts
- •A stockwhip crack breaks the sound barrier
- •Quality stockwhips are braided from kangaroo hide
- •The NT has vast cattle stations
- •Some droving trips lasted months
- •Whip cracking is now a competitive sport
Visiting Tips
- 💡Katherine Gorge is a must-see attraction
- 💡Take a gorge cruise at sunrise or sunset
- 💡The hot springs are wonderful to visit
- 💡Stock up on supplies here
- 💡The region has significant Indigenous culture
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture 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 Stubby
An oversized replica of the legendary NT Draught 2.27-litre stubby bottle, accompanied by a pink panther with its own beer.
The Anmatjere Man
A 17-meter tall Aboriginal stockman statue at Aileron, NT, one of Australia's most striking roadside sculptures.