The Big Stubby
Height
5 metres
Year Built
2008
Address
Kiewa Valley Highway, Tawonga, VIC 3697
The Lowdown
The Big Stubby is a towering tribute to one of Australia's most beloved beverages - beer served in the iconic stubby bottle format. Standing tall and proud, this oversized beer bottle represents the quintessential Australian experience of enjoying a cold one after a hard day's work. The stubby, a short, squat beer bottle typically holding 375ml, became an Australian icon from the 1960s onward and remains synonymous with Australian pub culture and backyard barbecues. This Big Thing captures the distinctive shape of a VB (Victoria Bitter) stubby, complete with the characteristic green glass and label details. The Big Stubby serves as both a roadside attraction and a celebration of Australian drinking culture, where 'cracking a cold one with the boys' is as much a social institution as a refreshment. It's a must-see for beer enthusiasts and anyone interested in Australian cultural icons.
Did you know?
"The sculpture stands 5 metres tall - about 13 regular stubbies stacked!"
History
The stubby beer bottle became an Australian icon in the 1960s when it was introduced as an alternative to the larger 'longneck' bottles. Its compact, robust design made it perfect for Australian conditions - easy to grip, less likely to break, and quick to chill. Victoria Bitter (VB) became one of Australia's most popular beers, and its distinctive green stubby bottle is recognized nationwide. The Big Stubby was erected to celebrate this cultural icon and to attract passing motorists on the Kiewa Valley Highway. It quickly became a popular photo stop for tourists heading to the nearby ski resorts or exploring the High Country region.
More Fun Facts
- •The stubby typically holds 375ml of beer
- •Victoria Bitter (VB) is one of Australia's best-selling beers
- •The stubby's squat design makes it less likely to tip over
- •Beer bottles were nicknamed 'stubbies' due to their short, stubby shape
- •Perfect photo stop on the way to Mount Hotham or Falls Creek ski resorts
- •The sculpture stands 5 metres tall - about 13 regular stubbies stacked!
Visiting Tips
- 💡Stop for a photo on your way to the snow in winter
- 💡Great roadside attraction on the Kiewa Valley Highway
- 💡Nearby pub often serves cold stubbies to thirsty travelers
- 💡Perfect backdrop for social media photos
- 💡Combine with visits to nearby wineries and breweries in the region
Opening Hours
Outdoor installation visible at all times. Nearby pub has regular trading hours.
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