Height
4 meters
Year Built
1995
Address
Swan River, Perth, WA 6000
The Lowdown
The Big Swan celebrates Western Australia's distinctive emblem - the black swan. When European explorers first saw black swans in Australia, they couldn't believe their eyes, as only white swans were known in Europe. The phrase 'black swan' had meant something impossible until Australia proved otherwise. The black swan became Western Australia's state emblem, appearing on the flag and in the name of the Swan River that flows through Perth. This elegant sculpture honors these graceful birds that glide across WA's waterways, a living symbol of Australia's ability to defy expectations.
Did you know?
"Black swans can fly at over 50km per hour"
History
Black swans amazed European explorers who had only known white swans. The bird became WA's state emblem and features on the flag. The Big Swan celebrates this unique Australian species.
More Fun Facts
- •Black swans only exist naturally in Australia
- •The Swan River is named after these birds
- •Black swan events describe rare, unpredicted occurrences
- •They mate for life and both parents raise cygnets
- •Black swans can fly at over 50km per hour
Visiting Tips
- 💡Watch real black swans on the Swan River
- 💡Kings Park offers great views over the river
- 💡The Swan River foreshore is great for walking
- 💡Perth Zoo has black swans
- 💡The Elizabeth Quay area has waterfront dining
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
More Big Things Nearby
Big Crocodile
A massive 20-metre long concrete saltwater crocodile sculpture serving as both tourist attraction and swimming safety reminder in Australia's far north.
Big King Neptune
A giant King Neptune statue at Two Rocks, WA, originally from the defunct Atlantis Marine Park.
Giant Ram (Bart)
Australia's second-largest ram sculpture, a 9-metre tall tribute to Western Australia's wool industry, affectionately known as 'Bart'.