Big Trout

The Big Trout was born from the vision of Leigh Stewart in the early 1970s, with construction beginning in 1971 thanks to funding assistance from the Snowy Mountains Authority. Local artist and fisherman Andy Lomnici took on the challenge of creating this massive sculpture, using a frozen trout as his model to ensure anatomical accuracy. Working with fibreglass over mesh and a steel frame, Lominci developed an innovative technique for the scales: covering the work in mesh, applying a final layer of fibreglass, then removing the mesh before it set, creating a realistic textured effect. The completed sculpture was unveiled in 1973, standing 10 metres tall and weighing 2.5 tonnes. The Big Trout quickly became Adaminaby's most recognizable landmark, earning the town the official designation 'Home of The Big Trout'. The sculpture has required periodic restoration due to weather exposure: in 2007 it was repainted and restored, in 2012 it was refurbished to celebrate the centenary of the Snowy River Shire, and most recently in 2024 when Sydney-based mural painter Ryan Loughnane undertook another restoration project to preserve this beloved icon for future generations.

More Fun Facts

• •Andy Lomnici used a frozen trout as a model to ensure the sculpture's anatomical accuracy
• •The unique scale texture was created by an innovative technique: covering the fibreglass in mesh, adding more fibreglass, then removing the mesh before it set
• •At 10 metres tall and 2.5 tonnes, it's one of the largest of Australia's 'Big Things'
• •Adaminaby officially calls itself 'Home of The Big Trout' thanks to this sculpture
• •The original township of Adaminaby was relocated in 1957 to make way for Lake Eucumbene as part of the Snowy Mountains Scheme
• •During droughts, the old submerged township re-emerges from under Lake Eucumbene's waters
• •The Big Trout is located 52 kilometres northwest of Cooma on the Snowy Mountains Highway
• •The sculpture has been restored three times: 2007, 2012, and 2024, showing the community's dedication to preserving it
• •Adaminaby is also home to the Snowy Scheme Museum
• •The town sits near Lake Eucumbene, one of Australia's premier trout fishing destinations

Visiting Tips

• 💡Lions Park offers electric BBQ facilities, picnic areas, and public bathrooms - perfect for a lunch stop
• 💡Visit the nearby Snowy Scheme Museum to learn about the area's engineering heritage
• 💡The town is close to several shops and cafes for refreshments
• 💡Located on the Snowy Mountains Highway, making it an ideal photo stop en route to ski resorts
• 💡Lake Eucumbene nearby offers world-class trout fishing if you want to catch your own (much smaller) version
• 💡During drought periods, take a detour to see the old township emerging from Lake Eucumbene
• 💡The Big Trout is beautifully lit at certain times - check with local visitor information
• 💡Combine your visit with exploring the Snowy Mountains region's natural beauty and historic sites