Height
2.5 meters
Year Built
2001
Address
Snowy Mountains Highway, Talbingo, NSW 2720
The Lowdown
The Big Wombat in Talbingo celebrates one of Australia's most endearing and unusual marsupials - the sturdy, burrowing wombat that has captured hearts around the world. This charming sculpture captures the wombat's distinctive waddle and no-nonsense expression, representing the species that call the Snowy Mountains region home. Wombats are remarkable creatures: they're the world's largest burrowing mammals, their pouches open backward (to prevent dirt from entering while digging), and yes, they produce cube-shaped droppings. The Big Wombat invites visitors to learn about these fascinating creatures and perhaps spot real wombats in nearby Kosciuszko National Park.
Did you know?
"Their backward-opening pouches prevent dirt entering while they dig"
History
The Big Wombat was erected in 2001 to promote tourism in Talbingo and the surrounding Snowy Mountains region. Common wombats are found throughout the cooler regions of southeastern Australia, including the alpine areas of Kosciuszko National Park. The sculpture has become a popular photo stop for visitors heading to the snow or exploring the highlands.
More Fun Facts
- •Wombat poop is cube-shaped - the only animal to produce cubic feces
- •Their backward-opening pouches prevent dirt entering while they dig
- •Wombat burrows can be 20 meters long and last for generations
- •During the 2020 bushfires, wombat burrows sheltered many other animals
- •The oldest known wombat lived to 34 years in a zoo
Visiting Tips
- 💡Visit Kosciuszko National Park at dawn or dusk to spot real wombats
- 💡Talbingo is a great base for Snowy Mountains adventures
- 💡The town has excellent trout fishing in the Blowering Dam
- 💡Drive carefully at dusk - wombats often cross roads
- 💡Winter brings snow sports at nearby Selwyn Snow Resort
Opening Hours
The Big Wombat can be viewed at any time.
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Big Potato
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Big Trout
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