Big Rocking Horse, Tourist attraction in Gumeracha, Adelaide Hills Council, Australia
The Big Rocking Horse is an 18 meter tall wooden structure in Gumeracha that connects three viewing platforms with internal stairs and rises above the surrounding landscape. The site also includes a wooden toy factory, a wildlife park with native animals, and a café.
The project opened in 1981 after eight months of construction, conceived by David McIntosh and John Twopenny as a landmark for the region. This development became a lasting attraction that drew families to the Adelaide Hills.
The site was created to introduce children to wooden toy craftsmanship and establish the area as a family destination. It brings together traditional craft with nature experiences, drawing visitors who want to explore both sides of this attraction.
The platforms are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and during catastrophic fire warnings. Comfortable shoes and some stamina help when climbing the internal stairs.
The wildlife park spreads across seven acres and houses emus, kangaroos, and wallabies living in natural-style areas. Visitors rarely get the chance to observe these animals up close in such a setting.
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