Skipping Girl Sign

The Skipping Girl Sign is a neon display in Abbotsford featuring a metal figure illuminated by neon tubing that appears to perform jumping motions at night. The figure mimics someone skipping rope, and the flashing lights create a sense of movement and animation.

It was installed in 1936 at the Nycander vinegar factory as one of Australia's earliest animated neon advertisements. The display was relocated to Victoria Street in 1970 following public demand to preserve this local landmark.

The sign references a traditional skipping rhyme that begins with salt, vinegar, mustard, pepper, familiar to many children who grew up in Melbourne. This connection to childhood games makes it part of the local memory of generations.

The sign is best viewed at night when the neon lights shine brightest and the jumping motion is most visible. It sits alongside Victoria Street where it can be easily spotted during a walk through the neighborhood.

The sign originally used a simple mechanical mechanism to create the jumping effect that visitors see today. Over the decades, it has been updated and restored while keeping its classic appearance and charming motion unchanged.

Location: City of Yarra

GPS coordinates: -37.81130,145.01100

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41