‘Big Potato’ now the ‘Pig Potato’ but we think it’d look better mashed

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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That’ll do, Spud.

​In a delightful twist that’s sure to amuse both locals and visitors, Robertson’s famous ‘Big Potato’ has undergone a whimsical transformation into the ‘Pig Potato’ to mark three decades since the beloved film Babe (1995) melted hearts. This playful makeover pays homage to the town’s connection to the movie, much of which was filmed in the Southern Highlands.

The Big Potato, unfortunately known by many names including the ‘Big Turd’ (no explanation necessary), has long been a staple of Robertson’s quirky charm. Constructed in 1977 by local farmer Jim Mauger, the 10-metre-long, four-metre-wide concrete tuber was designed to celebrate the region’s rich potato farming heritage.

The landmark’s glow-up is courtesy of Corrimal artist Samuel Hall, which now features Babe, Ferdinand the duck and the three singing mice.

The Big Potato Babe transformation to The Pig Potato
The glow-up celebrates 30 years of Babe. (Image: Rachel Ware Photography)

However, this isn’t the first time the Big Potato has donned a new look. In 2010, the spud sported a Mr Potato Head face (or an attempt of one), adding a touch of humour to its already unique presence. ​

Here’s what we think The Big Potato should be next …

While the Pig Potato is hogging the spotlight now, here are five other imaginative rebrands that could add flavour to this starchy landmark that we think the town of Robertson should seriously consider.

The Big Hasselback Potato: A sophisticated twist, featuring carved ridges and a crunchy exterior. It may be a controversial opinion, but could there be a better way to roast a potato? We think not.

AI generated image of The Big Hasselback Potato
We asked AI to make an image of The Big Hasselback Potato. (Image: OpenAI/ChatGPT)

The Big Jacket Potato: Dressed to impress, this version could be topped with a serving of bacon (sorry, Babe), melted cheese, sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. Seriously, that melted cheese looks good enough to scoop off and eat!

AI generated image of The Big Loaded Jacket Potato
This AI-generated image of The Big Loaded Jacket Potato looks like a winner. (Image: OpenAI/ChatGPT)

The Big Mashed Potato: A lumpy, bumpy rendition that invites visitors to dive into comfort-food bliss.​ Admittedly, we were worried this would gain similar monikers to the previous iteration of the Big Potato, but we’re pleasantly surprised with this fluffy, cloud-like potato dream.

AI generated image of The Big Mashed Potato
An AI-generated image of The Big Mashed Potato. (Image: OpenAI/ChatGPT)

The Big Chips: Stacked high like a tower of golden hot chips, this design would surely be a hit with snack enthusiasts.​ Chippies are always a crowd pleaser after all. Just don’t alert the seagulls.

AI generated image of The Big Chips
AI chippies anyone? (Image: OpenAI/ChatGPT)

The Big Pig: Celebrating its current incarnation, this version honours the porcine star that captured hearts worldwide.​ He really is cute enough to make you turn vegetarian.

AI generated image of Babe as The Big Pig.
AI’s version of Babe as The Big Pig. (Image: OpenAI/ChatGPT)

Babeworld: Following in the hoofprints of Bluey’s World, we reckon it’s high time for a Babeworld. Imagine this: a fully immersive, multi-sensory wonderland where you can bottle-feed animatronic ducklings, take etiquette classes with Maa the sheep, or belt out harmonies with three sassy mice. Frankly, if Robertson isn’t already on this, they’re missing out on a pig deal.

Robertson’s Big Potato continues to be a source of joy and creativity, proving that even the humblest of vegetables can be a canvas for community spirit and artistic expression.

We can’t wait to see which of these very good suggestions Robertson picks up next! Which one gets your vote?

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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9 of the best Sydney hotel bars for a local adventure during Vivid

(Credit: Nikki To)

    Lucy Cousins Lucy Cousins
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    A great night out doesn’t need a road trip, just the right bar. Swap the long drive for an evening at these standout Sydney venues.

    If you’re thinking of a staycation or a long weekend (with foodie benefits), you can’t get much better than the bright lights and beautiful vistas of Sydney. From tucked-away bars to late-night hidden hangs, Australia’s (unofficial) favourite city is packed full of venues that make staying local feel like an adventure.

    And with Vivid lighting up the sky this winter, there’s no better time to find the perfect cosy spot to enjoy the views or escape the crowds.

    1. El Vista, Circular Quay

    bar tender at El Vista, Circular Quay sydney hotel bars
    Enjoy tasty cocktails and gorgeous Sydney views. (Credit: Na Woolfe)

    This welcoming bar by the Maybe Sammy team offers a fun buzz and jaw-dropping harbour views. Part of the Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, this lounge bar sits above Circular Quay with the harbour on one side and the Botanical Gardens on the other. You may start here for pre-dinner drinks, but you won’t want to leave before the early hours. If the 1960s Acapulco vibe isn’t enough, the views will be – the Sydney Harbour Bridge is so close it hardly fits in the window, while ferries glide by all night.

    2. Bar Allora, CBD

    Bar Allora, CBD Sydney hotel bars
    Settle in for a taste of Italy.

    Inspired by Milan in the 1980s, Bar Allora brings Italian style and culture to the CBD. Although it’s officially part of the Mantra 2 Bond Street hotel, it’s designed to look and feel like you’ve travelled to Italy for all-day dining. Think espresso in the morning, aperitivo in the afternoon and Negronis late into the night. Accompany your liquid diet with Italian-style small plates and pastas with a modern twist.

    3. Percy, Pyrmont

    Percy Sydney hotel bars
    Spanish-style tapas and wine is the name of the game. (Credit: Steven Woodburn)

    Taking centre stage in the luxe foyer of the Woolstore 1888 Hotel in Pyrmont, Percy is a popular Spanish-style tapas and wine bar serving food that makes you want to linger. The restored 138-year-old wool store creates an atmospheric backdrop to your glass of merlot with exposed timber beams, brick and the echoes of Sydney’s past. With an air of Barcelona, expect low conversations, creative dining and the city moments away.

    4. The Crudo Bar at Flaminia, CBD

    The Crudo Bar at Flaminia, CBD Sydney hotel bars
    Seafood lovers should head to The Crudo Bar. (Credit: Nikki To)

    Grab a seat at the beautifully designed crudo bar, taking centre stage of Giovanni Pilu’s latest CBD restaurant, Flaminia. Enjoy a glass or chilled Vermentino from Sardinia or prosecco from the hills of Treviso, matched with freshly shucked oysters. Complement your seafood with a range of special dressings, influenced by iconic Italian port cities. It’s the perfect spot for a pre- or post- glass of wine before visiting the Sydney Opera House.

    5. Mee So, Sydney Central

    Mee So sydney
    Enjoy Japanese-influenced food and drinks.

    For something a little different, Mee So is a modern, neon-lit Japanese-influenced bar in the Ibis Sydney Central. Serving bold flavours and umami-heavy dishes alongside sake and yuzu-infused cocktails, this Tokyo-esque venue offers an escape from the busy streets outside. Order steaming ramen, a Japanese whisky and make a corner of Mee So yours for the night.

    6. Bar Morris, Haymarket

    Bar Morris sydney
    Settle into old-world European glamour.

    Housed in a 1929 heritage-listed building, Bar Morris brings old-world European glamour to the Hotel Morris Sydney, part of Accor’s Handwritten Collection. More of a destination than a pitstop, this bar leans into its Art Deco past with velvet features, intimate lighting and bold brass finishes. Here you can order smaller plates like burrata, cured meats, and seasonal seafood to match your martini.

    7. Pumphouse, Darling Harbour

    Pumphouse sydney
    Enjoy a tipple inside a building from the 1880s.

    When you first walk into Pumphouse, you’ll quickly notice the high ceilings, exposed brick and industrial style decor. Officially part of the busy Novotel Darling Square, this busy local hang doesn’t feel like it; it’s housed inside a former hydraulic pumping station from the 1880s – hence the name – and a local institution. Grab a seat if you can and order off the classic modern Australian menu, before trying one of the many craft beers on tap to wash it down.

    8. Wentworth Bar, CBD

    Wentworth Bar sydney hotel bars
    Drink where the celebrities once did.

    Designed for big groups and late-night cocktails, this open-air terrace bar is part of the Sydney Sofitel Wentworth – one of Sydney’s most iconic hotels. Once the watering hole of royals and celebrities, this mid-century building has recently been refurbished to be sleek, modern and inviting. The stunning rooftop bar attracts Sydneysiders who love to watch the sunset with a table full of Vietnamese and French-inspired dishes.

    9. Monica Rooftop Bar, Paddington

    Monica Rooftop Bar, Paddington sydney
    See the city skyline, drink in hand.

    Sitting pretty on top of a restored 110-year-old theatre, Monica is a Hollywood-style rooftop bar with views across Paddington and the city skyline. Part of the 25hrs The Olympia hotel, this isn’t a quick drink kind of place, it’s a ‘let’s stay all night’ kind of venue. Weekend DJs will take you from sunset to late-night conversations, while you graze on ceviche, grilled meats or sharing plates.

    For more information on how to enjoy Sydney for a long weekend, visit ALL.com.