Dog on the Tuckerbox
Where: 5 miles (8 km) north of Gundagai, just off the Hume Highway
An internationally recognised Australian icon, the Dog on the Tucker Box is located 5 miles (8 km) north of Gundagai, just off the Hume Highway.
The legend of the Dog began in the 1850s with a poem, Bullocky Bill, by an otherwise unknown author known as "Bowyang Yorke". The poem celebrated the partnership between the bullock drivers who opened up the country to settlers and the loyal dogs who travelled with them, guarding their possessions. A later version by Jack Moses captured the imagination of Australians across the bush and the growing colonies in the early 1900s.
The movement to create a monument honouring these early pioneers gained momentum throughout the 1920s and culminated in the unveiling of the Dog on the Tucker Box statue on 28 November 1932. The legend was further immortalised by Jack O’Hagan, author of Along the Road to Gundagai, with his popular song Where the Dog Sits on the Tucker Box. Through songs, poems and stories, the Dog has helped place Gundagai firmly on the world map.
Today, the Dog on the Tucker Box Pioneer Monument welcomes visitors to a vibrant precinct that blends history, hospitality and regional flavours. Visitors can explore beautifully maintained gardens, Australian animal figurines and spacious picnic areas, while enjoying plenty of parking for cars, caravans and coaches.
The recently opened Dog on the Tucker Box Kiosk & Farm Shop offers fresh food, coffee, local produce, gifts and regional products, creating the perfect place to relax and experience the best of the region. Open seven days a week, the precinct continues to evolve as a destination for travellers, tourists and locals alike.
Special events supporting a range of charities are held throughout the year, culminating in the Dog's Birthday celebrations each November.
While you're visiting, be sure to explore the Dog on the Tucker Box Recreation Trail and discover even more of the area's history and natural beauty.
A new addition to the Dog on the Tuckerbox site is the “selfiebox”. Grab your own photo with you four-legged friend.