Archaeological Monument Dog on the Tuckerbox, It was sculpted by local stonemason Frank Rusconi and was unveiled by the then Prime Minister of Australia Joseph Lyons on 28 November 1932 as a tribute to pioneers.

Dog on the Tuckerbox

Dog on the Tuckerbox - Australia
Dog on the Tuckerbox is located in Snake Gully, Gundagai.
Dog on the Tuckerbox monument was established on 1932.

Primary threats to Dog on the Tuckerbox :

It was sculpted by local stonemason Frank Rusconi and was unveiled by the then Prime Minister of Australia Joseph Lyons on 28 November 1932 as a tribute to pioneers.

Historical facts of Dog on the Tuckerbox :

The Dog on the Tuckerbox is an iconic Australian monument that holds great historical significance. Situated in Gundagai, New South Wales, it has become a beloved symbol of Australian folklore and resilience. The statue depicts a faithful dog sitting on a tuckerbox, or a wooden food container, and has captured the imagination of locals and tourists alike. Let's explore the historical facts surrounding the Dog on the Tuckerbox.
The story behind the monument dates back to the mid-19th century when Gundagai was a bustling river town serving as a vital hub for travelers and drovers. The town was a significant stopover point for those traveling between Sydney and Melbourne, with drovers transporting livestock along the arduous journey.
Legend has it that during this time, a team of bullock drivers encountered various challenges while attempting to navigate the difficult terrain. One particular incident occurred when the bullock team became stuck in a muddy creek crossing known as the "Nine Mile Creek." Despite their best efforts, the bullocks were unable to free themselves from the bog, leaving the frustrated drivers to devise a solution.
It is said that during their struggle, a loyal dog belonging to one of the drivers faithfully guarded the bullocks and the precious tuckerbox containing their food. The dog's unwavering dedication and loyalty inspired the drovers and symbolized the enduring spirit of mateship and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The story of the dog and the tuckerbox became widely known throughout Australia through a poem titled "Bullocky Bill." The poem, written by Jack Moses, a renowned Australian poet, captured the essence of the event and immortalized the loyal dog's memory. The lines, "And the dog sat on the tuckerbox, ten miles away" became etched into the nation's consciousness, solidifying the story's place in Australian folklore.
In 1926, to commemorate this tale, a committee was formed in Gundagai with the goal of erecting a monument. Sculptor Frank Rusconi was commissioned to create the statue, and it was unveiled on the 28th of November, 1932. The statue depicts a bronze dog sitting atop a granite tuckerbox, forever memorializing the dog's vigilance and loyalty.
Over the years, the Dog on the Tuckerbox has become an iconic symbol of Australian resilience, perseverance, and mateship. It has been featured in various poems, songs, and even films, further cementing its place in Australian cultural heritage. The monument has also attracted numerous visitors who are drawn to the site to learn about the history and pay their respects to the dog that captured the nation's heart.
Today, the Dog on the Tuckerbox continues to be a beloved icon and an essential part of the Gundagai landscape. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by early settlers and the unwavering spirit that helped build the nation. The monument stands as a testament to the values of loyalty, determination, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.
In conclusion, the Dog on the Tuckerbox is a historical monument that holds a special place in Australian history and folklore. Its origins in the struggles of bullock drivers and its portrayal of loyalty and resilience have made it an enduring symbol of the Australian spirit. The statue stands as a reminder of the hardships faced by early settlers and the importance of unity and perseverance in overcoming adversity.