In the heart of Melbourne’s inner suburbs, where industrial charm meets suburban nostalgia, one little girl has skipped her way into the hearts of generations. She’s not made of flesh and blood—but of glowing neon, skipping endlessly through the skyline. Her name is Audrey, and she’s the iconic Skipping Girl Sign, one of Melbourne’s most beloved landmarks.

A Glow from the Past

Audrey’s story begins in 1936 when the original Skipping Girl sign was installed atop a vinegar factory in Abbotsford. Created to promote Skipping Girl Vinegar, she quickly became a local celebrity. As Australia’s first animated neon sign, she broke new ground—both technologically and culturally. With her skipping rope in motion and her timeless innocence, she captured the hearts of Melburnians during a time when neon was still a novelty.

The original sign, sadly, was removed in 1968, much to the dismay of locals who had grown attached to her cheerful presence. But Audrey’s story didn’t end there.

A Community Revival

Thanks to public outcry and community passion, a replica was lovingly recreated in 1970, just a few doors down from the original site. Although no longer tied to vinegar, the new sign retained her charm and her nickname, Audrey—a tribute to the daughter of one of the original sign’s designers.

She was restored again in 2009 with the help of Heritage Victoria and public support, upgraded with more energy-efficient lighting while keeping her retro magic intact.

Why Audrey Matters

More than just an advertisement or a nostalgic relic, Audrey is a symbol of Melbourne’s identity. She represents:

Innovation: As the first animated neon sign in the country, she symbolises Melbourne’s forward-thinking spirit.
Nostalgia: For many locals, Audrey evokes childhood memories, tram rides along Victoria Street, and the hum of a city that’s always moving.
Community: Her survival is thanks to people who cared deeply—locals who refused to let her disappear into history.

A Neon Beacon of Melbourne Culture

Today, Audrey continues to skip against the night sky, delighting residents and visitors alike. Her silhouette against the dusky sky reminds us that some stories are too important to fade away. She’s a glowing thread in Melbourne’s cultural tapestry—a reminder of simpler times, enduring charm, and the power of community.

If you ever find yourself in Abbotsford after dark, look up. You might catch a glimpse of Audrey, mid-skip, lighting up the sky and carrying a little bit of Melbourne’s heart with every swing.