Woolly Wonder or Colossal Curiosity? Discovering The Big Merino in Goulburn

Big Merino in Goulburn

Australia’s Strangest Roadside Icon

Towering at a height of fifteen metres and weighing in at over 90 tonnes, the Big Merino in Goulburn, New South Wales, is one of Australia’s most unforgettable roadside attractions. Often referred to with both affection and bewilderment, this oversized ram has been stopping traffic—and raising eyebrows—since it was first unveiled in 1985.

Nicknamed “Rambo” by the locals, the Big Merino was built to celebrate the region’s proud history in wool production. Goulburn is known as the wool capital of Australia, and this enormous concrete sheep was designed to honour that legacy. But whether visitors view it as a tribute or a tongue-in-cheek novelty depends entirely on their perspective.

From Sheep Station to Photo Sensation

The Big Merino may be one of the most photographed animals in the country, despite never having taken a single step. With its heavy-lidded eyes, sagging jowls, and sculpted detail that has prompted both admiration and mockery, it’s become a must-see for curious travellers along the Hume Highway.

Inside the structure, visitors will find a wool-themed exhibition showcasing Australia’s wool industry, including displays of shearing equipment, fibre samples, and historic photographs. A narrow stairway leads up into the ram’s head, where you can look out through its eyes onto the Goulburn landscape.

Love It or Laugh at It—You Won’t Forget It

Big Merino in Goulburn

The Big Merino has become one of those classic “so bad it’s good” attractions that Australians love to rally around. It has endured years of commentary, jokes, and even relocation—it was moved in 2007 to a more visible spot closer to the freeway to lure in even more travellers.

Despite the quirky exterior, there’s genuine pride behind the structure. It symbolises Goulburn’s central role in one of Australia’s most significant agricultural industries and is supported by a local community that embraces its offbeat appeal.

More Than a Monument

The site now includes a gift shop with woollen goods and souvenirs, along with a café and local produce for sale. It’s a quirky stop, yes, but also a reminder of the creativity and humour that give rural Australia its distinct personality.

For those on a road trip through New South Wales, the Big Merino is more than just a photo op. It’s a moment of surprise, a dose of roadside charm, and an iconic piece of Australiana that manages to be both absurd and oddly endearing.

Visit the Big Merino

Address: 20-22 Hume Street, Goulburn NSW 2580
Open daily
Website: www.bigmerino.com.au

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