New South Wales · Attraction
The Big Merino
Icon of Australia's wool story
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Standing 15.2 metres tall on the edge of Goulburn, Rambo the Big Merino is a three-storey concrete and steel monument built in 1985 to celebrate the region's fine wool heritage. The sculpture houses a permanent exhibition tracing 200 years of the Australian wool industry, from the first merino flocks to modern production. A gift shop stocked with merino knitwear, sheepskins and local produce makes it a natural stop on any road trip through the Southern Tablelands.
The Big Merino was modelled after a champion stud ram named Rambo from the local Bullamallita property and opened on 20 September 1985. Visitors can walk inside the hollow structure and climb through interpretive displays covering sheep anatomy, wool processing and the breed's enduring importance to Australian agriculture. The exhibit is engaging for children and adults alike, and the external viewing area is open around the clock for photographs.
The complex at 1 Sowerby Street includes a large gift shop and cafe, making it equally suited to a quick stop or a leisurely browse. Entry to the exhibition inside the statue is free, as is walking around the exterior - a rare combination of icon and education at no cost. Coach parking and accessible facilities are available on site.
Scenic views
Lookouts near The Big Merino.
You may also like
Goulburn
Canberra
Kangaroo Valley
Lake Burley Griffin
Parliament House
Wollongong
Islington
Kosciuszko National Park
Moss Vale
Albion Park Rail
Cockatoo Island (Wareamah)
