Height
15.2 meters
Year Built
1985
Address
2 Sowerby Street, Goulburn, NSW 2580
The Lowdown
The Big Merino, affectionately known as 'Rambo', stands as an impressive tribute to Australia's wool industry and Goulburn's proud agricultural heritage. This colossal concrete structure, weighing 97 tonnes and stretching 18 meters in length, was built in 1985 to commemorate the region's significance in fine wool production. Modeled after a prized merino stud ram from the local Bullamallita property, the structure was designed with remarkable attention to anatomical detail. Visitors can enter through the structure's base to explore a comprehensive wool exhibition showcasing the history of Australian wool production, browse unique wool products in the gift shop, and climb to observation windows positioned in the ram's eyes for sweeping views of Goulburn and the surrounding Southern Tablelands. The Big Merino represents not just a quirky roadside attraction, but a genuine celebration of the wool industry that built much of rural Australia's prosperity.
Did you know?
"The structure measures 15.2 meters high and 18 meters long, making it taller than a 4-story building"
History
The Big Merino was conceived by brothers Attila and Louis Mokany and brought to life in 1985 by Adelaide-based builder Glenn Senner working from architect Gary Dutallis's designs. Construction took approximately six months, with the massive structure taking shape using a steel frame covered in wire mesh and reinforced concrete. The sculpture was modeled after 'Rambo', an actual stud ram from the Bullamallita property, ensuring anatomical accuracy in this tribute to the merino breed. Officially opened on September 20, 1985, by federal minister John Brown, the Big Merino quickly became a beloved roadside icon on the Hume Highway. However, in 1992, the rerouting of the highway caused visitor numbers to plummet dramatically as traffic bypassed the original location. After years of decline, the entire 97-tonne structure was relocated in 2007 to its current position closer to the new Hume Highway interchange, restoring its visibility to highway travelers and securing its future as a Goulburn landmark.
More Fun Facts
- •The Big Merino weighs an incredible 97 tonnes - equivalent to about 1,600 actual sheep
- •The structure measures 15.2 meters high and 18 meters long, making it taller than a 4-story building
- •There are observation windows positioned in the ram's eyes where visitors can look out over Goulburn
- •The structure was modeled after a real stud ram named Rambo from a local property
- •In 2007, the entire structure was physically moved to a new location - an engineering feat given its massive weight
- •Construction took only six months despite the complex engineering required to build such a large concrete animal
- •The internal wool museum details over 200 years of Australian wool industry history
- •Goulburn was chosen for this monument due to its location in one of Australia's finest wool-producing regions
Visiting Tips
- 💡Entry to the structure, gift shop, and wool exhibition is completely free - one of the best value Big Things to visit
- 💡Climb to the observation windows in the ram's eyes for unique photo opportunities looking out over the town
- 💡The wool exhibition inside is genuinely educational and worth exploring, not just a tourist gimmick
- 💡The gift shop stocks quality wool products including locally-made garments, rugs, and crafts
- 💡The Big Merino is located at a service station, making it convenient to fuel up, grab refreshments, and stretch your legs
- 💡It's approximately halfway between Sydney and Canberra, making it a perfect rest stop on road trips
- 💡Allow 30-45 minutes to fully explore the interior exhibition and gift shop
- 💡The exterior is accessible 24/7 for photos, even when the interior is closed
Opening Hours
Hours may vary on public holidays. The exterior can be viewed and photographed 24/7, but interior access (gift shop and museum) follows these hours.
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