From former prime ministers, music stars, comedians, retired US astronauts and the passing of his own heyday when coach after coach pulled onto his patch, the Big Merino has stood as silent sentinel through a slice of history.

'Rambo,' originally modeled on a Bullamalita Stud ram, officially turned 21 on Wednesday, and loyal staff working in Rambo's gift shop underbelly were keen to mark the event.

Afterall, it will be the Merino's last birthday before being mustered up the road to another paddock in Hume St, closer to the tourism action.

Pat Blay, who has worked at the complex for 19 years, the past six in the Merino's gift shop, said Louis and Attila Mokany showed extraordinary vision in building the icon.

"They left nothing undone in building the Merino to perfection, but also other parts of the complex such as the Agrodome, which was a work of art," Mrs Blay said.

"The Goulburn bypass had a big effect and led to a downturn in trade but it bounced back and you would see 20 buses in the complex at one time."

Despite the changes, Mrs Blay believed Rambo had been an enduring attraction to worldwide visitors and offered a chance to promote Goulburn's wool industry.

Jenny Law has worked in the shop for the past eight years, while Donna Boyt was employed on and off in the wider complex for 20 years.

For the full story, please see Friday's Goulburn Post, available from our front office in Auburn St, or at all leading newsagencies across the Goulburn area.