Goulburn celebrated its 157th anniversary at Belmore Park on Saturday, March 14, where uplifting speeches brightened up the damp occasion.

Goulburn was declared a city in 1863 by Royal Letters Patent.

Year 12 students from local high schools spoke about what the city meant to them and why they loved it.

Angelica Downey from Goulburn High School was born and raised in the city and was forever grateful for the opportunities she has received here.

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"Goulburn has given me leadership opportunities and to become immersed with the community," Angelica said.

"Sport is a very important aspect of my lifestyle.

"Growing up, I have been so lucky with all the sporting opportunities the town has provided me.

"I feel extremely lucky to be a part of such an amazing community where I can ask my neighbour next door for a cup of sugar, or I'll always find a friendly face down the street."

Tom McEntee from Trinity Catholic College spoke about how proud he was to be Goulburnian.

"Since the age of three, Goulburn has been my home and although I can't quite call myself Goulburn-born, I consider myself Goulburn raised and something I am proud of," Tom said.

"The thing that means the most to me about Goulburn is the people.

"We are all brought together through one thing, our common love for Goulburn.

"This is our town. These are our streets, our schools, our businesses and above all else, our homes.

"For all its quirks and imperfections, we wouldn't change it for the world."

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Mulwaree High School student Wade McCall said he was proud to tell people he was Goulburn.

"The most rewarding thing is when people ask, 'Hey, where are you from?', and with a smile on your face, you say Goulburn," Wade said.

"You look into their widening eyes and, with a grin, they respond with, 'Oh Goulburn. I know that place. Isn't that where the big sheep is at?'

"Obviously, with comments like these, visitors remember the town for its iconic culture and people."

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Special guests on the day included Dean of Saint Saviour's Cathedral, The Very Reverend Dean Phillip Saunders, Goulburn Mulwaree Youth councillor Holly Caffery, Goulburn Mulwaree Council Mayor and emcee Bob Kirk, former mayors Carol James and Tony Lamarra; and Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman, who spoke about how privileged she felt to oversee the affairs of the city.

"Goulburn is a fantastic place," Mrs Tuckerman said.

"I am absolutely blown away by the history, remarkable buildings and it has everything."

Lilac Queen April Watson also attended.

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"What Goulburn means to me is a place I can return to," Ms Watson said.

"I've lived in other places, but every year come Christmas and Boxing Day, we'd all be sending text messages: 'Are you home? Will you be home?' because this is where we all return.

"People who grow up here, thrive here because they are supported by the community and the town's leaders."

Ms Watson and Mrs Tuckerman cut a chocolate cake with a miniature decorative sheep for the occasion.

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