The commercial centre for rich grazing and farming land in the surrounding Southern Highlands district, Goulburn has the distinction of being the first gazetted inland city in Australia.
The honour was bestowed by Queen Victoria in March, 1863. By that time Goulburn had already been settled for 30 years and many of its fine, old buildings date back to that pre-city period.
The standout examples of early colonial architecture include the National Trust listed coaching-house, Riversdale (1840) and St Clair History House which has been restored to its original, 1843 glory by the Goulburn Historical Society.
The Courthouse, too, is impressive, while the city boasts two of the most impressive churches in rural Australia - the Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul and the Cathedral of St Saviour.
The Old Brewey complex, whose key components are believed to have been designed by the NSW colony's seminal architect, Francis Greenway, is the oldest working industral plant in Australia.
The city has some lovely parks and gardens. October is lilac time, while the roses tend to be at their best in November and March.
The War Memorial at the top of the hill provides great views over the surrounding area. Don't miss the Big Merino, where you can find out about the wool industry and climb up to peer out of the world's largest sheep!
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