Roma, Queensland: The Heart of the Outback & Australia’s Cattle Capital

Roma, located in southwest Queensland, is a vibrant outback town famous for its rich cattle industry, historic landmarks, and stunning landscapes. As the cattle capital of Australia, Roma is home to the country’s largest cattle saleyards, while also offering natural wonders, country charm, and fascinating pioneer history.

Whether you’re witnessing the excitement of a cattle auction, exploring ancient landscapes, or enjoying an authentic outback pub, Roma is a must-visit for travelers looking to experience the true Australian outback.

Top Attractions in Roma

1. Roma Saleyards – The Largest in Australia 🐂👨‍🌾

• The biggest cattle-selling facility in the Southern Hemisphere.
• See thousands of cattle being auctioned on Tuesdays & Thursdays.
• Join the free guided tour (Tuesday mornings) to learn about Australia’s cattle industry.

2. The Big Rig & Oil Patch Museum 🛢️🏛️

• Discover Roma’s oil and gas heritage at this interactive museum.
• Features drilling rigs, gas displays, and a history of Australia’s oil industry.
• Don’t miss the Night Show Sunset Experience, an illuminated storytelling show.

3. Roma’s Avenue of Heroes – Heroes Avenue 🌳🎖️

• A memorial lined with 140 bottle trees, planted in honor of fallen WWI soldiers.
• A beautiful and emotional tribute along the town’s main road.

4. Roma Bush Gardens 🌿🦜

• A tranquil nature reserve showcasing local native plants and wildlife.
• Great for walking trails, birdwatching, and photography.

5. Roma Express Miniature Train 🚂

• A fun family attraction, running weekends at The Big Rig Parklands.
• Offers a mini train ride through lush parklands.

6. St Paul’s Anglican Church & Stunning Stained Glass Windows ⛪✨

• One of Roma’s oldest and most beautiful churches, built in 1875.
• Features striking stained glass windows, each with a unique design.

7. The Three Dimensional Mural 🎨🏛️

• A large public artwork in Roma’s town center, depicting the town’s history, pioneers, and indigenous heritage.

8. Lake Neverfill 🚣‍♂️🐟

• A popular spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
• Great for a relaxing picnic or an afternoon by the water.

9. Roma’s Easter in the Country Festival (April) 🎉🐴

• A five-day festival celebrating country life, with bull riding, rodeos, and street parades.
• One of the biggest country events in Queensland.

Outdoor Adventures & Day Trips from Roma 🚗🌄

1. Carnarvon National Park & Carnarvon Gorge 🏕️🥾

• One of Queensland’s most spectacular national parks, just 4 hours from Roma.
• Features towering sandstone cliffs, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and lush rainforests.
• Top hikes:
  • Moss Garden – A short walk to a beautiful waterfall and moss-covered cliffs.
  • Cathedral Cave – See thousands of years of Indigenous rock art.
  • Boolimba Bluff Lookout – Offers stunning views of the gorge.

2. Mount Abundance Homestead 🏡

• One of Queensland’s oldest homesteads, built in 1860.
• Offers historical tours of the original station, shearing sheds, and bushland.

3. Mitchell & Great Artesian Spa 💦

• Located 90 minutes from Roma, this thermal spa draws water from the Great Artesian Basin.
• The warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for relaxation.

4. Surat & Cobb & Co Changing Station Museum 🐴🏛️

• A historic stop along the old Cobb & Co coach route, just 1.5 hours from Roma.
• Features a fascinating museum on early transport and pioneering history.

Roma’s Food & Drink Scene 🍽️🍷

1. Must-Try Local Specialties

• Grass-fed Queensland beef – Roma is cattle country, so expect some of the best steaks in Australia.
• Outback-style pub meals – Try a hearty country roast or parmigiana.
• Bush tucker-inspired dishes – Featuring native herbs and spices.

2. Best Restaurants & Cafés ☕🍽️

• Explorers Inn Hotel & Steakhouse – Known for juicy steaks and local wines.
• Royal on Ninety-Nine – A modern pub with gourmet country meals.
• Bakearoma – The best bakery in town, serving fresh pies, pastries, and coffee.
• The Tasting Co. – A trendy brunch café with great coffee and fresh local produce.

3. Best Pubs & Country Hotels 🍺

• Commonwealth Hotel – A classic Queensland country pub with live music.
• Club Hotel Roma – Offers a family-friendly atmosphere and great food.

Where to Stay in Roma 🏨

Luxury & Boutique Stays ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Roma Explorers Inn – High-end country accommodation with an onsite restaurant and pool.
• Bryant’s Motel – A modern boutique motel in the heart of town.

Mid-Range & Family-Friendly Stays ⭐⭐⭐

• Mandalay Motel – A comfortable, family-friendly motel.
• Overlander Homestead Motel – Features a pool and country-style hospitality.

Budget & Camping Options 💰🏕️

• Roma Big Rig Tourist Park – Offers cabins, camping, and powered caravan sites.
• Roma Gun Club Caravan Park – A quiet, budget-friendly camping spot.

Best Time to Visit Roma ☀️🌾

• Autumn (March–May) – Perfect for Easter in the Country Festival, outdoor activities, and cool nights.
• Winter (June–August) – Mild days and great for hiking, exploring, and stargazing.
• Spring (September–November) – Best for wildflower blooms and cattle sales.
• Summer (December–February) – Hot and dry, but great for waterholes and exploring shaded bush trails.

How to Get to Roma ✈️🚗🚌

• By Air ✈️
  • Roma Airport (RMA) has direct flights from Brisbane (QantasLink, Rex Airlines).
• By Car 🚗
  • From Brisbane: 6-hour drive via Warrego Highway.
  • From Toowoomba: 4-hour drive.
• By Bus & Train 🚌🚆
  • Bus services operate from Brisbane to Roma (Greyhound Australia).
  • The Westlander train runs twice a week between Brisbane and Roma.

Why Visit Roma?

Roma is the heart of Queensland’s outback, offering a true taste of rural Australia. From the excitement of the cattle saleyards to the breathtaking landscapes of Carnarvon Gorge, Roma is a place where history, adventure, and country hospitality come together.

🐂🌄✨ Plan your trip to Roma and experience the best of Queensland’s outback