Roma is where the country meets the outback – a region renowned for its authentic country experiences.
When you base yourself in Queensland’s top tourism town for 2024, there’s plenty to explore including historical landmarks, sale yards, an artesian spa, national parks, fishing, camping and so much more.
The Roma Saleyards are the largest cattle selling facility in Australia, moving over 250,000 cows each year. On Tuesdays, visitor tours are led by local graziers, who will teach you all about the cattle industry while auctioneers working their magic in real time. Make sure to check out the interactive centre too, where you can learn even more about this thriving industry.
For a different kind of tour, join Boobook Explore as they guide you through a range of fascinating experiences in Roma and the Carnarvon Ranges. Small groups are led through this precious landscape to see incredible native flora and fauna, important Indigenous sites and classic Aussie bushland. You may even wander through the Gurulmundi wildflower area, home to more than 350 native species.
The Big Rig is a testament to the beginnings of the gas and oil industries in Australia. It has a history dating back to the early 20th century, when the first natural gas was discovered in Roma. You can learn all about this pioneering past when climbing the 40-metre tower, taking in the vast landscape and getting a true sense of the industry. As the sun sets, discover a beautiful sound and light show that teaches visitors all about the oil and gas industry in the Maranoa region.
While in the area, check out Roma’s biggest bottle tree, standing at 15 metres tall with a width of 9.62 metres. It was originally planted on a rural property in the 1800s, but was transplanted and moved into town in 1927, where it has since become a popular spot to snap a selfie. This magnificent tree is named after its swollen trunks, which resemble the shape of an antique glass bottle.
A ten minute drive from the centre of town, Western Queensland Spirit is the state’s first small-batch distillery. The former citrus and grape farm has eight products showcasing native botanicals from across the outback, including Bottle Brush Vodka and Desert Oasis Gin, which features flavours of citrus, strawberry gum and native bush mint inspired by the waterways of the region. The cellar door opened in 2023, featuring indoor and outdoor seating, tasting paddles and cocktails. When visiting, you’re invited to relax on a beanbag, play a game of giant Jenga, and enjoy a grazing platter of local produce while you sample the wares.
Head south to Surat for a deep dive into Cobb & Co history, retracing the steps of the last Cobb & Co mail run between Surat and Yuleba which took place 100 years ago, also commemorated annually at the Cobb & Co Festival. Commencing with a long table dinner, the festival includes wagons, a horse art exhibition, markets, coach rides, an open air concert and more. The friendly event is a celebration of the history and heritage of the bush.
A short drive from Roma, the Great Artesian Spa in Mitchell is home to two large pools naturally heated by waters from the Great Artesian Basin. Soak in the natural mineral waters, thought to have therapeutic qualities, to relax your body and soul. The spa hosts weekly yoga classes, and also gives visitors access to a gym and cafe featuring a popular all-day menu.
For more info, head to romarevealed.com.au.
Love this story on the gateway to the outback? To read about the best camping spots in and around Roma, click here.
Featured image: Carnarvon Gorge © Tourism and Events Queensland
