roma

Business Directory and Tourist Guide

WELCOME TO ROMA

Roma is a vibrant and thriving
Queensland Country Town

Roma is the second largest urban community in Western Queensland. It covers an area of 78 square kilometres, has a population of 7,000 people in the town with an additional 20,000 residents in the surrounding region.

With a diverse economy, excellent infrastructure and a relaxed country lifestyle that is the envy of many communities, Roma is a great place to visit.

Roma is a leading industrial and service centre. The Town is home to the rich oil and gas industry, many strong performing value adding industries, a comprehensive public service sector and diversified retail and service businesses.

Things to See & Do

The Big Rig – Australia’s Living History of Oil and Gas Exploration

You can now discover the fascinating story of oil and gas, born out of ancient earth, fire and water, as it changes forever the way we live. Be challenged and inspired as you meet the true grip pioneers of the Australian Oil and Gas Industry who dared the earth to give up its riches.

Be amazed as you Journey Through Time, experience the spectacular Night Show, follow the Roma Trail,
see the Rigs that made the industry possible.. 

Roma Saleyards 

Australiaís Largest Cattle Selling Centre, Roma’s Cattle Sales, are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The excitement of the sales is appealing to an increasing number of visitors. The raised walkways provide visitors with an excellent vantage point.

Three Dimensional Clay Mural 

The 18 square metre Clay Mural has been brought to life and interpreted by means of an audio and moving light presentation, which interprets the 17 elements that make up the mural.
The mural is located in the Cultural Centre. There are one hundred and seventy-five individual tiles that comprise the artwork.

St Paul’s Anglican Church 

St Paul’s Anglican Church has a series of colourful stained glass and lead light windows dating back to 1876. Guided tours operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am during the tourist season or by appointment. Information available at the Visitor Information Centre at The Big Rig.

Heroes Avenue 

A memorial avenue of 138 bottle trees extend from the Railway Station (the traditional rallying point for Anzac day marches) to the Cenotaph in Bungil Street. Each tree is dedicated to a local soldier who fell in World War 1. A plaque at the base of each tree bears the name and details of the soldier to whom that tree is dedicated.

Historical Interpretative Walk – Hospital Hill
 
View and understand the history of oil and gas exploration in Roma dating back to 1900. In 1900, during the drilling of an artesian water bore, natural gas was discovered for the first time in Australia. It was then realized that oil was often associated with natural gas, so a local company drilled for oil in 1908. This well also intercepted the gas, and an accidental fire resulted, completely destroying the oilrig and drilling equipment. Between 1915 and 1929 several oil wells were drilled on Hospital Hill. This self-guided 2km walk follows a trail of 12 informative plaques.

Mini Train 

Take a trip on the “Roma Express”. Tour around the perimeter of the Big Rig, crossing over a World War 2 Bailey Bridge, which was designed to carry great loads without supporting piers. For days of operation, contact the Roma Visitor Information Centre on 07 4622 8676.

Roma’s Annual Easter Extravaganza

Our Easter in the Country Festival attracts people from all walks of life and all age groups. It is regarded as one of the most friendly family festivals in Queensland, with attractions for young and old. Fun and entertainment for the entire family with Country Markets, Art Show, Street Entertainment, Floats, Men’s & Ladies Foot Races, Goat races, Motocross, Mud Derby, Speedway, Race Meeting, Bush Poets, Drag Racing, Night Rodeo, Bull Rides, Open Gardens & Kids Easter Egg Hunt.

Heritage Listed Courthouse

The Roma Court House opened in 1901 has now been fully restored. The heritage-listed building replaced the original timber structure, which was the venue of the infamous trial of Harry Redford alias Captain Starlight, the lead character in the novel ‘Robbery Under Arms’.

For these or more fun activities to see and do while visiting Roma call into the
Roma Visitor Information Centre and get help from the friendly staff.

Ph: 07 4622 8676
E: romainfo@westnet.com.au www.wheninroma.com.au

roma visitor information Centre

2 Riggers Road
Roma QLD 4455