Roma - Queensland
Roma is a large rural town located amongst the rolling plains of the Maranoa region in Queensland. Located 478 kilometres northwest of Brisbane, Roma offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and warm country hospitality.
Roma has a cosmopolitan feel with boutique and specialty retailers, espresso bars and cafes, restaurants and traditional hotels.
When we visited Roma, we started the day with a coffee from Bakearoma, explored the Big Rig, and wandered along the Adungadoo trail to see the biggest bottle tree. We then visited the Roma Saleyards to see the interactive centre and wandered around the town centre.
Bakearoma in McDowall Street has excellent coffee and many delicious bakery choices.
At the Big Rig, you will find Roma’s visitor centre, a cafe, a grassy park and picnic areas. You can embark on a self-guided tour of The Big Rig from 8.30 am every day, where you will learn about the trials and tribulations the pioneers endured while trying to strike it rich with Roma oil.
You will see how their pursuit has led to a multi-billion dollar industry today. Take the interactive lift or climb the stairs up the magnificent 40-metre tower and wander along the tree-walk through the ancient river red gums.
Wander around the Big Rig grounds and check out the historic Lenroy Slab Hut, built in 1893 using rough-hewn cypress pine.
The Adungadoo Walk starts at the back of the Big Rig and is a picturesque trail that winds along the peaceful banks of Bungil Creek, past China Town, the “Meeting Place”, and onto Shady’s Lagoon. You can then take a slight detour to see the Largest Bottle Tree.
Roma’s largest bottle tree is 15 metres high and 9.62 metres in circumference. It is thought to have been around since the 19th century and was transplanted into its current position in 1927.
Roma is home to Australia’s largest cattle sale yards, and on Tuesdays, you can watch up to 12,000 head of cattle being auctioned in a single day.
Alternatively, you can visit the Roma Saleyards Interactive Centre any day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to see the exciting multimedia displays.
An 18-square-metre three-dimensional mural created by John and Maureen Morrison is located in the Roma Cultural Centre. It comprises 17 local elements depicting the district's history and is enhanced by audio and moving lights.
We wander around the streets of Roma, admiring the fascinating Hotels and reading the informative display boards. Lastly, we visit the Roma Court House, an architectural gem constructed in 1901. It really is a testament to the town's historical past.
Other things to do in Roma are The Big Rig Night Show, the Bush Gardens, and the Up the Creek Garage Museum.
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