How to get to Roma

Roma is a colourful town in the Maranoa region, located in the heart of the Queensland outback. This corner of Australia, famous for its unique bottle trees and rich history of cattle farming, is accessible to travellers by air, rail, and road. A trip here is an excellent occasion to experience the authentic atmosphere of the Australian Outback.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air transport. The town is served by Roma Airport (RMA), which receives scheduled flights and is conveniently located relative to the centre, making it easy to reach your hotel by taxi or hired car.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you may consider flying to neighbouring aviation hubs. The nearest options are airports in the towns of Charleville, Biloela, or Toowoomba, from where the journey must be continued by ground transport.

Contrary to popular belief, a railway connection to the town of Roma exists and offers a picturesque way to reach the destination. The famous The Westlander train runs here, operating on the Brisbane — Charleville route twice a week.

Travelling by rail allows you to leisurely enjoy the changing landscapes of Queensland, from the green coastal zones to the red lands of the Outback. The railway station is located within the town limits, making arrival quite convenient for tourists.

Bus transport remains a popular and budget-friendly option for travelling around the region. The trip from the town of Charleville will take about 4 hours 15 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 257 km. This is a convenient route for those travelling from west to east.

Connections with the eastern districts are also established: the journey from Toowoomba lasts about 6 hours (346 km). Travellers from the town of Biloela face a longer journey, taking approximately 7.5 hours to cover the distance of 444 km on a comfortable intercity coach.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore the Outback at your own pace. The shortest route leads from the town of Charleville: the distance of 267 km can be comfortably covered in about 3 hours on straight and uncrowded roads.

If you are heading from the coast via Toowoomba, expect to spend about 4 hours behind the wheel (351 km). A similar time will be required for the trip from the town of Biloela (367 km). When planning a route in a hired car or taxi, it is important to remember fuel and water reserves.

Visiting the town of Roma is an immersion into authentic Australian life, which requires a little preparation for maximum comfort. Follow these simple recommendations to ensure your journey is flawless.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is continental. In summer (December-February), light clothing is mandatory, along with a sun hat, while in winter the nights can be cold, so bring a warm jacket or fleece.
2. Transport: Public transport is not widely developed. The optimal choice for sightseeing and a trip to Carnarvon Gorge is a hired SUV.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash for small shops at petrol stations is useful.
4. Health and Safety: The sun in Queensland is very strong; the use of SPF 50+ cream is mandatory. Also, carry insect repellents with you.
5. Communication: The language of communication is English. Locals use many slang expressions but are always ready to help a tourist.
6. Local Etiquette: Australians in the Outback are very friendly. It is customary to greet passers-by and drivers; a simple "G'day" (Good day) will help establish contact.
7. What to Avoid: Do not drive on country roads at dawn and dusk. At these times, kangaroos are most active and often jump onto the road.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to visit The Big Rig Night Show to learn the history of the region's oil and gas industry in an engaging format.

By observing these simple rules, you will be able to safely enjoy the beauty of the red lands and the hospitality of the local residents.