Discover Roma and the Carnarvon Ranges
Reveal the nature. Share the wonder.
About Boobook
Founders Craig and Meryl Eddie are long-time locals with a passion for the complex web of Australian life that reveals itself in the remote bush and outback communities.
They have created a range of fascinating tours and holidays in Roma and the Carnarvon Ranges that take small groups with exclusive access to sights and places few explore. Because they are both ecologists and pastoralists, they can share a rare 360-degree perspective. From the role of the smallest creature to the significance of Aboriginal sites, you’ll get deep insights into the biodiversity and human history of the incredible region.
Craig (aka Queensland’s David Attenborough!) has explored little-known corners of this diverse landscape mapping its flora and fauna, and has authored books and other publications. Meryl manages a cattle enterprise with great understanding of the local land and its challenges.
Both Craig and Meryl are passionate about the biodiversity of the region. They are actively involved in wildlife surveys and research, mapping habitats and identifying rare and threatened species.
You may meet either of them guiding your Boobook exploration and they both continue to work locally as ecological and land management consultants. boobookexplore.com.au
Explore a region that awakens a sense of wonder
Some of Queensland’s best-kept and most awe-inspiring secrets are waiting for you on a Boobook exploration in this region where the edge of the outback and the remote wilderness of the Carnarvons meet a thriving country town.
Join a small group to discover extraordinary places. Our exclusive access to private properties, including the massive Wallaroo property in the Carnarvon Ranges, gives you privileged passage to protected areas. From Aboriginal rock art and sandstone cliffs to stunning gorges and a viewpoint that feels like the edge of the world, you can explore diverse natural environments without the long hikes of the Carnarvon National Park.
Boobook Explore’s tours in Roma town also reveal highlights you might not discover without an insider’s knowledge. And your local guides weave an evocative picture with their passion, anecdotes and extensive experience of the landscape and history.
Our mission is to share the wonders of our region and create a deeper understanding of how nature and humanity can thrive in our interconnected world.
Easy to reach, hard to leave!
Boobook Explore’s base in Roma is within six hours’ drive or an hour’s flight of Brisbane. You can also take a relaxed trip here on the Westlander train that runs twice a week. Roma is easy to reach from other coastal points like Rockhampton, and a variety of road routes connect us to Charleville, Longreach and other outback towns.
Whether you stop for a night or two on a trip further west or come especially for a short break, you’ll find a different world that is a microcosm of inland Australia. From ancient wilderness and rich biodiversity to ever-evolving agricultural
enterprises, you’ll be fascinated by the nature and community that inhabit the wider spaces away from the cities and coastal strip.
You’ll need at least two nights here to visit the Carnarvon Ranges and you can immerse yourself even more deeply in the spirit of the land with our 4-day or 5-day holidays.
Our visitors love the sense of adventure and discovery, the warm and friendly welcome from knowledgeable local guides, and the days packed with new experiences. They say they never knew all this was here and they wish they could stay a little longer!
To Emerald and Rockhampton
To Brisbane
ROCKHAMPTON
LONGREACH
CAIRNS
MOUNT
Make the most of your day
Our day and half-day tours give you the opportunity to discover Roma from a new perspective, revealing how its past affects its present, and how its nature and community thrive together. From the famous cattle saleyards to historic Mt Abundance, we share sights and stories to inspire you. You can even visit the hidden gorges and Aboriginal cultural sites in the Carnarvon Ranges in a day with our Lost World Carnarvons (Wallaroo) day tour.
Stay for a deeper discovery
Our 4-day and 5-day holidays give you the opportunity to absorb all the facets of the region from the sights and sounds of a country town to a sundowner walk to spot wildlife in the remote Carnarvons bush. These holidays include 4-star accommodation in town or glamping at Wallaroo –check the online itineraries for details. Throughout your stay, your Boobook guide shows the way to fascinating places and shares a wealth of intriguing insights.
Day tour from Roma (or Injune and Wallaroo)
Lost World Carnarvons (Wallaroo)
Experience a day you’ll never forget in a wilderness that time forgot. Travel by 4WD mini-bus to the privately-owned Wallaroo Station covering nearly 300 square kilometres of bush, gorges, rivers and natural diversity deep in the Carnarvons.
Step back in time as we explore protected bushland rich with fauna and flora, incredible 200-million-year-old sandstone formations and Aboriginal rock art. On short walks from the mini-bus you’ll see wonders few eyes see. From an Aboriginal axe-grinding site on the Dawson River to the cathedral-like Rainbow Cave and the breathtaking Arcadia Valley, the day is full of unexpected delights.
You’ll enjoy:
• All the diversity and wonder of the Carnarvon Ranges without long walks
• Small group exploration with knowledgeable eco-guide
• Exclusive access to some of the best vantage points in the Carnarvons
• A display of nature that is ever-changing and always fascinating
• Morning tea and lunch in peaceful and picturesque bush settings
• Air-conditioned 4WD mini-bus transfers (from Roma, Injune or Wallaroo).
When: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays March to October
Timing: 7am – 6pm
Departs: Roma, Injune and Wallaroo Outback Retreat
Price: Adult $295 Seniors $280 Child (8-14) $175
Price includes exclusive Wallaroo entry and 5% donation to our wildlife research and community projects.
Half-day Roma tour
Roma Revelation
Recently voted a Queensland Top Tourism Town winner, Roma is a vibrant outback destination known for its rich history, cattle industry, and stunning natural landscapes. In just a morning here you can get up close to the historical, agricultural and natural attractions.
Through entertaining and insightful stories your local guide reveals the history of our First Nations people, early pioneers, cattle duffers and explorers. You’ll discover how the agriculture, timber, wine, oil and gas industries found a place here and how they support the prosperity of the region. You will also get a deeper understanding of the features of the natural environment we see along the way.
Your highlights include:
• Roma Cattle Saleyards (sale day on Tuesday)
• The Farmer’s Forge
• Lake Neverfill
• Heroes Avenue and Roma’s biggest Bottle Tree
• Roma Power Station
• Heritage buildings and historical sites.
* This tour is also included in Landscape and Legacy in Roma day tour (see page 6). From $60pp
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays
Timing: 9am – 12pm
Departs: Pick-up at local Roma accommodation
Price: Adult $65 Senior $60 Child (8-14) $20
Price includes 5% donation to our wildlife research and community projects.
Tourism and Events Queensland Shane Brandon
Day tour of Roma and beyond
Landscape and Legacy in Roma
From $225pp Includes
Follow in the footsteps of explorers. On the lands of the Mandandanji people, early explorer Mitchell stood at the top of Mt Abundance marvelling at the native grasslands below. Nearby, between the twin peaks of the mountain, is the spot where early explorer Leichhardt was last seen heading west. As our 4WD mini-bus climbs the track to 465 metres above the plains, the past meets the present at Massey Downs Station.
Mt Abundance is a wildlife refuge where wedge-tailed eagles soar and iconic bottle trees grow in their natural habitat. Relish your picnic lunch here with spectacular views of the surrounding country and have a walk around the lovely Massey Downs gardens – an inspiring example of a rural country garden.
You’ll enjoy:
• A morning seeing the highlights of Roma
• Exploration of Massey Downs Station and gardens
• The local history of European explorers
• Insights that bring together the stories of early exploration and present agriculture
• Picnic lunch surrounded by wildlife
• Eco-guide to explain the environment and fauna.
*The morning itinerary of this tour is the same as Roma Revelation.
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, March to October
Timing: 9am – 4pm
Departs: Roma
Price: Adult $235 Seniors $225 Child (8-14) $140
Price includes exclusive Massey Downs entry, and 5% donation to our wildlife research and community projects.
Spring day tour
Wildflower Wonderland
Join our botanist for a day at amazing Gurulmundi. This is one of the region’s best locations for wildflowers and sits on the crest of the Great Dividing Range.
Conditions here support a rare and dazzling diversity of Australian native flora with over 200 species. In this protected web of biodiversity, our botanist guide shows you where to find unusual specimens, and you’ll be inspired to see the bush through fresh eyes. You’ll be amazed by the springtime display of colourful grevilleas, hakeas, wattles, bush peas, and many more.
With Rose, your expert botanist, by your side you won’t just admire the flowers—you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their ecological significance, adaptations, and relationships within the landscape.
Rose’s trained eye will help you notice intricate details often missed, from the tiniest orchids hiding in the undergrowth to the rare Gurulmundi heath-myrtle.
This may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see rare or threatened species, and we’ll take you to the best areas to have a chance to see nature’s finest floral treasures in bloom.
About Rose Aisthorpe:
Rose is Boobook’s resident botanist and self-confessed plant nerd. She graduated from James Cook University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science (Botany) and has extensive knowledge and a contagious passion for biology, environmental and natural sciences.
Guided Nature Trail in Roma
This 1-hour guided nature walk at 7.30am on a Monday morning is worth getting up for!
As the bush comes to life, join our eco-guide for a fascinating exploration, getting to know the variety and beauty of our local reforested bushland. The leisurely 1-kilometre walk around Roma Bush Gardens, passes through diverse habitats, from the majestic River Red Gums to the Brigalow open forest. You’ll also see the picturesque 19th-century Railway Dam, which is a tranquil haven for water birds.
Your eco-guide will keep you enthralled with insights into the native vegetation and the vibrant flora and fauna that call this place home. You’re welcome to spend more time here after the tour – bring your binoculars for bird watching, your camera or even your sketch pad and paints.
* BYO binoculars and water bottle
Adult $230pp
When: 30 August and 4 September 2025
Timing: 7am – 4pm
Departs: Roma and Jackson (near Miles)
Price: Adult $230 Child (8-14) $135
Price includes 5% donation to our wildlife research and community projects.
* Morning tea and lunch are included.
When: Weekly on Mondays, March to October
Timing: 1-hour, 7:30am – 8:30am
Departs: Roma Bush Gardens
Price: $15 (all ages)
Price includes 5% donation to our wildlife research and community projects.
4-day do-it-all holiday
Roma and Carnarvons Escape 4-day/3-night
Embark on a journey through 200 million years of Australian outback heritage with the Roma and Carnarvons getaway.
This 4-day getaway takes you to the Australian outback – from the secrets of the Carnarvons to the agri-entrepreneurs of present-day Roma.
Here, where human history and remote bushland meet, you’ll walk in the footsteps of pioneer explorers, discover Aboriginal cultural sites, marvel at ancient cycad groves, delve into early settler history and discover a welcoming outback town with plenty to share.
The small-group holiday includes 4-star accommodation, the best-selling Lost World Carnarvons (Wallaroo) and Roma Landscape and Legacy tours, and extra meals and local highlights.
Your local guides reveal the interconnectedness of nature and human activity – and show how both continue to thrive in this rich, vibrant region.
When: Tuesdays, one per month, April-October
Price: Adult (Twin Share) $3345 Adult (Solo) $3845
Departs: Roma
Day 1 [D]
• Roma arrival and town introduction
• Experience a slice of Roma’s history at The Big Rig Discover how the gas and oil industries have evolved since their early days in Australia.
• Welcome dinner to get to know your fellow travellers.
Day 2 [B,MT,L,D]
• Landscape and Legacy day tour. First, we tour Roma’s highlights then follow in the footsteps of early explorers to iconic landmarks at Mt Abundance. With your eco-guide, learn about the symbiotic relationship between humankind and nature in this culturally rich region.
• In the early evening we visit Western Queensland Spirit to sample local produce and enjoy dinner.
Day 3 [B,MT,L,D]
• Lost World Carnarvons (Wallaroo). Experience a day you’ll never forget in a land that time forgot. We travel from Roma by 4WD, air-conditioned mini-bus to the privately-owned Wallaroo cattle station covering nearly 300 square kilometres of bush, gorges, rivers and natural diversity deep in the Carnarvon Ranges.
On short walks from the mini-bus you’ll see wonders few eyes see including Aboriginal rock art. Your eco-guide will share fascinating insights and you’ll discover how this land has supported flora, fauna and humanity in harmony for centuries.
• Evening dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4 [B, MT,L]
• Visit The Farmer’s Forge to see a blacksmith at work and join a 1-hour workshop to create your own masterpiece.
• Travel 15 minutes from Roma to Rosedale Orchards where oranges thrive in our local climate and hear how our agripreneurs add value with their beautiful fruit products. Enjoy a hearty outback brunch.
* From price. Check the website for inclusions and T&Cs. From $3345pp
• Return to Roma’s main town early afternoon to explore on your own. Perhaps you’d like to visit St Paul’s Anglican Church with its more than 50 stained glass and leadlight windows dating back to 1876. There are plenty of boutique shops to choose a gift or souvenir and, if you’re into sewing and crafts, don’t miss Ace Drapers ‘Overflow’ with a treasure trove of stock from floor to ceiling! In the afternoon we will drop you back to the airport, railway, bus depot or your motel.
B = breakfast, MT = morning tea, L = lunch, D = dinner
5-day walking holiday
Hike Secret Carnarvons 5-day/4-night
Trek the hidden Carnarvons with a local ecologist. This holiday is the ideal choice if you like walking in the wilderness but are not a long-distance hiker and camper.
You get to see the stunning highlights of the Carnarvon Ranges on fascinating daily walks but return to comfortable glamping each evening. No need to carry your world on your back!
Having Boobook ecologist Craig Eddie with you to lead the way enriches each kilometre as he explains the awe-inspiring significance of all you see. He has chosen the best 8-15 kilometre walks through the remote Wallaroo Station with its incredible diversity of flora, fauna, scenery and Aboriginal sites. Craig’s local insights are also invaluable as you walk the Lonesome section of Expedition National Park to the spectacular Candlesticks rock formation and the renowned trail in the Carnarvon Gorge section of the Carnarvon National Park.
Over the five days you’ll see wonders of spectacular sandstone rock cliffs and caves, cycad groves and Aboriginal rock art. You’ll be awed by the incredible biodiversity from overlooked treasures of the micro world to prehistoric plants and rare fauna. There’s even a guided night walk to discover the mysterious world of nocturnal creatures.
This is the best of all worlds with real adventure on lesser-known trails, a renowned local ecologist guide, a small group that treads lightly through the environment, and comfortable bush glamping.
About Craig Eddie:
Craig is Boobook’s Principal Ecologist and has been called the David Attenborough of our region.
He has an encyclopaedic knowledge of fauna, flora, vegetation and landscape management, having spent 30 years in the field. This makes him highly regarded among government and industry peers and has earned him respect in both the scientific and local communities.
When: 5-9 September 2025
Price: Adult (Twin) $2920* Adult (Solo) $3565*
Departs: Roma, Injune
* From price. Check the website for inclusions and T&Cs.
From $2920pp
Day 1 [D]
• Roma arrival.
• Meet and Greet in Roma Bush Gardens.
• Get to know your fellow hikers at a welcome dinner.
Day 2 [B, MT, L, D]
• Start the day with a continental breakfast
• Our first walk (8-9 km circuit) is in the Lonesome section of the Expedition National Park. Enjoy spectacular views of sandstone rock formations that others don’t get to see like the ‘Candlestick silhouettes’ jutting from the valley floor.
• Check-in at Wallaroo Outback Retreat
• Sundowner walk to spot local wildlife.
Day 3 [B, MT, L, D]
• Today we explore iconic Carnarvon Gorge Walking on formed tracks, we visit the Moss Gardens, Amphitheatre, Wards Canyon and the Art Gallery.
• Take an invigorating dip in the rock pools (optional).
• Dinner and socialise around the fire pit.
Day 4 [B, MT, L, D]
• Breakfast at Wallaroo Outback Retreat.
• Depart for Wallaroo Station, a 300 square kilometre privately-owned property. Here we hike 8-14 kilometres deep into the Carnarvon Ranges. We travel cross-country into bushland to explore natural areas off the beaten track. Marvel at the sandstone cliffs, gorges, unique rock formations and Aboriginal rock art. There’s also an inspiring story here of how a working outback cattle station can exist in harmony with its natural landscape.
• Dinner and stargazing around the firepit.
Day 4 [B]
• Early morning walk around Skull Mountain (optional)
• Hearty breakfast with fellow hikers
• Return to Roma.
B = breakfast, MT = morning tea, L = lunch, D = dinner
Price includes exclusive access to private Wallaroo Station with 5% donation to our wildlife research and community projects.
Special interest tours
Create your own tailored outback escape!
Gather your group and plan a unique journey with Boobook Explore! Whether your passion lies in birdwatching, photography, creative writing, botany, agri-business or environmental studies, we’ll design an itinerary that suits you.
Simply get your group of 8-16 together, plus your own presenter or subject expert, and we’ll take care of the rest — guides, transfers and Wallaroo Outback Retreat accommodation. We’ll also host you with an eco familiarisation of the area and can recommend the best locations for your interests. Most groups designate ‘cooks’ to use the camp kitchen but we can arrange for appropriate grocery supplies to be ready for you.
Create single-day or multi-day experiences like:
• Carnarvon Ranges and wildflower tours
Discover breathtaking landscapes
• Nature photography and art workshops
Capture the beauty of the outback
• Creative writing retreats
Be inspired by the outback’s stories and scenery
• Birdwatching and botany
Explore diverse ecosystems
• School and university excursions
Science, geology, human settlement and more
• Agri-business and farming tours
Gain insights into rural industries
Please get in touch to discuss your group needs. We’ll make your outback escape the perfect fit for your group.
Meryl Eddie Business Manager Tour Guide
Eddie Director / Principal Ecologist Tour Guide
Contact Meryl on +61 7 4622 2646 or email info@boobookexplore com.au
Craig
A few things to know before you go!
Why Boobook Explore?
Local
Owners Craig and Meryl Eddie have lived and worked in the region for decades. They know the local history and have unique access to significant local attractions.
Knowledgeable
As ecological and land management consultants and as pastoralists, Craig and Meryl offer unique insights into both the human activity and natural wonders of the region.
Responsible
At Boobook Explore we are environmentally and culturally responsible in all our operations. We have Ecotourism Australia certification and we support our local community.
Help us rescue our native animals
We love the diverse wildlife in our region. Every mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian is precious and we need them in our ecosystem to preserve biodiversity for future generations.
With every Boobook Explore tour or holiday you buy, 5% goes to our research and community projects. We have a long-standing interest in surveying critically endangered local turtle populations and Craig is a recognised expert in the region’s fauna and flora.
You can also support us in caring for injured and orphaned animals by donating to the Maranoa Wildlife Caring and Education Centre.
What our guests say
Our expectations were blasted away. We did the Wallaroo tour. Meryl was very friendly and knowledgeable about the property, the local area and the flora and fauna. We would highly recommend this tour. Julie W
Meryl and her crew go above and beyond. If you want a small tour to show you the hidden gems of the Carnarvon Ranges do yourself a favour and book as soon as you can! I am sure the other tours offered will be at the same high standard and I’ll be booking myself on more experiences with Boobook. Sam B
Eco Certified
Boobook Explore has a continued commitment to sustainable practices and providing high-quality nature-based tourism experiences. We also acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters on which our tourism business operates and pay respect to the Elders past, present and emerging. The ECO Certification logo means you are guaranteed to experience a genuine and authentic tour, attraction or accommodation option that looks after the environment.
Our tour season and climate
Our tours run March to October when conditions are not too hot and wet in the bush and outback. Mornings and evenings can be cool but days warm up to mid-20s in winter and high-30s in summer.
How to get here
Roma is easily reached on a good road network (no need for dirt roads). Rex Air flies between Brisbane and Roma. Greyhound also links the two. The Westlander train does the journey twice a week. Please get in touch if you’d like advice on getting here from other departure points.
We’ve lots more to tell you
You’ll find more detail of the tours, accommodation, fitness levels needed and inclusions on our website. You can book online or call to chat to our reservation team.
