Council secures grant to pave the way to Sculptures Out Back Festival
Published on 23 January 2026
Maranoa Regional Council has been successful for funding of $354,500 under the Queensland Government’s 2025–26 Walking Local Government Grants program.
This funding will facilitate the design and construction of a 700-metre extension to the Adungadoo Pathway, creating a vital link between the Big Rig Parklands and the renowned Sculptures Out Back precinct.
The proposed pathway will commence at the Big Rig pedestrian bridge, continue to the Sculptures Park and connect to an existing concrete path east of the Sculptures Park.
This extension will bridge a significant gap in Roma’s walking network, connecting key destinations, including accommodation facilities, conference venues, sports grounds, and the town centre.
Council's Portfolio Spokesperson for Town Beautification, Cr Amber Davis said the pathway extension is a big step towards making Roma more accessible and walkable.
“The extension will provide a continuous, safe and scenic walking route through Roma,” Cr Davis said.
“By working with the State Government and investing in infrastructure that promotes active transport we are fostering a healthier, more connected community.
Council's Portfolio Spokesperson for Arts & Culture, Cr Meryl Brumpton, said the successful grant will add to the growing success of Roma’s sculptures festival.
"Last year 24,318 vehicle movements were recorded in the Sculptures Outback carpark, with a peak of 540 vehicles recorded on a single day."
“And that’s just in the carpark, not vehicles pulled up on the highway.
“This pathway extension will encourage visitors to walk and explore more of our town, as well as make it easier for them to see our amazing sculpture festival.”
The Sculptures Out Back festival, held annually from June to September, showcases outdoor sculptures that celebrate local history, cultural heritage, and the environment.
The exhibition, situated between the iconic Big Rig and the Roma Explorer’s Inn along the Warrego Highway, attracts artists and visitors from across Australia.
Cr Brumpton highlighted the importance of accessibility for the festival.
“Ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or mobility, can enjoy the Sculptures Out Back exhibition is paramount.
“This new pathway will provide a smooth, level surface suitable for walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users, and families with prams, making the arts more inclusive for all.”
The project aligns with the objectives of the Maranoa Region Walking Network Plans, completed in December 2023, which aim to create more walkable communities by improving access to primary destinations like town centres and public transport hubs.
Construction of the pathway is scheduled to commence in the 2025–26 financial year, with Maranoa Regional Council co-funding the project. The Council extends its gratitude to the Queensland Government for its continued support in enhancing regional infrastructure.
About Sculptures Out Back:
Sculptures Out Back is Roma’s annual outdoor sculpture exhibition, celebrating local history, cultural heritage, community, and the environment. The exhibition runs from June to September each year and features unique, handcrafted pieces displayed along the bank of Roma’s Bungil Creek.