Outback Queensland’s iconic pop-culture event set to blast-off

Roma will turn into a galaxy of geeks this August as pop-culture festival RomaCon returns for its fifth year.

This free event for all ages will take place from 10:00am to 2:00pm on 23rd, August at the Roma Library.

The geek subculture is quiet, but mighty. Almost everyone everywhere has a 'fandom' they enjoy, and this is the day everyone unites in one big nerdvana party.

headspace is calling for people regardless of their age who geek out over various genres and media from fantasy, tv shows and movies, anime, retro arcade, console gaming, and more to come together for an unforgettable day.

At this grand celebration, there is something for everyone with pop culture vendors, exhibitors, workshops, gaming groups and so much more.

Highlights include special guests Star Wars 501st Legion Storm Troopers, costume parade and the grand Cosplay competition.

The Cosplay competition will return with prize money up for grabs.

There will be a first, second and third place for the 15s and over plus the under 15s and one grand overall winner for the family, handmade and skit / in-character performance categories.

This event, inspired by ComicCon was developed by headspace Roma in consultation with their Youth Advisory Group to celebrate the love of pop culture in the country.

headspace Roma Centre Manager / Clinical Lead Julianne Everson said she is excited to see what RomaCon 2025 brings.

“We started RomaCon in 2021 when one of our Youth Reference Group members asked if we could host an event where young people could celebrate “our nerdiness”,” Julianne said.

“From these humble beginnings, and in partnership with the Roma Library staff and support from Maranoa Regional Council and Origin, we continue to be able to host a growing number of activities and bring guest stall holders to increase awareness of pop-culture and the joy of gaming and cosplay”.

“This year will be bigger and better with some amazing stall holders, costumes in preparation, and fun activities being developed. We can’t wait to see everyone there in costume or not, to enjoy a day of fun and connection”.

Spokesperson for Arts and Culture, Cr Meryl Brumpton said Council has been proud to support this key calendar event since the inception in 2021.

“RomaCon has contributed to helping regional people create meaningful connections to improve mental health and reduce isolation.  

“To be able to hold an event like this in Outback Queensland opens up a phenomenal opportunity for rural residents to get out of their comfort zone and share their love of pop culture with the people around them.”

“I highly recommend anyone and everyone regardless of your age to come out and see what RomaCon is all about.”

For more information, contact the Roma Library by emailing: roma.library@maranoa.qld.gov.au