State Government Backs Roma Pool Redevelopment with $5 Million Investment

The Queensland State Government has committed $5 million towards the redevelopment of Roma’s Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre

The Queensland State Government has committed $5 million towards the redevelopment of Roma’s Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre, ensuring this vital community asset continues to serve the Maranoa region for generations to come.

This partnership with Maranoa Regional Council marks a significant investment in regional Queensland, supporting infrastructure that strengthens local economies, creates jobs, and enhances liveability for residents.

Maranoa Mayor Wendy Taylor welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of strong partnerships in delivering critical projects.

"Regional pools like Roma’s are more than just sporting facilities—they are the heartbeat of our communities. They provide a safe space for families, schools, and sporting clubs, support water safety education, and serve as an important hub for health and wellbeing,” Cr Taylor said.

“This investment from the State Government ensures our community will have access to a modern, world-class aquatic facility for decades to come.

“Government partnerships are key to getting projects like the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre off the ground, when governments work together as real partners, we can achieve great things for our communities.”

The State Government’s contribution joins a $9.5 million grant from the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program, demonstrating a shared commitment across all levels of government to deliver high-quality infrastructure in regional Queensland.

The State and Federal funding adds to Council’s own investment of $12.5 million allocated in the 2024/25 Budget. Council’s contribution includes $7.5 million funded through a low-interest loan from the Queensland Treasury Corporation (QTC) and $5 million cash from Council’s annual budget allocation.

Council has also secured industry investment in the project, including $5 million through the Maranoa Regional Council / Origin APLNG Worker’s Transition Agreement.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the Crisafulli LNP Government is determined to invest heavily in more infrastructure projects that will benefit regional Queensland.

“We’re proud to partner with Maranoa Regional Council to deliver upgrades for this critical local infrastructure upgrade,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Queenslanders voted for a fresh start and the LNP is committed to partnering with local government to make decisions that will create jobs, provide long-term economic benefits and improve the lifestyle for Queenslanders no matter where they live.

“Roma deserves a state-of-the-art aquatic centre that will be enjoyed by families for decades to come and the Crisafulli LNP Government is thrilled to help make it a reality.”

Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said she knew firsthand just how important this redevelopment would be for the Roma community.

“The Crisafulli LNP Government believes that working in partnership with local governments delivers the best results for local communities,” Ms Leahy said.

“Infrastructure projects like this improve the South West’s liveability and provide an array of jobs, as well as a great recreational space for families long into the future.

“Projects like this are all a part of the LNP’s plan to get Queensland back on track.”

Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Chair for Major Projects and Facilities, Cr Cameron O’Neil, said the announcement was a significant win for the community. 

"The Roma Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre has long been a vital part of our region, and this investment secures its future,” Cr O’Neil said.

“The project will deliver a modern aquatic facility that meets the needs of our growing community, provides opportunities for regional sporting development, and enhances the liveability of the Maranoa."

The redeveloped Roma Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre will feature a 50-metre outdoor pool, an indoor 25-metre program pool, a state-of-the-art water play area, 10m-high twin waterslides and upgraded accessibility-focused amenities.

 "This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support regional Queensland. We thank the State and Federal Government’s for their support and look forward to delivering a facility that will provide long-term benefits to the Maranoa region," Cr Taylor said.

The Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre project received funding from the Australian Government and the Queensland Government, Maranoa Regional Council and Origin APLNG.