Council appoints successful contractor for pool redevelopment

Council has selected the successful contractor for the redevelopment of the Denise Spencer Aquatic Facility, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of this vital community project.

Hines Constructions, a highly regarded contractor with extensive experience in delivering aquatic and community infrastructure projects, has been selected to undertake the $29.2 million contract.

The appointment follows an Expression of Interest process conducted in early 2024 and a competitive tender process that commenced in October 2024.

With a strong track record in designing and constructing modern, accessible, and high-quality aquatic facilities across regional New South Wales, Hines Constructions brings the expertise required to ensure the Roma community benefits from a long-lasting, state-of-the-art facility.

Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Chair for Major Projects and Facilities, Cr Cameron O’Neil, said the appointment marks the next step in delivering a facility that will serve the community for generations. 

"This project represents a major investment in community infrastructure, and we are pleased to have engaged a contractor with proven expertise in aquatic centre construction,” he said.

“The new Aquatic Centre will enhance liveability, support local jobs, and create a facility that meets the needs of our growing community for years to come."

Director of Hines Constructions, David Hines, said the company was honoured to be chosen to deliver such a significant community project. 

"Hines Constructions is proud to be working with Maranoa Regional Council to bring this fantastic facility to life,” he said.

“We understand the importance of supporting local communities, maximising economic benefits and creating a lasting local legacy.

“We look forward to delivering an aquatic centre that will be enjoyed by locals and visitors for years to come."

Construction on the project is set to immediately commence following the current facility’s closure in April 2025. The redeveloped Aquatic Centre is expected to open in late 2026 for the summer season.

Portfolio Spokesperson for Local Business and Procurement, Cr Amber Davis, said that while there were no local tenderers for the contract, Maranoa Council and Hines Constructions are keen to look to opportunities for local business involvement.

“We’re pleased that Hines Constructions committed to engage local subcontractors and suppliers as outlined in their tender submission and we will be working with them to develop a Local Supplier Engagement Plan to maximise local participation,” Cr Davis said.

“It’s important to Council that we work to ensure suitably qualified local businesses are provided opportunities to contribute to the project.”

Mayor Wendy Taylor said it was important to recognise the contributions from the from the Australian Government and the Queensland Government.

"This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when all levels of government, industry, and Council work together to support regional Queensland,” she said.

“We thank our funding partners for their support and look forward to delivering a facility that will provide long-term benefits to the Maranoa region," Cr Taylor said.

The contract award follows last week’s announcement by the Queensland State Government that is has committed $5 million to the redevelopment, joining January’s announcement of a $9.5 million grant from the Federal Government's Growing Regions Program.