Council to Operate Redeveloped Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre

Published on 13 November 2025

Official Denise Spencer Memorial Poo Operating Model.png

Maranoa Regional Council has endorsed an operating model for the redeveloped Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre, confirming that the facility will be operated by Council for at least the first three years after it opens in late 2026.

The decision provides a strong foundation for the region’s largest recreation investment - ensuring that operational systems, staffing structures, and community programs are established in a way that reflects local priorities.

Councillor Peter Flynn, Portfolio Chair for Sport and Recreation, said the approach will give Council greater insight and flexibility during the facility’s establishment phase.

“This facility is being built for our community, and Council wants to make sure it opens with a clear understanding of what works best here in the Maranoa,” Cr Flynn said.

“Managing the centre directly in its early years gives Council the opportunity to learn how the facility operates day-to-day and to make decisions that reflect local priorities, not just numbers on a page.”

Deputy Mayor Cameron O’Neil, Portfolio Chair for Major Projects, said the decision positions Council to make informed, evidence-based choices about the centre’s long-term future.

“A lot of work has gone into exploring the best management models - including external tenders and hybrid approaches,” Cr O’Neil said.

“Council’s view is that we need to understand exactly how this facility operates in a real-world setting before making any long-term decisions.

The initial three-year period gives us the data, the systems, and the experience to make evidence-based decisions about the most efficient and sustainable model moving forward.”

To support this approach, Council will soon begin recruitment for a dedicated Centre Manager, who will lead the transition from construction to operation.

“The Centre Manager will be critical in preparing for the many operational questions that follow, from learn-to-swim delivery and staffing through to community programming and partnerships,” Cr O’Neil said.

Mayor Wendy Taylor said the decision reflects Council’s commitment to strong governance and community value.

“The Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre is a major investment for Roma and the broader Maranoa,” Mayor Taylor said.

“This approach gives Council the opportunity to get operations right from the start, make decisions locally, and ensure this new facility truly serves the community for generations to come.”

The Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre is scheduled to open in late 2026, with operational planning and recruitment to commence later this year.

A strategic review will be undertaken after the initial three years to evaluate performance, community outcomes, and future management options.

For updates on the progress of the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre visit the Council Projects page here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has Council decided to operate the pool itself?

Council considered several management options; however, after detailed analysis, Council endorsed an in-house model for the first three years to ensure operational control and community confidence during the establishment phase.
This approach allows Council to directly shape the facility’s operations, programs, and customer experience as the new centre opens and matures.

Will the pool be more expensive to run?

Managing the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre internally gives Council the best opportunity to understand exactly where the dollars are best spent — ensuring investment directly benefits community access and service quality.

While detailed benchmarking and operational cost assessments have been completed, the most important outcome is that Council will gain first-hand insight into the real costs and efficiencies of operating a modern aquatic facility.

This knowledge will inform future decisions about the overall facility operations, including potential management models, helping Council find the most sustainable and community-focused path forward.

A formal review will be undertaken after the first three years of operation to assess financial performance, community outcomes, and opportunities for improvement.

Why not use an external management company from the start?

While outsourced management can offer different benefits, it also means less local control over programs, staffing, and community access.
Council’s priority is to establish a strong operational foundation and ensure the facility meets community expectations before considering any external model in the future.

When will the pool reopen?

The Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre is scheduled to open in late 2026, following the completion of construction and commissioning. Recruitment for the Centre Manager will begin soon to support a smooth transition to operations.

Will the facility be free or paid to use?

Council is still considering these operational details as part of the broader planning process. Recruiting a dedicated, experienced Centre Manager is the first step in helping Council develop the right programs, pricing structure, and community access arrangements for the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre.

This role will guide decisions on how to balance affordability with the ongoing costs of maintaining a high-quality and sustainable facility.
Council’s focus is to ensure that everyone in the community can access and enjoy the new centre, while also supporting its long-term financial sustainability.

How will learn-to-swim programs be delivered?

Learn-to-swim is a core focus of the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre redevelopment, and several delivery options are currently being explored.
Council recognises the importance of ensuring these programs are accessible, high-quality, and responsive to community needs.

The Centre Manager, once appointed, will play a key role in guiding Council on the best approach — whether through direct delivery, partnerships with accredited instructors, or a combination of both.
This planning will ensure the program is well-coordinated from opening and aligns with the broader vision for community health, water safety, and lifelong swimming skills.

What about lifeguards and other staffing?

Once the Centre Manager is appointed, they will lead the next stage of operational planning — including the recruitment of qualified lifeguards, instructors, and customer service staff.

These roles will be critical to creating a safe, welcoming, and well-run facility that meets community expectations. Council anticipates a combination of local recruitment and targeted training to support employment opportunities for this facility.