Santos’ $1 Million Commitment to Enhance Wellbeing & Community
Published on 16 February 2026
The Maranoa Regional Council has thanked Santos for its one-million-dollar contribution towards the redevelopment of the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre in Roma.
The funding will support the construction of an inclusive state-of-the-art aquatic facility, which will benefit the broader Maranoa region for years to come.
The redevelopment of the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre commenced in April 2025 and is on track to open to the community in Summer 2026.
Chief Operating Officer Australia and PNG Upstream Oil and Gas, Brett Darley, said Santos was proud to support the delivery of much-needed infrastructure for the Maranoa community.
“We’ve been working in partnership with local communities for more than 70 years here in Australia and are passionate about creating a positive impact in the communities where we operate,” Mr Darley said.
“The Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre will be more than a swimming pool. It will be a community space to relax with friends and neighbours, not just now but for generations to come.”
Mayor of the Maranoa Regional Council, Councillor Wendy Taylor, thanked Santos for their generosity and support not only for the redevelopment of the aquatic precinct but also for the Roma and wider Maranoa community.
“This contribution is an example of how collaboration between local government and industry can help deliver real benefits for our region,” Mayor Taylor said.
“The redevelopment of the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre is not just about upgrading a facility; it’s an investment in the health, wellbeing, and lifestyle of our residents.”
Deputy Mayor and Spokesperson for Major Projects, Councillor Cameron O’Neil, highlighted the impact that facilities such as the Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre have on regional communities.
“It’s through partnerships like this that we can continue to deliver projects that make a real difference to the lives of our residents, that create jobs during construction to help boost the local economy and adds to the liveability of our towns and community,” Cr O’Neil said.
The Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre will feature a 50-metre outdoor pool, a 25-metre indoor program pool, a splash pad, a toddler pool, a junior water play area, waterslides, and accessible amenities and facilities.
This project received funding of $9.5 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program and further funding from the Queensland Government.