Wet weather did not deter an extensive crowd flocking to Roma Airport’s opening celebrations on Saturday, 17 March for a fun day of impressive aerial demonstrations, prizes, tasty food and great company.
The day began with the official unveiling of a commemorative plaque inside the new AT Berry Terminal, with special guests there to witness the event. Maranoa Mayor Robert Loughnan thanked representatives of Santos GLNG and Australia Pacific LNG, the project funding partners, for their support.
Local rugby league legend Darren Lockyer was present to receive Roma’s ‘Key to the City’ in front of his devoted local fans; he spent the afternoon signing autographs and mingling with the crowd.
Highlight of the day included a tour of the new terminal, and of QantasLink’s Q400 plane.
Visitors were then treated to a static air show and Red Bull Air Racer, Matt Hall, who demonstrated his impressive aerial acrobatic skills as he took to the sky, finishing his spectacular performance by cutting the ribbon with his Extra 300L plane and officially opening the new Roma Airport.
Maranoa Regional Council’s Chief Executive Officer Paul Bawden said the day was a great success despite the wet weather.
“Saturday was a great event with the Maranoa community coming together to celebrate the opening of the region’s newest facility,” Mr Bawden said.
“On behalf of Maranoa Regional Council, I would like to thank all the special guests and visitors who came to celebrate the day’s festivities with us.
“Our focus now is to get Roma Airport’s new terminal and associated car park operational as soon as possible. Council will keep residents and travellers informed of the progress.”
