Funding received for new Roma Cemetery fencing

238m of new PVC fencing will be implemented in July and August, months after an alleged incident of mass vandalism.

FUNDING RECEIVED: Councillor Geoff McMullen in front of the current Roma Cemetery fencing. The new PVC fencing will be installed during July and August. Picture: contributed

HUNDREDS of metres of new fencing will be erected along the perimeter of the Roma Cemetery, almost three months on from an alleged incident of mass vandalism.

The Maranoa Regional council received funding through the Queensland Government Works for Queensland Program and throughout July and August will build 238m of new PVC fencing along Lewis St south to the Newbon St intersection.

Councillor Geoff McMullen told the Star the cemetery would look far more presentable with new fencing in place.

"I think the current fence is older than me,” Cr McMullen laughed.

"The Roma Cemetery is an important place for many residents in the Maranoa and to be able to upgrade fencing has created a more inviting place to remember our lost loved ones.”

While the current fencing around the Roma Cemetery is made from pine and netting, the new fencing will be made from recycled plastic with a 50-year warranty.

"The new material is made to survive wear andtear, as well as being better for the environment,” CrMcMullen said.

"If something does happen, we won't have toworry about replacing the whole fence again because we can just replaceone piece at a time.”

The alleged cemetery destroyer, Annette Ebony Laurie, was a no-show in court on May 28 where she was set to face charges of driving under the influence, driving without a licence and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

Police alleged the 31-year-old woman was responsible for drunkenly crashing a car through the gates of the Roma Cemetery on March 29, destroying 20 graves in the process.

A warrant is out for MsLaurie's arrest, with another notice to appear in Roma Magistrates Court on June 26.