Roma Police believe Romavilla Winery fire was ‘deliberately lit’ as investigations continue

Roma police have revealed that ongoing investigations indicate the blaze that destroyed a historic winery was ‘deliberately lit’, with the public urged to come forward with information. Here’s the latest update.

Police investigations into the giant blaze that destroyed Queensland’s oldest winery are still continuing as more information surfaces.

While no charges have been laid, Roma Police officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Duane Frank said he believes the fire that razed Romavilla Winery in June was “deliberately lit”.

“We reckon the fire has been deliberately lit unless we can prove otherwise, given the circumstances,” he said.

“The exact means we don’t know.

“We’re still leaning towards the side it was deliberate. Sometimes it’s a waiting game, these things take time.

Senior Sergeant Duane Frank said investigations into the suspicious Romavilla Winery fire last month are still ongoing, however police believe it was deliberately lit.

“We’ve reviewed footage and spoken to a number of people.

“Investigations are still continuing and we’re still encouraging people to come forward if they’ve got CCTV footage or information.”

Emergency services were called to the Romavilla Winery on Northern Rd just before 6.40pm on June 22, with officers at the time confirming there were no people inside and no threat to any adjoining structures.

Firefighters spent more than three hours trying to bring the major blaze under control as residents watched on in horror as the building collapsed.

All that is left of the Romavilla Winery after a devastating fire tore through the building on June 22, 2023. Picture: Chloe Cufflin.

People were advised to evacuate their homes and move their cars as a precaution after sparks were seen flying off the giant 15m tall flames.

Smoke was still coming off the burnt building 12 hours later at 10am the next morning as police and fire investigators combed the scene for evidence.

Local residents and prominent community figures expressed their sadness at the loss of the beloved Roma icon, with many fond memories and any future potential also lost in the fire’s wake.

The fire came after the Maranoa Regional Council debated purchasing the abandoned winery off the owner back in May this year.

A community consultation period on the issue had recently been extended, with many residents voicing their support in seeing the winery resume as a business.

More to come.