Community hub bowls over the locals at Highfields

When they needed a church home, the Uniting Church congregation at Highfields outside Toowoomba decided to create a community hub. James O’Callaghan reports.

Highfields Community Church has redeveloped a bowling club into a community centre in the heart of Highfields, a growing community near Toowoomba.

Rev Marius Kruger says it was growth that prompted the need for the new space, the Highfields Hub.

“The people of Highfields really need a good community space and we’re delighted to be able to make that happen,” says Marius.

“We want the facility to do more than be a building for the church, but rather be one that the entire community can take advantage of.
“This is a game‑changer in our ministry and in our journey as a church.”

Congregation member Karin Bailey says the hub has come a long way from the bowls club it once was.

“Highfields Community Church has put a lot of thought into transforming it into a functional community centre with a welcoming atmosphere,” she says.

“Renovations, fresh paint in complementing tones, window tinting, tasteful furnishings and wall decor have made the Highfields Hub a warm and inviting place for everyone.”

Reflecting on the grand opening service earlier this year, Karin says the day was truly blessed.

“Everything just came together,” she says. “People flowed in from near and far, invited guests and visitors.

“We had over 220 people at the opening service and we had to bring in more chairs to seat them all. We couldn’t have asked for a better day, and we thank the Lord for that.”

The opening service was followed by morning tea and a family day with barefoot bowls and a barbeque lunch that stretched into the afternoon.

Marius says the local council has purchased land across the road from Highfields Hub, so the new facility will be directly connected to their vision with parklands, retail space and recreation for local residents.

“We are really looking for people to journey with us over the next couple of years and hope that the new Highfields Hub building will be a place that can be enjoyed for generations to come,” he says.

For more information visit highfieldscommunitychurch.com.au