Leichhardt Baptist Church will receive much-needed upgrades in 2018 after a successful application to the Blair Stronger Communities Grants Programme.

Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann MP, congratulated Pastor Rob Howells on the $8,250 grant at the Church on Friday.

“Leichhardt Baptist Church is a hub for numerous community groups and organisations in Western Ipswich,”

“The benefits of the refurbishments will be felt by many in the community.” Mr Neumann said.

Pastor Rob Howells said the Church’s sanctuary and hall, which have existed for over 40 years, will receive new paint, carpet and flooring.

The hall regularly hosts community functions, including Sunday Services bible studies, youth group and prayer breakfasts throughout the week. Pastor Howells operates a weekly drop-in centre on Wednesday afternoons between 3pm and 5pm.

Leichhardt Baptist Church services the suburbs of Leichhardt, One Mile and Wulkuraka, as well as the RAAF Base at Amberley.

The Stronger Communities Programme will deliver $150,000 to community groups in the Ipswich and Somerset Region for small capital projects that improve local community participation and contribute to a vibrant and viable community in Blair.