JUNE 14, 2016: THE Bowen Christian Outreach Centre has been undergoing a progressive transformation as the pastor and parishioners work to repair their aging building and I was happy to present them with a grant to help with that process. I had the pleasure of presenting Pastor Phillip Watego with a $9,398 Stronger Communities Programme grant which will be used to replace a section of the roof which is rusting and beyond repair.The Bowen Christian Outreach Centre is utilised for far more than weekly worship, with people gathering for ladies meetings, family activity nights, mens’ breakfasts and community barbeques.It also houses a gallery of paintings and features a mural depicting Australia which is a drawcard for visitors.The congregation has poured considerable funds into improving their old building and last year they replaced walls infested with white ants.This grant will help them continue with their renovation programme.Stronger Communities grants provide valuable funding for small community groups to undertake capital projects and it has proved to be a boon for many groups in Bowen, including the Tourism Centre and the Showgrounds.