Our History

About a decade ago the property which once housed the projection room and food outlet of the Tamworth
drive-in theatre was donated to the church. For a few years the building and block was left idle until the
church decided how to develop it.
About eight years ago a development committee was formed and with the encouragement of our then
pastor, Rev. Andrew Coburn, the committee set about its task.
The church had already decided that whatever activity was to occur on the block it was to be a means of
outreach to the community, would not duplicate any existing ministry, and was to meet an identified need
within our community.
Eventually the development committee proposed that a long day child care facility should be built, and the
church members agreed. A business plan had to be developed and financial arrangements to pay for the
building had to be made. Then began the long task of planning the design of the building, having the plans
drawn up, negotiating with numerous local, State, and Federal authorities, and ensuring that the building
complied with the requirements of the Department of Community Services.
Prior to the commencement of building the old projection house building had to be demolished and the
site cleared. Then, with everything in place the committee was able to call for tenders to erect the centre.
The successful tenderer was M. & L. Single Builders, who commenced work just before Christmas 2009.
Apart from two weeks delay due to wet weather construction went to plan and the building was handed
over to Tamworth Baptist Child Care Services Limited in September 2010 for completion of grounds and
external fencing.
Excitement continued to build as we approached completion, which occurred with the willing assistance of
many church members who gave their time freely to ensure we could apply for our licence. Our licence to
operate was granted on 4th January 2011 with the centre opening its door to children on 10th January
2011.
In November 2010 we appointed our director, and four other staff were added in January 2011. From then
on, we were occupied with furnishing the building, installing computer and telephone systems, building
shelving, and setting up other required services.
Our official opening was held on Saturday, 12th March before an audience of over eighty people. Our client
numbers have been increasing each week, so we have added further staff members, now totalling seven
full-time and part-time staff and more are to follow.
Throughout the whole period the development committee and the Board have sensed God’s leading as
each domino fell into place and we praise Him for His faithfulness and His provision in all that has so far
occurred. We anticipate future blessings on the work and know that it only remains for us to be faithful to
ensure future success as we train up the precious children who come into our care.
Ray Dart
© April 13, 2011