Callington locals hope to turn former church into community centre

This story was contributed by Leonie Hartshorne.

A grassroots community initiative is underway in Callington to retain the “little church” – St Peter’s Lutheran Church – for ongoing public benefit, rather than see the historic building transition out of community access.

Local residents have been working to develop a structured proposal that would see the building repurposed as a modest multi-use community space supporting heritage preservation, arts activity and wellbeing programs within the Bremer Valley.

A public meeting has been scheduled for this Saturday to present the vision and gauge broader community support.

Organiser Leonie Hartshorne said the initiative represented a proactive and constructive approach to regional community development.

“This is about local people stepping forward with a practical vision,” she said.

“Small towns rely on accessible community spaces to maintain social connection, cultural activity and resilience.

“We believe the Little Church has the potential to continue serving that role.”

The proposal being explored includes low-impact adaptive reuse of the building, maintaining its heritage character while activating it for small-scale exhibitions, history interpretation, workshops and community gatherings.

The organisers emphasise that the project is in its early stages and that community input will shape the next steps, including governance structure, sustainability planning and potential partnerships.

The meeting will be open to residents, community leaders, elected representatives and stakeholders interested in contributing to a positive future outcome for the site.

No services have been held at the former Lutheran Church since last May.

• Attend the meeting: 2-3.30pm Saturday at St Peter’s Lutheran Church, 22 Murray Street, Callington.
• Read more: Callington Lutheran Church holds its final service after 161 years