Where We Come From
Our Story
THE BEGINNINGS
TDBC was established by a group of railway workers in November 1903, as the locomotive depot moved from Sale to Traralgon. These men were members of Sale Baptist Church who sought to create a Baptist fellowship in their new home.
The Church began meeting in a mechanics hall, later merging with Cumberland Park in 1958. This allowed for the purchase of the Kay Street site and the relocation of the Church Hall to Grey Street. Our current buildings were established on this site in 1967.
2000-2009
This period was a time of vision for TDBC. Building on the 1990s vision of a District Church, Rev. Les Lawrence led TDBC to purchase land on the Western perimeter of Traralgon for future expansion. This growth mindset and hope for future ministry continues to be part of our church psyche. 2004 brought a setback for the church as a number of young families left, creating a continuing generational gap.
2010-2015
TDBC grew substantially and deepened its community connections under Rev. Phil Assender. Through our associated counselling centre, food bank ministry and our Kids Hope program, our members engaged strongly with the local community. This was particularly important in the wake of the Black Saturday bushfires which greatly impacted many members of our church.
Church attendance regularly exceeded building capacity and plans were developed for two morning services. Contemporaneously, the youth group connected many families with the church, as did the monthly evening service led by our young adults.
2016-2019
In the lead up to the appointment of Rev. Craig Allan we commenced two morning services. The church focussed on coordinating small group teaching with a stronger emphasis on discipleship and prayer. Refreshed commitment to our central location led to us to sell the Traralgon West property.
2020-2024
The church innovated in response to COVID-19 restrictions, commencing live streaming of services, online Bible studies, Facebook devotionals and children’s talks. Nonetheless church attendance diminished significantly over this time and Rev. Allan took extended personal leave. This period put great strain on the leadership and the church prior to his sudden resignation in 2024.
WHERE TO NOW
Since 2024 the church has been slowly healing from this pain. In recent months we have been working towards developing a vision and expanding ministries. In this time we have seen significant growth in attendance and engagement, whilst we look forward, with excitement, to appointing God’s desired pastor for TDBC.
COUNSELLING & SUPPORT SERVICES 1985 – 2020
Warrina Counselling Centre was initially founded by TDBC in 1985. Initially known under other names, the centre provided professional counselling services to the community with a focus on family and youth support.
Warrina’s counselling and support services later evolved, with a new focus on general Christian counselling and emergency relief. The counselling ministry was strongly underpinned by volunteers from the church, many of whom are still a part of TDBC.