SAYING HELLO
Or waving goodbye.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
Since 1976.
Starting in 1976 as Newman Christian Fellowship, our first pastor was the late Rev Nic Rensen who arrived with his young family. Future pastors worked both on the mine and church, even serving as industrial chaplains, as the roles grew with the congregation. The church building was opened in 1989.
Then, as today, our community was defined by the transient nature of the town. Over the years, we have welcomed and farewelled thousands of individuals and families. Standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before us, we are now a modern, flexible and adaptable church with a multi-cultural, intergenerational community. We consider it a privilege to provide spiritual care for however long you are with us.
"Our mission is to mobilise and prepare disciples for active service."
Meet the team
SOME FRIENDLY FACES
ELIJAH & LUISA VILIAFI
Senior Pastors
Born in the Southern Land of the Holy Spirit South-West Sydney, Elijah was transformed from a troubled past into a God-fearing and compassionate man. Married for ten years to his beautiful wife Lu who shares his deep love for Jesus. Elijah left a six-year mining career to answer God’s call to ministry. In 2023, Lij and Lu began full-time pastoring at NBC, embracing the honour of shepherding others. Despite challenges, they trust in God’s guidance and faithfulness on their journey.
Gordy Simmul
Associate Pastor in Training
Gordy has been married to his beautiful wife Kellie for over 20yrs. They have been part of the NBC for a time of spiritual growth and refinement, deepening their relationship with Christ. Through this journey, they have learned more about themselves and each other. They have two adult sons who now live in Perth. They find great comfort in Psalm 91, which speaks of God's protection and trustworthiness. They feels blessed by their daily encounters with the living God.
Andrea Tapera
Worship Ministry Co Leader
Andrea’s early life instilled in her a love and passion for seeing the Holy Spirit move when people gathered in His name. She now leads others in worship, and is passionate about seeing others witness His love.
natalia van-wyk
Sunday Service Ministry Leader
Young Adults Ministry Leader
Natalia co-leads the young adult's ministry, as well as leads the Sunday service structure ministry. Originally from Poland, she has been married to Peter for 4 years.
CASS MALUPI
Media Ministry Leader
Cass grew up on the Pacific Island Of Papua New Guinea. The Media Ministry is a dynamic way she can communicate the good news to the Church and wider community.
HELEN LIKILIKI
Children Ministry Leader
Helen has grown into her current role, having started as a helper, then teacher, and now leader.
PHYLLIS LOCKYER
Prayer Ministry Leader
Phyllis has lived in Newman for 24 years. Since moving into prayer ministry 3 years ago, she has grown as a Christian. Phyllis also leads women’s small groups.
Bill Joukhadar
Elder
Bill has been married to his beautiful wife, Beryl, for over five decades. Together, they are parents to two children and grandparents to six grandchildren.
Bills encounter with the "living" God occurred in his early 20s. Since then, the Lord has reoriented his way of thinking and transformed his life so profoundly that they are no longer the person they once were. They are increasingly becoming more like Him.
Alan ewen
Elder
At the age of 21, Alan encountered the Lord, and since that moment, God has transformed his life. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, he has become more like the Son, Jesus. Alan has served God in various ministry areas.
