What's Happening in Slacks Creek, QLD…

Boxer Alex Leapai has put his home town of Slacks Creek, Queensland, on the map after an awe-inspiring attempt to secure the heavyweight boxing championship in Germany.

The sporting hero won the hearts of a nation despite being beaten by a formidable opponent, Ukrainian Wladimir Kitschko.

Less than a week after the former courier van driver-turned boxer flew back into Australia, his local community of Logan City, of which Slacks Creek is a part, welcomed him home in grand style.

At a civic reception held at the Logan Entertainment Centre, the Mayor, Pam Parker, presented Leapai with the keys to the City.

She said the boxer, nicknamed `Lionheart’, had touched the hearts of people of all ages not only for his heroic battle in the ring, but also for his passion for his nation, city, local community, and his family. Leapai was the first Australian in over 100 years to contest the heavyweight title.

The opportunity to challenge Kitschko in the world heavyweight boxing title did not come easily for underdog Leapai, who initially trained in a tin shed with a makeshift gym on his modest Slacks Creek property, which he shares with his wife and six children.

Councillor Parker said his boxing ability and determination to succeed was an inspiration to all.

She added Leapai had also attracted the adoration of school children, many of whom attended the special event in Logan.

Poster printing and videos of the fight will ensure Leapai’s efforts will be long remembered.