Nathan Stafford helping out with fundraising for the Red Shield Appeal with Salvationist Di Hill and her son Andrew (in background). BY HANNAH BRABROOK Nearly 20 years ago, Nathan Stafford walked through the doors of The Salvation Army’s Foster House in Sydney at one of the lowest points in his life. Homeless, battling addiction and facing the prospect of jail, Nathan couldn’t see a way forward. Today, he is a devoted husband and father, a successful businessman, and a social media personality known for travelling around Australia mowing lawns for free and helping people in need. Most people know him as ‘the lawn-mower man’ – the guy behind Nathan’s Lawns and Gardens. Nathan established his lawn-mowing enterprise in 2010. Photo courtesy of his website But Nathan is quick to acknowledge that his life could have turned out very differently. Returning to Foster House recently, Nathan reflected on the role the Salvos played in helping him rebuild his life. “I lived in this place just over 20 years ago,” Nathan said. “I was homeless, doing some silly stuff, and I came into here before getting my life on track. I spent about three months in here. I’m very grateful for this place.” Walking back through the doors brought back powerful memories. “It brings back a lot of memories today of where I was then to where I am now,” he said. “They do a remarkable job here.” Nathan recalls being in a desperate state when he first arrived at Foster House. “Not good,” he said. “I was looking at possibly going to jail, or I was up at a bridge going, ‘I don’t want to be here anymore.’ That’s the reality.” The entrance to Foster House in Sydney. A chance encounter led him to The Salvation Army. Someone he met on the street gave him a phone number and encouraged him to make contact. At first, he resisted. “I didn’t want to,” Nathan admitted. “Then, eventually, one night I did.” What happened next changed the course of his life – he met Foster House workers, Salvation Army officers (now retired), Majors Peter and Ruth Dollin. “She just gave me a hug and said everything was going to be all right,” he said. “I needed someone that understood,” he said. “They weren’t there to judge me. They were there to explain that there was a better life out there and that I had a really good chance to change and live the life everyone deserves to have.” Retired officers Majors Peter and Ruth Dollin shared a heartfelt message with Nathan. During his return visit to Foster House, Nathan was surprised by a video message from the pair. “We are so proud of you, Nathan,” Ruth said in the message. “We’ve seen you come from being in a very vulnerable space to now being a man, a dad and a lovely husband.” Overcome with emotion, Nathan described them as “two of the most beautiful people” he has ever met. Asked what message he would send back to them, Nathan’s response was simple: “I wouldn’t be here without you two. I’m very thankful.” Nathan believes his story proves the difference one person can make when they choose to believe in someone. “They saved my life,” he said. “I couldn’t see how I could get out of this, and they just backed me the whole way.” Today, Nathan is sharing that same sense of hope with others. Through his popular social media channels, he travels across Australia, helping people in need by mowing lawns for free and often providing financial assistance and practical support to those doing it tough. For him, there is a clear connection between the support he received from The Salvation Army and the way he now chooses to serve others. “I think it’s very important to give back,” he said. “If you’ve lived the life I did and been able to get back over that line and change, it’s very important to give back and show how grateful you are for it.” Nathan believes that services like Foster House play a vital role in helping people rebuild their lives and build positive futures. “I’ve seen firsthand the many people that have come through here who have probably been written off like myself and been able to change their lives.” Nathan hopes more Australians will get behind services like Foster House so they can continue transforming lives for years to come. “These places need funding, and they need donations,” he said. “I just hope everyone gets behind them.” As he walked through Foster House once again, Nathan’s story served as a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of compassionate support, practical assistance and of people who refuse to give up on others. Sometimes, all it takes is one person to believe in someone. For Nathan, that belief changed everything. Hannah Brabrook works as a Media Relations Officer with The Salvation Army. She was part of the team that created the recent Channel 7 TV Special ‘The Shield that Changes Lives’. Watch here Australian journalist and television presenter Monique Wright interviews Nathan on the Channel 7 special, ‘The Shield the Changes Lives’.

Major Mal Davies (Victoria Divisional Commander) officially opens the Catalyst Tiny House Project at Rosebud Corps together with Simon Brooks (Dromana Association President), who started the project and built the home, and Greg Fitzgerald from the Rotary Club of Dromana. (Photo courtesy of Southern Peninsula News, Mornington Peninsula. Photographer: Yanni Dellaportas) BY LERISSE SMITH One Tiny Home. One life changed. One community coming together. That’s the vision behind an exciting new initiative on Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula: a single Tiny Home with the power to change a life for people aged over 55. Driven by compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to tackling homelessness in a region facing a critical shortage of accommodation, the initiative was the brainchild of the Rotary Club of Dromana, which donated the Catalyst Tiny House Project to The Salvation Army Homelessness Services. The club wants to make a meaningful difference in the lives of mature-aged people struggling to find a roof over their heads, and the recent launch of the Tiny Home at Rosebud has caused much excitement. Simon Brooks (left) and Greg Fitzgerald take a final look at the completed Tiny Home before the first tenant moves in. (Photo courtesy of Southern Peninsula News, Mornington Peninsula. Photographer: Yanni Dellaportas) “It really is a fantastic example of The Salvation Army, the church, the homeless services and the chaplain coming all together to really support the person (the tenant) to move forward in their life,” says John Cullen, Homelessness Manager – Victoria East. “With the homelessness model of care, and our mission and values, it’s about treating someone with respect. It’s very important to us that in no way should they (the tenant) feel like this is a charity situation, that they should be grateful. “It really is about just coming alongside someone and journeying with them to help them move forward with what they need. So, it’s a very respectful, dignified approach, and obviously a very exciting one.” Designed as a stepping stone rather than a permanent solution, the accommodation will be available for up to six months. Throughout that time, Homelessness Services will work closely with the tenant to help them transition to long-term housing and get them on their feet – a step towards a permanent home. The project began when the Rotary Club of Dromana approached The Salvation Army with a simple idea: to donate a Tiny Home to someone experiencing homelessness. With the Rosebud Corps site having ample land, the church was identified as the ideal location. The Tiny Home initiative was the brainchild of the Rotary Club of Dromana who donated the Catalyst Tiny House Project to The Salvation Army Homelessness services. After the necessary approvals were secured, The Salvation Army accepted the generous gift of the Tiny Home – a community-led and delivered project. Dromana Association President Simon Brooks built the Tiny Home using Australian-made products wherever possible, with donated and subsidised time, labour and materials from local businesses and donations from local service clubs and the community. The architect-designed home features a planned layout with a front sitting area, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. “It is obviously very generous of Rotary to donate this home to us because we couldn’t have done it without them doing that,” says John. Designed for safe, temporary living, the Tiny Home will provide accommodation for someone in the local community, with referrals managed through The Salvation Army Homelessness Services in Rosebud. “They (the Salvos) see homeless clients all the time,” he adds. “People reach out to them urgently needing accommodation.” Through these services, staff will assess people experiencing homelessness to determine who is the best fit for the home, while other community agencies will also be able to refer people to the Salvos if they feel they are suitable. Careful assessment is central to the program. John said the homelessness team would ensure each applicant was suited to living alongside the corps’ thrift shop and on corps land. Simon Brooks (Dromana Association President) speaks at the official launch of the Tiny House project, a community-led and delivered project. “I think the unique thing with the Tiny Home is that it’s a very modern, really nice little home,” he says. “It is really someone’s home, and having it next to the corps means that the corps is there if the person wants to be part of the corps community as well.” Beyond shelter, the location also creates opportunities for connection with the corps. Positioned alongside the corps, the Tiny Home allows the tenant to engage with the faith community if they choose. The corps will respect the person’s privacy while leaving invitations in the letterbox for activities such as the Companion Club, church services, or other community programs. The decision to participate will always rest with the tenant. During their stay, the tenant will also pay subsidised rent. Adding another layer of support, Peninsula & Gateways Homelessness chaplain Andrea Elkington will act as a connector among Homelessness Services, the corps and the tenant to ascertain how it is going. The homelessness support team will also conduct regular check-ins with the tenant to ensure everything is running smoothly and to identify any additional support they may need to move forward in their life. Practical support also extends beyond the Tiny Home itself. The Rosebud Corps has purchased a washing machine and dryer for use in the corps building, providing the tenant with convenient access to essential laundry facilities. Although only one Tiny Home is currently planned for the Rosebud Corps site, those behind the initiative hope it will be the first step towards something much bigger. “The aim is for Rotary to use this as a pilot,” says John. “And then hopefully get some local council land to put more homes. I’m hoping that through this initiative, there will be more Tiny Homes available in the local community, and while they may not necessarily be linked in with The Salvation Army, it certainly does mean that a rough sleeper, possibly someone who’s got nowhere to go, all of a sudden has a Tiny Home.” Looking ahead, continuous improvement remains a key priority for the project. The program will be reviewed every six months, with tenant feedback playing a vital role in refining the model and shaping its future direction. “Tenant feedback will be crucial,” says John. “Every six months we’ll keep reviewing, see what we can improve, what can be tweaked, so that’s sort of the aim.” Salvation Army Band members entertained guests at the official launch of the Tiny Home. He also adds that one of the project’s greatest strengths is the growing partnership between the Homelessness Services and the corps, with this collaboration being key to the model’s success. As that relationship continues to develop within The Salvation Army, opportunities remain for tenants to connect with the faith community, should they choose. “It doesn’t mean that our services are conditional to the tenant,” he explains. “But we’re certainly a faith-based Christian organisation, and that is obviously a key component and a link to what we do, and that if someone (the tenant) is looking for a community, for fellowship – the corps is there to offer that.” For more information on the Catalyst Tiny House Project, click here.

The work of my life, in the office and outside it, is to create spaces where different kinds of hope can coexist, writes Amanda Brummell Lennestaal. With today marking International Day of Hope, TSA General Manager Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Amanda Brummell Lennestaal writes about the quiet work of hoping. I want to tell you something honest about hope. Not the version that arrives wrapped in a bow, trailing certainty behind it. Not the kind that says 'it will be okay'. That kind of hope, however well meant, has never once helped me. Mostly it has made me feel more alone in whatever I was carrying. The hope I know is smaller than that. Quieter. Sometimes it is barely a breath. I think of a candle. Sometimes it burns robustly against real darkness, unflinching. Sometimes it sits atop a birthday cake, joyful, a little triumphant. Sometimes it marks a grave, steady and solemn, the only warmth in an unbearable room. And sometimes it is on the absolute verge of being snuffed out, trembling with each movement of air, so fragile you find yourself holding your own breath so as not to be the thing that extinguishes it. All of those are the same candle. All of those are hope. Hope in hard places Part of my work is sitting with people in hard places. People carrying things that are heavy and complex and sometimes invisible to everyone around them. In that space, I have learned that hope is not something you perform. It is something you practise, quietly, imperfectly, often without knowing if it is working. That kind of hope is not optimism. It is not confidence. It is a decision made in the body before the mind catches up. It is showing up again. From the outside it can look like stubbornness. From the inside, it often just looks like Tuesday. I am also a mother. Three daughters, each extraordinary, each navigating a world that asks more of them than it should. There are days when I watch them and something in me floods with a feeling I can only call hope; involuntary and overwhelming. There are other days when I walk with one of them through something painful and I cannot find hope at all. On those days, I have learned to look for it somewhere outside myself. Hope looks unique for everyone That is perhaps the truest thing I know about hope: you are not always the one who has to carry it. There have been seasons when I could not locate hope anywhere in my own body. On those days I went outside. I walked. I let the sky be very large and my problems very small for just long enough to take the next breath. I wrote things down, not to resolve them but to make them visible, because named things are somehow more survivable than the shapeless dark. I sat with my daughters and let their presence be enough. Sometimes that was all hope was: not a belief that things would improve, but a reason to stay in the room. Hope looks different depending on who you are and what you have survived. It is shaped by culture, by faith, by the kind of losses you carry. My hope is not your hope. What sustains me may mean nothing to you. What you reach for when darkness comes may be entirely foreign to my experience. I do not think that’s a problem; I think it’s the whole point. The work of my life, in the office and outside it, is to create spaces where different kinds of hope can coexist. Where yours doesn’t have to look like mine to count. Where the tentative flame is as honoured as the robust one. Where we are allowed to say 'I can’t find it right now' and have someone else say 'that’s alright, I’ll hold it for you'. Someone has done that for me. More than once. It is the most profound act I know.

Salvation Army Emergency Services are expanding their response in earthquake-ravaged Venezeula. BY IHQ COMMUNICATIONS As the humanitarian impact of the earthquakes in Venezuela continues to deepen, The Salvation Army’s response continues across Caracas and La Guaira, where teams are carrying out assessments, coordinating with local partners and distributing essential relief supplies. This includes prepared meals, dry food rations, drinking water, hygiene items and other practical support for people affected by the disaster. Support is also being provided to first responders, including refreshments, hygiene supplies and practical assistance as they continue their work in difficult conditions. Alongside this, Salvation Army teams and local church partners are offering prayer, spiritual care and emotional support to individuals and families facing trauma, loss and uncertainty. Additional personnel support is now being arranged through The Salvation Army’s International Emergency Services team, working closely with regional leadership to strengthen the ongoing response. According to current reports, at least 3535 people have lost their lives, more than 16,740 have been injured and tens of thousands remain unaccounted for. More than 800 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial earthquakes, adding further strain for affected communities and those working to support them. Salvation Army personnel provide a caring and professional approach in responding to emergencies and those impacted. Increased response As the situation develops, the response is beginning to move beyond immediate relief alone. While urgent humanitarian needs remain significant, early recovery priorities are also becoming clearer as communities begin the long process of restoration. Operations continue to be coordinated through Emmanuel Church, which is serving as a key hub for relief activity and distribution. The Salvation Army is also working to identify beneficiaries and map communities to help ensure that support reaches underserved areas. Transport and logistics remain among the greatest challenges. Congestion, damaged infrastructure and limited vehicle capacity continue to affect movement, making additional transportation resources vital for assessments, distributions and engagement with affected communities. Response teams work with first responders as further damage and needs assessments are made. The Salvation Army remains deeply grateful for the prayers and support being offered for the people of Venezuela, for families still searching for loved ones, for children and vulnerable people affected by the disaster and for the small but dedicated response team working alongside friends from Emmanuel Church. Please continue to offer prayers for the people of Venezuela, for families still searching for loved ones, for children and vulnerable people affected by the disaster and for the small but dedicated response team working alongside friends from Emmanuel Church.

Major Brendan Nottle (Project 614 Team Leader) and Ingrid Stitt (Victorian Minister for Government Services) speak at the launch. BY LERISSE SMITH A single piece of paper is set to transform lives at The Salvation Army’s Melbourne Project 614. For the first time, the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria has stepped beyond the confines of government offices and into the community, launching a monthly, face-to-face service at the Salvos’ Bourke St premises designed to reach those who need it most – those who don’t have identification documents. For many people doing it tough, a missing birth certificate or lost ID isn’t a minor inconvenience – it’s a locked door. Without identification, everyday essentials fall out of reach: housing, healthcare, financial support and even the chance to apply for a job. That reality was brought into sharp focus at the official launch of the new partnership at Project on 24 June. “It is obviously a very exciting day for Project 614 and a long time coming – about five years in the making,” remarked Major Brendan Nottle, Project 614 Team Leader, at the launch. “Walking through the café today and sensing the excitement of having Births, Deaths and Marriages here, there’s vindication of all the work that’s gone into making this happen. I think people recognise how important it is to have ID, and when people don’t have ID, they’re literally locked out of life. “So, for them to be able to access income support now that they have ID, health support, mental health support, are all really critical things that people need and deserve, because no matter what our circumstances, we’re still human beings.” Celebrating the new partnership (from left), David (community member), Major Kate Baudinette (Assistant Divisional Commander), Major Brendan Nottle (Project 614 Team Leader), Davydd Griffiths (City of Melbourne Councillor), Sunni (community member) and Ingrid Stitt (Victorian Minister for Government Services). The Victorian Minister for Government Services, Ingrid Stitt, launched the new partnership with The Salvation Army and praised the initiative, thanking the Salvos for the extraordinary work they do every day to support vulnerable Victorians. “For most of us, a birth certificate is something tucked away in a drawer that we rarely think about,” she said. “But for those facing disadvantage, not having one can stop life in its tracks. It can mean missing out on housing, employment, government services and other opportunities many of us take for granted. “That’s why I was proud to join The Salvation Army to launch a new partnership with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM). Every month, BDM staff will be at Project 614 helping vulnerable Victorians apply for birth certificates and get the proof of identity they need to access the services and supports they deserve. A simple idea, but one that could make a real difference for the people it helps.” Jessica Mucilli, Manager of Operations at the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, said the launch was an exciting and emotional day. The partnership launch turned into a double celebration as Sunni and David’s birthdays were celebrated with a colourful cake, balloons – and the Happy Birthday song! A special shoutout was also given to Minister Stitt who celebrated her birthday in June. Within just a few hours on the morning of the launch, 10 people had already sought help to obtain their birth certificates, with many more stopping by to share their stories. “They have been telling us their story, and how much this means, so we can already see that this is making a difference in their lives,” Jessica said. “They will get their certificates in about two weeks’ time, and then that will open doors to whatever they need to do.” The reasons some people are unable to access their identification documents are often complex. “It goes back to that compounding vulnerability,” she explained. “One lady that we spoke to was telling us about wanting to change her name, and if we could assist with that, and we were able to do that. We’re actually able to facilitate the whole process, which is quite a lengthy process, but we were able to get it done downstairs. They had all the documents that they needed, and just hearing from her why she needed to do it, and how changing her identity would assist her and protect her – that was a key call out for us, that protection, changing her identity because of the vulnerability that she has experienced. “I spoke to another lady up here just after the launch, and she was saying that she needed photo ID, so the birth certificate unlocks that barrier to getting that photo ID.” To access a birth certificate, applicants must meet proof-of-identity requirements, such as a Medicare card, to confirm both identity and eligibility. While this can create barriers for people experiencing disadvantage, staff work closely with Services Australia representatives at Project 614 to verify identity documents and support applications. In many cases, fees can be waived for eligible applicants, and alternative confirmations, such as Medicare records, help bridge gaps where traditional ID is missing. Brendan said Jessica had been exceptional in pushing the new initiative through, and it was great to have Ingrid’s support as well. Victorian Minister for Government Services, Ingrid Stitt (right), chats with the Registry of Births, Death and Marriages Victoria staff at Project 614. Jessica Mucilli, Manager of Operations at the Registry (pictured second from right), said the launch was an exciting and emotional day. “I think it’s a very powerful reminder that the Government and Births, Deaths and Marriages, as a government department, are actually looking at very vulnerable people and saying, ‘You’re not invisible to us, we see you, and we want to support you, get back on your feet’ – and that’s fantastic,” he said. “We see this not only ongoing in the structure that’s been set up, which is once a month, but we actually want to see it become more frequent.” Being seen and heard Major Kate Baudinette, Assistant Divisional Commander, said the partnership was about restoring identity and dignity. “It helps ensure that people are not overlooked, but recognised, acknowledged, and able to access the opportunities and support they deserve,” she remarked. “This project reminds me of this simple truth: every person matters to God. We are grateful to work alongside Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria, Minister Stitt, and all those whose commitment and collaboration have made this possible. We look forward to seeing the difference this service will make in the lives of the people who are part of this community.” And for Project 614 community members, being seen and heard remains central. “I think a lot of people complain to us about the aggression of people that are vulnerable,” Brendan said. “But when you actually sit down with a vulnerable person, you hear their story, and you start to understand very quickly why they are angry, and often that anger stems from them having a deep sense of being locked out, locked out of society, and so basically they adopt an attitude that says, ‘I just don’t care anymore’. “And so, I think organisations like The Salvation Army have an absolute responsibility to lock in people that are vulnerable, and lock them into meaningful community, and lock them into all of the supports that they need and deserve. That’s really the driver for us here is to lock people into everything they need and serve, because in our eyes, they’re human beings.” (Left) The Victorian Minister for Government Services, Ingrid Stitt, chats with local community members and visitors who attended the special launch at Project 614’s premises in Bourke St, Melbourne. (Right) People gathered in the Magpie Nest Café after the launch.

The Hope and a Future team of PNG runners, mentors and supporters after the race last weekend. BY SIMONE WORTHING “I know it was really hard, but I thank God for giving me this opportunity,” said Haraga, who completed the Gold Coast Marathon on Sunday 5 July as part of The Salvation Army’s Hope and a Future Program. “I am so grateful to be in the team,” said Jan, another runner. “The team encouraged us with so much work and built us up with our mission to become a great leader in the future. And I am so proud that I’m standing here as one of the leaders who has confidence in herself and who can do anything for Christ. So, thank you for everything.” This year sadly, of the 10 runners in the team, only Haraga and Jan received visas to come to Australia for the event and subsequent leadership training and service. Additional efforts to secure visas for the remaining eight runners were not successful. Jan and Haraga (centre) with mentors Sarah-Jane Alley (left) and Michelle Watts. “We missed the rest of our team, and it was a different, more sober run this year because of that,” said Envoy Bill Hunter, head coach and leader of the Salvos God’s Sports Arena. “We were praying for them, too, but we still tried to make the most of the event. “Many of our Aussie and PNG mentors and supporters rallied and ensured a fun, exhilarating, uplifting, loving and supportive weekend.” These young men and women from Papua New Guinea were trained to run the marathon, mentored in leadership skills and assisted with their education to help them become leaders in their corps, communities and country. These activities are modelled around the four key pillars of the Hope and a Future program – faith, fitness, education and leadership. The program began in 2014. To meet the entire team, click on the video below. Runner testimonies During the debriefing session on Sunday evening after the marathon, runners, mentors and support crew gathered to share their experiences and impressions of the day. Bill and Commissioner Miriam Gluyas – co-founder of the program – led the session. Jan (named after Commissioner Jan Condon) broke the record for the fastest female Hope and a Future runner, completing the marathon in four hours, 21 minutes – just one minute under the time set by fellow marathoner, Mohre, in 2017. Karlo and Rachael, two mentors from Papua New Guinea, were also part of the team. Rachael, struggling with an injured knee, ran the final 10km to mentor in the final stretch of the race. Rachael and Haraga (centre) at the finish line with Stuart Watts, Bill Hunter and Michelle Watts. “Mentoring is not all about running, though,” Bill assured Rachael. “And sometimes our body doesn’t always do what we want it to, but we can work in other ways. So well done today. You should be very proud of how you’ve led and how you’ve mentored.” Karlo ran a personal best time, beating his previous record by 15 minutes. “I enjoyed this run but at the same time, I was sad that I didn’t get to run with my boys [whose visas were denied].” He thanked both the runners and the leaders for helping him to become “a better version of myself”. Karlo also congratulated Haraga and Jan. “I’m so proud of you,” he said. “I’m happy that you completed the 42.2km and smashed it just like that.” “My run today was a bit tough,” Jan shared. “When I came up around the 33 or 34km mark, I doubted myself, but I was praying with mentor Adrian (Adrian Kistan, General Manager Ministry Resourcing and Support). Thank God for having Adrian beside me with Sharon (Sharon Callister, co-founder of the program). And I finished really strong and I was so happy that I broke that record. I appreciate all of you so much. “This race has taught me a lesson. The past six months of training has also taught me lessons. But I was waiting for this day and today I did it! I did it for my country. My community. My church. And most of all, for my family. “Thank you to the mentors who supported me on the training, for Captains Rose and John [Papua New Guinea officers who lead the Hope and a Future program there] for looking after us every day and to all of you for your kind support and your warm welcome.” Haraga also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the team. “You guys encouraged us with so much work and built us up with our mission to become a great leader in the future,” she shared. “And I am so proud that I’m standing here as one of the leaders who has confidence in herself and who can do anything for Christ.” Supporters and mentors surround Jan and Haraga at the start of the Gold Coast marathon. Bill added his congratulations to the runners. “Anyone who has run a marathon knows it hurts,” he said. “It’s just overcoming that. You were so strong from the beginning to the end. And you pushed through the pain. I think that’s what marathons are all about. It’s very rare when everything comes together. You didn’t give up and it was a privilege to run with you. “I loved it at the end, Karlo, when you finished but you kept coming back to wait for the others. And you wanted to be there right at the end when they came. I just thought that was a great mentor type of situation.” Bill expressed his thanks to The Salvation Army leadership and the support crew who don’t run, acknowledging that “we couldn’t achieve what we do without your support. It’s been a deeply emotional day in lots of different ways, but an awesome one!” Additional training This week, after a rest day, the Papua New Guinea team have been receiving training in leadership development from Majors John and Nicole Viles, Team Leaders at Tweed Heads-South Gold Coast. This training is part of the educational pillar of the program. They also shared their testimonies as part of a devotion during the annual Salvation Army Basketball and Netball Carnival, currently underway on the Gold Coast. This weekend, the team will lead worship at God’s Sports Arena in both Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane. Click through the slideshow below for more photos of the 2026 Hope and a Future Program.

Retired General Andre Cox (left) with Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and the new book launched at International Headquarters. BY IHQ COMMUNICATIONS A new autobiography by retired General André Cox was officially launched at The Salvation Army International Headquarters in London on Founders’ Day, 2 July. Poacher Turned Gamekeeper: A Life Lived to the Full offers readers a lively, reflective and deeply personal account of General Cox’s life shaped by faith, calling and service. It traces his journey from his early years in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), through his calling to officership, leadership across several territories and election as General of The Salvation Army in 2013. He was the 20th General of The Salvation Army and was world leader until 2018 when he retired. To read the full story on The Salvation Army International website, and for information on when the book will be available for purchase, click here. To view highlights from the launch, click on the video below. (From left) General André Cox, Paul Mortlock and Major Peter McGuigan speak at the launch. (Left) General André Cox signs a book for a guest. (Right) General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox (centre) with guests at the launch of the retired General's new book. Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill speaks at the launch.

To read Valerie’s Promoted to Glory notice and appointment history, click here.

Traditional indigenous dance by the Treenoner Dance Mob formed part of the special NAIDOC Sunday service at Launceston Corps last weekend. BY LAUREN MARTIN Indigenous dancers, a Welcome to Country and a NAIDOC-themed prayer were part of Launceston Corps’ recent Sunday service, celebrating the relationship the corps has with its local Indigenous community. For the past few years, Launceston Corps Community Engagement worker Kelly Brown has been setting aside time every fortnight to have a cuppa and a ‘yarn’ at her local Indigenous Elders activity afternoon. Sometimes, Kelly (along with her mother) will cook lunch; other times, she will just sit and chat. “I really appreciate that it is a safe place that I have been welcomed into,” she told her corps community and visiting guests at last Sunday’s NAIDOC Week Sunday Service. “It’s a comfortable place for me to ask questions about culture and Country, and it’s explained to me in a way that I can understand. It’s not just a safe place but safe people for me up there.” Those connections and relationships built have allowed The Salvation Army Launceston Corps to journey in a deeper way with their local indigenous community, coming alongside to support in a range of different ways. Kelly and Roderick Brown from Launceston Corps were invited to the city’s NAIDOC luncheon. Here they are, photographed with the city’s elders. “We just wanted to be able to seek to understand wherever we can to assist with financial supports including with food relief, to be able to bless the elders at Christmas with a Christmas hamper and provide practical support where we can,” Kelly said, adding that there have been numerous other supports given as a result of personal and private conversations she has been able to have through the building of those relationships. Corps Officer, Auxiliary-Lieutenant Roderick Brown said the way Kelly has journeyed alongside the city’s indigenous community is the way Launceston Corps journeys alongside all communities. “It’s about really trying to understand the deeper need that there is in a community and looking to build that trust and that relationship, and just be people together, and learn from each other.” The Launceston Corps’ NAIDOC Service was led by Chris Waixel and Tahana Turner, The Salvation Army Divisional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Coordinators for Victoria and Queensland. Chris spoke at the event on ‘50 Years of Deadly’, this year’s NAIDOC theme. (Left) Aunty Delia Summers gave the Welcome to Country at Launceston Corps’ NAIDOC Sunday Service. (Right) Chris Waixel speaking on the NAIDOC Week theme, ‘50 Years of Deadly’. In addition to hosting the NAIDOC Sunday service, Kelly and Roderick were invited to the annual NAIDOC luncheon, which they said was an honour to attend. “A special part of our NAIDOC week celebrations is being invited to the Elders lunch,” Roderick said. “It truly feels like being home with family as we sit and yarn together, listening to stories, whilst enjoying the wonderful meal prepared.” And Kelly has this advice for all Australian Salvationists on engaging with our local Indigenous communities. “Be the best tourist you can be in your own country! We need to be open, we need to learn, and we need to be inquisitive and respectful. Not just accepting media or mainstream narrative, but seeking to understand the importance of culture of Country. And why that is so important for us all.” Launceston Corps’ NAIDOC Sunday Service featured an indigenous dance troupe, the Treenoner Dance Mob. Photo: Elizabeth Bowman READ MORE: Go to The Salvation Army NAIDOC Week 2026 website here

Major Erica Jones (left), Daryl Crowden and Aletia Dundas were the Australian representatives at the annual Supporting Offices Forum in Copenhagen, Denmark, last month. BY SIMONE WORTHING International Editor Three Australian representatives played an active role at the recent Salvation Army Supporting Offices Forum (SOF) in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 1-4 June. Daryl Crowden (General Manager Emergency, Aid and Development), as the current Chair of the SOF, led this year’s gathering. Aletia Dundas (Program Manager - Development) and Major Erica Jones (Program Coordinator - Mission Support, SAID), were also among the 55 delegates – all working in development and emergency response – attending from around the world. The Supporting Offices Forum annual gathering brings together representatives from 10 Salvation Army Support Offices around the world, alongside International Headquarters, to discuss global development trends and priorities, strengthen partnerships, share learning, and improve how teams work together in support of territories and communities around the world. (From left) Fifty-five delegates from around the world attended the forum; Ausralia’s Daryl Crowden led this year’s gathering; The Salvation Army headquarters in Copenhagen. Stronger together This year’s forum in Copenhagen focused on the theme ‘Stronger Together: Aligning Strategy, Resources and Partnerships for Global Impact’. “The agenda explored topics including emergency response, international development strategy, impact measurement, fundraising, resource mobilisation, advocacy, adaptive programming, collaboration and the future direction of support offices globally,” explained Erica. “I attended as Australia's representative for Mission Support within SAID (Salvation Army International Development). My role was to contribute to discussions around    international development partnerships, project support, funding models, collaboration between support offices, and strengthening how we support territories internationally. “The forum also provided an opportunity to learn from other support offices, share Australia’s experiences, build relationships, and identify opportunities for greater collaboration across the global Salvation Army network.” Partnership approach Aletia attended the conference in her capacity as Program Manager – Development, representing the project coordinators and partnerships coordinator. “It was really helpful for me to meet in person several of the contacts from other territories and IHQ who I’d engaged with for several of the projects we support,” she explained. “The sessions on the strategy for the SOF and the changing operating context were also valuable for understanding the intention of the gathering and how we face global challenges together. “I appreciated hearing from those involved in communities of practice in areas such as livelihoods, harmonised MOU [Memorandum of Understanding], climate change adaptation and resilience, and WASH [water, sanitation, hygiene]. “Having just come from a SAID team meeting in Sydney the week before where we’d heard feedback from both implementing territories and support offices on our partnership approach, it was timely for me to learn how other support offices operate and begin to consider ways to improve our practice in future.” Lessons brought home Erica said that there were several informal ‘takeaways’ from the SOF that she has brought back with her to Australia, including “new relationship built and plenty of opportunities”. Erica also outlined the four areas that she found held the greatest significance for her: 1. Stronger collaboration produces stronger outcomes One of the strongest messages throughout the week was that no single support office has all the answers. The greatest impact is achieved when support offices, territories and International Headquarters collaborate, share resources and learn from one another. 2. Locally led development matters Many discussions reinforced the importance of moving beyond simply funding projects and towards empowering local leadership, local decision-making and local ownership. 3. Impact matters as much as activity There was a growing emphasis on measurement, learning and understanding the real difference our work makes, not simply reporting on activities completed. This aligns strongly with Australia's increasing focus on outcomes reporting and impact measurement. 4. The world is becoming more complex Conversations around Ukraine, emergency response, climate resilience, adaptive programming and fundraising highlighted that development work is increasingly complex and interconnected. Future success will require flexibility, innovation and stronger partnerships. Australian applications “For me, personally, applying what I have learned back here in Australia, translates to: Strengthening partnerships: We will continue building stronger relationships with implementing territories, ensuring support is collaborative rather than transactional. Improving impact measurement: There is an opportunity to strengthen how we measure and communicate outcomes, helping us better understand and demonstrate the difference Australian supporters are making globally. This is especially true for the Mission Portfolio and my work going forward. Enhancing collaboration: The conference highlighted opportunities for Australia to work more closely with other support offices by sharing tools, learning and resources rather than creating everything independently. Future-focused Mission Support: As Australia’s Mission Support portfolio continues to mature, there is an opportunity to move beyond project administration and increasingly contribute to learning, strategy, partnership development and global impact. “The conference reminded me that, while we often focus on strategies, systems and projects, the real strength of the global Salvation Army lies in its people and relationships,” Erica said. “Some of the most important learning happened in the spaces between the agenda items, where stories, challenges and hopes were shared across cultures and contexts. That may ultimately be one of the most valuable outcomes of the week.” Australia’s Daryl Crowden leading a session. Reflection: Daryl Crowden One session focused on defining our vision for Supporting Offices (SOF) – what do we want to be known for and do by 2030. Participants highlighted a future in which offices across multiple countries collaborate to support international development initiatives. By 2030, we aim to operate as a coordinated global network of Supporting Offices, working more strategically to access diversified funding sources, including jointly engaging major international foundations. We will strengthen support for partner countries in areas such as operations, logistics, and management, enabling greater sustainability and independence. Our funding decisions will be guided by deliberate coordination, informed by mapping of restricted and unrestricted funding availability, as well as contextual vulnerability. Projects will incorporate local fundraising and income-generating components and be grounded in community-based approaches. We will also engage in both global and local advocacy with a unified and intentional voice. We plugged the key points of this (unofficial and very draft) vision into an AI engine and asked it to write a poem. While it is a bit of fun, the following beautifully outlines (what I believe is) the SOF’s passion and determination to move beyond a ‘colonial donor’ – ‘implementer receiver’ relationship to a trusted and true collaborative partnership framed by and built on a foundation of local capacity and need. One Voice, One World a vision for 2030 Across borders, voices gathered, Imagining what could be; A network not divided by distance, But united in purpose and possibility. Supporting Offices, far yet close, Reaching outward, hand in hand, Linking nations, bridging gaps, Serving needs across the land. By 2030, we will stand Not as fragments, but as one – Coordinated, intentional, Our shared work never done. Together seeking broader paths, Diversifying how we give, Engaging global partners’ strength So communities may thrive and live. Foundations vast, resources shared, Accessed through collective voice, Strategic steps, aligned in action, Guided not by chance, but choice. In partner lands, we walk beside, Strengthening systems day by day; Operations, leadership, Building futures that can stay. Sustainability, independence, Not distant hopes, but present aims, As local hands shape lasting change, And ownership firmly claims. With careful maps of need and means, Of vulnerability, of supply, We guide our funds with purpose clear, Ensuring none are left behind. Projects rooted in the soil, From community voices they arise, With livelihoods woven within, So resilience multiplies. And when we speak – both near and far – Our message carries strong and true: A unified, intentional voice, Advocating what is due. This is the future we envision, A path we walk, a role we own; A global network, deeply local, Together stronger, never alone.

General Eva Burrows demonstrated values of leadership and commitment to frontline service. The legacy of General Eva Burrows continues to champion female leaders in The Salvation Army, with applications now open for the Eva Burrows Australian Leadership Scholarship for Women. Eva Burrows, an Australian, was the world leader of The Salvation Army from 1986 to 1993. She was promoted to glory on 20 March 2015. The 2026 scholarship will be awarded to a woman who has undertaken substantial paid or unpaid work to advance The Salvation Army’s mission over the past two years, demonstrates General Burrows’ values of leadership and commitment to frontline service, and is seeking support to develop her leadership capabilities. A scholarship provides up to $25,000 for study at Eva Burrows College or another institution. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) community are strongly encouraged. Applications close on Friday 7 August 2026. To find out more or to apply, click here. READ MORE: General Eva Burrows – born to lead

Celebrate NAIDOC Week 2026 with the theme ‘50 Years of Deadly’, honouring five decades of culture, resilience and pride of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We reflect on the strength of Elders, the power of community, and the voices shaping the future, while recognising the ongoing journey of truth-telling, justice and hope. Join us as we commit to going forward together – acting justly, loving mercy and walking humbly with our God. READ MORE: Go to The Salvation Army NAIDOC Week 2026 website here