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The Salvation Army warmly welcomed US sailors in 1908 (above), but by 1925 the Salvos were acting as ‘guardian angels’ to the seamen.   BY BARRY GITTINS On 1 August 1925, 100 years ago today, The Salvation Army in Australia reported it had “opened its doors and its big international heart to welcome the men of … the American Fleet”, and “let loose its Officers on the streets of Melbourne to act as guardian angels to any of the sailor lads who were exposed to moral danger”. That last gig – playing guardian angel – kept the Salvos busy indeed, according to the War Cry . The sailors from the Prohibition-era US (alcohol was criminalised from 1920-1933) took advantage of the liquor licensing laws in Australia. Local criminals and barkeeps had a field day. “Over forty men” were gathered up on the lower hall of the Melbourne City Temple “who had succumbed to the effects of doped liquor”; they were “carefully watched over” by the Salvationists. The story that appeared in the War Cry 100 years ago today. The Salvos had met the Americans as the battleships arrived at Port Melbourne, and the fabled Salvation Army vehicle ‘Lizzie Tinribs’ was put to good use, transporting inebriated seamen from dens of iniquity to Salvation Army centres for coffee and food. Not that all the visitors were happy to be sobered up; the report noted that “after a tussle, we succeeded in dragging out a budding admiral who had evidently been drugged and very likely fallen among thieves. He was doubled up like a ball and absolutely helpless, so we bundled him in”. A depiction of The Salvation Army vehicle nicknamed ‘Lizzie Tinribs’ that transported US seamen. Ushering sailor lads out of “drink shops and … the clutches of some of the Melbourne crooks, who seemed to be like a cloud of blowflies hovering around the boys” was a precursor to transporting them to Little Bourke Street Hall and the City Temple, where the faithful were aided by comrades from Carlton and South Fitzroy. Police officials had requested The Salvation Army lasses keep the sailors away from houses of ill-fame. “Your bonnets can do what we can’t,” said one constable. “Time and again we would bring along loads of helplessly drunk sailor lads [in scenes of] disgrace to those citizens of Melbourne, who were guilty of putting drink in the way of our American visitors”, the report added. One sailor Yank “has been knocked about badly; the Salvos dragged him from an angry crowd and took him to the hall to have some of the Yankee blood bathed from his face … Back and forth we went, loaded with drunken sailors [and] half-dead marines”, all stowed precariously on the platform of the Army hall. The Salvos delivered their American charges “out of the clutches of the harpies and crooks that are after them. Great crowds of crooks of the worst type are dogging their footsteps. The brewers and drink shops are reaping a rich harvest. Racing, boxing and all kinds of sport, legitimate and otherwise, are being offered in attractive garb”. In the limelight in 1908 Things were less dramatic but more prophetic in August publications 17 years earlier, when “the Great White Fleet” had previously visited. The 22 August 1908 War Cry reckoned Australia welcomed “her brothers of the Anglo-Saxon family, whose territory, language, arts and arms embrace the world … Australia and the United States are one in blood, language, ideals and destiny …” “… No exigency, or combination of interest or policy, in or related to the Pacific, can be realised in the future without recognising the United States as an important factor in its adjustment.” The Salvation Army was at hand to film the fleet’s much-heralded arrival, in one of the Limelight Department’s last great ‘shoots’. The very next week’s issue (29 August 1908) recorded the US sailors making land in Melbourne, greeting them with the Aboriginal words ‘Monomeath Mirainbeena N’ Yaalingo (Welcome a thousand times)’.   Members of The Salvation Army Limelight Department had their cameras whirring for the 1908 arrival of the US fleet.

Perth Chinese Corps and Perth Fortress Corps are hosting an upcoming multicultural event to better connect the services of the Salvos with the diverse communities of Western Australia.   “The purpose of the event is to showcase the work of the Salvos across Perth, with a particular aim to our broader multicultural community,” explains Aaron Stobie, Perth Fortress Corps Officer. “We want to ensure that our broader community is aware of the breadth of the work of the Salvos.”   Perth Fortress is opening its doors to the local community to learn more about its work.   Services at the site include Doorways, social groups, a community meal and a low-cost café. All operate out of the Salvos William Street site, where both Perth Fortress and Perth Chinese Corps are co-located.    “We want to raise awareness, collaborate and build strong relationships to better serve and meet the growing needs in our community,” Aaron says. “We also have the Beacon Accommodation, Bridge House, AOD, and Family and Domestic Violence supports all based in Perth.”   The event will also offer Wills Day services, social activities for all ages and specific activities for youth and children.   The Perth Multicultural Event runs from 10am-12pm on Thursday 7 August, 333 William Street, Northbridge.

Major Bryce Davies has been hosting the ‘Stories of Hope’ podcast for the past five years.   BY LAUREN MARTIN   Over the past five years, the life and faith of Major Bryce Davies have been authentically laid bare through the ‘Stories of Hope’ podcast he started during the COVID-19 lockdowns.   But after 600 episodes, Bryce is turning off the microphone.   He has been given a new appointment – as a Team Member at The Salvation Army’s Goodna Mission in Brisbane’s west – after serving for several years as the Faith Communities Development Coordinator based out of Divisional Headquarters in Brisbane. The podcast series has been aired on his own Stories of Hope website each week, and for the past two years on Salvos Online Facebook each Saturday. Even though Bryce has recorded his last interview, Salvos Online will continue the Saturday series from his vast library of pre-recorded episodes.   Bryce said the Stories of Hope podcast emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic.   “I’d been working in Villawood at the time that COVID hit,” he said, referring to his involvement in building the Community of Hope in the south-west Sydney suburb.   “I had been doing social media posts about the living out of the Gospel in real life. It felt like all the things that the Salvos and the Church should be like, and a friend of mine pointed out how popular the posts were and how much people engaged with them.   “There was this idea that there was more potential, that there was a way that I could be involved in a more public space.”   Bryce’s new book now available on the Salvos Publishing website. And so, ‘Stories of Hope’ was born, resulting in hundreds of devoted listeners, thousands of online interactions and hundreds of episodes. And it’s even birthed a book, Doing Life With Bryce , which has just been released by Salvos Publishing. Through the podcast, Bryce inspired both Salvos and non-Salvos, Christians and non-Christians, with his practical, earthy theology (“I’m just an ex-plumber” is a line heard often throughout the podcasts.)   Starting with three podcasts per week – the ‘Monday nuggets of truth’ series mostly focused on Scripture and how we can practically live out the Gospel, the Wednesday stories were heartwarming moments Bryce shared, illustrating how God is at work in the world, and the Friday interviews, where people discussed life, love, faith and connection. It was the ‘Monday nuggets of truth’ series that inspired the book. “I think the podcast has made me more reflective,” he said. “It has shaped my theology. I think a lot of people’s ways that they think about God have been heard and respected and understood in a way that it may have not been heard before.”   Impact on listeners For his listeners, the ‘Stories of Hope’ podcast has inspired and challenged them to think outside of religious tradition, to the heart of how Jesus lived, loved and ushered in the Kingdom of God here on Earth.   Major Sandra Pawar reflected, “This podcast has been amazing, and I have listened to every episode. Thank you for the investment … it has blessed and challenged me.”   Another listener, Territorial Envoy Bronwyn Bithell, said, “I have been educated, encouraged and challenged by your teachings and the stories of those you’ve interviewed.”   Andrew Grinsted, who met Bryce when both were young adults and Bryce was the youth worker at Camberwell Corps in Melbourne, said his faith has been shaped by not just the ‘Stories of Hope’ podcast, but Bryce’s ministry across his officership. He was interviewed by Bryce for the podcast, during which he expressed his deep desire to be a “good neighbour”.   Writing to Bryce after learning about the podcast ending, Andrew shared that following that interview, he felt called to step out in faith and is now working as the Community Mission Lead for The Salvation Army in Merton, south-west London, where his wife, Jill, is the leader of Raynes Park Corps. “I just wanted to let you know, after listening to my interview with you again, that I am now taking this opportunity that has come my way and doing my dream job of being paid to be neighbourly.   “I use you and the work you have done, not only as an officer with Streetlevel and other community projects, but the role model you were when we were both a bit younger when I speak to people about my journey and my hopes for this new job. You have always been and will continue to be an inspiration to me! Thank you for just being you and letting God use you!” Bryce and his ‘lovely Sue’ in the kitchen. Bryce says looking back over the last five years, probably his favourite interview, the one that he has listened back to more times than others, was the one he did with his daughters for a Father’s Day podcast. “ I find myself laughing and smiling. I love those two girls, so that’s pretty special.”   His final episode will feature none other than his wife, Sue, whom he has affectinately called “the lovely Sue” throughout the podcast episodes.

The new mural by Leah Newman. Image: Supplied BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE Staff at the Salvation Army’s Sobering-Up Unit in Adelaide, South Australia, have recently unveiled a new mural. The Australian landscape scene, featured in the entryway of the complex, was painted by Leah Newman, Art Teacher from the Warrondi Engage and Link (WEL) Day Program, which operates in tandem with the service. The painting is one of many that Leah has installed throughout the building. Leah said her painting was inspired by a conversation with an Indigenous client in her art class at the WEL rehabilitation program, who was an anthropologist with a knowledge of the landscape from which many Aboriginal Australians in Adelaide have migrated. She said that since 70 per cent of the clients at the Sobering-Up Unit were Indigenous, she wanted to paint something that would help them feel welcome. She began with paintings of Australian animals, then her anthropologist client advised her on the correct animals and bush foods to include in the larger mural. Image: Supplied “It was great to have somebody who really knew what she was talking about,” Leah said. Sobering-Up Unit Team Leader Kirsten Pennington said the mural was a “wonderful” addition to a part of the building, which, due to iron gates and an intercom system to preserve security, can seem intimidating. Kirsten said clients were enjoying Leah’s work. “A lot of them have made comments about the artwork throughout the unit,” she said. The Sobering-Up Unit is a 30-bed facility that operates free of charge and accommodates people aged 18 and older requiring non-medical detoxification from the effects of alcohol and other drugs. The service offers around-the-clock support and monitoring in a safe environment and refers clients to other services for further care and symptom management. Find out more here . Follow Leah on Instagram here .

Human trafficking is a global issue affecting an estimated 27.6 million people around the world. Photo: Roma Kaiuk   Today is the United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons . It’s an annual event globally observed on 30 July. The day was established on 18 December by the United Nations General Assembly with the desire to raise awareness and promote the protection of the rights of trafficking victims. The Salvation Army has been part of the fight against human trafficking and slavery for 140 years. What began as a local response to the sexual exploitation of women and girls 140 years ago has since evolved into a global strategy committed to dismantling modern slavery and human trafficking.   To learn more about the international Salvation Army’s response to modern slavery and human trafficking, click here . To read Amy's story, click here .   Human trafficking continues to be a global threat driven by organised crime. More and more victims are being trafficked every year, across greater distances, with greater violence, for longer periods of time and for greater profit. From 2020 to 2023, there were more than 200,000 detected victims globally, which is just the tip of the iceberg. The actual number of unreported cases is believed to be significantly higher. READ MORE: The Salvation Army Australia on the frontlines of support   In Australia , The Salvation Army’s response to this global scourge includes a safe house, the Additional Referral Pathway (ARP) for crisis support and referrals and survivor leadership programs. It also includes advocacy work, programs such as supply chain mapping, training for frontline workers and participation in national and regional anti-trafficking coalitions.   For more information about The Salvation Army Australia's fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, click here . For more information about the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, click here .

General Lyndon Buckingham urges the international Salvation Army to pray for peace throughout the world. Photo : Mohammed Ibrahim General Lyndon Buckingham says The Salvation Army grieves deeply at the ongoing loss of life and human suffering due to war around the world. In a statement issued by International Headquarters in London, the General said the Army recognised the human toll in conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Sahel region of Africa (including Burkina Faso and Mali), Syria, Myanmar, and in the Russo-Ukrainian war and elsewhere. “We urge all parties in all conflicts to rethink their positions and, for the sake of their own people, to pursue pathways of peace, justice, reconciliation and healing,” the Army’s world leader said. “The protection of the innocent – especially children, the elderly and the vulnerable – must be paramount.” Highlighting the situation in Gaza, the General said the Army recognised the desolation of its people and the profound sorrow of families who have lost loved ones.  “The displacement of millions, the plight of hostages and the anguish of their families weigh heavily on the hearts of the people of The Salvation Army.   “Every life is sacred, and every act of violence leaves a scar on our shared humanity. As a people of faith and conscience, The Salvation Army calls for an immediate release of the remaining hostages and a sustained ceasefire that ensures protection, security, support and a viable future for all people in the region. “We ask that world leaders exert strong moral courage to continue working alongside the regions’ leaders to bring a swift end to the conflicts and open pathways towards lasting peace.” The General added that peace was possible through the promises of Jesus. “My heartfelt prayer is that peace will be immediate and comprehensive in Gaza and throughout the world; that the desolation will cease and a profound goodwill towards one another will shape the future of humankind. Amid the complexity, I urge the citizens of the world to pray for peace and a new desire to ‘love your neighbour as yourself’.”

N obody paddles alone, on the water or in life, reflects Major Joel Clifford, who runs the Paddlers Against Poverty group based in Hobart, Tasmania. Joel says, “It’s been really amazing to see how God has moved in and through our group”, breaking down walls, creating community, connection and faith.

Colonel Tilitah Goa prays for Majors Deon and Michelle Oliver at their PNG welcome. The Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Territory has warmly welcomed Australian officers, Majors Deon and Michelle Oliver, during its weekly prayer and fellowship gathering at Territorial Headquarters (THQ) in Port Moresby.   The couple have been appointed to the territory, with Deon to serve as Secretary for Program and Michelle as Development Officer.   Major Jenny Vali, Assistant Secretary for Program, delivered a welcome address, praising the Olivers’ dedication, discipline and the fresh perspective they bring to PNGSI’s leadership and mission.   Colonel Tilitah Goa, Territorial President for Women’s Ministries, led a prayer of dedication, rendering the Olivers’ service to God.   The THQ family presented the couple with welcome gifts and a celebratory cake, symbolising unity in diversity in spirit and communal fellowship.   The event underscored gratitude for the Olivers’ safe arrival and excitement for the impact they will have on the territory’s programs and development.   – Tania Kubak

Lynn Cartledge has served the Derwent Valley community through volunteering with The Salvation Army for more than 20 years. Image: Supplied BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE A long-term Salvation Army volunteer has been recognised with nominations for two awards in the upcoming Tasmanian Volunteering Awards. Lynn Cartledge has been volunteering for the Derwent Valley Salvation Army for 21 years, during which she has served in the former Thrift Store, the New Norfolk Salvos Store and the Corps’ Doorways program. Her commitment has been honoured with nominations for the Volunteer Impact Award (Individual) and the Lifetime Commitment Award. Site coordinator Luke Clarke described Lynn as a “great listener, and a very non-judgmental, humble lady”. He said he began working with Lynn six months ago and was struck by her kind nature and how she welcomed people into the space. For more information on the awards, click here “I’ve seen people who are a bit turned off by the approach that they get and that can be really damaging for community members who are already feeling vulnerable,” he said. Lynn said she was prompted to volunteer for The Salvation Army when, in 2004, she sought counselling for help dealing with a difficult family situation, which was affecting her sleep. “After a couple of sessions, [the counsellor] advised me to do some voluntary work,” she said. “So, I went straight to the thrift shop in High Street, which was only a small store back then. “I’ve just enjoyed it so much. I really look forward to going to the Salvo centre now.” But even though Lynn has now served across Derwent Valley Salvation Army’s programs, it wasn’t easy in the beginning. She said that while you get the occasional grumpy person, she’s learned it’s just part of the job. She said she had come to look forward to seeing the customer who were always appreciative. “I was very shy, didn’t have much confidence, couldn’t talk a lot to people,” she said. “It has helped me by knowing I’m helping other people. And most people are really, really nice. “I’ve worked with some lovely, lovely people at The Salvation Army.” Lynn wanted to encourage others who felt they needed something they could look forward to in their week. “It’s hard times for a lot of people, very, very hard times,” she said. “People get very lonely, and volunteering is very rewarding.” As well as Doorways and the church programs, Derwent Valley Corps also runs a Community Connect program, a Drop-in Space and Free Soup program from 10am to 1pm Mondays and Fridays.

Jacob (left) and Grace are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of other young people. Young leaders across the Australia Territory are positively influencing people of all ages through their work, volunteering, and overall approach to life. In this Salvos Online feature, we shine a spotlight on two young individuals – Grace Murray and Jacob Browning – who are both making a positive impact for God’s Kingdom.  Grace Murray is more than just an Administration Assistant at Divisional Headquarters in Brisbane. Motivated by her faith and a desire to make a difference in various communities, she enjoys volunteering for the Salvos, mainly at youth events and through social justice initiatives. To read Grace’s story click here Jacob Browning is a Youth Worker at Menai Corps in Sydney’s south. He enjoys witnessing positive changes in young people and often their families when they find support and a sense of belonging. Salvos Online asked Jacob about his role and how God is using him. To read Jacob’s story click here For more information on Youth and Young Adults Ministry, click here To view the Youth devotionals series, click here

Each week throughout 2025, Salvationists worldwide are uniting in prayer for a specific territory or region of The Salvation Army.   The focus territory/region shares prayer requests to help us pray with precision and power for one another.   This week (28 July-3 August) we are praying for the Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory.   Commissioners Henrik and Lisbeth Andersen lead the territory.   The Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory has 322 officers (123 active, 199 retired); cadets 6; employees 2079; corps 57; outposts 3; senior soldiers 1966; adherents 1446; junior soldiers 186.   Praise Points We praise God for our social institutions, which offer services that are appreciated by the population and the authorities.   We praise God for young people who show interest in working in the church.   We praise God for the blessing of balanced finances.   Prayer requests Switzerland Please pray that God's Kingdom will come in our lives: that we may be obedient to the Spirit and become beacons of hope.   Pray that our families may show how human relations are different when you are loved by the Father, forgiven through Jesus and renewed by the Spirit.   Pray that people looking for meaning and hope may find their place in The Salvation Army.   Pray that God's Kingdom will come in our social work: that our clients may feel that they are valued by the employees of The Salvation Army and be touched by the grace of God.   Austria Please pray for God's guidance as we optimise our management structure.   Hungary Please pray for a smooth transition process as new regional officers arrive from the USA. Pray that everything will work out with the travel and the work permits.   To go to the Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory website, click here . To download the 2025 International Prayer Focus schedule, click here .   To find out more about The Salvation Army’s prayer focus, click here .

Whether it’s worshipping the creator, working as an admin assistant or preaching the Good News, Grace says her goal is to encourage others in their faith. Grace Murray is more than just an Administration Assistant at Divisional Headquarters in Brisbane. Motivated by her faith and a desire to make a difference in various communities, she enjoys volunteering for the Salvos, mainly at youth events and through social justice initiatives. BY GRACE MURRAY Throughout my life, God has provided. I’ve been blessed with faithful examples of trusting him and following the Holy Spirit’s leading. In 2020, I felt called to move to Brisbane alone. I trusted God, and he provided. Since July 2021, I’ve worked full-time at Queensland Divisional Headquarters in administration while volunteering in various ministry opportunities locally, divisionally and internationally. Locally, I serve on my corps’ worship team and prayer team, I’m part of the Exploring Soldiership ministry, and I sometimes preach. I also volunteer at our Community Christmas Celebration and Lavish (Christmas Welfare Distribution). Recently, I became a Justice of the Peace to serve my community further. Divisionally, I’ve been part of Core Leadership Teams for Week Youth Camp (North & South Qld), Riverfest, and Young Adults Retreat as the Spiritual Framework Coordinator and a Worship Team member. I also assist in running Youth United Nights. Internationally, I joined the ISJG (International Social Justice Girls Group) as a ‘Girl Advocate’, gaining insight into global challenges and sharing Australia’s perspective on justice and equality. I believe my work positively impacts communities I am a part of – whether it has been to be an ear to listen while wrapping someone’s Christmas gifts for their child, signing documents as a JP, planning spiritual content for events, or attending midnight meetings on gender equality around the world and Australia’s part to play. I do these things as a result of my faith. Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-10, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” The book of James echoes that faith alone saves, but the faith that saves is never alone. My prayer is that I listen to God and am obedient to his call and direction in my life. Every step that I take myself and encourage others to take, I pray will lead to the Kingdom of God and nothing else.