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(From left) Cassandra, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson (Governor’s wife), Kristy Cole and Governor Chris Dawson at the Benefit Ball.  BY ANTHONY CASTLE A Salvo worker and client attended the recent Governor’s Benefit Ball in Perth, WA.   Kristy Cole, case worker at The Beacon Salvation Army homelessness centre, and her client Cassandra, were chosen to represent the service at the prestigious black-tie event after being gifted tickets by DV Assist.   The event was held in the historic Government House, which contains the largest ballroom in the state, in August.   The event raises funds for charities like The Salvation Army that support women and children who have experienced domestic violence.   “It was a privilege to share this experience with my client and to witness the joy it brought to her,” Kristy said. “Cassandra has engaged wholeheartedly in The Beacon’s restorative and positive lifestyle programs, actively participates in other site events, attends resident meetings, and recently joined the Women’s Empowerment program On My Feet. She deserved being spoilt and acknowledged for her hard work.”   The black-tie evening featured the very best of West Australian culture and cuisine. Guests witnessed a historic collaboration between WA Jazz Project, WA Opera, and WA Ballet, who performed music and movement evocative of the 1920s.   “I felt so proud to be part of such a special evening and really wish to thank The Beacon and DV Assist for making this possible,” said Cassandra.   The Beacon is The Salvation Army’s largest residential homelessness facility in Australia. It offers case management, crisis intervention, allied medical health services, and development programs. Clients work on the issues that contributed to their risk of homelessness or becoming homeless.   “The evening was also personally meaningful for me, as it marked my second time meeting the Governor,” said Kristy. “Our first was in 2019 at Optus Stadium, when he was still the Police Commissioner. I was one of the guest speakers at The Red Shield Appeal Breakfast, where I shared my testimony.”

The 2026 Salvation Army History Symposium next September will be held again in Ipswich (Qld). BY MATTHEW PLON A date has been set for the 2026 Salvation Army History Symposium, which will feature a keynote speaker from the Korea Territory. Co-hosted by The Australasian Journal of Salvation Army History, The Salvation Army Historical Society – Brisbane Chapter, and the Ipswich Corps (Qld), the symposium will take place from 11-13 September 2026, with Lieutenant-Colonel Sunyup Hwang as the main speaker and his wife, Lieutenant-Colonel Myung Soon Choi, as a special guest. The symposium offers an opportunity to explore, discuss and learn about Salvation Army history. The 2026 theme is ‘History – a narrative of many lives.’ This theme will explore the people and biographies that shape the history of The Salvation Army, rather than its policies and events. “We hope that The Salvation Army History Symposium 2026 will explore the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ in the lives of early Salvationists,” said event organiser Garth Hentzschel. “Through the collection of presentations, a pattern may be observed that will inform current Salvationists as to the best ways to practise their faith. We pray this will have a lasting impact on their individual life of holiness and how to better serve their wider community.” Keynote speaker Lieutenant-Colonel Sunyup Hwang. Lieutenant-Colonel Sunyup Hwang serves as Director of The Salvation Army Museum of History in Seoul, Korea. He has authored several books on the history of The Salvation Army in Korea and oversaw the redevelopment of the Army’s Museum of History. His leadership also extended beyond The Salvation Army when he was appointed to the Executive Committee of the National Unification Advisory Council, a constitutional advisory body to the President of South Korea on matters of peace and reunification. His wife has held several key leadership roles, including corps officer appointments, Secretary for the League of Mercy, as well as roles at THQ and the Officer Training College.     After the symposium, the couple, who completed their officer training at Eva Burrows College in Melbourne, will participate in the Sunday evening meeting at Riverview Outpost.    “A call for papers will be sent out within a month,” Garth said. “Anyone interested in the history of The Salvation Army or its culture is welcome to attend, but note that these are academic discussions, not a collection of feel-good stories about the ‘good old days’. Participants of past symposiums rate the experience very highly and many return each time it is held.” More information regarding registrations will follow. Save the date and book accommodation for another great weekend of Salvation Army History!

Each week throughout 2025, Salvationists around the world are uniting in prayer for a particular 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 (6-12 October), we are praying for The Salvation Army in Denmark and Greenland.   Lieut-Colonels Jan and Kjersti Risan lead the Denmark and Greenland Territory.   The Denmark and Greenland Territory has 62 officers (37 active and 25 retired), 21 corps; 2 outposts; 694 senior soldiers; 275 adherents; 1 junior soldier; 75 employees. The work of the territory includes: ·  Homelessness services ·  Disaster response ·  Care for older people ·  Modern slavery and human trafficking response ·  Debt counselling ·  Holiday camps for children and young people   Please pray for: Candidates Strategy:  Pray for a new Territorial Candidate Strategy.  With a desire to ensure the bright future of the Army, we ask for wisdom to create a strategy that fits our culture.   Discipleship:  Pray that disciple-making communities may shape our corps, so that faith is deepened, lives are transformed, and everyday witness reflects faithful discipleship to Jesus for the young people in our territory.   Financial Challenges : Please pray for wisdom and provision as the territory navigates significant financial challenges. With limited territorial resources, we need God’s wisdom and courage to step out in faith. Ask God to provide creative and sustainable solutions to support ongoing ministry.   Holy Living:  Pray for a greater hunger and thirst for God and what pleases him.  May our passions and work align with his mission and fill us with his joy and a greater sense of unity. Pray that Salvationists in Denmark and Greenland will live boldly for Christ, reflecting his love in their communities. Recruitment:  Please pray for recruitment and training of new members and officers.  Pray also that soldiers and adherents will take on local leadership responsibilities in the corps.    Territorial Leadership:  Please pray for Territorial Leadership. Pray for God’s Spirit to guide and lead us with wisdom, vision and courage as we focus on the newly created strategy plan. Help us rearrange priorities and structures to align with present realities, according to God’s revealed plan and purpose.    To find out more about the Denmark and Greenland Territory, 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 .

John Dunkley and his wife Denise (right) witness the unveiling of the new ‘Dunkley’ catering truck for The Salvation Army Emergency Services in South Australia. (Photo courtesy of John Fulbrook MP Instagram page) BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE A new catering truck named in honour of the founder of The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) in South Australia has been unveiled. The unveiling ceremony was held on 20 September in Pooraka, Adelaide, where the state SAES team is based. The new truck, Dunkley, is named after John Dunkley, a volunteer who worked to establish the SAES in the state, and organised the procurement of the first catering truck. John was in attendance at the unveiling event. “I was honoured to attend and speak at the unveiling of Dunkley, The Salvation Army Emergency Services’ new mobile kitchen,” said local MP John Fulbrook, Member for Playford. “This will be invaluable in further sustaining our volunteers from the South Australia SES and South Australia Country Fire Service whenever disasters strike.” Port Lincoln Ministry Assistant Neal Smith (pictured with Ruby the Kangaroo) in front of the new truck ‘Dunkley’. His region is taking possession of the previous truck ‘William’. ‘Old’ truck handover The event also marked the official handover ceremony of the previous truck, William, named after Salvation Army founder William Booth, which will now be transferred to Port Lincoln Salvation Army to support not just the SAES in the region, but also be used as a ministry tool to feed those in the Port Lincoln and Eyre Peninsula communities. Port Lincoln Ministry Assistant Neal Smith said in a Facebook post that thinking about what this truck would mean to his corps had led him to reflect on the heart of his corps’ new truck’s namesake, William Booth. “His mission was simple yet profound: to bring people to Christ by showing love, offering care, and providing food and comfort to those in need,” Neal wrote. “It is fitting, then, that this truck has been named William. In its semi-retirement in Port Lincoln, William will not only continue the spirit of its namesake but will also help fulfil the mission of The Salvation Army in our community: to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name, without discrimination. “Wherever there is hardship or injustice, the Salvos seek to live, love, and fight alongside others – to transform Australia one life at a time with the love of Jesus. The work of SAES, in disaster relief and recovery, flows directly from this mission. And William will carry it forward faithfully, serving as both a tool and a symbol of hope. “May William be a constant reminder of love in action, and may every meal prepared and every hand helped through its service reflect the heart of Jesus Christ.” Port Lincoln welcomes ‘William’ The Port Lincoln Corps celebrated the unveiling of ‘William’ on 27 September in a special ceremony at the corps. Diana Mislov, Mayor of Port Lincoln, Major Suzanne Smith, Neal Smith, Majors Paul and Wendy Hateley, Sam Telfer MP, and Deputy Mayor Robyn Rowsell. The event was attended by dignitaries including Sam Telfer (MP for Flinders), Diana Mislov (Mayor, City of Port Lincoln), Robyn Rowsell (Deputy Mayor), the SA Metropolitan Fire Service, SA Country Fire Service, Ambulance SA and other elected councillors and volunteer groups. In attendance were also SA/NT Divisional Commander Major Paul Hateley and Area Officer Major Wendy Hateley. The day prior, 30 new SAES volunteers were also welcomed at an event conducted by SAES SA Coordinator Major Reno Elms. The teams are very grateful for the support of Woolworths Management in obtaining the vehicle. William, the truck that will now reside at Port Lincoln Corps. Image: Salvation Army Hope Centre Port Lincoln Facebook page Emergency services teams gather to welcome the new truck, William. Image: Supplied

Recently, I was one of the leaders at the youth and children’s camp at Phillip Island in Victoria.   I led the drama stream for both the children and young people, something I had never done before. In one of my previous articles, I mentioned how God has really impressed on my heart: practise something new .    My husband was coordinating the camp, and I had initially agreed to lead the art stream. That’s well within my comfort zone, with nearly 20 years of teaching experience in various contexts. But when he couldn’t find a drama teacher, and stress levels started to rise, I realised I could probably step in, with plenty of other leaders skilled in art who could take my place.   Well, I don’t know if I’ve told you this, but I don’t like practising something new if it means I might not be good at it! Whether it’s my pride or fear (two sides of the same coin really), my ego does not appreciate trying something different in case I fail . Well, cue my very first youth drama session, where the class size almost halved as people realised it wasn’t for them. Talk about a blow! Is it me? I couldn’t help but pitiably wonder.   In the children’s group, I had 10 kids (amazing!), and in a moment of bravery or folly, I asked if they wanted to create a play from scratch. I wasn’t ready for their enthusiasm and joy!   I’d never taught children before and honestly felt like I was learning as I went, even as I revelled in their energy.   After three hours of teaching, I took a moment to pray back in my room. “ Practice something new?” I thought. “Why doesn’t it feel better then? I feel so out of my depth.”   “How do you think they feel?” I sensed God reply. “Learning for the first time, in a new place, with new people.” That makes sense, I thought. Children and youth worshipping at the Phillip Island camp. It reminded me of when I was asked to speak at the NSW Divisional Fellowship in 2020. I was living in New Zealand at the time, and it was a great privilege. My session aimed to focus on spoken word, encouraging people to embrace vulnerability by knowing themselves and being known through that practice.   I prayed for weeks about the message, though. I wanted so badly to bring something meaningful. But the night before rolled around, still praying at 3am, and God had still not spoken. The next morning, I walked into the room of about 350 officers.   “Why haven’t you given me something?” I asked God. He replied, “ How can you ask for vulnerability if you won’t live it yourself?”   So, I stepped onto the platform with nothing but the hope that God would speak, and that people would respond to God. “Sometimes practising something new means walking blindly and fearfully, not knowing what God is doing, but still giving it a go anyway.”   But going back to the youth drama ... we had three young people: Ruby, Daniel and Caitlin.    Ruby’s flair for the dramatic and enigmatic made her the perfect narrator of the David and Goliath story, reading straight from the Bible. Daniel could switch between characters effortlessly, which made him brilliant as WWE wrestling-style Goliath (and others). Caitlin’s plucky, fox-like energy made her just right for David. Together they brought a warmth and humour to the story I’d never noticed when reading it myself.   And the children? Their two-part play was about a “poison thistle” that a naughty classmate had been “triple dog dared” (I learned a new phrase here) to touch. It required doctors, ambulances, and research scientists (we used a sick bag and some glitter). Seeing them wriggle and giggle while announcing to the rapt crowd of children, it was a “VIC camp original” made me so proud of our children, actors and playwrights.   I extend a heartfelt thank you to our parents, youth leaders, children’s leaders, prayer warriors, bus drivers, caterers, and all organisers. As we shared in prayer and highlights each morning, I kept thinking: this glimpse of the kingdom is being reflected across our nation, families, and corps every day. May God bless this sacred work.   Caitlin, one of the young actors, told me she hopes to use her love of acting to bring Bible stories to life. With TikTok and Reels now the primary way of sharing content among this generation, raising young video evangelists feels more important than ever. This is what drama and camps can achieve!   For me, it was a reminder that faith is being “ sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see. For who hopes for what they already have?” (Romans 8:24-25)   Practising something new and stepping out in faith isn’t just about being cautious; it’s about being brave. Sometimes practising something new means walking blindly and fearfully, not knowing what God is doing, but still giving it a go anyway.   Are we prepared to look foolish? To fail? To be just as vulnerable as those we are trying to teach?   My dream whenever I teach or lead is the verse in Jeremiah 31:34: “No longer will they teach their neighbour, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,’ declares the Lord.”   Thank God for that. Bring it on!

Staff at a Salvation Army Housing complex in Victoria have just completed a new garden upgrade, seen here. What if such community gardens and connection to nature are all part of our restoration to the full garden of Genesis that God always had in mind, writes Rosy Keane. Tomorrow (6 October) marks World Habitat Day . The United Nations have announced that this year’s observance will be linked to urban crisis response. There are multiple crises affecting urban areas across the globe, not least of which are climate change and conflict. In this piece, AUXILIARY-LIEUTENANT ROSY KEANE writes about how we so easily disregard the vitality of creation, and how we can uphold a flourishing world for all. It’s an incredible thing that the book of Genesis tells us that God invites humanity to be gardeners. In the beginning, Genesis 1 says that God created and created and created, and then humans were appointed to tend to the earth, summed up in the word ‘dominion’.   It was only after Adam and Eve’s disobedience that that tending turned sour, and humanity’s careful dominion turned into domination . Our title as rulers over the earth became entitlement that stripped unity from one another. It resulted in the first animals being killed (God clothed the errant Eve and Adam in fur), and the first conflict between man and woman. Instead of the great joy of flowers blooming and the earth singing, it resulted in conflict with the earth too. Instead of joy in harvesting, the ground’s yield would now be brought forth with much labour, sweat, and tears.   In some streams of philosophical thinking, it can seem like we don’t need to consider the earth as it is or improve our communities, because one day it will all be over, or, as Christians believe, we will join Jesus in heaven. But thinking like this disregards the fact that Jesus brought heaven to earth in a distinctly embodied way, by becoming human, working with his hands and nature as a carpenter (I wonder if Jesus got splinters?), interacting with water, fish, storms, people, flowers, and trees.    Jesus brought reconnection wherever he went.   God is not a capitalist. The Bible says that the kingdom of God is upside down, that those who want to be greatest must become least. The kingdom of Heaven is not ‘survival of the fittest’. God does not endorse exploiting the earth for riches, nor plundering humanity for labour or domination of resources.   What does this mean when it comes to creation care, and loving the earth that God spoke into being? What does that mean for what we owe one another, as Scripture says, a debt of love (Romans 13:8)? I think perhaps we are wise to sit at the feet of our Indigenous sisters and brothers in Australia and around the world, as they have so much experience in their relationship with earth and country.   I learned that Aboriginal people who lived in Tasmania, known as the Palawa or Pakana mob south of the mainland, had what they called fire ecology before contact with colonists. They used controlled burns not to restore the land back to its 'original' form, but to promote new growth, moving with the seasons, and creating a flourishing ecosystem as a result.   After contact with the colonists, who denied Aboriginal mob respect and severed their connection to land, not only was there horrific genocide, but the country itself was never the same after those original relationships and lives were erased.   The kingdom of heaven is not ‘survival of the fittest’. What might it look like for us to reconnect people with land, and land with people? Humankind was never meant to live in isolation, in concrete towers or prison walls or behind picket fences, alone.   What if our community gardens and connection to nature are all part of our restoration to the full garden of Genesis that God always had in mind?   And what if the Earth is an essential part of heaven right now? If you would like; why not take time this week to explore how nature might speak to you of heaven.

Captain Danielle Cook and her husband, Captain Peter Cook, the Corps Officers at Caboolture (Qld). 1. What is your current appointment, and what do you find most satisfying about it?   I am currently serving as the Corps Officer/Team leader at Caboolture Corps in the Moreton Bay area of Queensland. Located halfway between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, this is a beautiful area to call home.   I have had the privilege of serving alongside the incredible team of people at the Caboolture Salvos for the past four years. The thing I find most satisfying about this appointment is very much aligned with the purpose and calling God has placed on my life. Early in my ministry training, I recognised that there can sometimes be a disconnect between church and community.  For whatever reason, church isn’t always a safe and welcoming space for everyone. This is something that really resonated with me. I believe in those early days, God was planting a heart and passion within me to bridge that gap between church and community, where community and faith walk hand in hand, and journey every day together. A space for people to do real life, authentically sharing their struggles in faith and an opportunity to work through the tough stuff as a Faith Community. For every person to find a place of belonging and connection. And for me, Caboolture Corps is a beautiful place to live out this Vision.   Another rewarding part of my role has been connecting with the many incredible Mission Expressions of The Salvation Army. When I began, there were at least six operating across our community, each serving in unique ways. Over time, we have built strong relationships and now meet regularly, united by a shared vision to see ‘Hope revealed’ in our community. Through prayer, mutual support, and collaboration, we’ve been able to holistically care for many individuals together. I really love my role and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!   2. Away from the appointment – if that’s possible! – what do you do to relax or unwind?   I love my family! It fills my cup when we get to spend time together. My husband, Peter, and I celebrated our five-year anniversary this year. We are a blended family with four teenagers/young adults. As our children get older, it’s becoming harder to get the family together. A tradition that has become a highlight of every week has been family dinner around the table every Wednesday night. No matter what’s happening or how full our ministry life is, our Wednesday night family dinner is a priority. I love cooking for our family, and often we share a roast meal together. Honestly, though, the food doesn’t matter at all, it’s simply about connection – sharing a meal together and catching up on how life is. Wednesday night has become such a beautiful part of our spiritual and family rhythm.     I also love a bit of adventure! Getting out in nature. Experiencing and soaking in God’s creation. I take a retreat day once a month, which is an opportunity to get away from the normal routine and demands, and just spend intentional time with Jesus. In Mark 6:31, Jesus says, “Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while.” This is what a retreat day is all about for me.   3. What’s a favourite Christian song and why do you like it?   A song we have been singing together as a Faith Community is Made for More by Josh Baldwin. A reminder that God has saved us and called us for so much more. He has a plan and a future for each and every one of us. The lyrics say:   ‘I know who I am 'cause I know who You are The cross of salvation was only the start Now I am chosen, free and forgiven I have a future and it’s worth the living’   The first line ‘I know who I am, ' cause I know who You are’ has captured my heart and are words that I recite to myself over and over. If I am stepping into a situation that overwhelms me or I am not prepared for, these words remind me that God is present … that he is at work … that God is bigger than anything I will face …  that he has a plan and purpose in all things ... I know who I am, because I know who Jesus is.   4. If you could have a good talk with a biblical character apart from Jesus, who would it be and what would you talk about?   I would love to chat with Paul. His story embodies the possibility of radical change and transformation in Jesus. Before meeting Jesus, Paul – then known as Saul – was a fierce persecutor of Christians. But everything changed on the road to Damascus. In an incredible encounter with Jesus, Paul’s life was changed forever. His heart was completely renewed. He went from breathing threats and murder to preaching love and grace. Meeting Paul would mean hearing firsthand how grace can break through even the hardest heart. Paul’s story reminds us that we have never messed up so much that God will not forgive us, and that transformation is always possible. That’s why I would want to meet him – not just to hear his story, but to be inspired by the depth of his conviction and the power of his redemption. 5. If you were talking to a group of Salvationists and they asked if you recommended officership or not, what would you say?   If it is God’s calling on your life, then I would say absolutely go for it. If it’s God’s purpose, then nothing else you do in life will fulfil you in the same way. My biggest learning from my ministry journey so far is that it has to be in God’s strength and not your own. Operating in your own strength leads to exhaustion, burnout, frustration and sadly causes incredible hurt to those we are called to love and serve. In God’s strength, ministry is rewarding, fulfilling, purposeful and life-giving. I would also encourage anyone, regardless of your calling, to create spiritual rhythms in your life. For me, this has been scheduling retreat days, intentional Sabbath rest, and creating a prayer space in our home that has become our quiet sanctuary. These rhythms will look different for everyone, but it’s these practices that will continue to sustain you even through the hardest of ministry days.  If God has called you to ministry in any capacity, know that he also goes before you and will sustain you when you remain in him. To learn more about becoming an officer in The Salvation Army, click here

A plant sale was the idea of two Riverland Salvos volunteers who wanted to uplift the community. Image: The Salvation Army Riverland Facebook page Riverland Salvos in South Australia recently held their second garden stall at the Community Food Day in Pinnaroo on 26 September, which are events the corps hosts throughout the Riverland region. Ministry Team Leader Helen Adamczyk said the initiative was driven by two volunteers who were inspired by their love of gardening to create a space where clients could purchase plants at a reduced price. The volunteers approached stores including Bunnings, Stratco and Mitre 10 who supported the team with donations. Riverland Salvos volunteers Barine Lampard and Dianne Rains. All images courtesy The Salvation Army Riverland Facebook page The stall raised $760, which will go towards supporting the Riverland community throughout the year. Helen said with the Pinnaroo region having recently experienced drought, the volunteers showed great initiative to create something that would uplift the community. “I had nothing to do with it,” she said. “I had to just organise and get the permit for them to operate on the Pinnaroo lawn front, organise somebody to place a tent up there for them, found them another volunteer to work with them on the day and just stood back and they organised it, from collecting the plants, to watering the plants, to transporting them. “We’ve still got a few plants left over, so they’re finding other avenues to sell the plants on to make us a little bit more money. They’re very focused on raising funds for us, which is absolutely fantastic.”

Jules Kakono, Samaritan House Manager (left), Kara, specialist DFV practitioner (centre) and Sharon Johnston, Senior Specialst Public Relations, with the donated phones and accessories. A new partnership in Mackay, North Queensland, is helping strengthen support for The Salvation Army’s Samaritan House, which provides safe accommodation and critical services for women and children escaping domestic and family violence (DFV).   Recently, Dalrymple Bay Coal donated 10 mobile phones to Samaritan House, ensuring victim-survivors have access to safe, secure communication. These phones will play a vital role in helping women stay connected with support services, family and friends, while maintaining privacy and security.   Samaritan House Manager, Jules Kakono, said the donation will have a lasting impact. “Having access to a safe phone can be life-changing for the women we support. It means they can reach out for help, stay in contact with loved ones and move forward with more independence. We are incredibly grateful to Dalrymple Bay Coal for recognising this need and stepping in to provide such practical assistance,” she said.   Dalrymple Bay Coal’s contribution adds to a growing network of local businesses and community organisations who are standing with Samaritan House to support families in crisis. “Supporting Samaritan House aligns with our values of care and community,” a spokesperson for Dalrymple Bay Coal said. “We are proud to contribute in a way that directly helps women and children at a very difficult time in their lives.”   Samaritan House continues to rely on community partnerships to provide the tools and resources essential to empowering the women and children they support as they rebuild their lives.

Registrations for Arise Men’s Camp will close next Friday, 10 October. Arise takes place on 24-26 October at Collaroy Conference Centre in Sydney. If you would like to attend, don’t miss out and register now.   This year, Arise will feature guest speaker Sean Nolan from Shire Salvos. He will be speaking on the camp’s theme of what it means to be ‘chosen’ in the image of Christ.       The camp is an opportunity to find fellowship and friendship. It provides a safe space where men can talk to each other and hear from God.   Arise is designed to be a booster shot for the soul. Come join your brothers in Christ. There are still places available, so don’t miss out. Register here   – MATTHEW PLON

Merri-bek Corps member Mark Patman (left) gives the thumbs up after the fitness class with Zac Nunns (Personal Trainer) and participant Luke Bird. BY LERISSE SMITH   Single men often feel isolated and unheard in society.     But an exciting new pilot program at Merri-bek City Salvos has shattered that silence with laughter, connection ... and a few sore muscles!   The five-week ‘Made to Move’ exercise program initiative has been a resounding success helping local men shift from isolation to meaningful connection, using group fitness as a powerful catalyst for community and support.   “It has exceeded expectations,” says Melody Lamb, Community Engagement Ministry Worker, who spearheaded the initiative through her role at the Salvos Community Connect space.   “With the pilot, we wanted to be very flexible because you are dealing with a whole lot of different personalities and a whole lot of different people with different needs. It’s also about budget and other restraints, so, we kept it really grassroots. But the relationships have been really worth it, and the growth in the men has been amazing.”  Melody Lamb, Community Engagement Ministry Worker, has spearheaded the Made to Move initiative through her role at the Salvos Community Connect space. A simple observation from Melody initially sparked the vision for creating the pilot – that single men were increasingly attending community breakfasts, table tennis, and other activities at the corps, but not connecting with one another.    Her response was simple but powerful: to create a space for movement, connection and healing through exercise.    “I got to know each one’s story,” she reflected.   “A lot of them had mental health issues and suffered from isolation, and that is why they were coming – just to be around people. So, I said, ‘Well, how would you feel about doing an exercise program? Exercise is actually so good for your mental health.’ They were all keen, so I set that up and ran it past my line manager. She thought it was a great idea. And then we went through all the proper procedures and started the first pilot to see if it was going to actually be something that would help and be beneficial. We made it five weeks, so it was realistic for the guys to commit.”    What started as a vision soon turned into a structured program supported by the corps, committed volunteers and a local personal trainer. Sessions were kept simple with bodyweight exercises, mats and a whiteboard to track the men’s progress.   Each weekly session lasted approximately 45 minutes, followed by some downtime, a brief chat with the trainer, refreshments, and, most importantly, connection and camaraderie.  Merri-bek Corps’  Made to Move pilot exercise program initiative has been a resounding success, helping local single men, who often feel unnheard and isolated in society, move from isolation to connection using group fitness as a powerful bridge and connector.  And the participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.    One participant aged in his 50s had been out of work for approximately six months due to mental health issues and trauma. At first, he couldn’t even walk through the door. He commented to Melody that he would come to the corps and “psych myself up” to come in, but sometimes, he said, “I couldn’t.”   There were days when all he could do was sit and look at the wall, unable to speak or make eye contact. But gradually, week by week, things shifted, and he was able to converse with the other guys and volunteers.    Another participant also shared a profound comment that stuck in Melody’s mind.    “What you guys are doing here has been better than any of the mental health experts have done for me,” he told Melody. Her reaction? “For me, it was whoa! ... that’s a massive statement,” she says. “People in the mental health field are so overworked, underpaid and doing the best that they can; however, they are completely overwhelmed, and for some people, the system is just not the right fit for them. They can feel rejected in that space.”  Celebrating the success of Merri-bek Corps’ Made to Move is Luke (left), Pajeep Khadgi, Mark, Zac, Xiang Sun, Jiangen (Jim) Guo and Michael. There have been some lighter moments, too.    One participant who had not done exercise in a long time informed her that he did not want to let her down, but could not continue with the class. And the reason? Sore muscles!    “He came the first week, and then the second week and then he said, ‘I don't want to let you down, but my body actually really hurts and I don’t think I can continue coming’,” Melody recalls.   “I was giggling to myself because, of course, their body hurts as they were all going for it and pushing themselves really hard on that first day. I said to him, ‘It was really natural that everyone’s body is hurting and brought one of the other guys into the conversation from the group who said they could barely walk either – and it really shifted something, and they began to speak up and share their thoughts with each other.”    This then led to two participants, Luke and Michael, being buddied up to encourage each other while exercising. They encouraged each other to push through together, right to the end, Melody explained, adding that Luke encouraged Michael to keep going and push through. Then the next week, Michael encouraged Luke to keep going after he hit the wall and wanted to quit, remarking, “I will do it with you.”  The greatest impact of the pilot program has been the community and inclusiveness, with participants, Michael (left) and Luke taking​​ a moment out from exercising to enjoy each other’s company. Witnessing a special friendship develop between the two men has been one of the many rewards for the corps team.   The exercise component was beneficial, but it wasn’t the ultimate objective. It was to build those relationships.    “The greatest impact of the pilot program has definitely been the community and inclusiveness," Melody says.   “The friendships that they’ve all bonded, it’s continued. It has just made our community bigger because they’ve built community within the community. The biggest impact is also to see these men now signing up to be volunteers, turning up every week, talking to each other, championing each other, crying with each other, forgiving each other, just doing life together has been the best. That has been the biggest impact."    There is also evidence of real transformation.    The men now don’t have to psych themselves up to visit the corps. They are around people, look people in the eyes, Melody remarked, and they have proper conversations and want to think beyond their problems and move forward with life.    The good news has continued. One man is signing up to study next year. Others are volunteering. They are setting goals, making plans – and they are dreaming.    “They actually have goals and hopes for the future and can’t wait to share them,” Melody emphasised. “Instead of their lives getting smaller, and all they can see is the pain, they are pushing through that, and they are doing it together.”    Some of the men also talk openly about their medication now - something that used to be off-limits.    “These men talk about their medication and talk with each other about it because it’s hard for them with the medications and managing the medications,” she remarked. “They are actually able to come to some kind of resolution on how to sort of push through and not get stuck in the frustration of it all.”  Personal Trainer Zac chats about all things fitness with program participant, Michael Carrethers, who has developed special friendships thanks to the group fitness program. A special celebration to mark the end of the five-week initiative took place recently, featuring a small ceremony and certificates, which celebrated the growth each participant had achieved – not only in fitness, but also in confidence, camaraderie and resilience.    The hope now is to roll out the program again in the future at Merri-bek, if resources allow, as well as in other Salvos spaces, tailored to fit the needs of each community. There is already interest from other demographics and other churches. Melody hopes that other corps will adopt the program, recognising its numerous benefits.    “It has just been really positive all round,” Melody says. “It is about empowering the community to empower each other. It is actually 100 per cent the reason why we did this. It would be really good to see others bring this program to their community and tailor it around their community’s needs. It will grow their people – and it will strengthen their community.”  WATCH MORE: View a video of the Made to Move program on Instagram here

Peter Lane outside his workplace, which used to be his home. Image: Kirralee Nicolle BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE Twenty years ago, Peter Lane spent several months living in what is now The Salvation Army’s Towards Independence Sobering-Up Unit next to Adelaide’s Whitmore Square. At the time, Peter was homeless and facing addiction. Today, Peter is a qualified Support Worker with The Salvation Army. The Sobering-Up Unit is now his workplace. When I met him for our interview, we sat in a very significant part of the building for Peter, in what is now Team Leader Kirsten Pennington’s office. Peter shows me around what was once his home for about six months, which has now been converted into three separate spaces. “There were four of us guys. We had a corner each. This was my bedroom. This corner,” he says, gesturing around Kirsten’s office. It’s also the room where Peter interviewed for his placement, which later became his job. I ask him if that felt strange. But for him, he says it felt really good. He tells me that when he began studying to become a Support Worker, it was The Salvation Army, and the Sobering-Up Unit specifically that most drew him as a place to eventually work. “They were here for me when I needed; it didn’t matter if I was in the middle of active addiction. They were here for me. And I think people need that. I needed it,” he says. In 2005, Peter was part of a pilot program for addressing addiction and homelessness, and over the years following, he found himself back at The Salvation Army dealing with addiction-related illness. After encountering The Salvation Army, Peter began studying at TAFE, initially pursuing a Certificate 3 and 4 in Community Service, followed by a Certificate 4 in Alcohol and Other Drugs, and is now working towards his Certificate 4 in Mental Health. But it hasn’t always been easy. Peter has now been sober for six years, but his life prior to that had been marked by recurring bouts of addiction. “My first Cert 3, I had to get them to print everything out for me,” Peter says. “I couldn't learn off the computer screen. Now I can do it all on computer.” At 54, Peter is experiencing a new lease on life, with sobriety, a new career, and a restored relationship with a very important person in his life. Both Peter’s parents are now deceased, and while he grieves that they cannot see the change in his life, his belief in their ongoing presence is strong. “They never got to see me doing what I’m doing now, but I’m sure they can [see],” he says. When Peter was born, his mother was hospitalised for an extended period with complications from the birth, so the primary caretaker in his early days was his older sister, who was in her early 20s at the time and pregnant with her first child. Peter says their relationship was very close as a result, but once he started experiencing addiction, that connection broke down. “During my struggles with drugs, we sort of lost contact because she wasn’t putting up with it, and I didn’t want to put that crap onto her life,” he says. “We were [estranged] for nearly 30 years, but everything’s back to normal and great now. “That’s my closest thing to my parents. We see each other for lunch every week.” For Peter, his experience of addiction feels particularly heartbreaking because his first exposure to drugs was marijuana, offered to him during his school years by a close friend who never went on to face addiction like Peter did. For Peter, smoking marijuana as a young teenager led to taking methamphetamines as an 18-year-old. Then, he turned to IV drug use. He believes a family history of addictive tendencies played a part in how he responded to drugs as a teenager. As a young hairdresser, Peter and his partner had three children before the relationship broke down, and Peter became a single dad. Later, Peter’s drug use accelerated, so he returned the children to their mother, and soon after, he became homeless. He describes the experience of homelessness as “the worst”. “Alone,” he says. “It was scary. It was something that I’d never been through and didn’t know who to reach out to.” This was a far cry from Peter’s upbringing, where he had never been exposed to homelessness or lack. Peter’s upbringing was, in his words, “perfect”. “I used to complain when I was younger that I had older parents, that’s the only thing I complained about,” he says. “I had the perfect parents, perfect family, everything.” And it was family that motivated Peter to eventually go cold turkey. He says that while The Salvation Army’s Towards Independence program gave him all the tools he needed to de-program his brain from drugs, it took him 13 years to fully complete the process. “My children started using drugs, and I couldn’t tell them they were idiots,” he says. Peter began to wonder about the impacts of addiction down the generations, and as his children faced their own addiction journeys, he pondered whether his grandchildren would also know the pain of such a debilitating illness. “That was enough for me. Overnight, I just stopped,” he says. Peter says the greatest thing The Salvation Army offered him through the years of addiction was knowing that someone was there to help, whenever he needed. “The main thing was having the support and having someone there when you wanted to reach out to someone,” he says. Peter says the staff at the Sobering-Up Unit, including Kirsten and Program Manager AOD Services Tania Sharp, have always been really supportive of him, and that he is loving “every minute” of his work supporting clients. “I'm learning heaps from the fantastic team here,” he says. “I'm always in awe of how they treat the clients, how they work, their professionalism, everything. “I’m just glad to be a part of it.” Kirsten says having Peter come on board as a volunteer for his placement was a new initiative for the Unit, and having him around had been a “fantastic” opportunity for the team and clients. “It’s been amazing to watch Peter just become so much more confident and enthusiastic,” she says.