Charters Towers Greats - Fighting Mac

The Salvation Army’s Commissioner William McKenzie, OBE, known as “Fighting Mac” for his heroic service to ANZACs during the first world war, was stationed at Charters Towers in 1893 and 1894. During his time in Charters Towers the passionate Salvation Army officer was arrested (along with Lieutenant Morrison) and jailed on a charge relating to obstructing traffic! No doubt the giant of a man was leading some sort of open-air meeting in one of the main streets of town, which raised the ire of local authorities. In her book, Booth’s Drum, The Salvation Army in Australia 1880-1980, Barbara Bolton wrote: Whether it was through enthusiasm or for other reasons, Will McKenzie gained a reputation for breaking every axe-handle he was given during his week in prison. When released, the pair were met by an enthusiastic crowd who marched them to the citadel where they were feted at a rousing reception!