An Army for the People

Over the years a number of ministries have been developed to assist Townsville individuals and families to find freedom. As early as 1898, The Salvation Army had a rescue home for distressed families in Townsville.

In 1967, the Premier of Queensland, the Hon. G.F.R Nicklin, opened The Salvation Army’s People’s Palace (pictured right), a low-cost accommodation service. Also in that year, The Salvation Army opened the Nevitt House men’s home.

Ten years later The Salvation Army’s Lieutenant-Colonel Ian Cutmore officially opened the Garbutt Community Centre, described in the local history book as the hub of all Townsville Salvation Army youth and children’s activities.

Today, The Salvation Army runs a number of services in Townsville, including the Townsville Recovery Services Centre for men and women suffering with addiction, emergency welfare assistance and Moneycare Financial Counselling for those struggling to make ends meet, and chaplaincy services in Townsville’s courts and prisons. Families can connect with The Salvation Army through a range of activities, including Mainly Music, the children’s SAGALA adventure and life skills program, youth groups, and our Sunday worship services. Fitness fanatics can even join the Salvo Striders who meet regularly to jog and encourage one another.