Early opposition

During the late 19th century and early 20th century, many local councils employed a person in the role of “Inspector of Nuisances”. The role seems to have had a wide-ranging job description that allowed various inspectors to harass the early Salvation Army. In Bingara, the “Inspector of Nuisances” tried to serve the local Salvation Army with a summons for being the boss nuisance of the district. The Sydney Mail newspaper reported on 26 January 1895 that in the inspector’s enthusiasm, he collided with the standard-bearer’s poke-bonnet, and tripped over an old lady who was bringing up the rear with a triangle! The magistrate found no offence had been committed by The Salvation Army but awarded damages against the inspector. After the court case the Municipal Council’s servant was provided with a fortnight’s seclusion and low diet in the local goal.