Making music

The Salvation Army in Caboolture has a rich musical heritage. In fact, its musicians were of such standard that two of them, Brother Lee and Brother Haworth, were chosen to join the No.1 Division of the Austral Guards Band (pictured). This was a travelling band formed in 1890 by the then-Salvation Army Territorial Commander, Commissioner Thomas Coombs, to spread the gospel and the ministry of The Salvation Army throughout the country.

In his book, Brass Bands of The Salvation Army, John Cleary writes: Applicants were to be single young men who would be prepared to come “without receiving any salary (food and clothing, of course, being supplied)”. Recruits were encouraged from all colonies, including New Zealand. By May 1890, the Australian Guards No.1 Band was marching the highways under Bandmaster Willie Norman. The Guards uniform included waterproof cape-coats, rolled military style to fit the straps provided on their haversacks. Their arms were free to carry their silver instruments and play as they marched.

Today, Caboolture Salvation Army maintains a number of musical groups including a brass band, a timbrel (tambourine) brigade and a “Sally Singers” choir.