Mission Intentions Workshops
Workshop Information
Program Schedule
*NOTE: Faith Based Facilitation (FBF) sessions have strictly limited capacity and prior registrations is required. Registrations for Faith Based Facilitation workshops are now closed.
Workshop A - 10.30am – 11.45am
Building healthy communities 101
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Room 210
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus. We share the love of Jesus by building healthy communities:
- Investing ourselves in relationships that promote mutual flourishing
- We find wholeness God intends for us in community
This workshop will discuss what it means to build healthy communities, focusing on action and theology. What is mutual flourishing, and what do healthy communities look like across the movement?
Lieut. Colonel Donna Evans 
National Head of Officer Personnel
Lieut. Colonel Donna Evans is currently the National Head of Officer Personnel. She has been an officer for more than 20 years and served in a variety of appointments including a stint in the Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovakia Territory. Donna is passionate about communicating theological in an understandable way and ensuring that people who are marginalised or lonely and those who are in any kind of poverty (not just financial) can step into the love of Jesus and flourish. In her spare time Donna enjoys a walk in the countryside, followed by morning tea at a plant nursery where there’s a good café.
Exploring faith in 21st century Australia
Stream: Creating Faith Pathways
Room 211
The last census revealed the largest drop yet in the number of Australians listing The Salvation Army as their religion. While there are many possible reasons for this development, one concern is that we have become locked into cultural forms and ideas are no longer meaningful for Australians in the 21st century. Drawing on current research, this workshop will explore what it might take to better connect with the religious and spiritual needs of our neighbours, and will help you discover what these changes mean in your own missional context.
Captain Dr Jason Davies-Kildea 
Victoria Social Programme Policy Unit Manager
Captain Dr Jason Davies-Kildea has more than two decades experience in Salvation Army social services, from frontline crisis work to senior management roles. He has a special interest in the connection between theology and social action, which has led to post-graduate studies in theology and social sciences. Jason's doctoral thesis explored the relationship between The Salvation Army's identity as a church and its role as a major provider of social services in Australia. In his current appointment, he leads The Salvation Army's social policy unit in Victoria and is responsible for research and government relations.
Caring for people with trauma
Stream: Caring for People
Room 212
Trauma can significantly impact the livelihood of individuals and families. How can we as Salvos care for people in our mission expressions who have survived traumatic experiences? This workshop will provide basic knowledge about trauma as it impacts children and adults, as well as some tips for journeying alongside people who have experienced trauma.
Eric Wieckmann
CHIPS (Christians Helping in Primary Schools)
Eric Wieckmann has a passion for studying the Neurobiology of Developmental Trauma and Child Centred Trauma Informed Practices and has completed a Graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma with the Australian Childhood Foundation. Through his studies, Captain Eric is able to put into simple language what happens to children’s minds and bodies when they are affected by trauma and the on-going consequences for the community. He teaches about the healing process, known as ‘neuroplasticity’ and how significant adults in children’s lives can assist children to heal and cope with their current situation.
Connecting across generations (Panel)
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Rooms 219
This workshop will discuss the complexities, characteristics, formative experiences, incentives and priorities of each generation. Understanding generational theory can help us journey alongside each generation in compassionate and motivational ways, no matter which missional expression we find ourselves in. This workshop will host generational specialists and discuss some of the strengths and challenges of the different generations in an Australia context, and what these may mean in day to day life.
Claire Madden
Founder and Director, Hello Clarity
Claire Madden is a social researcher, keynote speaker and media commentator interpreting social trends and implications of generational change. Claire is the author of Hello GenZ: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials.
As a social researcher and demographer, Claire is widely regarded as a leading voice on multi-generational engagement and emerging social trends by corporations, the media and the wider community. Claire is commissioned by some of the nation’s largest companies and leading brands to interpret the changing landscape and communicate the implications for business and society.
As a keynote speaker, Claire is highly regarded for her dynamic and engaging presentations where she translates robust, research based content into strategic applications for educators, managers and business leaders.
As a media commentator, Claire is regularly interviewed on prominent television programs including The Drum, The Project, The Today Show, SkyNews, Sunrise and The Morning Show, as well as on the radio and in print media. Claire is on the board for a financial services company and on the Advisory Board of UTS Business School. Claire is also the Founder and Director of the research based strategy and communications agency, Hello Clarity (www.helloclarity.com)
John Marion
Territorial Youth Ministry Development Coordinator
John Marion is the Territorial Youth Ministry Development Coordinator for the Salvation Army's Australia Southern Territory. He has worked with young people for over 15 years in local, state and national roles, including leading respite camps for foster children, producing resources, and consulting with churches and services about their work with young people. John has been involved in the training of youth workers, including lecturing at Eva Burrows College. He is passionate about communities working together to see young people thrive. John lives in Melbourne with his wife Edwina and dog Flicker.
Paul Arnott 
Executive Director Q4Connection
Paul Arnott grew up in Hobart as part of the Hobart Baptist Church. He worked for 12 years as an ABC radio current affairs interviewer and producer. He studied theology at Ridley College in the 80s, is an Anglican minister and spent sixteen years in parish ministry in the Anglican church in Tasmania. Paul then became State Director of CMS, and spent three years as Executive Director of Community Care with Churches of Christ, Vic/Tas. He is currently the Executive Director of Q4 Connection with Christian Ministry Advancement – www.cma.net.au/q4.
Major Ian Gainsford
Divisional Leader Northern Division (NZ)
Working for Justice (Showcase)
Stream: Working for Justice
Room 213
The Salvation Army in Australia provides pioneering and compassionate responses to oppression and disadvantage. This workshop will showcase some of the leading examples of people, programs and places that are working for justice in Australia. Speakers will share their expertise, stories, frameworks and theology. Come along to be inspired with new ideas, approaches and models for your own context.
Captain Kris Halliday
Corps Officer, Darwin
Captain Kris Halliday is currently the Corps Officer at the ‘Darwin Salvos’, an integrated community hub where the team works amidst challenging systems and structures to ensure people from across Darwin are able to experience life in all its fullness. Previously Kris has ministered in Salvation Army teams in inner City Perth and Melbourne’s CBD. He is passionate about seeing all people treated with dignity as loved children of God as well as ensuring those who feel voiceless are heard and encouraging others to join in God’s mission in the community. Kris is an advocate for inclusion and acceptance in the Church – and wider society for all people, especially those who are GLBTIQ+. He is a part time radio presenter, Community Development student and foster carer.
Major Cathryn Williamson
Corps Officer Cowra, NSW
Anthony (Tony) Devlin
Territorial Moneycare Co-ordinator, Redfern THQ
Tony is passionate about developing and running impactful programs, focused on people in marginalised and vulnerable situations that prevent and alleviate financial hardship and build long term capability and resilience. Tony manages The Salvation Army’s “Moneycare” which is one of the largest services of its kind in Australia.
Tony has been a board member on the Financial Industry Complaints Service and the Credit Union Dispute Resolution Service. He has also been a consumer representative on a large telco, Bankers Association forum, an insurance peak body and for a utility company. Tony has a degree in business studies, diplomas in criminology and community services and a graduate diploma in counselling. He is an accredited financial counsellor and a certified practicing accountant. Tony also has a certification in “Rethinking Financial Inclusion” from Harvard University.
Major Cheryl Kinder
Director of Mission and Chaplain, Montrose Aged Care Plus Centre, Balmain NSW
Major Cheryl Kinder has been in ministry for over 22 years serving in Corps appointments, Homelessness services, and currently for the past 4 years as a Chaplain and Mission director for Aged Care Plus in Balmain Sydney.She has been married to Lindon (who is now retired diagnosed with a motor neuron disease) for 30 years, they have 4 children, their partners and one grandson. Cheryl is passionate about her current ministry men with mental health, drug and alcohol related brain injury and homelessness. Her desire is for people to look past the outer shell and see the true value behind each resident. This mission wants to make a difference and show them the love of Christ.
Lorrinda Hamilton
Network Director, Salvoconnect Barwon, Geelong, VIC
Lorrinda Hamilton has twenty five years’ experience working and leading teams in the areas of homelessness, alcohol and other drugs, justice, youth and adult, community mental health, emergency relief and financial counselling. Lorrinda has extensive expertise in the areas of mission delivery, complex project management, policy analysis, governance, funding procurement/ management and key stakeholder relationship management including with State/ Federal Government Departments, Ministers and Philanthropy.
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF)
(allocation exhausted)
Stream: Working for Justice
Room 206 (for pre-purchased ticked holders only)
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF) is a way of helping people think, talk, explore and respond to complex issues in the light of faith. It results in the development of healthier people and communities who enjoy deeper relationships. Join this interactive workshop to discuss ‘Working for Justice’ using FBF.
Major Warren Elliott
Corps Officer Morley, WA
Warren has been a Salvation Army Officer since 1991. Currently serving with his wife Kirsten as Corps Officers at Morley in Western Australia, he has served 19 years in various Corps appointments, as well as time as a Divisional Public Relations Secretary, Mission Resource Secretary and Social Justice Coordinator. In recent years he also represented The Salvation Army on the Western Australian Ecumenical Social Justice Roundtable and as a member of the Council of Churches WA Executive.
Workshop B - 12.00pm – 1.15pm
Understanding Australian Trends
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Room 210
To build healthy communities, it is important that we first understand our communities. Join Claire Madden, a leading voice on the emerging generations, as she shares how Australia is changing, discussing demographic data and social trends. Be ready to explore how these big-picture changes are already having an impact on your day-to-day missional context.
Claire Madden
Founder and Director, Hello Clarity
Claire Madden is a social researcher, keynote speaker and media commentator interpreting social trends and implications of generational change. Claire is the author of Hello GenZ: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials.
As a social researcher and demographer, Claire is widely regarded as a leading voice on multi-generational engagement and emerging social trends by corporations, the media and the wider community. Claire is commissioned by some of the nation’s largest companies and leading brands to interpret the changing landscape and communicate the implications for business and society.
As a keynote speaker, Claire is highly regarded for her dynamic and engaging presentations where she translates robust, research based content into strategic applications for educators, managers and business leaders.
As a media commentator, Claire is regularly interviewed on prominent television programs including The Drum, The Project, The Today Show, SkyNews, Sunrise and The Morning Show, as well as on the radio and in print media. Claire is on the board for a financial services company and on the Advisory Board of UTS Business School. Claire is also the Founder and Director of the research based strategy and communications agency, Hello Clarity.
Creating Faith Pathways 101
Stream: Creating Faith Pathways
Room 211
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus. We share the love of Jesus by Creating Faith Pathways:
- Taking a holistic approach to the human condition that values spirituality
- We graciously share the Good News of Jesus and grow in faith together
What does it mean to value spirituality, and to share the Good News of Jesus? This workshop will discuss what it means to create faith pathways.
Captain Carolyn O'Brien
Capt. Carolyn O’Brien has served as Corps Officer since 2007and was appointed to Sydney Congress Hall as Associate Officer in 2013. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Ministry part time. Prior to entering full time ministry, she was a Graphic Designer, also teaching the Diploma of GD at TAFE. Carolyn is passionate about seeing people come to a knowledge of Christ, particularly those who have had no prior knowledge of who God is. Carolyn is also excited about the new Australia Territory and feels privileged to be part of the international Salvation Army.
Caring for People Showcase (Panel)
Stream: Caring for People
Room 212
Caring for people is a sacred encounter. Salvos are often there when people are experiencing moments of hardship, strain or vulnerability. This workshop will showcase some of the leading examples of people and programs that are caring for people through The Salvation Army in Australia. Speakers will share their expertise, stories, frameworks and theology. Come along to be inspired with new ideas, approaches and models for your own context.
Majors Brendan and Sandra Nottle 
Corps Officers, Project 614, Melbourne
Major Brendan Nottle has been a Salvation Army Officer for 27 years and currently oversees operation in the City of Melbourne, including Project 614. Project 614 is open 22 hours per day and provides a suite of responses to the issues of homelessness, addiction, mental health issues, loneliness and social isolation. In 2013 Brendan was awarded Melbournian of the year and anointed one of the monarchs of Moomba, Melbourne’s annual community festival. Brendan is a member of the Premier’s Ice Action Taskforce and the Housing Minister’s Rough Sleeping Round table. In 2017 Brendan walked to Canberra to highlight the need for a national plan to address homelessness. He enjoys spending time with his family, reading and walking.
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Major Sandra Nottle has been an officer with The Salvation Army for 27 years. She oversees the operation of The Salvation Army, in the City of Melbourne. Project 614 is open 22 hours per day and provides a suite of responses to the issues of homelessness, addiction, mental health issues and loneliness and social isolation. Sandra has a passion for working one on one with people to see them realise their full potential. She works behind the scenes at 614 as an integral support for the team, ensuring everything operates effectively. Sandra is married to Brendan and they have three daughters. She enjoys spending time with her family, walking and reading.
Bob Down
Chaplain
Chris Cohen
Chaplain
Commissioned in 1994, Chris Cohen’s ministry base for many years has been courts, prisons, inner-city alleyways and detention centres both on and off shore: congregations that all face marginalisation and intense public scrutiny. Chris delights in linking people to truth, lifelong learning and positive relationships that see them flourish for now and eternity. Her ministry is less about problem solving an issue or particular dysfunction and more about prioritising purpose and providing opportunity to increase a “whole of life” well-being. Coming from an education background, Chris uses her teaching, communication and storytelling skills to foster fun while connecting people with their deeper selves to strengthen faith pathways. In 2017, Chris received a Fellows Scholarship to study the use of narrative therapy in indigenous communities, “Telling our stories in ways to make us stronger.”
Robyn Bust
Manager, Oasis Central Coast
Matt Kay
Assistant Youth Manager, Oasis Central Coast
Matt Kay is Assistant Manager at OASIS Central Coast in Wyong NSW, a youth and community centre which serves the Central Coast and based in one of the areas of high disadvantage. Matt has been involved in the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army for some time in various capacities. Matt was consultant to the Australian Eastern Territory Social Department Doorways Team after commencement of the current emergency relief model and has qualifications in Medical Science, Life Coaching (Leadership and Business) and is an accredited Crucial Conversations course facilitator. Matt cares about people and their equal value. Matt cares that people know God loves them, that He created us to be in a community, which supports and loves each other.
Working for Justice in an Australian Context
Stream: Working for Justice
Room 213
What is the role of The Salvation Army in working for justice alongside the marginalised and excluded? How does our policy play a role in working for justice? This workshop will explore the Australian context, with a specific focus on particular social issues such as homelessness, poverty and family and domestic violence. Come to this workshop to explore what ‘working for justice’ looks like in your own missional context.
Casey O'Brien Machado 
Social Justice Coordinator, Australia Eastern Territory
Casey O’Brien Machado is currently the Australia Eastern Territory’s Social Justice Coordinator and a member of both the International Moral and Social Issues Council and the Australian Moral and Social Issues Council (MASIC). Casey has worked for and ministered through The Salvation Army in various communities and capacities both locally and internationally, and has an academic background in Social Science, Criminology, Policing, Intelligence, Counter-Terrorism and International Security. Casey is passionate about bringing change to society, and hopes to inspire people to think “outside the box” with regard to rectifying issues of injustice in their own communities. She is passionate about The Salvation Army and its God-given mandate to bring the Kingdom of God to earth.
Innovation in Worship (Panel)
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Combined rooms 219
How can our churches and faith communities be innovative in worship that embraces God’s call to mission? Join with members of the Panel as they discuss their understanding of worship, share their experiences of leading people in encountering God and share real-world tips to foster innovative worship. This workshop will also provide practical resources for you to take away and utilise in your own context.
Captain Cate Shanks
Community Outreach Officer, Frankston North, VIC
Captain Adam Couchman
Associate Corps Officer, Box Hill, VIC (Additional appointment - Lecturer, School for Mission and Theology (Eva Burrows College)
Adam is Associate Corps Officer at Box Hill and lectures at Eva Burrows College. Teaching since 2008, he has held various appointments including Director of the School for Christian Studies and Assistant Training Principal – Administration at the School for Officer Training in Melbourne. He and his wife Megan served as Corps Officers at Armidale Corps (NSW) and Gosford Corps (NSW). Adam completed his honours on the sacramental theology of The Salvation Army at Charles Sturt University, and Masters in Christian Holiness with distinction through the Nazarene Theological College in Manchester, UK. Adam is currently working towards his Doctor of Theology through the University of Divinity.
Major Phil Inglis
Corps Officer Wollongong and Team Leader Illawarra , NSW
Phil is husband to Rebecca and father of three teenagers. He and Rebecca have been officers for 16 years, 4 years as DYS's and 12 years as Corps Officers. They have been officers in a very small rural corps, a larger rural corps and are currently the officers at Wollongong Corps, a vibrant faith community in that regional centre. Phil is passionate about the innovative tools and ideas that can be used to draw attention to the purpose, presence and power of God, as people are drawn closer together in worship.
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF)
(allocation exhausted)
Stream: Caring for People
Room 206
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF) is a way of helping people think, talk, explore and respond to complex issues in the light of faith. It results in the development of healthier people and communities who enjoy deeper relationships. Join this interactive workshop to discuss ‘Caring for People’ using FBF.
Major Christine Ellis
Divisional Mission Resources Secretary, Tasmania
Major Christine Ellis has been a Salvo all her life and has been serving as an Officer since 2000. Her roles have included frontline Corps ministry as well as Divisional roles including Youth and Children’s, Officer Recruitment, Mission Resources and Seniors Ministry. A highlight of her Officership was an appointment to The International College for Officers in 2012. In 2019 Christine will be moving into the areas of Officer Personnel and Women and Families. Christine is trained in Faith Based Facilitation and believes that this is a helpful and thoughtful way to tackle life’s and faith’s challenging issues.
Workshop C - 2.00pm – 3.15pm
Community Analysis
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Room 210
In order to serve our communities well, it is imperative that we understand them. Undertaking a Community Analysis can assist us to learn about our local community, find out where God is already working, identify the needs in that community and the resources we have available to meet those needs. Being aware of these things help us to engage more effectively with our community. Come along to this workshop to learn about the importance of community engagement, and the best ways to complete a community analysis.
Rod Yule
National Coordinator for Local Mission Delivery
Rod is the National Coordinator for Local Mission Delivery and is passionate about integrated holistic mission and Christian engagement in the community. Before coming to the Salvos in 2016, Rod worked with World Vision Australia as the Manager of Global Education and has been involved in asset-based community development overseas and in Australia. He co-edited the book Another Way to Love: Christian Social Reform and Global Poverty, lives in Sydney and loves his wife, kids and their kelpie - and all the good things of God's world!
Samantha Tan 
Researcher, Territorial Mission Support Team, Australia Eastern Territory
Samantha believes we are called—as followers of Christ—to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God, seeking to bring about his Kingdom here on earth. She is passionate about how thoughtful, inclusive practices with a commitment to continuous learning through reflection on both lived experiences and theological foundations can move us towards this end. As the Researcher on the Mission Support Team, Samantha has been exploring the role of research and data in getting to know our local communities and informing strategic planning for the Army, especially when it comes to faith, spirituality, and holistic mission.
Creating Faith Pathways Showcase (20x20)
Room 211
Featuring the 20x20 format, this workshop will showcase some of the leading examples of people and programs that are Creating Faith Pathways through The Salvation Army in Australia. Sharing stories from their local mission expression, speakers will share their expertise, stories, frameworks and theology. Come along to be inspired with new ideas, approaches and models for your own context.
Marj Rava
Youth Pastor, The Salvation Army Hobart
Marj Rava is the Youth Pastor at the Hobart Corps in Tasmania. She has been in this role for over 10 years, also previously working in divisional youth roles; as a school chaplain; and also as a youth worker in council based programs. Marj is passionate about seeing young people reach their full potential in life, and sees it as a privilege to journey with young people through life. Marj is also super passionate about basketball & coffee, and doesn't eat chocolate!
Megan Casey
Youth Outreach Manager The Salvation Army Ingle Farm
Bev Wilson
Manager Homelessness Services Network, The Salvation Army Western Australia
Andrew Stringer
Project Officer Merrylands Salvos
Lauren Mason
Ministry Assistant - Divisional Youth & Children's Team, NSW/ACT
Lauren currently works as part of the Youth and Kids Team for The Salvation Army - NSW/ACT. Part of her role is to oversee the development of Young Adult Ministry with a focus on strengthening local expressions. Prior to her commencement in this role Lauren worked as Student Advisor for Excelsia College. In the past she has worked for The Salvation Army in a variety of roles including; Territorial Young Adults Development Coordinator, University Chaplain, Life Skill Educator and as a Community Liaison Worker and in other denominations as a Youth Pastor. The majority of her ministry life has focused on 16-25 year olds, creating intentional spaces that are relevant, best informed and empathetic to generational trends and needs. Lauren completed her Bachelor of Theology at Wesley Institute in 2011 and is currently engaged in studying a Masters in Christian Leadership.
Captain Claire Emerton 
Corps Officer Dandenong
Claire Emerton has been a Salvation Army officer since 2006 and as well as holding church leadership positions in Tasmania and Victoria, has worked in management of a broad range of Salvation Army Social Programs across Victoria. Claire previously worked as a social worker and holds degrees in Criminal Justice Administration, Social Work and Theology. Currently the corps officer of the Dandenong Corps of The Salvation Army, Claire loves the cultural and socio-economic diversity of her community, with all of its joys and challenges (and great food!).
Bev Wilson
Manager Homelessness Services Network (WA)
Caring for People 101
Stream: Caring for People
Room 212
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus. We share the love of Jesus by Caring for People:
- Being there when people need us most
- We offer care and compassion as a sacred encounter with transformative potential
This workshop will discuss what it means for us as Salvos to care for people.
Captain Erica Jones
Corps Officer, Kwinana, WA
Captain Erica Jones, along with her husband Peter, are in ministry as Corps Officers, with The Salvation Army in Western Australia. The have four children, Tia, Michellie, Rhys and Maddison. She currently serves in the community of Kwinana coordinating several ministries reaching a number of demographics, and next year will be the Area Officer in the Northern Territory. She is passionate about helping youth and young adults reaching their God given potential and finding a new sense of hope. Erica is currently enrolled in the Arrow Leadership Program, whilst completely her Masters of Leadership study.
Advocacy
Stream: Working for Justice
Room 213
The call to advocate for the marginalised and oppressed is echoed throughout the bible. It has also been a mandate of The Salvation Army since its inception. From grassroots activism to political engagement, what is the role of The Salvation Army in advocacy? What does this look like for us as individual Salvos? This workshop will discuss a biblical understanding of advocacy, provide suggestions for the practical engagement of Salvos in advocacy and discuss the strategic response of the movement.
Ben Thurley
Relationships Manager at International Nepal Fellowship Australia
Ben Thurley is married to Lyndall and father of Gabe and Jacob. He has been a long time campaigner on issues of poverty and inequality, accountable government and climate change and has a passion for encouraging and equipping all Australians – especially Christians – to stand and speak up for justice. Currently working with International Nepal Fellowship Australia, Ben has worked in Australia and Nepal with a number of Christian organisations dedicated to serving and standing with poor communities – including TEAR Australia, Micah Challenge and United Mission to Nepal. Ben has degrees in Arts, Education and Theology.
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Dr Elli McGavin
Head of Social Policy, Justice Advocacy and Research
Elli has more than 20 years’ experience working for social justice through Salvation Army services that encompasses out-of-home-care, youth programs, alcohol and other drug rehabilitation for women, community engagement programs, family violence, social policy and research. In addition, Elli has worked in the University sector in both teaching and management roles.
A keen interest in a broad range of subjects is reflected in Elli’s qualifications in social science, theology, adult education, community welfare work, management and human resources management. Elli’s Master of Arts thesis investigated family violence and her PhD examined risk, compliance and identity within the tertiary education system.
Engaging and walking with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Stream: Building Healthy communities
Rooms 219
Come to this workshop to hear stories and reflections from Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples who have a wealth of experience working and engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the church, community organisations, research and social contexts. Come prepared with questions to ask our guests and find out about useful resources for your ministry and work.
Uncle Vince Ross
Chair, Nation Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Reference Group
Shirli-Ann Congoo
Territorial Indigenous Ministry Co-ordinator, Program Administration
Shirli Congoo is of Aboriginal and Southsea Islander Heritage. She is the Eastern Territory Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministry Coordinator. She has held that role for 6 years leading a team to support, educate and empower The Salvation Army to be more responsive and inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across their leadership, social programs and ministry expressions. Shirli has 25 years experience working in the fields of cleaning, domestic violence, child protection, education, community services, legal services and cultural capability training.
Dr Wendy Gunthorpe
Research Analyst, Territorial Social Program Department
Prior to joining TSA's Research Team, Dr Wendy Gunthorpe worked as a senior research fellow at Menzies School of Health Research where she worked in remote communities to develop culturally-appropriate screening for mental health conditions. It was there she learned of the value and necessity of true collaboration when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. She now works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Ministry to facilitate collaboration between TSA and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities in the design and evaluation of culturally relevant programs.
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF)
(allocation exhausted)
Stream: Creating Faith Pathways
Room 206
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF) is a way of helping people think, talk, explore and respond to complex issues in the light of faith. It results in the development of healthier people and communities who enjoy deeper relationships. Join this interactive workshop to discuss ‘Creating Faith Pathways’ using FBF.
Major Clayton Spence
First Five Years and Major Aux-Lieut Coordinator, School for Officer Training, Sydney
Clayton and his wife Leanne have been officers for 19 years, and served in Corps and Divisional Youth & Children's Ministries roles. Currently Clayton is part of Eva Burrows College Officer Formation, supporting Lieutenants and Auxiliary Lieutenants in their first five years of ministry. Clayton is a member of MASIC (Morals and Social Issues Council), and represents the Salvation Army on the National Council of Churches Faith and Unity Commission. He holds qualifications in Organisational and Coaching Psychology, and Theology, and is most at home facilitating group processes helping people realise their potential. To relax Clayton enjoys trail running.
Workshop D - 3.30pm – 4.30pm
Building Healthy Community Showcase (World Café)
Room 210
Using a highly collaborative and interactive style, this workshop will showcase some of the leading examples of people and programs that are Building Healthy Communities through The Salvation Army in Australia. Speakers will share their expertise, stories, frameworks and theology. Come along to be inspired with new ideas, approaches and models for your own context.
Lieutenant Bradley McIver
Operations Manager Community Services
Lt Brad McIver is currently the Community Service Operations Manager for TSA in Qld, NSW and ACT. He heads up the Doorways, Moneycare and Communities for Children teams and leads a multi-disciplinary team of experts in responding to community need on behalf of TSA. Brad is a husband and father of four children and has been a Salvation Army Officer for 5 years. He has a broad ranging professional history in community services, construction, hospitality and originally studied a Bachelor Applied Science at Hawkesbury Agricultural College; an insight into his passion for rural Australia. Having been through a transformative experience himself he is deeply passionate about seeing others experience the freedom that comes with a personal relationship with Jesus.
Chris Congoo 
Territorial ATSI Engagement Co-ordinator, Program Administration
Chris is a proud Nargo man from the Airlie Beach and Proserpine of the Whitsunday Region of the Birri Gubba Nation group on his mother's side and Kalkadoon on his father's side of North West Queensland around Mount Isa. Over the past 4 years of Chris has been employed as the Territorial Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Officer for The Salvation Army. Chris has more than 30 years of lived experience working in the community welfare sector which encompasses: Frontline Child Protection, Home and Community Care HACC (Aged and Disabilities Services), Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre, Townsville, Palm Island and Mount Isa Recovery Services, Queensland Health Indigenous Alcohol Diversion Program, Palm Island Community Company – Program Manager and Coordinator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Court Support Officer Townsville, Queensland Government Reparation Team - Assistance Program Officer. Chris has worked most of his life in Aboriginal communities working for social justice for his people. Chris’ hobbies are fishing and Rugby League.
Terrence Whyte
ATSI Youth and Children's Worker, Program Administration
Terrence Whyte is from the Wiradjuri (NSW) & Kaurareg (TSI) nations working for The Salvation Army as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's and Youth Worker on Wulgurukaba and Bindal country (AKA Townsville). Terrence currently deliver's social wellbeing and life skill programs that build resilience and develop leadership within children & young adults. Terrence and his wife also volunteer at a local junior sports club (for over 7 years) where their children play rugby league, coaching and speaking to the lives of young people to be the best they can be. Terrence's hobbies are rugby league, fishing and cooking.
Captain Mark Schatz
Corps Officer, Bunbury
Captain Zoe Schatz
Corps Officer, Bunbury
Mark and Zoe have 2 children, Jacob and Rachel and have been in ministry since 2008 in various locations. They both graduated from The Salvation Army Training College in 2011. Their previous appointment was in Kalgoorlie-Boulder (WA) which included Corps, Doorways and Emergency Accommodation. At the start of 2018 they moved to Bunbury and now minister in the southwest of Western Australia. This appointment also includes Corps, Doorways and Emergency Accommodation. They both love the country life, spending time in nature, Geocaching and spending time as a family. They try and live their lives with the motto “love and pastor the people!”.
Evangelism and Discipleship (Panel)
Stream: Creating Faith Pathways
Room 211
Our International Mission Statement states that “The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Christian Church”. What does being “evangelical” look like in our local contexts? And how do we as disciples of Christ encourage others to grow in their relationships with Him? Come along to this workshop to hear from practitioners who are engaged in diverse and effective forms of evangelism and discipleship.
Captain Diane Hobbs
Corps Officer, Bellarine Peninsula Corps Plant, VIC
Captain Diane Hobbs, together with her husband Peter are the Corps Planting Officers for the Bellarine Peninsula, south of Melbourne. They have two children Ella 11, and James 8 years old. Diane has a background in Emergency/Trauma Nursing and before moving to England, and then becoming an Officer, was a Clinical Nurse Educator in Sydney. She is passionate about seeing people come to know Jesus, creatively growing faith wherever life happens and the long term benefits of discipleship. Her hobbies are her family, travel, sailing, stand up paddle boarding… actually anything that involves either the beach or a rainforest.
Captain Pete Hobbs
Corps Officer, Bellarine Peninsula Corps Plant, VIC
Along with his wife, Di, Pete Hobbs works an as officer at The Salvation Army Bellarine Peninsular. Engaged in mission to his community, Pete takes seriously the great commission, and works with God to seek justice in his neighbourhood. The Bellarine Corps has multiple missional communities and has seen those transformed voluntarily step up to lead lives of worship, providing much needed social and community initiatives. These include Healing Art, The Up Cycle Hospitality Training Café, school chaplaincy, Salvo Resto, youth group, adult discipleship training, child trauma/family counselling, a community garden, multiple thrift shops, and The Open Air Music Program and recording studio. Pete and Di have two energetic children, Ella and James. In their spare time, the Hobbs family enjoy creating their own Star Wars movies.
Captain Abhishek (Monty ) and Captain Manikya (Mera) Bhardwaj
Intercultural Officers, Metro West, VIC
Captains Abhishek Bhardwaj (Monty) and Manikya Mera work as intercultural officers of The Salvation Army Intercultural Ministries Melbourne. They previously served as Corps Officers at Carlton Corps and planted an All-Nations-Fellowship for International students while they were in Training College.
Together they pastor one of the organic church expressions of The Salvation Army, and serve communities from various diverse ethnicities, linguistic and religious background. They are passionate about serving the Kingdom of Heaven and share the joy of new families from various backgrounds accepting Christ for the first time. They are also energised by ‘Salvos Catering ‘, a by-product of their organic church expression.
Monty and Mera both came to Australia as international students. Monty studied a Masters in Information Technology, and Mera studied a Masters in Business Administration. They both enjoy travelling and walking. Together they have two little daughters Prisha & Anvita.
Major Colin Elkington
Chaplain, Asylum Seeker and Refugee Service, Brunswick VIC, Ministry Assistant Brunswick (Additional)
Healthy Faith Communities
Stream: Caring for People
Room 212
How do you take a congregation on the journey of change that moves people from simply hearing the gospel to living the gospel in their local communities? How can we teach mission in a way that inspires and encourages people to get on board with what is happening in the Church and in our communities? Come along to this workshop to hear Bree Mills, a missional thinker and practitioner passionate about transforming churches and empowering leaders.
Bree Mills
Associate Pastor at Glen Waverley Anglican Church, VIC
Bree Mills is currently the Associate Pastor at Glen Waverley Anglican Church. She is a Ridley Graduate who has been worked in ministry for 12 years at various churches, until moving into her current role, overseeing missional discipleship at GWAC. She is undertaking Postgraduate study in the area of Missional Leadership, with a focus on congregational change, and is involved with various missional movements around Australia. She has worked in both large and small churches to reinvigorate youth ministries, refocus churches on discipleship and mission, and is passionate about encouraging the church to engage with the local community.
Justice for the Poor
Stream: Working for Justice
Room 213
The Salvation Army is a Christian movement dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus. We share the love of Jesus by Working for justice:
- Tackling the social systems that harm creation and strip away human dignity
- We join God’s work to build a fairer world where all can thrive
This workshop will discuss the theology of justice specifically regarding the poor and marginalised in our communities, and in our world.
Steve Bradbury
Director of the Micah 6.8 Centre at Eastern College Australia, Course Coordinator for the Master of Transformational Development
In the last 10 years Steve Bradbury has worked as Director of the Micah 6.8 Centre at Eastern College Australia and as Course Coordinator for the Master of Transformational Development. Steve has rich experience as an advocate for justice, having previously served as National Director of TEAR Australia (1984-2009), Chairman of the International Board of Micah Challenge (2003-4, 2008-2012) and Chairman of the Micah Network (now Micah Global) (1999-2009). Steve is married to Chris, Dad to Sarah (39) and Tom (34), and Poppa to Isabella Rose (8) and Asher Wolf (4). A Welsh-born Kiwi-Australian, he is a One-eyed All Black supporter and Father-in-law to a one-eyed West Coast Eagles supporter.
Mission and Ministry in a culturally diverse Australia
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Room 219
Australia continues to become more and more culturally diverse. How do we ensure that our ministry is effective and fruitful in this culturally diverse landscape? Taking a culturally intelligent approach to inclusion enables us to see diversity as a strength to be leveraged, rather than a problem to be solved! This workshop will provide some practical insights and tools to help you on the journey in your own context.
Adrian Kistan
Multicultural Ministries Director
Adrian Kistan is the Multicultural Team Director responsible for providing strategic leadership of The Salvation Army's cultural diversity and inclusion team. With a particular focus on training and consulting around organisational, team and individual processes and practice for effective cross cultural engagement. Adrian is an accredited and experienced facilitator in Cultural Intelligence assessment and training and has provided consultancy services across a wide variety of Industries. He is a passionate Jesus follower and is a soldier at Auburn Salvation Army in the western suburbs in Sydney. He is married to Natalie and they have been blessed with 3 children - all boys!
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF)
(allocation exhausted)
Stream: Building Healthy Communities
Room 206
Faith Based Facilitation (FBF) is a way of helping people think, talk, explore and respond to complex issues in the light of faith. It results in the development of healthier people and communities who enjoy deeper relationships. Join this interactive workshop to discuss ‘Building Healthy Communities’ using FBF.
Captain Louanne Mitchell
Corps Officer, Northside Manly Corps
Captain Louanne Mitchell is the Corps Officer at Northside Manly New Life Community Church and Centre in NSW. She is a child of God and a faithful follower of Jesus. Louanne is passionate about making disciples who make disciples and has a specific calling on my life to minister to the least, the lost and the last. She strives to live out God’s kingdom values and join where the Holy Spirit is already working.
Louanne loves to swim! In the ocean or in a pool, wherever there is body of water, she has her swimmers with her and is ready to dive in.