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The Salvation Army
Alice Springs

Our history

A rich history of meeting spiritual, social and practical needs.

The Salvation Army first had contact with the people of Alice Springs in the 1930s

At that time, the town was a small, dusty, isolated place. Salvationists from Quorn, nearly 1000 kilometres to the south, made annual visits, travelling for days over rough, unmade roads. Initially, little interest was shown by locals, but over time, curiosity and engagement grew.

During World War II, the population of Alice Springs increased dramatically as the Defence Forces set up camp. The Red Shield Ministries established a base in Alice Springs and operated across the region, from Birdum to Mt Isa.

Postwar, annual visits from Quorn Salvationists continued, gradually laying the foundation for a permanent presence. Further plans were made during visits by the South Australian Commander in 1963 and 1965.

1965 – 1990: Establishing the corps  

Captain Hilton Morris arrived in May 1965 and purchased a property at 58 Giles, the first officers’ quarters. The first Open Air Meeting was held in the Gap Area on 11 July 1965, and the Alice Springs Corps was officially opened on 18 July 1965 in the United Church. Early work focused on social needs, with slow but steady spiritual growth. 

In 1967, the property at 88 Hartley Street was purchased and became the officers’ quarters for thirty years. The Red Shield House men’s hostel opened in 1970, followed by plans for a hall adjacent to the hostel. Leadership changed hands several times over the next decade, with new captains overseeing the growth of Guards, Sunbeams, and community services. 

Following Cyclone Tracy in 1974, volunteers from Alice Springs assisted with disaster relief in Darwin, while others helped evacuees locally. Renovations to the hall were undertaken in the 1980s, preparing the corps for ongoing community work. The first Northern Territory Congress was held in 1985, with Alice Springs members attending in force.

1991 – 2016: Growth and community impact 

Key milestones in this period included: 

  • Expansion of Aboriginal Ministry and employment of an Aboriginal Liaison Worker 
  • Development of a Drop-In Centre for Aboriginal painting and craft 
  • Relocation and upgrading of the Thrift Shop 
  • Renovations to the hall and relocation of the officers’ quarters 

The corps has adapted to the changing township of Alice Springs, continuing to meet spiritual, social, and practical needs.

2017 - Today: Continuing the mission 

The Salvation Army Alice Springs Corps continues to serve the community, offering spiritual guidance, social support, and cultural programs. From humble beginnings in dusty, isolated conditions to a vibrant hub of worship, fellowship, and outreach, the message has remained consistent: to turn to Jesus and serve others. 

The corps remains committed to faith, community, and care for all, reflecting the unique spirit of Mparntwe – Alice Springs and its people.