Townsville
Home to 3rd Brigade
The Army’s Rapid Response Brigade
The Barracks is situated under Mount Stuart, on the southwest edge of Townsville; it was originally formed in 1914, and reformed in 1967 for Vietnam. Named after Lieut-General Sir John Lavarack, an Australian Artillery officer, who served in both World War One and World War Two. From 1946 till his death in 1957, Sir John Lavarack served as the first Queensland-born Governor of Queensland.
It is the home to the following infantry battalions 1, 2 and 3 RAR, as well as home to engineers, artillery, cavalry, signal and CSS Battalions. With almost 7000 troops it is the largest brigade in the Australian Army.
It is in a constant state of readiness as the first responding brigade whenever the Government sends troops overseas. Also located in Townsville is 5th Aviation with Blackhawks and Chinook Helicopters. 10FSB at Ross Island Barracks and Lavarack Barracks who operate amphibious and heavy-lift equipment.
And it is home to 11 Brigade, headquarters for all Queensland Reserve units.
The representatives in Townsville are involved with The Salvation Army Townsville Corps (church), being part of a variety of ministries including Mainly Music, Oasis Youth Services, Recovery Centre and Emergency Services.
Our representatives
Major Nigel Roden
Call 0407 042 477 or email me
I grew up in Rockhampton, Queensland, where I developed an early interest in technical work and love of service to others. I began my career as an Avionic Technician, gaining valuable experience in precision, systems thinking, and technical problem-solving. I was commissioned as a Salvation Army officer in 2000.
Deployments: East Timor, the Middle East, and multiple domestic operations including bushfire and flood support.
I enjoy long‑distance running (I’ve completed the Melbourne Marathon), sim car racing and long beach (nature) walks.
Captain Perry Lithgow
I was raised in North Queensland and studied at the Queensland University of Technology, which was where I met my wife Bronwyn.
We became involved with The Salvation Army at Batemans Bay, NSW, and responded to a calling to officership.
We were part of the Messengers of Light session in 2014. Following commissioning, we served in Townsville Faithworks Corps for eight years. It was during this time that Brownyn passed away following a prolonged battle with breast cancer.
In 2024, I commenced my role at Lavarack Barracks. I enjoy mountain biking, dirt biking, camping, and four-wheel driving.
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BSB 833-205
Account 20531852
Reference [use your name]
