Matthew and Jacqueline Gluyas are the newly appointed leaders of the Craigieburn Salvation Army. Matthew spoke to Michaela Meade about the work he and his wife are doing in their new roles.
What’s your connection to the northern suburbs?
Our connection to the northern suburbs is through our work with the Salvation Army. My wife and I commenced our role as leaders of The Salvation Army Craigieburn in January, having lived in Adelaide and Sydney prior to our move to Craigieburn.
What are you enjoying most about the area?
I am loving the blend of city and country. You can drive one way and experience the best of city living and drive the other and be surrounded by such incredible country surroundings. The melting pot of nations also brings with it a richness of culture and foods!
What made you interested in working for the Salvation Army?
It has always been the Salvation Army’s heart to be a movement of inclusion and looking out for society’s most vulnerable. These values are what initially interested me in working for the organisation. This same heart continues to energise me today.
Have you always been passionate about working for the community?
Yes. Whether here or in other places I have worked with the Salvation Army, my passion has always been to see communities thrive. The Hume area is an incredible place and we look forward to getting to know the incredible people who make up this beautiful city.
What do you hope to accomplish through your work with the Salvation Army?
I hope to work in collaboration with other service providers to see the community within the Hume area thriving! I’m keen to see the Salvation Army’s work expand to the greater Hume area and have a keen interest in seeing those most isolated find a place of belonging.
What are some other initiatives you’re excited about?
Re-commencing our outreach program and re-commencing our school breakfast programs. Creating a community hub space at our facility on Interlink Drive that will be a place where all in our community are able to come and find belonging, hope and community services that will support people holistically.
What’s one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a keen Rabbitohs supporter! I know it’s the wrong code of football here in Melbourne, however, I grew up in Sydney in the heartland of the South Sydney Rabbitohs!
