For 17 years, the van has provided an irreplaceable service unique only to Goulburn.

It’s fed the poor, provided a safety net for the vulnerable, saved lives and helped emergency services on more than one occasion.

In 2013 the Post sent a reporter along for a night on the Sally Van. What was displayed that night was a blazing example of community spirit.

The streets were quiet with hardly a soul to be seen, until word came that a fire had broken out in a small weatherboard home in Lagoon St.

The blaze had gutted the home and damaged the next door auto workshop. Police and firefighters were in it for the long haul.

The women aboard the Sally Van that night refused to leave until every man and woman on site had their fill of savouries, sweets, coffee and tea. When the time came, a survival kit was left with police. 

The van might not be life and death (in most cases), but did provide a comforting eye on the community.

“(Parents) can rest a little easier knowing their teenagers are not alone on the streets at night; late night travellers can be comforted knowing a coffee is just around the corner and those with nothing can find refuge in knowing they are not alone,” the Post reported at the time.

But things change.

We can empathise with those like van coordinator Kel Johnson and volunteer Cassandra Harding.

To be told, via letter, the thing that has given you a sense of purpose for years is no longer relevant can’t be easy.

Signed by Captain Tuesday McCall, the document was vague, with no clear detail on what’s next for the church group. 

“What was once a huge need in the community is no longer...” the letter read.

“Change is never easy but if the caterpillar didn’t have the courage to build a cocoon we would never have a butterfly.”

Perhaps it would have been easier to take if it were a matter of financial viability. Something material and easily rectified. But, when it comes down to a change in focus, it can be hard to come to terms with.

“The Salvation Army is only a small group of people and they are an ageing group of people, so I think finding healthy volunteers to go out has been difficult for them, even though there is community support,” Goulburn Mulwaree councillor Carol James said yesterday.

We’re sure no matter what the Salvation Army does, it will be with the community’s best interest at heart.

As for the Sally Van, let’s hope for the best.