Read below to learn how two Australian regions are bringing together youth and families for a weekend of fun and discipleship.
Queensland, Australia
In January, forty-six enthusiastic participants gathered at Tallebudgera, Queensland for a weekend of connection and growth. The event kicked off on Thursday afternoon with meaningful discussions about the weekend’s themes and ways to support one another. Icebreaker activities and board games after dinner set a joyful tone of fun, faith, and fellowship.
Breakfast devotionals were held on both Friday and Saturday focused on Jesus’ baptism and what baptisms mean for us today. Campers were deeply moved by heartfelt testimonies shared about personal journeys of faith.
Friday brought adventure on the canoes as groups worked together to explore the beautiful Tallebudgera Creek. A thoughtful session on responsible social media use followed, along with a beach swim, dance practice, basketball, jump rope, and more games to end the day.
Saturday challenged campers at The Cliffs with abseiling and a thrilling height drop. The afternoon was spent preparing for Sunday’s worship service, followed by swimming, soccer, and dinner. That evening featured a Sacred Imagination dinner and an energetic dance session.
Sunday’s Worship Service was a highlight. Youth led every aspect, even the sermon, showcasing their gifts through music, art, readings, testimonies, and a Fijian dance. The service was deeply inspiring and reflected the servant-heartedness of these amazing young people.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all church members for your prayers and support that made this camp possible. We cannot wait to see what God has in store in 2027!
By Lara Olsen, GCI-Australia Admin and Registrar
Camira, Queensland, Australia
Victoria, Australia
In January, the first Victorian Youth and Family weekend was held on Port Phillip Bay near Melbourne. Thirty people attended. Each morning after breakfast we had a time of devotion focusing on God’s delight is us, his love, and willingness to carry all our burdens. The Amazing Race activity, a race around the camp with various puzzles to solve, was enjoyed equally as much as a casual beach stroll exploring the nearby rocky foreshore and cliffs.
At our Sunday worship service, the Congolese Bolikoko family led us in songs. We also heard from two recently baptised young adults about their journey thus far. They shared moments when they felt God’s presence during difficult times, describing baptism not as a single profound moment but as a growing awareness of a lifelong journey with God. They spoke of learning to trust God’s guidance, even as letting go of control remains an ongoing process.
Along with conversations and laughter, the three days were also filled with outdoor sports like the giant swing, volleyball, gaga ball, and the most favourite of all – 9 Square in the Air. When we needed relief from the heat and wind, we enjoyed indoor activities like trivia, karaoke, and tie-dyeing t-shirts. The t-shirts were a big hit. At the end of camp, we had ‘the reveal’ as each person’s shirt, after being washed and dried, was unfolded to smashing applause and cheers.
It was an enjoyable and meaningful time, and we are very grateful for the staff that attended. We look forward to returning in 2027.
By Matthew Gudze, Pastor
Mooroolbark, Victoria, AU
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