Communicator Issue 34 Spring 2012

SPRING12

was a real blessing!

WHATS INSIDE Intern program at Atunga

Spirit of Sharing Awards

Need More Bookings?

Profile on Adare Campsite

National Scene

“Last Word” from Chaplain John

ISSUE 34

“Lost Ken Pullen

for Words”

I

’m sure we have all been “Lost for Words” at some time in our lives, some of us more frequently than others. This often happens when we are shocked (both pleasantly or unpleasantly) or frightened.

So why was I lost for words? Simply put, the survey responses from Connect12 left me pleasantly shocked. I have never seen such a positive response to any survey, ever.

Connect12 had been a concern to me. I knew we had a great program, a great facility and great speakers but numbers were lower than desired. I was worried that the lower numbers would detract from the conference experience. How wrong could I have been?

From the opening talk by Bryan Loritts to the final goodbyes on Friday, Connect12 was a testament to how powerful God is and how he uses His people to encourage each other. My biggest regret is that more Christian Venues Association members were not there to experience it.

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89.5% of the 114 survey responses rated the conference as “Excellent” (there were 151 full-time adult attendees) and 9.6% as “Good”. That means that 99.1% rated the overall conference experience in these two categories! No event organiser ever expects to see such results. We have never had a conference with such results! This is why I was “Lost for Words”.

Now I am over being lost for words.

I now want to “spread the word” - not just to encourage you to obtain and watch Bryan Loritts’ talks on DVD and to consider talking to those who attended and plan (and budget) on being at the 2014 conference.

But also, through the encouragement of what happened, what we heard and what we learnt at Connect12, to “Spread the Word” – His Word – with more enthusiasm.

So I pray the on-going effects of Connect12 will be instrumental in “Spreading the Word”.

Ken Pullen CEO, Christian Venues Association

SAVE THESE DATES

July 28 – 30, 2013.

The Collaroy Centre, Collaroy NSW For Managers, Owners, Directors and Board Members… ie., Christian Camping and Conferencing Leaders!

CONNECT 14 Celebrating 40 years.

The Association’s 40th Anniversary & 21st National Conference.

Plan to Celebrate with us at:

The Tops, Stanwell Park, NSW July 28th – August 1st 2014 3 Communicator Spring 12

INTERNSHIPS AT ATTUNGA

The reason why?

For many this is a life-changing journey of healing, wholeness & restoration

By Chris Lategan

In 2009 we prayerfully began our Þrst Internship program at Attunga. We had come through a season of great need as a small private camp site, struggling with all the usual issues, yet we began with a great sense of excitement and anticipation because God was tangibly leading us and we felt that something extraordinary was about to happen.

“ It’s not about you! “ I believe strongly that ministry ßows out of identity and purpose, and the Þrst step in our journey was to seek God about His heart and purpose for Attunga.

Our family had been away for 12 years overseas before returning to Attunga in 2006 and once back we prayed and waited on God for an answer to some key questions - who and what is Attunga to be? What is our purpose? For what reason do we exist. I was initially unprepared for how the Lord led us in response. Simply ÒItÕs not about you!Ó Or more succinctly - GodÕs heart for 4 I Communicator Spring 12

Attunga is not about Attunga, itÕs about building His kingdom and if we are to be authentic in that then our goal is not to build a well known brand or create the usual market momentum. Instead God was calling us to a faith step at a difÞcult time. He called us to simply and selßessly look past our own needs and to focus everything here on the authentic discipling of others. To build into His kingdom by bringing young people from all over the world to Attunga, feeding into them deeply and sending them back to their churches, families and friends transformed and sweetly broken to themselves, with a new intimacy with God and a passion to serve and make a difference.

As we actually did that, everything changed. I canÕt begin to describe how much this has completely transformed the ministry at Attunga.

“ Effectiveness is not measured by what happens during the Internship but by what happens when the interns get home “

Our great commission is to make disciples, not converts The word ‘Intern’ can mean many things.

In some organizations it means come and do all the odd jobs that our staff are too busy to do, help out, etc. At Attunga we see this very differently.

Feeding into and discipling the Interns is our ministry. Camps and other things Attunga does is an out ßow of that. So we feed into the Interns and they feed into the campers, guests, etc.

Rather than help out other staff, they essentially are the staff team and each incoming group of interns steps up under the mantle of responsibility for this ministry, taking the place of the interns that have gone before them. They serve as the front line in every aspect of operations and ministry at Attunga including cleaning, housekeeping and food preparation.

The interns plan and run small groups for church youth and school groups as well as an outreach ministry to overseas backpackers for up to 12 weeks a year, scripture in schools, our Taste of Australia tour and they are an integral part of the ministry program for some regular church and rehabilitation support groups.

Their schedule is certainly busy but there’s lots of time scheduled for mentoring and personal reßection including daily devotions each morning and what we call “Be still and know” times which are 2 hour blocks of time to sit alone in a scenic spot with a journal, taking the time to think and pray about a key question.

They live together in community for the duration of their 18 week semester and one of the Þrst things we noticed was that despite their Training the heart Unlike the miniature donkeys....we don’t formally train our interns in techniques, but rather we train the heart - we work hard at identifying and Þxing brokenness ... sometimes that ‘brokenness’ is complacency or a sense that they have no need, in other cases their need is more evident

different backgrounds, cultures and life circumstances an amazing unity develops between them, and is often commented on by guest groups and visitors.

One of my key internship interview questions is “in what way do you hope to be different from this experience?” I’m always amazed at how superÞcial their answers are. Not because they don’t have a vision or a desire for more of God and to grow but because they have absolutely no idea what they’re in for, but clearly God does and as He calls them to step up to this responsibility He is working a plan in their lives that truly is more than they could ask or imagine. For some it’s going to be a journey of healing, wholeness and restoration. For others a time to put life as they know it on hold and give everything to God to

“ Feeding into and discipling the Interns is our ministry. Camps and other things Attunga does is an outflow of that“ shape and mould them as He wills, to break up the hard ground of their hearts or turn luke warmness into a passionate, reverent love for the things of God. In every relationship, one is the source of inßuence and the other the one being inßuenced, for good or for bad. Our interns typically leave with a deep sense of who they are in God and go back into those key relationships as a powerful inßuence, rather than drifting in and out of negative inßuences and being drawn to

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We read through the Bible cover to cover intimacy flows from daily devotions restructured our annual schedule so that when we aren’t in an Internship semester we are closed.

Recruiting is primarily through Facebook, word of mouth or by pastors and parents making us aware of someone with a speciÞc need. We continue to see an obvious and growing demand for what God is doing here. To date we’ve had almost 900 expressions of interest from 15 countries.

Over 50 interns from 7 countries have gone through the program so far, coming from Australia, USA, Canada, England, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Sweden.

After leaving Attunga they maintain a strong sense of community among themselves, staying connected globally through Skype dates, Facebook and phone calls.

Please pray for our past, present and future interns, for God to protect and lead them, and to inspire and inßuence the families, relationships and churches they go back to.

compromise to stay popular, most often from a lack of really knowing and owning their identity in Christ.

In camping ministry we so easily translate the great commission to be about converts rather than disciples. We often ask “How long does it take to make a convert?” Then “how long does it take to make a disciple?” They are very different answers, but more importantly very different levels of commitment. Commitment of heart, time, passion and to relationships of accountability.

Our intern program is made up of two 18 week semesters, starting in January and August each year. We have

Shonnie Sturzaker Tasmania Intern (Jan to Dec) 2010

“ By the end of the year I felt different, no longer heavy or weighed down. I truly feel free. “ - Shonnie

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I immediately fell in love with Attunga and being surrounded by the beautiful Australian bush. Loved living with the other interns, the daily devotions (reading through the Bible in a year) loved the activities, and just being part of everyday life on campsite.

Although on the outside I probably came across as a typical happy nineteen year old on the inside I felt that I had already gone through so much in my nineteen years, and felt as though I carried the weight of the world on my shoulders. The truth was that I desperately needed God, but I was afraid to admit that I did not have it all together. I wanted to go to Africa, but God knew better. He led me on a

journey in the wilderness with Him, a journey into His heart. At Attunga I realized that I could not continue to hide from the past, and I found myself pouring my heart out to God. There were many days where I would spend hours just seeking God and spending time in His presence, giving Him all of ‘me’ and holding nothing back. God led me to forgive other people, and also to forgive myself and also into a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him. I was getting to know God more than I had ever known Him before.

I graduated from Attunga at the end of 2010, and in 2011 God released me to become a full time missionary. He has taken me from the red dirt villages in Africa to the Red Light Districts of South East Asia, through the slums and villages of India and Nepal. I’m so thankful and loving every moment of it.

Sydney Harris Orcas Island, WA USA

“ I went to Attunga broken, dead and surrendered to being chained and burdened for the rest of my life. I left whole, alive, clean and free. Totally, completely and forever! “

Intern in semester 1 (Jan to May) 2012

The Þrst time I heard about Attunga a spark of life ßickered inside me at a time that I was dead to the core. Without knowing anything about it and at times not even wanting to go, I left everything I knew and went to the other side of the world.

Interns all have different reasons for going to Attunga. I was chasing that feeling of life that I thought I had lost forever. Little did I know, the Lover of My Soul had said "Enough is enough.

It's time to rescue my child."

At Þrst, I thought I was at Attunga to learn more about God but He had so much more planned for me. I found His power, His protection, His peace and His patience. He made me clean and I don't remember how it feels to be anything but pure. He put my heart

Christopher Kenji Nitta Seattle, WA USA Intern (Jan to Dec) 2011

My time at Attunga was one of the most transforming periods of my life. As always, with change comes a lot of challenges and growing pains.

Moving to the other side of the world for 18 weeks, where you donÕt know a single person, away from everything youÕve ever known, is intimidating, but gave me the opportunity I needed to discover who God has created me to be. I was the only guy during my internship; initially that was a very intimidating thought. I can say now though that I have 7 sisters whom I love and would do absolutely anything for. God had such a bigger plan for the way they would impact my life and the role I would play in theirs.

- Sydney

back together and now when people look at me, they see someone who is whole. God gave me all my dreams and everything I don't deserve.

When I think of my life now I don't see my past. I see God's grace and a The 18 weeks of the internship are really intense. There is often a lot to be done with camp responsibilities, electives, course work, and devotions among other things. Often during those busy times you come to the point where you have to absolutely rely on God, but you Þnd He supplies you with exactly what you need. Many times it comes from unexpected sources.

There is so much change and growth that is packed into each 18week semester. My relationship with God went deeper than I could ever imagine.

Almost as important were the bonds I formed with the people at Attunga. We were far from perfect, but were able to help each other and overcome many obstacles and all of

bright and exciting future. Attunga gave me my life back, my heart back and my hope back. I went to Attunga broken, dead and surrendered to being chained and burdened for the rest of my life. I left Attunga whole, alive, clean and free.

“ My relationship with God went deeper than I could ever imagine “ - Kenji

the past interns are a part of a bigger family, which is growing with every new semester.

Marina de Haan The Netherlands

Ò I left conÞdent, joyful & passionate about God “ - Marina

The staff and interns encouraged me to be myself. They loved me for who Intern in semester 1 (Jan to May) 2009 I am. They accepted me for who I am At Attunga for the Þrst time I had and IÕm forever grateful. an encounter with the personal and The Þrst day I arrived at Attunga, I loving Father in heaven. And for the was an insecure girl, only looking at my Þrst time I was ready to be healed. I was ßaws. I left conÞdent, joyful, and ready to be the woman God called me passionate about God. to be. I was ready to stop hiding behind Now He still rocks my world. My my disease. I was ready to show the trust in Him grew massively. world the true me. ThatÕs why my time God gives me more boldness each at Attunga is so special to me. day and HeÕs guiding all my steps.

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AN EXCELLENT CONFERENCE We didn’t say that - You Did!!

K

en has already given you some feedback on what the delegates thought of Connect12 and we are grateful for their attendance & encouragement. It was also good to know that 1/3 of the fulltime delegates were firsttime attendees. And while the structured part of the program was well received, we know that delegates really valued the time they had to just sit and chat to other members - not only for the personal sharing & encouragement, but also for the valuable information that is usually discussed during such conversations.

PIAR provided a great auditorium & Crosstalk Technical Services han all the technology for us. dled

Even though Connect12 went smoothly and was a real blessing to many, we are now looking forward to Forum13 & Connect14 and already have over 60 items to consider for improving these future events. So in anticipation of even better conferences, we encourage you to budget to be there with as many of your colleagues as possible.

And while we don’t like to blow our own trumpet, we don’t mind if our members do! So here’s what a couple of the delegates had to say.

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ing was delicious as well as And our dinner on the Thursday even wonderful time of fellowship

being a

Testimonial 1 Challenging encouragement! That is my summary of Connect 12. For all those that made the trip, you would no doubt know what I mean. We were treated to incredible preaching, great networking opportunities and workshops tailor-made to bring enormous benefit to members.

Because I have attended previous Connect conferences, I knew I was going to come away with a lot to think about - trouble is, I never realized just how much God had in store for me to learn. Bryan Loritts brought God’s word to the conference in such a real and candid way, that every conversation I had with attendees ended with the same sentiment, challenging. His words were a wake up call to us all, “Starting well is easy,..

Finishing well, now that’s something!” those words were like an alarm clock to my sleepy heart.

Bryan was amazing, but he was only one part of the incredible line up that was prepared for us. Connect12 had everything, whether it was fantastic fellowship and networking, specifically catered workshops, great worship or a fireworks display to rival Sydney harbour (or at least upset the koalas), Connect12 delivered. A huge thank you needs to go to the sponsors who supported the event financially and to Phillip Island Adventure Resort for taking great care of us and showing wonderful hospitality. I feel like we cannot give enough praise for the enormous effort that Ken Pullen and his faithful team at CVA put in, to pull this conference together and deliver true value for money and a God-inspired experience that was filled to the brim.

I’m looking forward to Connect14 - can I challenge and encourage you to be there??

A grateful member, Alex Grey, Camp Clayton, Tasmania.

worship times by Curt We were blessed in our . ille Anderson from Nashv

Testimonial 2 Uniting Venues SA was blessed to be able to send eight staff to Connect12. For many, it was their first time at conference and the anticipation of attending had been building for weeks.

For those that had been previously, it was a great joy to be at conference again. For me personally, it was the first time that I had attended for the whole week (previously I had attended as a day visitor only).

Like previous conferences, this one had it all (if not a little more). The worship was loud yet moving, the keynote addresses were thoroughly inspiring and the opportunity for networking and to share stories was priceless. Furthermore, as a group of staff, we were able to enjoy one another’s company and to have conversations that one would not normally have in the workplace.

Upon reflection, Bryan Loritts’ addresses were thought-provoking and challenged us to be present and to have margin in our lives and ministry. The way that he engaged with and captivated the audience was truly remarkable (a DVD copy of his addresses is a must for all).

The trade show was also an impressive highlight as well as the talk by social analyst, Mark McCrindle. And let’s not forget the fireworks display, the fancy dress evening (Doug Shoemark was a hit) and the presentation of the Spirit of Sharing awards.

Hats off to the CVA and CSC staff for their effort in organising such a professional event. We should all be very proud of the work that our Association does for us. Thank you Lord for calling every single one of us into the ministry of Christian camping – we are very blessed to be part of it.

Mark Lee, General Manager, Uniting Venues SA

Our workshop pr esenters brought us new insights and were gracious & dedic ated in doing so.

We’re so glad that our members are such fun to be with an d really threw themselves into the fan cy dress.

Trade Show ever, Perhaps our best gagement between en t given the grea suppliers. our members and

ed by the sharing Many were deeply effect ught-provoking tho his d of Bryan Lorrits an teaching & challenge.

Everyone loved the fireworks!!

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The 2012

Honouring our Unsung Heroes

spirit of Sharing Awards From left to right: Peter Bragg, Frank Wilkey, Yvonne Wilkey, Susie Christie, Kristy Linton, Doug Christie, Siobhan Wood, Kelvin Taylor (Presenter) and Len Newton.

These awards provide an opportunity for CVA to recognise outstanding contributions from individuals who have committed themselves to excellence in Christian camping.

Linton and Siobhan Wood to the long-term service devotion of couples including Dennis & Susie Christie, Frank & Yvonne Wilkey, and the individual commitment of Peter Bragg and Len Newton.

The 2012 Awards, held as part of the Connect12 Conference, saw the nomination of many awesome candidates in the youth, volunteer and open categories. As was the case in our inaugural awards in 2010, the quality of the entrants made the judging of the finalists and winners a most difficult task.

It is through the individual stories of the award nominees and winners that you can build a picture of the level of dedication and inspiration that is present across the whole industry. What is clear when you look at the members that make up the Christian Venues Association, is the genuine love of the industry and a culture of providing service excellence. In all cases, I have found that there is a strong focus on providing positive experiences throughout all aspects of the customer relationship.

Most compelling are the stories of dedication and triumph that are told through the nomination process. From the youthful exuberance of Kristy

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As CVA members create and deliver positive experiences for their customers, they in turn, receive positive experiences through feedback and recognition. It is this notion of service and care that is a driving force behind the Spirit of Sharing Awards.

My congratulations go out to all of the nominees, finalists and winners of the 2012 Spirit Of Sharing Awards. I encourage CVA members to identify individuals who demonstrate commitment and giving as part of their day-to-day role and nominate them for the 2014 awards.

Kelvin Taylor, Chairperson, Spirit Of Sharing Awards

Siobhan Wood Joint Winner - Youth Category Siobhan has a passion for camping and in particular, for people with disabilities.

And she very rarely leaves after her normal day’s work. She often mingles with campers, making sure they are comfortable. She strives to complete a particular task and will work on it till she achieves it. On top of her normal paid duties, she gives up her own time to attend local tourism meetings to make people aware of the Centre and what it can do for the community. When Lutanda organises a camp, she will give up her days off to enroll and greet campers and families. She loves the disabled campers and they love her.

Kristy Linton Joint Winner - Youth Category Kristy epitomises commitment to Christian camping. Since her teenage years, she has been volunteering to lead on holiday camps at Camp Toukley and has continued her commitment to this ministry by still leading on these camps during her annual leave from Crusaders. In 2011, she upgraded her qualification from the Cert III in Outdoor Rec to the Cert IV. Kristy is a wonderful leader of kids and invests many hours in training & encouraging emerging leaders. Crusaders have many wonderful staff members who have a desire to serve and grow; but none demonstrate joy, humility, servant-hood and commitment more than Kristy.

Peter Bragg Winner - Volunteer Category Peter has been a volunteer on Crusaders’ dirt bike camps for 37 years. Peter works to recruit and train volunteer camp directors and their leadership teams for four, weeklong bike camps. All year, Peter manages the maintenance of Crusaders’ motorbikes. For other camps, he visits and assists wherever needed to support the ministry of the directors, speakers, mechanics, cooks and leaders & ensures that the camp is ready to proceed. He has done emergency shopping expeditions when the camp food has not arrived, re-cut bike tracks in extreme weather and completed all night maintenance efforts. And God has used Peter’s involvement to grow and develop leaders into more mature servants of Christ.

Susie & Dennis Christie Winners - Open Category One of Susie Christie’s supervisors said about her, “In all my years as a Christian, I have never met a more servant hearted person. Susie has steadily grown in her skills and personal contribution to God’s work”. Serving people and God is as natural to her as breathing. Susie has also been recognised for the incomparable value of her skills in catering for very special dietary needs. Enthusiasm and relentless hard work are defining characteristics of Dennis Christie. He became manager of Grose Vale Christian Conference Centre in 1994 and later accepted the role of manager at Elanora Christian Conference Centre. Since then, he has built a stable team of committed staff who provide a consistently high standard of service to guests.

Recipients of Outstanding Contribution Awards Open Category - Len Newton

Volunteer Category - Frank & Yvonne Wikley

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Day 1 - arrive at Chiang Mai airport. Really looking forward to the food experience and the learning. Good View Restaurant for Northern Thai sausage with a spicy green chunky chilli paste, fried prawns in tamarind, an exquisite duck and logan fruit red curry soup ……

Chiang Mai Culinary Study Tour,

Day 2 - to the home of Sompoon Nabnianm, perhaps the best known and respected chef in all of Thailand. Introduced to clear soup of cucumber with a pork stuffing, a fresh & spicy banana flower salad, deep fried fish with a red curry sauce, and a to-die-for spicy eggplant salad. Then the crickets came out, so I ate crickets for the first time in my life - different, crispy and nice.

October 2012 A CSC Buying Group Prize from the Connect12 Trade Show

Day 4 - we rode elephants & rafts and went zip lining through an exquisite place called Chiang Dao - all fun but lunch was the highlight! We ate from Pinto boxes which are four small bowls stacked on top of each other, filled with lovely dishes like BBQ chicken with a spicy sauce, pork herb salad, green Papaya salad & custard dessert with coconut induced sticky rice. Later, street food included quail eggs, octopus kebabs, little coconut and corn pancakes & the freshest fruit mocktails!

Day 5 - a moving blessing ceremony from the monks at a local temple. Tasted worms, local sausages, pigs ear & pork at a market - all local and all different. A cooking class at Chef Nid’s brand new cooking school - we made a jackfruit salad, sticky rice, chilli dip & a beautiful steamed fish fillet in a northern curry in a banana leaf, cooked on the BBQ. My heartfelt thanks go to CSC Buying Group for offering such a great prize.

My GM, Mr Dave Tolman, for offering me the opportunity.

My Catering Manager, Mr Peter Rumery, for his support.

My kitchen team of devoted and amazingly committed chefs.

The whole team at Simplot, headed by Christian.

Matthew Gurney, Head Chef,

The Tops Conference Centre

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Day 3 - travelled to Baan Hmong Hope where Mr Montree Chaoiwat takes in orphans to raise them in a Christian faith. He provides about 50 children with an education, food and scripture classes. They also learn how to cook & I saw some as young as 7, balancing the flavors using limes, fish sauce, chilli, tamarind and palm sugar, a skill that some chefs back home don’t get right! I was honored to eat with them & it was quite an emotional experience for me as these kids have nothing but have flourished to become happy normal kids.

We also did some hot, hard work for the orphanage and donated a sum of money and some personal belongings.

Does Anyone Need More Bookings?

As I talk with many of the members of this association and others involved in the sector, I frequently hear that people want more bookings.

I have seen some great ideas that I am going to share. Are they right for you? Not necessarily - but they do show that there are ways to grow your ministry instead of allowing it to stagnate.

1. Before and after school care: Urban creep is enveloping many centres and this brings its own problems - but it has proved a lifesaver for one centre faced with reduced camp/conference clientele.

They run before and after school care at their centre, bussing children to school and picking them up afterwards. Parents drop their kids off from 6.30am and pick them up by 6pm. During school holidays, they run all day.The site continues to operate as a Camp and Conference Centre, but now has a regular income, high usage, and excellent contact with the local community with opportunity to present the Gospel.

2. “Family Friendly” programs: One manager reported that an organisation that had struggled to get its target numbers for an annual Conference saw a revolutionary change when the emphasis moved to making the whole

weekend “Family Friendly”. They had to turn away people! The adults felt more inclined to go on the weekend, knowing they could have their whole family with them.

You could offer kids programs for Church Weekends as part of your site’s services.

3. Engage local churches: You have great facilities and churches are looking for ways to engage the community. Make a section of your property available for youth work on a regular basis. This contact can lead to increased commitment from supporters, increased numbers at holiday camps and even vocal support for site improvements.

4. Communicate: 40% of you DO NOT answer your phones. How can you take bookings? My experience shows that if you do not answer a booking enquiry call, they will call someone else. Day or evening, if you need more bookings, please answer your phone or quickly & reliably reply when messages are left.

So, there are some ideas – there are many more you can investigate. May I suggest you take the opportunity to talk to other members of the Association at CVA events or register for our online forums at www.cv.asn.au/ forum so you can discuss these and other matters?

Ken Pullen CEO

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The

Spirit of Sharing Extends Overseas!

Youthworks Global Outdoors (GO) was birthed in 2008 out of a need for outdoor recreation training in India for individuals and organisations working in the Christian adventure camping ministry. The need was recognised through the intern couple, Angelo & Pearl Benn, who came from India to participate in the Youthworks Internship program. Youthworks, with its experience and expertise in Christian Adventure Camping

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and Outdoor Recreation Training accepted the challenge and developed a three-stage training program called The Outdoor Leadership Award (OLA).

The main purpose of OLA is to train and enable outdoor leaders to run safe and effective Christian adventure camps. The three-stage training covers all the components and skills training included in a Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation.

Youthworks is committed to taking training to the people at the grass-root and leader levels in the field - they are the core of the organisation. To further prove this commitment, Youthworks GO has invested in equipment and personnel for the training so that participants only have to pay the cost of the venue and food.

The success of the training speaks for itself - the first group of OLA graduates completed the three

stages of the training in April 2012. With this success, the training is now being conducted in Sri-Lanka where Youthworks GO is working alongside Youth For Christ in training and developing the YFC Adventure Camping Ministry. Youthworks GO is conducting another set of stage-one training in India and Sri-Lanka and is looking forward to many more trainings and graduates of the OLA in the coming years.

It has been a great journey so far, full of challenges, experiences and peaks with the first batch of OLA graduates now working towards becoming trainee trainers. Our hope and prayer is that this training which birthed with the need for training people to reach out with the Gospel through adventure camping, continues to grow and bare fruit in abundance. If you would like to know more about the training or support it financially or through prayer, please log on to www.youthworks.net/globaloutdoortraining

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Profile - Adare, South Australia

A

dare Camp and Caravan Park is nestled in an idyllic, tree lined property in the township of Victor Harbor, South Australia. The centrepiece of the Uniting Church campsite is the magnificent main property (often referred to as ‘The Castle’) that sits majestically on the hilltop 300 metres from the ocean.

Adare was once a much larger property than its five acres of today and according to the local Raminjeri Aboriginal tribe, the land Adare is built on was originally known as “Mootaparinga Farm”. “Mootaparinga” is the Aboriginal term meaning “murky water” and describes the nearby Hindmarsh River that is located adjacent to the Adare property.

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In 1837, the first Governor of South Australia, Governor Hindmarsh, purchased Mootaparinga Farm and built a small two-bedroom cottage for use as his summer residence. The cottage, now renovated with modern conveniences, is used as Adare’s office space but was once the permanent home of one of Governor Hindmarsh’s children before the Cudmore family purchased it in 1891.

Cudmore was a wealthy Irish pastoralist and named the property “Adare” after his family home in Ireland. He commissioned extensive additions to the cottage resulting in an impressive layout including 19 rooms, a cellar, a tower, a balcony and three turrets. Many of the materi-

als used were shipped to Australia from England. All but one of the original lead light windows, with their handpainted inserts, are still in place and some of the decorative hand-painted ceilings also remain. “The Castle” is a well-known local landmark and an architecturally significant heritage building.

the winter season. Bed capacity is 136 but this can be increased with the caravan park facilities.

In 1954, Adare was purchased by the Uniting Church for use as a campsite by the Methodist Church Youth Department. Camps were held frequently at Adare and were most popular in summer due to Adare’s seaside location.

A small caravan park was established in the 1960’s.

Spiritually, Adare appears to be alive and well. The Lord has been hard at work and has opened many doors in recent times. For His glory, recent improvements have included: a new logo, branding and partnership with the other Uniting Venues SA campsites; a fresh approach to communicating with guests, in-house catering, an emphasis on grounds maintenance and first impressions and a greater commitment to the work of Christian Venues Association.

For many years, Adare was managed by husband and wife teams with the support of a volunteer management committee. This was the ‘model of the day’, as it was for

Adare is in year one of a five-year business plan, to firstly stabilise and subsequently grow the business of ministry of the centre and to secondly improve the physical condi-

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re

One of the Large Groups That Come to Ada

many other campsites around the country. Approximately three years ago, the Uniting Church in South Australia changed the management structure of the campsites (of which there are five) to the current model - a dedicated centre manager, supported by key staff in the functional areas of office administration, food service, house keeping and property maintenance. The current centre manager resides off-site and reports through to the General Manager – Uniting Venues SA. Today, Adare is a unique complex consisting of the original house and cottage, a block of ensuite style rooms, a conference room, 54 powered and 6 unpowered caravan sites, four cabins and two holiday units. The prime customer base is schools, followed by church groups, caravan park guests and a spattering of weddings throughout

The Men of the Monthly Working Bee

tion of the facilities so that they retain longevity for their intended use. Additionally, Adare provides an important location for the establishment of programs for school aged children – set to commence in 2013.

Adare is thankful for the legacy and ongoing ministry that was first established some 58 years ago. This includes the men’s working-bee group that can be found at the centre on the third Wednesday morning of each month. It is hard to know how many lives were converted during this time.

What is clear though, is that God is forever present and that the Holy Spirit is uniquely working in the hearts and souls of those present. We are all blessed to be called to work in the wonderful ministry that is camping.

17 Communicator Spring 12

NATI NAL

National Board

Back Row left to right – Marcel Edmonds, Gary Hill, Karen Parker, Ross Daniels, Dave Flood, Ian Edgar Front Row left to right – Ken Pullen, Dave Tolman, Dwayne Wescombe, Geoff Caldwell Absent – David Attenborough

18 I Communicator Spring 12

At Connect12 the following election results were announced for the Executive Positions on the National Board of Christian Venues Association: Chairman – Gary Hill from New South Wales Deputy Chairman – Geoff Caldwell from Victoria Treasurer – David Tolman from New South Wales Secretary – Ian Edgar from Queensland. Also during the year Karen Parker from South Australia joined the Board as a Board Member.

Continue to pray for these people as they lead the Association.

S ENE Membership Matters

What’s been happening around the country

I

n QLD, some sites exhibited at The Schools Resources Expo.

Feedback included ‘We spent time talking with people about the opportunities for school camps and the facilities our members offer.’

‘We were able to talk about the benefits of using Venuefinder as a simple time saving tool for teachers.’

QLD also had a ‘Day of Discussion’ with the following topics on offer - Catering, Excellence in Management, Ministry, Outdoor Education, Training in Outdoor Education, Social Media and Marketing.

We welcome the following organisations to the membership of Christian Venues Association • In QLD – SCC Conference Centre

Camp Toowoomba • In NSWales – Sydney Beachouse YHA

Kihilla Conference Centre • In TAS – Youth with a Mission Southlands • In VIC – Careforce Church

Melbourne School of Theology

City CYC • In SA – Thuruna Campsite

Emmaus Campsite

Living Water Christian Retreat We also welcome the following personal members, Ruth Killingback and Siobhan Wood in NSW, Paul Corkery in QLD and Rohan Reynolds in the ACT.

NARTA

Congratulations to Serpentine Camping Centre in Western Australia for completing and gaining Accredited status for the first time.

The following sites have been re-accredited in the last few months: For the second time – Galston Gorge Conference and Recreation Centre in NSW, Halls Gap Baptist Camping in Victoria and Greenhills Centre in ACT For the third time, Araluen Lutheran Camp and Oasis Camp in Victoria.

Venuefinder

I

n NSW there were opportunities to meet for lunch and/or afternoon tea.

‘Good to meet with people in a relaxed atmosphere.’

‘Good to catch up with old friends.’

‘A time of fellowship and networking.’

‘A good start to what is hoped to be a regular event.’

In WA there was training in Occupational Health and Safety .

Workshop speaker, Isabel Murphy, reminded staff and managers of their responsibilities, the law and legislative requirements. Members are now looking at their work place with fresh eyes, looking at upgrading or renewing procedures in their work place.

In VIC nearly 100 people attended the mid-year dinner. Stories were shared by Peter and Vera Gill from El Kanah, Peter Jack from Mill Valley Ranch and Tegan Caldwell from Camp Wilkin. They shared what God is doing both within their lives and ministries. Geoff Shepherd (Richmond Tigers Chaplain) inspired us to keep on doing the best we can within our ministries, and to never under-estimate the role we each play on camp.

Venuefinder is still proving to be a useful tool for those wanting to find a suitable place to take church, youth, school and community groups away for a few days.

Here are some comments from people who have used the Venuefinder service recently.

‘Thank you for this great facility, it certainly took the chore out of the search for a suitable venue.’

‘It is excellent and easy to use.’

‘I have let other groups planning their retreats know of this website. Great work.’

Remember this number 1800 009 890.

This is the number to contact the National office for anything – a question, a query, a suggestion.

If we don’t have the answer, we will find someone who does.

We are here to serve you.

19 Communicator Spring 12

Where Is

He? ...

Christmas is almost with us, the celebration of the birth of Jesus born as King of Kings ...

Christmas is almost with us, the celebration of the birth of Jesus - born as King of Kings ...

To many, Christmas is the babe in Mary’s arms - to those who are believers in Christ, Christmas is much much more!

Christmas is my favorite time of year, the coming together of families, the joy and goodwill expressed. Throughout our known history, one babe, one man, stands supreme, Jesus the Christ, Son of Man, Son of God. His birth was miraculous, being born of a Virgin. The Angel of the Lord came firstly to ordinary men, shepherds guarding, watching over their sheep - and the message that the Angel gave lives on in our lives today “I bring you glad tidings of great joy which shall be to all people, for

unto you is born this day a Saviour who is Christ the Lord.” Yes it is and will always be Glory to God in the Highest, on earth, peace and goodwill unto all.

Countless millions down through the ages have embraced him as Saviour. The shepherds went, saw, believed, and spread the message - that’s our responsibility today.

The Magi came with that great question “Where is He? Where do we find this King Jesus?” I love seekers for they are on a journey looking for the Truth. The Magi had seen his Star from afar and came to the centre of religious activity, Jerusalem, and lost their way! Why does some religious activity blind people to having

a personal relationship with Him. The leaders of religion knew where Jesus was to be born and pointed the Magi, the wisest of the wise, in the right direction. And that is part of our responsibility - to point children in the right direction!

Where is He today? Is He found in our Government, the courts of our land, the families of our nation, schools, churches, or even our camps? People of camping ministry, what an incredible opportunity it is, to let your light shine for Jesus! We commend you for your commitment to share the glorious message of Jesus.

It has been an honour to serve you over this past year.

John & Cherylene Martin Victorian Chaplains