Communicator Issue 38 Spring 2014

experience the spirit of sharing

Issue 38 - Spring 2014

A Camping Pathway in Queensland Also in this issue: Connect 14 - How Did It Go??

New Chaplains for NSW & QLD Bangladesh – Where the Spirit of Sharing is Alive and Well A School’s Overseas Mission The Breakaway Camps Difference

What is the first word (or two, or three…) that you think of that best describes why you are involved in Camping ministry? I imagine words like calling and purpose might come to mind.

Others might be fun, fulfilment, journey, adventure, faith, sharing or service. Although the words may vary, I suspect that the foundation of our involvement is the same, our faith in Christ.

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

My childhood experiences at Mill Valley Ranch were instrumental in the direction that my life and career have taken. There at camp, amidst the fun, games and horses, I made friends, built confidence and developed life skills. I recall my camp leaders; they were supportive and caring and made a positive and powerful impact in my life. I heard the Good News from Arthur Bartlett and I saw it being lived out in the staff and volunteers. At twelve years of age, I became a Christian at camp on my top bunk. Camp experiences were crucial in my development. Through the supportive and active environment of camp, I acquired important social and physical skills. Camp was also my home away from home; a safe place where I could experience emotional and physical growth. By sixteen I was a volunteer leader with little idea of the lifetime of camping that lay ahead of me. Twenty-two years later, having worked or volunteered at eight more campsites in Australia, Canada and the USA, the truth is that I still don't know what lies ahead. But I do thank the Lord for guiding me, for giving me the opportunity to serve Him and to share His purpose with others.

2

A few years ago I came across a Young Life Camp fridge magnet from the States. It read “You were made for this”. That’s true for me… I believe God has directed my paths, my experiences and my training. He has made me for His purposes; He has shaped me for camp ministry. Perhaps one day He will move me on but right now I am here for this purpose.

In an Apple iPad ad released early this year, Robin Williams is heard as his character John Keating from Dead Poets Society. He reads the well-known Walt Whitman poem ‘O Me! O Life!'. The poem finishes with the words, "that the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse." Keating then asks his students, “What will your verse be?”

We are not in the iPad business… but we do share the common foundation of God’s word as the core to our lives and mission. Like Whitman and Keating, let's ask ourselves, what is our verse?

What verse will we strive to uphold and shine forth? Recently at CVA’s Connect14 Conference, David Tolman the Director of the Tops Conference Centre shared his verse during a seminar he presented on practical leadership. His verse has become central to both his life and his camp mission - “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” John 10:10 - Life to the Full!

Over time, the words that best describe why we are involved in camping ministry may change, evolve or be renewed. As I look back over my life, there certainly seems to be a number of reasons why I find myself involved in camping ministry. But as I look forward and I ask myself what will my verse be, I'm reminded of the verse that literally hangs centre stage at CYC Cowes Victoria, “living out the word of life” PHL 2:16. PHL 2:12-18 not only encourages us but suggests that as a Christian, this is our duty and obligation, to not only hold firm to the ‘word of life’, the gospel which is the message that promises life, but also to share it with others as children of God, “shining like stars in the universe” - PHL 2:15.

Shine like Stars, Marcel Edmonds Manager - ADANAC CYC, CVA VIC Committee & National Board

Christian Venues Association

EXPERIENCE THE SPIRIT OF SHARING Christian Camping International Australia trading as Christian Venues Association ABN 74 050 611 295 PO Box 5552, South Windsor NSW 2756 Ph: 1800 009 890 or (02) 4587 7155 Fax: (02) 4587 7933 Email: info@christianvenues.org.au Web: www.christianvenues.org.au Please note: The views and opinions expressed by the authors of the articles contained in this publication belong to those authors and are not necessarily the views and opinions of Christian Venues Association

‘Spirit of Sharing’ Awards The Spirit of Sharing Awards were presented during the Connect14 Conference by Kelvin Taylor, Chairman of the 5-person judging panel & Ian Edgar, Secretary of the CVA Board. These awards recognise the “Unsung Heroes” of the Christian camping community who have provided unrecognised excellence in their field of ministry.

VOLUNTEER CATEGORY Finalist - Andre Bonte who has been working and volunteering with CYC Ministries for 15+ years.

Finalist - Phil Smith who has been a supporter of Crusaders for over 20 years.

Winner - Brom Morphett. Brom has directed and lead the Youthworks Performing Arts Camp for over 25 years and is said to be the human rock upon which the whole site is grounded. The Camp has been a part of her whole adult life where she has helped kids hear the Gospel, take up leadership positions, learn performing arts and arranged musical numbers all built towards having a fun-filled holiday.

The great legacy that Brom has left Youthworks is the training, organisation and structure that has enabled the camp program to continue even after her retirement. A couple of testimonies speak of Brom’s impact and influence: “It now takes two people to do the job half as well as Brom.”

“Brom ran a well-oiled camp machine, with a strong emphasis on building community and sharing the Gospel of the Lord.”

OPEN CATEGORY Finalist - Lisa Mason who in her 10 years at Crusaders, has directed, spoken or lead on over 250 camps.

Winner - Mark Lee. Mark is currently the General Manager of Uniting Venues SA, that is comprised of 5 sites.

He is passionate about Christian camping and is committed to strengthening its position and impact with our youth.

Mark understands the virtues of a healthy ministry. In his role, Mark has spearheaded improvements, implemented new procedures, developed new programs and lead from the front to energise the properties and turn them around from negative to positive bank balances. He has also been seen lending a hand in the garden or on the tools for one of the new developments.

Having worked in the industry for over 10-years, Mark’s commitment to the Christian camping ministry is evident through his hands-on, inclusive and transparent approach to the stewardship of Uniting Venues SA, and their ongoing participation at CVA conferences and functions.

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

Finalist - Doug Shoemark, General Manager of Uniting Venues NSW, who has directed and developed the management style of the organisation since 2000.

3

C CONNECT ONN E C T 14 1 4 Celebrating 40 years.

Both a Practical & Spiritual Experience!

It’s interesting to meditate on what makes a Christian Venues National Conference so special. To get a handle on that, I’d like to look at 6 specific areas The People - over the week, 391 came to conference including fulltime adults & kids, part-timers, staff, chaplains, tech team, music team, workshop presenters, internationals, supplier representatives & five of the eight people who founded the Association back in 1974. What a wonderful group!

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

The Learning Side - we ran 45 workshops this year. They ranged from practical training in IT & fire fighting, to business topics, to creating & running holiday camps, to more spiritual concerns. Some topics were chosen to be more applicable to the younger generation and, given that there were sometimes 10 workshops running concurrently, the more spiritual subjects were very popular indeed.

4

The Practical Side - Wednesday saw our best Trade Show ever! The atmosphere was wonderful as the delegates mixed and mingled with representatives from 41 suppliers, ate good food, discussed issues and new products and connected with suppliers they hadn’t known about previously. Our sponsors are very important to conference and so it was great to receive excellent feedback from them about Messages b y Brian Lori tts

how valuable the Trade Show was to their companies.

The Networking Side - we all know how rewarding and useful this can be - not only what we can gain but also what we can give.

Some caught up with old friends and many started new relationships - ones that will bear fruit in the future, not only from a practical point of view, but a personal one as well. In this area we were blessed to have international guests from NZ, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Kenya, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan & the US - a wonderful reminder of the diversity & passion of God’s Christian camping people all over the world!

The Fun Side - based on previous feedback, we cut back on workshop sessions so that we could provide more “free time”. Some used this to “take a break” from the hectic nature of their usual schedule - others spent it networking with old or new friends - others spent quality time with their kids - and yet others had fun or challenged themselves on The Tops adventure activities!

The Spiritual Side - there was a very tangible presence of God’s Spirit with us during the week. Many were touched by Him during and after the messages by Bryan Loritts and God seemed to have a special ht City Alig

Spending Tim e with the Kid s

new Making

friends

something for each of us (videos are available through the Office). Other times included the spiritual/personal workshops and even during deep discussions with new or old brothers and sisters. Many commented on the maturity of our young worship leaders from the City Alight team - they chose songs wisely and developed a great atmosphere from the very first session. Encouragement is a spiritual exercise and there was plenty of that all week, specifically at the Awards Night on Wednesday. We recognised the contribution of special CSC Partners, heard inspiring stories from our Japanese, Bangladeshi & Kenyan guests, gave recognition to Greg & Janelle Thomas for their devotion & support of CVA over a long period and presented Life Memberships to Errol & Dot Woodbury and Glyn & Glenys Mahon.

The Tops Conference Centre went above and beyond the call of duty, before and during conference, to make sure that everyone enjoyed themselves by providing good food, good MC’s, comfortable accommodation and great activities. Colleen Brown and the team from Crusaders provided all the kids with an enjoyable and safe time. Steve Williams and the Crosstalk team made all the audio-visuals appear & play like clockwork.

Is it any wonder that many are looking forward to Connect16 in July 2016 at Alexandra Park Conference Centre on the QLD Sunshine Coast?

Hands on Tra ining in Exce l

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

Greg Tebbutt - Christian Venues

Steve from Kenya Gives the Karts a Go

5

T

ecogn as’ are r m o h T e h

ised

1

g n i p m a c A “The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.” C.G.Jung

One of the most important outcomes of a successful camping program is seen in relationships. Time away from the clutter and noise of everyday life creates transcendent memories. The ability to break routine, share meals and simply do things together, starts conversations and builds understanding. Life is a journey greatly enhanced by those who walk it with us.

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

With a proud history stretching back to 1927, Queensland Conference and Camping Centres (QCCC) is a collection of Baptist campsites and activity providers in South East Queensland offering lasting relationship and a pathway for groups to pursue their programs with variety and consistency.

6

QCCC’s Director, Andrew Grant, picks up the story.

“QCCC is the umbrella but each of our sites is remarkably differentiated and has a different focus. It means we can offer schools and their students a strong pathway through their camping years. Schools can enjoy very different camping formats. Students will think they’re at a different location with new things to explore. But behind it all is QCCC’s consistency of product and a common theme and strategy that is enhanced by stopping at each of our different sites. It is our difference and diversity that is our strength and we think it makes camping easy for schools.”

Our Approach to Christian Camping:

In their book about Great Commission Companies, Rundle and Steffen highlight last century’s divergence in Christendom between those who serve the proclamation-heavy Great Commission (Matthew 28:1820) and those who focus on the works-based implications of the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:36-40, 25:31-46, Luke 4:18-19). Rundle suggests that “by the end of the Twentieth Century the evidence was

y a w h t pa

pretty clear: social transformation will almost certainly fail to materialise if either side is neglected.”

QCCC’s ministry ethos and approach tries to steer a middle ground between the two approaches with service and hospitality seen as integral to laying the foundation for proclamation – whether that proclamation comes from our own programs, or by facilitating the programs of other Christian ministries. Introducing a Great Commandment focus into QCCC’s Key Performance Indicators creates a much more holistic picture of ministry success too.

Business as Mission speaker Mats Tunehag suggests Christian businesses have a third mandate to uphold – that of the Creation Mandate (Genesis 1:27-28). One of our Baptist own, Michael Frost, urges “missional ones to protect and care for the environment.” Outdoor Education is the ideal platform to explore the tremendous opportunities of this mandate – to point people to our Creator and invite them into his redemptive purpose for all of the created order. QCCC won the Queensland Outdoor Recreation Award for Excellence in Outdoor Instruction and Education in 2013 and couldn’t have been more flattered to receive industry recognition for an area of operation so close to the Father’s heart, and so evident in Jesus’ public ministry.

The House QCCC builds:

QCCC’s vision statement is to “create life-changing experiences through excellence in hospitality, service, teaching and outdoor education.” The order of the attributes QCCC will be excellent in is carefully chosen and prioritised. Hugh Halter suggests “more people have been influenced for the Kingdom of God through a hot meal than a hot topic”. For us excellence in hospitality establishes the foundation of everything we do.

2

e e Qu

4

3

nbu of E di e k u F or D limb yaking a K a dder C e a L g 1 S n ngi orine Challe T a mb t M 2 A n l o g Wal rched imbin l 3 Pe C d l e ookfi 4 Br

Excellence in service is the QCCC house’s framework.

Oswald Sanders suggests “true greatness, true leadership, is found in giving yourself in service to others, not in coaxing or inducing others to serve you.” Leslie Newbiggen goes further, pondering whether the church should encourage the concept of leadership since it is so readily confused with its non-Christian counterpart which is generally about exerting control. The paradigm QCCC advocates for leadership is a re-framing of many leadership examples held up by modern society, and sadly even areas of Christendom. We are not interested in producing leaders of charisma and little substance, or people capable of shouting so loud they can bully others into action. Leadership training must still follow the pattern of the Lord Jesus which placed a high premium on service which inevitably creates the platform for teaching, and in our context, outdoor education as well.

Teaching and Outdoor Education are the covering, protecting and welcoming roof, reliant on the structure and stability provided by the excellence of its supporting structure (hospitality and service).

ard rgh Aw

QCCC Mapleton (Adventure Campus):

Set high in the mountains of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, 300-bed QCCC Mapleton specialises in high quality Outdoor Education and is particularly sought after for Primary school camping programs from Grade 3-7. The focus of QCCC Mapleton’s programs is on outdoor education, going beyond the adrenalized focus of outdoor recreation and using their facilities, nature and group dynamics as a teaching tool. The team of outdoor educators is committed to teach in tactile and memorable ways and pursue a point of difference where, as much as possible, activity instructors stay with one group for the duration of their stay to build rapport and relationship. QCCC Mapleton offers a smorgasbord of more than 20 different activity options with several specifically tied to the National Curriculum – Eureka Mine Rescue & Flag Raise, Van Diemen’s Land, Indigenous Cultural Experience and Art and Legends & Larrikins.

The campsite is also described by visiting children as a “resort” with a complex of four resort-style swimming pools, a rainforest walk and a lake set on a property of 35 acres. One of Queensland’s largest private collections

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

in

d n a l s n

7

1

1 2

Brisba ng anoei ne towards C f o y i The Jo m Tambor o r f View

of insects is also on display. While the primary focus at QCCC Mapleton is on Outdoor Education, it is also used for leadership camps (where the team building activities are sought after) while music and practice camps are popular on weekends too.

All accommodation enjoys reverse-cycle airconditioning, useful for the extremes of the QLD summer as well as the mountaintop winter.

QCCC Tamborine (Mountain Retreat Campus):

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

Mount Tamborine rises dramatically above the Gold Coast and its multiple Theme Parks. Taking in sweeping views over Moreton Bay, QCCC Tamborine rivals Luther Heights for the title of “best campsite view” in Queensland. It consists of four smaller sites that are jointly managed and together they have 300 beds and can cater to large school groups. Traditionally Tamborine has focused on the retreat market but the installation of Outdoor Education infrastructure in the last few years has helped it to become a versatile site with appeal to a wide range of school and weekend groups.

8

However, the greatest potential for Tamborine still lies in its near future. QCCC and the neighboring Mount Tamborine Convention (MTC) have recently finalised a joint venture approach to their properties. When combined the “precinct” has more than 500 beds, potential for 200 more people through group camping, and meetings infrastructure for 700 people. Up to this point QCCC Tamborine has lacked land and MTC accommodation. Now QCCC has a 35 acre playground and MTC has access to a further 300 high-quality beds, most in ensuited rooms. Accommodation options include motel-style units, ensuite rooms and cabin rooms with ablution blocks.

QCCC Tamborine’s four individual sites can also be individually booked for smaller groups, giving exclusivity and privacy. It offers onsite outdoor education programs but is also an ideal base to take in the many activities

ne

ofthe Gold Coast and itshinterland, including the aforementioned theme parks.

2 It is also a sought after facility for leadership camps, spiritual retreats and music camps – with its tranquility and natural beauty an ideal backdrop. Its versatility means it can cater to all age groups and camp formats.

However, its ability to cater to large groups and proximity to adventurous activities, makes it particularly appealing to Grades 6-10, where the year groups tend to be larger.

QCCC Brookfield (Urban Campus):

QCCC Brookfield centre is situated only 20 minutes from the Brisbane CBD in a beautiful forest park setting. Its focus is on its home city – Brisbane. As one of few camping options within the city, it is highly sought after by country schools visiting the State Capital. Brisbane city offers a range of fascinating and educational destinations for visiting schools - QCCC Brookfield’s website page on Brisbane activities lists more than forty of them. QCCC also offers Encounter Brisbane packages incorporating historical and reflective tours of the city CBD and the Two-Bridge-Challenge, a GPS-driven clue hunt in the city and across South Bank.

However, QCCC Brookfield is more than a site for country schools. With fourteen meeting spaces and a great location in Brisbane, it is very much sought after by the city’s schools for leadership retreats, music camps and retreats, including the bi-annual Queensland Musically Outstanding Students (MOST) program.

4

3

Weekend events at Brookfield means Brisbane students can combine their camp with their normal weekend sporting commitments, and Brookfield’s up-market accommodation and catering means it is popular with older students in upper High school as well as adult groups.

All of QCCC Brookfield’s accommodation is ensuited and air-conditioned and there are no bunk beds. The centre also features a swimming pool, beach volleyball court, tennis court and TV/games room. And just quietly, it even has a dance-room! With high quality catering, inner-city convenience and excellent meeting spaces, QCCC Brookfield is ideally suited to high school groups (Grade 9-12).

QCCC Expeditions:

As students move into upper high school, the perfect way to bring a crescendo to their school camping experience is through an expedition program that will enliven them in the beauty of their natural world.

QCCC Expeditions offer a quality expedition experience for school and corporate groups. Based at QCCC Mapleton, the program gets groups out to explore the beautiful Queensland Great Outdoors while canoeing, bush walking, camping, sea kayaking, abseiling, rock climbing. These activities are specifically focused around some of the lesser-used natural gems of the SE Queensland area including the Mary River Valley (and Obi Obi Creek), the Glasshouse Mountains and the

Pumistone Passage. QCCC Expeditions allows schools to explore the frontiers of the camping adventure. We also offer the expedition components of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Guest groups are encouraged to pick and choose the length and nature of their expedition programs and during the program, our instructors strive to help people connect meaningfully with nature and each other. The expeditions offer the opportunity to develop skills in a group setting, grow personally, extend boundaries and capabilities and learn practical life skills.

Andrew Grant summarises QCCC’s strengths succinctly: “QCCC doesn’t subscribe to the theory that camp is “temporary community”. Groups who go on camp already have community and when they leave they’ll still have it. What matters is whether the camping program has enhanced their community, strengthened it and made the returning model better than the one that arrived. If we can do this then every camp we host is a “ministry camp”, not just ones in school holidays with an evangelical focus. We hope we contribute this to everyone who comes to us, not just for their annual camping event at one site, but in terms of the pathway we give to schools as they touchdown with us several times a year at each of our sites and programs”.

Andrew Grant Director of QCCC

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

3 4

s tivitie ant mport Outdoor Ac I s i y t & tali Hospi y of Indoor t e i r A Va

9

Bangladesh – Where the Spirit of Sharing Is Alive And Well!

At the end of June this year, a brave band of travellers set off to be involved in the first camp workers conference that has ever been held in Bangladesh. The team included Alice Winter from Crusaders, Angelo Benn from Youthworks, Adam Stewart from The Tops, our Indian friend Mohan Kumar and Ken Pullen (our faithful guide). Over the past year, CVA has begun a relationship with Generation Bangladesh, a small group who are forging a camping ministry in this deeply Muslim country. Through some generous members, CVA has sponsored many hundreds of children to attend camps, and followed this up by supporting a camp workers conference that attracted 220 participants from across the country, across generations and across 34 ministries and denominations.

As Alice and Adam experienced the ‘exciting differences’ of a new culture, we all felt warmly welcomed and cared for by the Generation Bangladesh team – they made us feel like family as we prepared to do ministry together – across cultures with the same heart to reach young people for the Kingdom. Cramped into a small car, the Aussie team was transported out of Dhaka city through unbelievable traffic to a Baptist conference centre - one of only three campsites in the country.

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

That evening, 220 delegates arrived at the campsite, and the energy was real. There was a genuine anticipation at what this conference might hold. The hunger of the delegates was real and clear. The intent of the conference was to present input and insight into how camps in Bangladesh could be filled with great joy, and further engage Bangladeshi kids through teaching and gaming.

10

The program centred on demonstrating an example camp program, integrating the Bible, Bible themes, games, drama and song in a connected way. The remainder of the program unpacked and explained the reasons for our example camp. The delegates actively engaged with us in small groups and large groups, smiling and laughing, then sharing their learning with other delegates. Part of the strategy during preparation was to deliver as many ideas as possible during the short time we had together. To achieve this goal, we spent large amounts of time in small groups, with Alice, Adam, & Angelo sharing different content, such as initiative game ideas, talking about the detail of preparing programs and bible teaching, and thinking about risk.

We then asked the delegates to spend their free time sharing what they had learned with others at the conference. It was encouraging to sit at night time, watching delegates excitedly sharing the new things they had learned with each other. Across the campsite were small pockets of people talking, praying, laughing, and teaching each other. I am confident that we can say we have experienced the spirit of sharing and power of temporary community that unmistakably crossed all language and cultural barriers.

It became clear that many of the delegates were deeply impacted and challenged by what was shared. After joining in on an afternoon “blokes” soccer match, I was returning to my room and came across three young men on the path. “No soccer today for you?”, I asked. Their reply, “We have been deeply moved, we needed time to go to the prayer garden to think, pray and talk together.”

During the final session of the conference, a man was reflecting on his experience. He said something and the congregation erupted in cheers. I leaned over to my interpreter and asked, “What did he just say?” The interpreter paused and replied “there are no English words – but it is something like ‘this is the best thing that has happened for my ministry ever”.

It was a privilege to dream, design and minister in a diverse but unified team. Having the camping ministry philosophies of Crusaders, Youthworks and The Tops melding together with each other’s strengths produced an exciting and effective conference program. Spending time in preparation, travel and program delivery has added a new depth for me to CVA’s foundational desire for sites to experience the spirit of sharing.

Sukhen Biswas, the leader of Generation Bangladesh believes that through this Australian relationship and this camp workers conference, the potential of Christian camping in Bangladesh has gone to the next level. The Generation Bangladesh team remains full of energy and passion more than a month on from the conference – it has heightened their drive for sharing the Gospel. The exciting question remains - “How will the CVA community of campsites respond if they invite us back?”

Adam Stewart Program & Development Manager The Tops Conference Centre

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

I have been greatly challenged by our capacity to steward what God has given us in camping ministries in Australia for the benefit of the Kingdom worldwide.

Much more than practical resources is the opportunity (or responsibility) we have to connect and encourage those far away, that they are not in the struggle alone.

11

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

CYC Camp Cooloongup - Meeting the Challenge

12

Baldivis is a thriving community with rapidly expanding population and infrastructure.

CYC Camp Cooloongup, situated on twenty-six acres of Rockingham bushland, finds itself in the unique position of providing Christ focused Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) services to this rapidly developing suburb.

In 1962, the site at Cooloongup was established as a permanent boy’s Easter and Christmas camp by Christian Brethren Assemblies. From humble beginnings, and through the dedicated work of Christian men and women, the grounds have developed into a 160 bed camp that is booked for sixty percent of the year. Large school groups through to small craft camps gather at our lakeside facility, where fellowship, friendship and God’s Grace are always present.

In 2008, the Board was approached by the Department of Community Services to establish an OSHC service. Geoff Smith, then manager of the camp site, already knew of the need because many of the families who accessed CYC’s Vacation Care program were petitioning for further OSHC services - he was also informed that Baldivis was the fastest growing suburb in Australia.

The seven schools in the area were in desperate need of OSHC support. It was evident that The Lord had a plan for CYC. The Board, inspired and assured by The Word “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1, applied for a licence and allocated money to update old facilities for a new purpose. A multitude of prayers were offered up and from buildings to buses, staff to service requirements, CYC satisfied all of Community Services’ requests. Our very first mornings saw five children at CYC and afternoons were as high as fifteen - both sessions were staffed by two play leaders. Today, over 1000 bookings are made a fortnight, with ten dedicated staff members permanently employed.

Families are drawn to the challenging environment that CYC provides. To our knowledge, CYC Camp Cooloongup is the only campsite in the country running OSHC and our physical environment is second to none. Children are able to access seven acres of developed land and nineteen acres of bush. They play on the flying fox, water slide, rock wall, low ropes, oval, trampolines, and bouncy castles. Hayrides, tyre swings, a huge sandpit, mini golf and an incredible array of creative play resources are at the children’s disposal every Maki day. They are extended, challenged, cared for and see God’s love and grace every day.

In 2012 new laws came into force, governing how childcare in Australia is to be conducted. National bodies were established and government agencies adapted to assess and enforce the new legislation. Childcare is now run at a national standard where all involved agencies, including schools, must observe the governing laws and regulations to achieve educational outcomes for the children who access their services. CYC is committed to excelling in all seven quality areas defined by the National Quality Framework (NQF). Our staff receive full support to obtain relevant qualifications and also on the job training in all areas of the NQF. Our service has not yet been assessed under the new ratings system, but it is hoped that with the Lord’s help and our focused, human endeavours, we will excel in this process.

In financial terms, OSHC has provided a steadily increasing income for CYC over the past eight years.

It also provides employment for 10 permanent staff and as many casuals. Plans are underway to expand our number of vacancies for each care session. Our proposal seeks an increase from seventy to well over one hundred places. At the same time, we are commencing construction of a building that has been purpose designed for OSHC. This building will increase the effectiveness and efficiency in how children are cared for and simultaneously enhance our appeal to our target markets. We pray

Hall In the

Climbi

ng W a ll

Tug of War

that these endeavours are successful and better enable CYC to serve both the Lord and our community.

For over fifty years, CYC has been dedicated to working with and for the Lord to provide fun, exciting and most importantly, spiritually inspiring experiences for WA youth. Through its mission in Outside School Hours Care, CYC is both honoured and committed to sharing the Gospel to the Glory of God on a daily basis. The greatest gift this endeavour has produced, is the willingness of so many families to enrol their children in a service driven by God’s love and direction. We have been given a mandate to share all we know of His love and grace with the children of Rockingham and as a result, we at CYC OSHC feel His blessings as we conduct our service to the Glory of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Miriam Leggett Coordinator - CYC Cooloongup OSHC

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

in g a C a stle

Archery

13

Membantu Bali (Membantu means helping in Indonesian)

Membantu Bali is a project that was set up by Coffs Harbour Christian Community School to do just that, help. It has grown from an outreach program for senior high school students in 1999, to a lasting commitment to providing genuine assistance to hundreds of Balinese children and their families. This commitment has changed not only their lives but those of our CHCCS students and our wider school community.

Over the years, students and their families, staff and the wider school community have raised tens of thousands of dollars to fund these programs of assistance. Fundraising events include our annual ‘Run for Membantu’ event and the school community’s ‘Indo Week’ and ‘Bali Day’. The school has also established the Coffs Coast Adventure Centre and the Coffs Coast Beach School to direct profits into our aid projects in Bali.

Each year, we send teams of school students to Bali to work alongside the Balinese people on these projects.

Students from both the High School and the School’s Ministry Training College, have travelled to Bali at their own expense to help to improve the lives of those less fortunate.

Membantu Bali is dedicated to providing real support to the people of Bali by genuine acts of service and by

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

Students with ch ild constructing fish ren after ponds

ketball courts

14

funding projects that address important needs, including: • Food security • Safe and adequate water supply • Primary health care • Education • Essential infrastructure works at orphanages and schools • Transport and communications for orphanages and local communities Simple everyday items that we take for granted such as sanitary needs for girls, basic medicines and first aid supplies are often in short supply in poor communities and orphanages in Bali. We have been able to provide ongoing support for these basic human needs.

Recently we have developed a sister-school relationship with Harapan School that has its largest campus of 6,000 students in Denpasar, Bali. Previously, some of our high school students travelled to Bali for two weeks of service in the Widhya Asih orphanages, but now they can also assist in the Harapan schools, helping to teach English and establishing relationships of friendship.

We are running a program where students can participate in lessons with students at Harapan School

Constructing Bas

Toilet Block construction

using Skype as well as a teacher exchange program teachers from Harapan School help us in Coffs Harbour with our Indonesian language & culture program (Kindergarten to Year 12) while our teachers go to Harapan School for short visits where they teach English language and build cultural bridges. This year, we had an inaugural student exchange program when seven students from the Widhya Asih Orphanages and five students from Harapan and other schools were sponsored to come to Australia for three weeks, to experience Australian life and culture and to help foster hope for their future lives back in Indonesia.

Membantu Bali is moving forward. From donations of a few hundred dollars here and there, and outreach activities painting toilets just a few years ago, we now raise many thousands of dollars each year and fund projects that include the purchase of buses for transporting children to school and building entire toilet blocks in orphanages.

Through the development of lasting relationships that bring our cultures together in harmony and mutual support, we are helping to raise a new generation of children with opportunities for valuable education and an awareness and tolerance for others from different backgrounds. As we continue to raise funds needed to carry out our current and future projects, we hope that others will catch our vision and join with us in supporting Membantu Bali. If that’s you, then please contact us by email at david.hamilton@membantu.org, by phone on (02) 6653 4000 or visit www.membantu.org Russell Tasker - Overseas Operations Administrator Coffs Coast Christian Community School

“The mission trip to Bali has been my highlight; I gain ed so much thro ugh this hands-on experie nce both practic ally and spiritually. I wou ld definitely enco urage anyone to go.” Tessa

“My practical ex perience in Bal i has given me an excitemen t and confirmed my desire to teach English in Bali in the fu ture.” Elliott “Serving in Bali has given me a real understanding of missions work, an d this has helped me to gai n a clearer direc tion for my life.” - Maria “Training for an d serving in Bal i has really helped my lead ership skills an d has given me confidence that has made such a significant diffe rence in my life . For me, the next progressio n is to get over to another country and pu t into practice w hat I have learnt.” - Nathan “Travelling to Bal i and serving in the orphanages was a life-changing ex perience for me. Helping the children to h ave a better life was very rew arding and a ble ssing to my life. I would love to return and co ntinue to help them in th e future.” - Jessic a

Students paintin

g

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

ildren Dancing with ch

15

New Chaplains in NSW Gary & Judith Baker

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

The Wider Baker Family

16

It is 45 years ago this month that we were married at The Salvation Army, Nundah, QLD, where we had met when we were only 13 and 14 years of age. It was after being married for 7 years and having our first child, a daughter we called Kym, that we both felt a calling to full time ministry.

We knew that if this was what God had called us to, then we would need to be obedient if we wanted to experience God’s blessing upon our lives.

We headed off to Sydney to the training college and have since spent the last 36 years as ministers (Officers) in The Salvation Army.

During this period we had different responsibilities in different areas of NSW and Qld - from Deniliquin to Rockhampton and many places in between. Twelve and half years were spent as church leaders, eleven and half years as divisional and territorial youth leaders, four years running the Army’s Youth Leadership school and eight years as Divisional leaders.

In each of these appointments, we have worked together in partnership, so it is exciting that this will continue as we take up this role as Chaplains.

Our family also grew and we were blessed with 2 sons that made our family complete. Our daughter has married and has 2 beautiful boys, Joshua and Isaac and we love to spend time

with our grandchildren. Our sons, Troy and Joel both have beautiful girls in their lives and we are looking forward to Troy’s marriage in March next year.

We feel very blessed and find it hard to believe that we are officially ‘retired’ after a very active life but are happy that we have been blessed to be ‘retreaded’ and given this wonderful opportunity.

Meeting the CVA team across the state so far has been a fruitful and encouraging time. We are encouraged to remain available to provide pastoral support at each site, in whatever way is most helpful.

We are excited by what we already hear of the ministry opportunities that are taken in the camping environment and are keen to see CVA continue its leadership, mission focus and support in any way it can.

Our thoughts and prayers will continually be focussed on each of you at the front line of the Kingdom and that God will provide strength, resources and refreshment to assist you in fulfilling your calling.

“The One who calls you is faithful and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) Gary & Judith Baker

y el, Kym and Tro Jo s id K r ke a B The

New Chaplains in Queensland

John & Narelle Our most recent Grandaughter

After 40 years of ministry as Salvation Army Officers, we retired and moved to Redcliffe (QLD) just on three months ago.

Whereas Narelle was looking forward to this particular chapter, John came somewhat “kicking and screaming”. Having said that, we are now both very settled and enjoying immensely this new chapter of what has been a wonderful journey.

On our retirement, we bought a copy of the Mosaic bible to help us in our daily devotions and have found it a source of inspiration. Recent readings were all about “journeys”.

“Journeys of faith are not always geographical journeys. The beauty of a journey - literal or metaphorical - is that it’s often unpredictable and surprising, conditioning and stretching. Faith often takes a traveller to the darkest places along the path, but at the end, back in his home, a true traveller is grateful for the perseverance cultivated and discoveries made while enduring the wearisome journey.”

Our lifetime journey thus far has certainly been unpredictable and surprising!

We were both brought up in Christian homes and met in a youth group at Ipswich. John was a school teacher and Narelle a shorthand typist. As a result of conscription during the Vietnam War, John was drafted into the military and spent the next three years as a professional musician. A

posting to Singapore and Malaysia meant that wedding plans were brought forward. What seemed to be an unwelcome interruption to the journey, God used in a remarkable way. One of the “surprises” was the birth of our first child Michael. We returned home to make preparations for The Salvation Army Officer Training College.

Since then, the journey has taken us to live overseas on three occasions - Papua New Guinea twice and Russia once. We had to learn to speak in other tongues and connect in other cultures.

By this stage our daughter Tamara had been added to the mix.

Along the way there have been times of devastation and desert - and times when we have lived with a pervading sense of evil. We have also experienced the abiding presence of Christ and His amazing grace and provision.

His promises do not fail!

We strongly believe that the seed of the gospel has been planted within every language group so that the Spirit of God is able to translate His truth in ways that may be deeply understood by all peoples everywhere. Graciously, The Lord has allowed us to see this truth in action.

For the last three years, John has been the Director of the Salvation Army International Development Office in Australia East, while Narelle was the Pastoral Carer for NSW Officers in their first five years of ministry.

We have always thought of our life journey in terms of pilgrimage where it is possible to “travel lightly and unencumbered” - perhaps that may help you to understand why we are so much at home in our new role as Chaplains to CVA. We look forward to visiting you in “your community” and to being a prayerful support.

Thank you for every expression of your love and welcome.

PS. We have two children and three grandchildren. Michael lives in Darwin with his family and is a dentist. Tammy lives in Sydney and is a mental health clinician.

John & Narelle Rees

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

John & Narelle Rees

17

The Breakaway Breakaway Camps exists to break the cycle of poverty, unhappiness and hopelessness which for many “at risk” young people, leads to drug and alcohol addictions, crime, violence and unemployment. Most young people learn their destructive habits by the time they are 14 years old. Early intervention through an ongoing, long-term support program makes a real difference – and this is the Breakaway difference.

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

Breakaway Camps was founded 24 years ago by Merv Landy. Merv worked as a prison officer for 7 years and during this time he had many conversations with inmates, asking them about what might have stopped them from ending up in prison. The most common answers he received were: “had someone really loved me” and “had someone taken me out of the environment I was in, like going camping.” Merv then spent another 7 years working for Teen Challenge, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. It was here he realised, in his own words “I was still working at the wrong end of the stick.” At this point and after some in-depth research, Merv was convinced that prevention and early intervention was the key - and Breakaway Camps was born.

18

Breakaway is an early intervention program for disadvantaged and “at risk” kids; primarily 10-16 year olds.

Agencies like DHS, Anglicare and Berry Street, or school welfare officers, refer kids they believe are at high risk of heading down the path of alcohol or drug abuse, early pregnancy or living on the street. At Breakaway, we don’t claim to have a revolutionary new way to support kids; in fact, it’s quite the opposite and stems directly from what Merv discovered from the prison inmates, “had someone really loved me.” Love is at the heart of what we do.

Love is an “action” word and at Breakaway we seek to put love into action in three ways: Adventure, Care and Guidance. We use Adventure

and under-canvas camping to spend time and connect with the kids. Our teams of Christian volunteers take time to listen and Care for these young people with genuine love and empathy. Our unique program allows our volunteers to not only offer Guidance, but because it’s a long term support program, they are able to journey with these young people through the most defining years of their life.

A Good Catch

There are also three fundamental aspects to Breakaway that often differentiate us from other programs: Long term support - we believe long term support is paramount if we are to help young people through long term problems. By introducing kids to our program at around the age of ten, and supporting them right through to the age of about 16, we seek to intervene at an extremely vulnerable and influential period of their life.

Just Being To

Regular support - care and guidance need to come from a foundation of relationship and this can only be built through connecting regularly. Each young person in the Breakaway program is invited to attend a weekend camp every month.

Small groups - we find that many of the kids in the program lack the social skills for large group situations.

Smaller groups are a great way to foster relationships.

The camping aspect of the program includes various outdoor activities such as canoeing, bike riding,

Not Only Boy

Camps Difference!

ys

What’s inside can be hard to put into words, and what the leaders of Breakaway have done for me is also difficult to express in words.

Relationships bushwalking, as well as simply enjoying the bush. Having time to just play, run, build cubbies and catch yabbies is important for every kid’s growing up years and there is much to discover about our world and ourselves.

Over all the years we have been running, there is one thing that has been consistent - God has provided our every need, everything from a bus and a 45 acre property, through to staff and the funds to pay them. It hasn’t always been what we wanted or in our time frame, but when looking back, it has always been the right amount at the right time.

Paul Coleman Executive Director / Breakaway Camps

Breakaway Camps was a real eye opener for me. It is something I will never forget. Not only did I do things I would never had been able to do otherwise – such as Abseiling, Canoeing, Camping and seeing snow – but it also built a person in me that would otherwise never have been found.

At Breakaway Camps you did things you wouldn’t have done elsewhere.

You met new people all the time. It was kind of like a huge extended family where everyone was happy and enjoying themselves. Every trip, whether it be a day trip or weekend/school holiday trip, was an adventure. Friendships that were everlasting were made and life skills were learnt.

I don’t think I would like to even think where I would be today if I had never been on Breakaway Camps. I look at where I am in life today and can only say thank you. I believe through Breakaway Camps I built up the confidence to get myself out of the environment I was living in and put myself into a stable and happy home.

I have since finished my SACE and I am now working for a Uniting Church program in South Australia. I chose this career because of what I’d learnt and watched through Breakaway Camps. This is my way of giving back what I was lucky enough to receive.

I don’t think I’d ever be able to thank the leaders, founders and other kids of Breakaway Camps enough for what I’ve been given.

Wide Open Spaces

Dianne

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

ogether

A former participant in the Breakaway Camps program shares her experience -

19

the LAST word

Listening & Trusting Have you ever had sleepless nights when you were wrestling with God over decisions that had to be made, and sometimes wanting your own way and God was pointing you in another direction?

ISSUE 38 • Communicator

Elijah wrestled with God (Genesis 32) and in Ephesians 6:12, Paul speaks about “wrestling not against flesh and blood, but against the evil one.”

20

I could have saved Rohna and myself many heartaches if I would have trusted and listened, more than demanding my thoughts and my way. (Briefly, though, it took years!)

We had been asked to transplant an old traditional Church to a rapidly growing new suburb. We accepted the challenge and commenced on the journey. It would have been easy to sell the old church and put the money (approx. $150,000) towards the new project - however, things are not always so simple. Besides getting everyone in the church to accept this change, we had other practical issues - agents, City Council, architects, builders etc.

After a year or two of wrestling about the way forward and after many attempts to sell the church, no one but no one wanted the church at any price. However, after many more months, other arrangements were made and the transplant was successful (too long for detail, but the wrestling went on). 25 years later, the church required even larger extensions. The old church was still standing and was again put on the market. However, in the meantime, the council zoning had changed and so the property was snapped up for in excess of $1.5 million and the extensions were completed.

Why do we Christians so often want our way in life, as if we knew all and only asked God to bless our plans?

The other day when Rohna and I were having our devotions and I was telling God some of our concerns and asking for help, I did something that I have never done before. I stopped and said “Rohna, what about listening?” and we did. After a few moments silence, Rohna said “God is saying No”. Then there came a peace.

I am reminded of the verse from Habakkuk 2:2,3: (The Living Bible): The Lord said to me, “Write my answer on a billboard, large and clear, so that anyone can read it at a glance and rush to tell the others. But these things I plan won’t happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled….if it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!”

Friends, I am learning (slowly!) to ask God first instead of asking God to bless my plans. It is hard, but when I do, it takes the frustration out of my Christian journey.

Whatever is happening at your centre or in your family or in your personal life, can I suggest that you stop talking to God and do a little more listening? He will have the right answer and take some frustration out of your life.

God Bless you as you listen to Him. Laurie & Rohna Venables - SA/WA/NT Chaplains