Find a Christian Camp magazine 2011 final

find a CHRISTIAN

CAMP & VENUE

2011

FINDING REST

STEP BY STEP GUIDE FOR YOUR CONFERENCE

Switch off your phone and disengage with the world

LOOKING FOR A VENUE? You’ll find it here!

planning

perspective

peace Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 1

HASSLE-FREE CYC

We understand the many demands on a teacher’s time, so we have DONE the work for you!

Five Sites - Ten individual modern facilities: Beach - Forest - Mountain - Lake - River - Snow - Surf

Personalised Programs: We plan it - you approve it Co-ordinated travel arrangements Activity Risk Management Plans (Download) Overall Risk Management Plan from Point of Departure to Point Of Return (Download) Comprehensive VELS Curriculum support material for each activity (Download) Vic Ed Dept proforma for excursions and activities - Site and program information completed (Download) All weather options Student Equipment List (Download) Flexible menu and dietary options PLUS PL All sites fully accredited through both ACA and NARTA Qualified and professional CYC staff conduct all high-risk activities Modern professionally installed and maintained activities

Phone: (03) 5967 1594 Email: adanac@cyc.org.au Freecall: 1300 659 641 Phone: (03) 5628 4224 Email: forestedge@cyc.org.au Freecall: 1800 867 829 Phone: (03) 5952 2201 Email: theisland@cyc.org.au Freecall: 1300 422 677 Phone: (03) 5952 2417 Email: piar@cyc.org.au Freecall: 1800 006 399

ACCREDITED

www.cyc.org.au 2 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

A ARTA DEVELOPING THE INDUSTRY

National Accommodation Recreation and Tourism Accreditation

Conquer your own Mountain Abseiling fifty metres of sheer rockface? No problem.

Negotiating exhilarating whitewater rapids in a kayak?

Sweatless. Finding out what you’re really capable of? Now that’s the reason people come to Blue Mountain Adventure Centre.

“You encouraged me to do things I would not have dreamt to do in my wildest dreams!”

James – Student

If you want them to stretch their mental muscles as well as their physical ones, learn a staggering amount about the environment, themselves, and others around them, give their spirits a lift and their souls a rev-up – then we’ve got the schools programme you’re looking for...

• Caving • Gorging • Abseiling • Tramping

• High Ropes • Mountaineering • Kayaking/Canoeing • White Water Rafting

• Indoor/Outdoor Climbing • Adventure Based Learning • NZQA courses

Our mission: to help people discover and live out their God given potential through the challenge of adventure.

“It’s the ultimate challenge, the ultimate journey, ultimate fun and ultimate life changing experience!”

Missy - Student

“The adventure-based activities stripped away bias and preconceived notions and welded our group together”

The spectacular outdoor environment of the Tongariro National Park is right on our doorstep. BMAC is set on 3 acres of grounds with a river-side fire pit, high ropes course and even an indoor rock climbing wall. We recently opened a brand new lodge, so we are now able to accommodate 50 people onsite. Our lodges are fully equipped for self catering.

With many years of combined experience in outdoor leadership and instruction, our professional staff know the surest way to a fantastic adventure .

If you want to find out how much of an adventure life can be, then get in touch with us soon!

Ian – Life Skills Tutor

“Your professionalism yet relaxed attitude helped to make it such an enjoyable week” Michele – School teacher

Blue Mountain Adventure Centre Pito St, Raurimu, RD1, Owhango, 3989

Phone: (07) 892 2630

Email: bmac@nzf.salvationarmy.org

www.bluemountainadventure.org.nz

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 3

from the editor

Editor’s Letter Welcome to our first edition of Find a Christian Camp and Venue. We are excited to offer this new and informative publication to you.

Camping is one of the great adventures, one of the most exciting holidays that anyone can experience.

Whether you go it ‘rough’ or holiday in a serviced camp facility there can be lots to encounter and lots of fun.

However, what do you look for when deciding what camping venue would be suitable for your organisation,

school, college or charity? There are many things to think about and research so you can make the right decision. These include how far away you want to travel, what facilities you require, what the camp offers in terms of sports and so forth and what sort of food they serve (and that is very important)!

don’t always make time for.

Camping is a great way to encounter God’s creation. It is wonderful to listen to God and just get back to nature and also to have some fun, which sometimes in our busy schedule, we

I pray that you will benefit from exciting magazine and God Bless.

In this publication there is a great deal of information about how to make the right choice when planning for a camping holiday. Camps offer different amenities and entertainment, so it is important to research well so it will be an enjoyable for all.

Lynn Goldsmith

41 - 53 Church St

Cowes, Vic 3922 p: (03) 5952 2201 f: (03) 5952 5800 e: theisland@cyc.org.au

RELAXATION COMES NATURALLY PROPERTY

5 landscaped acres 600 metres from the famous ‘Cowes front beach’ Offering the safety & security of a small country town along with the space & activities to ensure a great experience

FACILITIES

Comprised of two individual facilities Centrally-heated ensuited rooms Separate air-conditioned function & meeting areas Full catering for groups of between 20 and 200+ Separate self-catered facilities Large Indoor Gymnasium

ACTIVITIES

ACCREDITED

ARTA A DEVELOPING THE INDUSTRY

Christian Youth Camps

National Accommodation Recreation and Tourism Accreditation

theisland.cyc.org.au 4 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

Qualified Professional Staff Giant Swing Sports Climbing Wall Solar heated 18 metre Swimming Pool Flying Fox Archery Abseiling Circatron Low Ropes Mtn Biking plus many more Risk Assessments for all activities plus comprehensive VELS material available for download

Queensland Conference and Camping Centres. As a ministry of the Queensland Baptists, we exist to create life changing experiences through excellence in hospitality, service and teaching. Modern facilities and dedicated staff at our three breathtaking facilities will make your next event easy and memorable.

your needs, our mission

QCCC Brookfield (Brisbane) - capacity 150 QCCC Mapleton (Sunshine Coast Hinterland) - capacity 240 QCCC Tamborine Mountain (Gold Coast Hinterland) - capacity 300 Booking and contact details for each site can be found at www.qccc.com.au

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 5

contents

inside this issue...

4 Editor’s Letter 8 How to be a responsible camper Planning is the key to a safe trip and essential to be a responsible camper 14 Discover the wonders of glorious New Zealand Jenni Davies proves the search for the perfect camping site is much easier than you think...

8 14

KCC-ConCentre-190x120-0111

18 Considerations For School Camps From A Teacher Perspective Glen Westcott talks about what he considers when deciding which camp to take his school students to admits is a 1big decision 12/1/11and 11:41 AM itPage

22 Preparing for your event or conference Make sure you have a comprehensive blueprint and water-tight strategy for your camping event.

28 Disengage From The World Leave behind the cell phones, ipods, computers and all the stress that life brings...Mindi Godfrey 36 Five Tips For Camping With Kids How to make a memorable camping adventure for children

GO TO PAGE 38 FOR OUR LIST OF FEATURED ADVERTISERS

Group accommodation in Katoomba

• • • •

conference centres katoomba

15 - 340 guests 4 separate conference centres 55 carpeted, heated rooms Fully-catered service or self-catering available • Multiple meeting areas • Large grassed playing areas • Ideal for schools, churches, youth groups, community groups

6 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

year 5 & 6 Visit bluemountainsed.org.au for kage Gold & Rainforest-based school camp pac KCC Conference Centres cnr Cliff Dr & Violet St, Katoomba [phone] (02) 4782 5588 [email] katoomba@kcc.org.au [website] www.kcc.org.au/centres

idyllic outstanding

SCHOOL CAMPS ROWING CAMPS CHRISTIAN GROUP CAMPS J –FORCE CAMPS (8-12yrs) WINTER HOLIDAY CAMPS (10 -14yrs) THE ISLAND AMP’D BANDS CAMP & FESTIVAL

awesome

“WELCOME TO OUR WORLD” UNIQUE, IDYLLIC & JUST SOOO... PICTURESQUE. A CAMP ON AN ISLAND! Lake Whakamaru is located on the mighty Waikato River.

For over 40 years we have been proud to serve campers from around the world with outstanding service, great food and warm clean accommodation.

Let us help you enjoy a camp experience like no other, no matter what your age. Experience all sorts of water sports and outdoor education pursuits, Flying Fox, Pedal-boats, Kayaks, bush walks, swimming, BMX, Go-Kart, Abseiling, Rock wall climbing, Archery and Air Rifles. An ideal base for winter snow skiing or thermal region tourism activities.

LAKE WHAKAMARU CHRISTIAN CAMP 1105 ONGAROTO ROAD R.D.1 ATIAMURI 3078 (11k from S.H.1) LOWER WAIKATO NZ Phone: +64 7 343 2352 | Email: info@lwccamp.com

www.lwccamp.com

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 7

essentials

How to be a

RESPONSIBLE CAMPER Ready to take your group on a camping adventure? Before you board the bus, keep these checks handy to ensure you are camping responsibly and safely...

Y

oung and old alike seem to enjoy being at one with nature.

However, just as with any other activity, camping safety is essential if you don’t want to get caught short.

One of the first things you should do is plan ahead.

Plan ahead I can’t stress it enough! Let others know that you are going camping, where you are going, and the approximate length of time you plan on being away.

8 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

Whatever it is that you bring into the camp you should take back out with you. You should immediately begin thinking about containers for garbage and such things as dirty clothes.

If you are camping in a primitive style you need to plan for your outdoor bathroom. It is suggested that you dig a small hole that can easily be filled back in and never use a body of water as a place for relieving yourself. Do not add any type of soap or detergent to a natural water system at any time either.

unitingvenuessa.org.au

essentials

When camping, keep safety in mind - followed by responsibility and courtesy Always follow designated trails and roads Although it may be tempting to go off the-path and explore, it is for your own safety that you should stick to the worn trails. If you are driving a vehicle through a camping area keep in mind that horses, bicyclists and pedestrians should always be yielded to.

Respect your fellow camper When you are camping you are in a more natural environment than usual.

This is true for the other campers as well; people are different. Some camp to socialise with friends and family and others camp to spend some time in solitude. You may fall somewhere in between those extremes as I do but it is important to be respectful of other campers at all times.

It has even been suggested that campers should use tents and camping supplies of natural colors so they will blend in with the surroundings

better. This will give a less intrusive appearance.

Keep your distance Don’t camp any closer than is necessary to other campers, be respectful and keep your noise level down especially during late evening, night and early morning hours. You may be an early bird that loves to listen to the morning radio show but your neighbor may love to sleep in and need three cups of coffee before they can think straight, it’s a simple matter of courtesy.

Do not harass any animals This can result in you being harmed or worse as these animals will feel threatened and are likely to defend themselves in whatever way they can. Teach this lesson to your children as well to prevent possible injuries. Even attempting to feed a wild animal can have undesirable results, possibly tragic if you’re not careful.

Many flora can cause rashes and allergic reactions. Be prepared for such emergencies by having a first aid kit on hand. Having insect repellent and insect spray on hand is also a good idea. Don’t forget to add ointment to the first aid kit for insect bites as well.

Campfires Campfires are a part of camping but if not properly doused or tended to, they can become a huge problem.

Don’t forget to gather your firewood while it’s still light. Build your campfire in the appropriate location ensuring that it is not under tree branches or too close to tents. Be sure to keep a close watch over the fire. Keep a bucket of water nearby for dousing the fire before retiring.

When camping, keep safety in mind - followed by responsibility and courtesy.

Keep camping areas great places for everyone to enjoy!

First Aid kit It is a good idea not to touch any plants that you are not familiar with.

Camp Columba One of Southlands Finest Adventure Camps Nestled in the relaxing rolling hill country near Gore, lies an adventure camp full of action packed activities and exciting new challenges.

Holiday Camps, School Camp Programs, Corporate Training Programs, Ministry and Church Camp Opportunities.

Contact us today about our:

Phone: 03-205-3702 or visit:

www.campcolumba.org.nz 10 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

doing - learning - growing

Looking for your next venue for your camp, conference or church group?

El Rancho

life happens here

El Rancho is conveniently located on the beautiful Kapiti Coast, just a one hour drive from both Wellington and Palmerston North.

El Rancho is the ultimate destination for school camps, church retreats, conferences, holiday accommodation and other groups. Whether you are planning a small retreat or a large conference, our facilities have a lot to offer: • • • • •

A range of accommodation options for groups of 20 – 500 people A catering service for up to 700 people An on-site café Team building activities – Flying Fox, Go Karts, Kayaks, Rock Wall 12 meeting rooms for break-outs or seminars

www.elrancho.co.nz | ph. 04 902 6287 Accommodation | Conferences | Recreation Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 11

T D I

V

book excerpt

The following TOP TEN TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS has been taken from Nicole Jeffery’s book ‘Faith Based Travels’.

~

What kind of traveler are you? In search of adventure, seeking new experiences, hoping to improve a language, aspiring to work and holiday, a missionary or vagrant sojourner? No matter what your flavour, “faith based travels” is a spiritual tool for experiencing the world as a Christian traveller. The devotional delves into the realities of living out of a suitcase, from backpacker hostels to home stays. The author, a traveler herself, takes the reader on a journey from planning a trip overseas, to living it out, returning home and reconnecting in the community. Each devotion concludes with thought-provoking questions and a prayer. Devotions are arranged topically, with travel tips from a multitude of travellers following each section. Praise power, evangelism, accountability … plus specialised devotions for the six different kinds of traveller. The book is both practical and spiritual. A must for all jetsetters, gap year students and graduates....

TOP TEN TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS 1 Pray without ceasing 2 Pack your Bible 3 Listen to Christian music 4 Find fellowship with other believers 5 Stay accountable to other committed Christians 6 Keep a spiritual journal 7 Be open to God’s leading 8 See lessons in the little things 9 Enjoy the journey 1 0 Always remember that Jesus is your constant companion ‘Faith Based Travels’ is available from all leading Christian Bookstores or visit www.arkhousepress.com

12 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

1 1 0 2 s p m a C z d i K ‘GOD’S ARMY’ Monday 25th – Thursday 28th APRIL ‘TRUE COLOURS’ Monday 25th - Thursday 28th JULY Kidz Camps are held quarterly and theme/activity designed for kids in school years 5 – 8 (approx. 9 to 12 year olds). Willow Park’s aims are to help the kids have lots of fun in a safe environment and to make new life-long friendships while learning more about God in a fun and natural way. If requested we will fit friends into same cabins, so why not bring a best mate with you?

SO WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN AT KIDZ CAMP? Well, subject to weather... 4-wheel Motorised-bikes, Challenging Games, Big Screen Movies, X Box, Yummy Food, Playstation 2, Fun Bible Studies, Canteen, Mini Golf, Tennis and Table Tennis, Volleyball and Basketball, Indoor/Outdoor Soccer, Live Volcanoes, Scavenger Hunt, Crunchie Bar Hunt with Torches and Wacky Wednesday fun breakfast (dress differently)... just to name a few! Also you’ll never forget the awesomely popular Wobbly-bikes and Green-machines.

Adultz Winter House Party

Friday 3rd – Monday 6th June Winter House Party is designed especially for adults to give you a great holiday—with loads of fun, exceptional food, gracious friendship and wonderfully inspirational messages and song times. Don’t be shy! Be invigorated and inspired by the programme and the many new friends you will share it with. Guest Speaker with sound teaching from Scripture.

www.willowpk.org.nz

P A

R

K

online search

Discover the wonders of glorious

New Zealand from only a click away!

14 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 Taranaki Coast, New Zealand

CEO of Christian Camping NZ, Jenni Davies, proves the search for the perfect camping site is much easier than you think...

C

amping requires open spaces in order to be appreciated. What better reason to go camping than to enjoy the outdoors and the scenic wonders of nature while we still can?

Camp sites are in unique locations, by a lake, river, the sea or mountains… Where else can we experience God’s creation in such a peaceful surrounding?

There are many valid reasons for escaping the routines of ordinary life, and camping facilities offer that escape for many of us. We all need a return to nature now and then, and we all can benefit with a break from our routines. The thought of sitting around a campfire or chatting with other campers under a clear sky, gazing up at the stars and listening to the sounds of the night, can strengthen our bodies, pacify our minds and restore our spirits. Camping is rejuvenating!

Remember to share your love for the outdoors with family and friends and to help pass on some appreciation and respect for our Creator and nature to future generations.

Your online search made easy Simply go to www.cci.org.nz and select ‘find a venue for your next event’ This facility on our website gives you the options of searching for sites: • •

•

•

In the region you want to go camping The type of accommodation you wish to stay in The activities you want to participate in while camping Catered or self catering sites

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 15

online search

“We have met some of the most interesting people and have seen many beautiful places because of camping.”

Great feedback from Adults Comments from an Adults perspective about their camping adventure: Camping is the only time I can begin to comprehend what life is and how things fit together. It is a renewing of my soul, a recharging of my being.If I happen to do it on a motorcycle, so much the better. Maude

All I can say about camping is that anyone not doing it is missing the most family oriented memorable experiences ever. Most of our fondest memories as a family and with good friends have been around campfires. We have met some of the most interesting people and have seen many beautiful places because of camping. Nesa

I think your camp is so cool, thanks

Camping teaches resilience. It builds courage. It teaches us about our strengths and weaknesses, and in so doing, it makes us productive people.

Ron

I loved the snow day; I had never seen

Great feedback from kids about camping Thank you for letting us stay at your camp. I enjoyed having a spa and playing on the lullaby. The food was so yummy; I can’t wait to come again.

Teleah Alexander

for supplying us with food and water.

Michael B The kayaking was fun, the water cold, it was my first time ... Thanks for helping us. Peter

it before it was fun and cold.

Jane T Thanks for helping me on the ropes course, I did it!!! I was scared. Jass B Jenni Davies CEO CCNZ Christian Camping NZ

Explore the Tasman from our tree lined Holiday Park or enjoy a full service Camp experience near the beautiful Kaiteriteri beach.

We cater for your schools, churches, groups and events all year round!

“We’ll be back every year from now on, we all just really love it here.”

John & Jill & Everyone at Rosewood Christchurch

16 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

88 MARTIN FARM ROAD RD2 KAITERITERI +643 527 8014 T lovetostay@bethanypark.co.nz E

perspective

Considerations

for School Camps from a Teacher’s Perspective

What do teachers look for when considering taking their students on a school camp?

Most schools organise this at least once a year and it is essential that the right venue is chosen. Glen Westcott, a Middle School teacher, discusses what he considers when making this decision.

A

s a teacher at a primary school, I am often in the position of looking for places to take our students on school camps. We engage in different camping experiences at my particular school, and so the type of camp will determine the type of features I look for in a camping ground or camp facility.

The two main types of camping are: 1. The rough (this involves

toilets and water being the only facilities required 2. The serviced camp experience (where an organisation or group runs the entire camp, and the teacher role is only as a supervisor) Firstly lets refer back to ‘the rough’ camping experience. We have held these types of camps at our school in the past and the location requires

18 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

very careful consideration.

When you are camping in the rough, everything needs to be taken with you from food to bedding. It is not an easy camp to organise, so an appropriate camp site is vital. When we look for a site we consider : • Distance from home: The camp ground needs to be within 1.5 hours of our school. Considering that a lot of equipment is being transported in cars and

perspective

trailers, any drive longer than two hours requires too much stopping time on the trip, and fuel expenses are too costly.

• The condition of the roads leading to the camp ground: We have no guarantees that all the cars in the convoy will be 4WDs so we have to assume that all cars are not suited to rough roads.

Therefore any roads leading to a camp ground need to be mostly tar, and any gravel sections need to be minimal and well maintained. (No potholes etc.)

20 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

• Camp Ground Facilities: The facilities need to have toilets and access to water for drinking. Also the terrain needs to be flat enough for tents and trailers to be set up on.

• Natural beauty: We have to have a camp ground that holds natural beauty.

This is often the key to a successful camp. People are escaping the city for a taste of something different and relaxing. We look for quiet grounds with lots of trees and fresh green grass. Natural waterways are a bonus. I am

hesitant to camp at a place where the water is stagnant though as this often means excess mosquitos. (Not fun) • Proximity to main roads: Finally we like the camp ground to be within 5-10km of a main road in case of emergencies.

The second type of camp our school does every year is the type where all facilities are provided. This includes, cabins, bedding, food and group leaders that actually run the camp and all the activities. These camps are all about the children experiencing different activities from

perspective

Where Your Adventure Begins!

sailing to rock climbing so the choice of the organisation hosting the camp is just as important as the camp ground and facilities themselves.

When we look for a serviced camp we consider: • Proximity to school: The camp ground needs to be within 2.5 hours of school. Travel time longer than three hours is exhausting and is time spent travelling that could be better spent at the actual camp itself.

• Facilities: When parents spend money on a serviced camp we need to know that the facilities are up to a certain standard. Beds should be clean and comfortable, and cabins should be warm in winter and relatively cool in summer. Showers and toilets need to be clean.

• Good Food: We understand that camp food is hard to make five- star quality, but it’s important that the students are happy with the food on the whole and look forward to meal times.

• Activities: The activities need to be interesting and things that students would not often do in their normal lives. Activities should push students outside their comfort zone and allow them the opportunity to develop self-esteem, confidence and a sense of satisfaction. Things like sailing, rock climbing, high ropes, and canoeing are all excellent.

• Great camp leaders: The success of the camp depends on the personalities and skills of the men and women running the camp. This can be hard to assess beforehand.

• Reputation: This is the best indicator. A camp with a good reputation is what we look for. We like to speak to students or schools that have been there before.

Camps are fantastic fun when they come together.

Students often see these times as the highlight of their years at school. This is why we put so much time and thought into ensuring the right camp or camp location has been choses.

Glen Westcott Middle school teacher at Northcross Christian School, Ryde, NSW

There is an unlimited supply of exciting outdoor and tourist activities in the proximity of Tui Ridge Park, located northwest of the world-famous tourism centre of Rotorua. The Park’s camp, conference and retreat facilities are set in a 420-acre native reserve that contains all your school, church, youth or adult group needs to make the most of your time. The Park has numerous outdoor activity and quality indoor facilities including:

The Graham Miller Centre Units

Designed for large groups, three units sleep 54-people each divided into bunk bays, catering for a total 162 people, plus 9 leaders in 3 rooms.

Separate gender sleeping and ablution areas means we can easily cater for co-ed camps. Each unit is carpeted and fully insulated with toilets and showers and night storage heating that guarantees warmth all year round. A fully equipped kitchen and large carpeted dining room caters for 200, with adjacent large sunny lounge and viewing area, plus a twostorey activities centre with 2 conference rooms, large recreation area and fully equipped laundry.

Cabins & Chalet

Designed for families or groups, our 7 blocks of cabins have 21 rooms in total sleeping 4 in each or 84 in total. Each room has its own bathroom, toilet and shower facilities while each block is equipped with a kitchen.

Our fabulous two-storey Chalet is set in a secluded spot surrounded by exotic forest with superb bird life. It comfortably sleeps 11 people with separate hot water system, fridge/freezer, phone and TV/DVD.

Camping Ground & Caravan Park

Our Camping Grounds can take groups as large as 3,000 people with 3 modern serviced ablution blocks, a spacious common room, cooking facilities and laundry facilities Water is reticulated throughout the reserve and there is no shortage in quantity or quality.

The Caravan Park has 120 powered sites with ready access to ablution blocks and waste dump station.

0800 TUI RIDGE | +64 +7 332 3510 | www.tuiridgepark.co.nz

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 21

events

Your guide to Preparing for your event or conference Practical keys to ensure success Whether you’re running a Church meeting, a camp or a major conference, do not start planning anything until you are thoroughly prepared. Before you book your venue or invite speakers, you’ll need a comprehensive blueprint and water-tight strategy for your event.

22 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

events

A timeline is not just a long to-do list - it’s

I

t can be overwhelming! You have the task of organising an event and there are a multitude of jobs to be done and things to be organised. The first step before you launch into your planning is to define what you hope to achieve from your event.

It’s important to work out what you want to achieve from your event and to stick to it. Develop an event outline and checklist to help you to work out your objectives and refer to it continually throughout the event process.

In the event outline, detail the primary and secondary objectives of

the event and how you are going to achieve and measure them.

Be prepared - event and conference checklist

The problem is that if you are not

and dates that are clearly defined and easy to use

One of the most frequent mistakes made by new event and conference planners is to launch into the ‘planning’ before they’ve done the ‘preparation’, leaving themselves vulnerable to budget blowouts, double-booking, lost tasks and mixed messages.

Are your conference or event ideas practical?

also a schedule of key tasks

thoroughly and strategically prepared, as your event develops and evolves, you are likely to find you have already locked in dates, places, venues and people that later become inappropriate or impractical.

Event and conference timeline

Creating a timeline will force you to work backwards from your proposed event date and build in all the necessary lead-times for each activity. Knowing that it will take

Totara Springs Christian Centre is one of the largest centre’s of its kind in New Zealand and is a venue for school camps, church retreats, business conferences, sporting and artistic events, holiday camps and weddings. We are situated in a beautiful setting, nestled at the foot of the Kaimai mountain ranges just outside Matamata. There are 90 plus acres of park- like grounds and native bush with streams, walks and bush trails. We have a large indoor sport’s and activity centre and breakaway areas as well as a large hot pool fed by natural springs. We have bedding for 420 people in fully serviced motels, 3 lodge complexes and 18 cabins. On site we also have powered caravan and tent sites. All our camps are fully catered by our resident catering team from a brand new commercial kitchen completed in June 2010. www.totarasprings.org.nz or bookings@totarasprings.org.nz or phone 07-8884700

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 23

events

printers three weeks to deliver your marketing paraphanalia will dictate how early you need to confirm the design, and how much time you are able to give your guests to register.

Flexible event budgets

Developing an accurate budget - and allowing flexibility for unexpected expenses - will enable you to prioritise how and where you will spend your money. Knowing just how much the venue and catering will be will govern your decision on the type of entertainment to engage.

Additional resources for event preparation

We’ve created some resources to

help you in the preparation of your event every step of the way: CREATING A TIMELINE An effective event planning timeline will keep everyone on track and ensure you do not miss any important deadlines. A timeline is not just a long to-do list, it’s also a schedule of key tasks and dates that are clearly defined and easy to use.

Step 1: Build a template Set up your timeline in a system that is easy to manipulate such as Microsoft Word or Excel, or use project management software.

Whatever system you select, you need to be able to add to the timeline, delete items and insert updates

regularly.

Step 2: What to include If you are the only person managing the event, your timeline may be as simple as a list of key dates or milestones such as deposits due, mailing dates, meetings and confirmations of catering, venues and accommodation.

If there are others involved in the event production, you may need a more comprehensive list such as tasks to be carried out, completion dates, who is responsible for each task and supplier contact details.

Step 3: Enter deadlines Start at the date of your event, and

1775 Phillip Island Rd

Cowes, Vic 3922 p: (03) 5952 2417 f: (03) 5952 1627 e: piar@cyc.org.au

EXCITEMENT COMES NATURALLY FACILITIES

Catering for Comprising four separate & independant facilities each with their own activities 4 12 Breakout rooms Large air-conditioned auditorium groups from 20 to 800+ guests Spa & Sauna 3 Heated Pools (1 indoor) 4 Large Function Rooms Dining Rooms

GROUPS

Team Building Retreats Corporate Conferences/Seminars Educational Camps Craft/Personal Interest Groups Church & Youth Groups Sports Clubs

ACTIVITIES

ACCREDITED

ARTA A DEVELOPING THE INDUSTRY

Christian Youth Camps

National Accommodation Recreation and Tourism Accreditation

piar.cyc.org.au 24 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

Canoeing Flying Fox Giant Swing Qualified Professional Staff Raft Making Low Ropes High Ropes Team Initiatives Biking

Athletic &

Mountain Archery plus many more

Risk Assessments for all activities plus comprehensive VELS material available for download

work backwards according to how long each task will take. As early as possible, get deadlines and due dates from venues and other suppliers and incorporate them into your timeline. You can base other tasks around these dates.

Consider highlighting or colour-coding urgent or nonnegotiable deadlines in your timeline to make them stand out from the others.

Welcome to

Pacific Park!

BRAINSTORMING IDEAS Decide on all the key elements of your business meeting event before you approach suppliers or lock in dates.

Brainstorm your ideas to be sure you cover off every option and select the best themes, dates, speakers and venues that will make your event a success.

 Family Holidays

Step 1: Gather the group Decide who should be involved in the initial planning process, and schedule a brainstorming session. People involved in the brainstorming process do not necessarily need to be the same team that will help you plan the event from beginning to end; essentially the key stakeholders and creative minds should be part of this process.

 Family Reunions

Step 2: Evaluate Before you get creative, discuss previous events and take some time to critically evaluate them. Pay attention to what worked in the past and what didn’t, to avoid repeating previous mistakes. Remember that sometimes an event fails simply because it is held at the wrong time.

With a little adjusting, it could be a winner the second time around.

Step 3: What to brainstorm Have a list of subjects to brainstorm. These are likely to include: Theme and decorations Appropriate venues The best dates (thinking about seasons, competing events, costs etc) Accommodation Entertainment The time of day (would it work best as a breakfast function, a lunch or a cocktail event?)

Speakers and seminars Audio-visual tools Transport

 School Camps  Church Camps

 Training  Seminars  Conferences  Sports Teams



Situated across the road from the beach in the sunny Bay of Plenty, Pacific Park is within easy driving distance of Tauranga and Mt Maunganui.

ENQUIRE NOW!

Pacific Park Christian Holiday Camp 1110 Papamoa Beach Road Papamoa 3118 Bay of Plenty NZ P: +64 +7 542 0018 E: office@pacificpark.co.nz

www.pacificpark.co.nz

Continued over page 

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 25

Giveaways PLANNING A BUDGET Your budget will provide the framework for the rest of your event, and govern most of your major event planning decisions. A budget should include both your fixed and variable costs, and should be managed closely throughout your event.

Step 1: Anticipate expenses Make a list of every cost you can think of. Include a cost for every aspect of your event, from speaker airfares to plastic cups and everything in between. Use your timeline to see if that triggers any other inclusions in your mind.

Step 2: Categorise your list Divide your list into fixed and variable costs. Categorise your costs according to each activity, such as ‘Enter-

          

          

       

26 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

tainment’, ‘Catering’, ‘Marketing’. Create a separate section for anticipated income.

Step 3: Estimate costs Estimate a cost for every item on your list. Add a contingency amount of between 3-15%, depending on how rough your estimate is and how far in advance your event is (around 3% a year is a good estimate). Once you have a confirmed cost, enter that cost and reduce the contingency to 2% (for unexpected expenses).

Step 4: Anticipate income Estimate your income (from registration fees, sponsorships, ticket sales, donations, product sales etc), then subtract a contingency of between 3-15 percent depending on how rough your estimate is.

events

Step 5: Assess your budget Assess your budget against any budget allocation you have (or ‘breakeven’ point if this is a money-making exercise). If you are over the budget allocation or cannot break even, look through the list to see where you can reduce costs, or seek new quotes.

AVOIDING MISTAKES Some mistakes that crop up in conference planning are easily avoidable. These are the classic mistakes made by many first-time event planners, and they can be avoided if you are aware of them from the start.

Read over this list now to avoid mopping up your mistakes later.

Step 1: Stick to your goals Don’t get caught up in the logistics and lose sight of the purpose of your

event. Events should support your organisation’s goals and missions, so make sure you are aware of those goals before you start planning.

Step 2: Always have a brief Before you begin planning your event, ensure that you have a thorough brief from your manager or client. The brief should include their objectives for the event, a budget, and any special considerations that need to be taken into account. If you don’t have a brief, schedule a meeting with your manager or client and ask them what you need to know.

Step 3: Start planning early If you wait to plan your event until just weeks before it is due, there are bound to be hiccups and you’re likely to have to compromise on venues,

Don’t get caught up in the logistics and lose sight of the purpose of your event. catering and speakers. A good way to ensure your event runs seamlessly is to map out an event timeline.

Step 4: Learn from past mistakes Gather material on similar events your competitors have run, and gather information on past in-house events to learn from your colleagues’ experience. Collect old event material such as invitations, correspondence and previous quotes for an idea of what to expect.

405 McKenzie Rd

Neerim East, Vic 3831

p: (03) 5628 4224 f: (03) 5628 4445 e: forestedge@cyc.org.au

ADVENTURE COMES NATURALLY PROPERTY Beautiful 100 Tall old growth forests Quiet river frontage Just 90 minutes from Melbourne Recognised in 2009 as a safe facilty by the Dept of Sustainability & Environment acre property

FACILITIES Full catering for groups Multiple break-out rooms

ACTIVITIES

ACCREDITED

ARTA A DEVELOPING THE INDUSTRY

200 seat modern function room Separate self-catered facilities Ensuited bedrooms Air-conditioned Dining Room Large Gymnasium

Christian Youth Camps

National Accommodation Recreation and Tourism Accreditation

forestedge.cyc.org.au

Qualified Professional Staff Flying Fox Climbing Wall

River Sledding High Ropes plus many more Mini Golf

Mountain Biking

Archery

Risk Assessments for all activities plus comprehensive VELS material available for download

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 27

Put down your technology, cell phones and all the other distractions that crowd your daily life and go back to nature. Take time to hear God’s voice and admire his beauty. Mindi Godfrey reports...

Disengage from the

WORLD

28 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

retreat

S

urrounded by PlayStations, cell phones, iPods, Xboxes, laptops, and television, today’s students are on sensory overload.

Add to that the schedules many young people juggle - school, sports, clubs, social activities and church functions - God’s voice is easily drowned out. Retreats and camps offer students much needed time off to disengage from the noisy, hectic, day-to-day world and hear the Lord whisper his love.

But getting students to camp can be challenging because of time and monetary limits.

With forward planning you can address these concerns and get more of your group to camp in 2011. By organising fundraisers that connect students to the larger church body, you’ll show young people that adults value camp experiences.

Here are three fundraisers to try: 1. Adopt-a-student. Create a minibiography of each person going to camp, including a photo, name, year level, school, interests, and prayer re-

quests. Church attendees can sponsor a student by making a donation to the camp fund.

After camp, invite everyone who participated to an appreciation event where several young people share their experiences and show pictures from the camp.

2. Host a family camp fun event.

Offer a cake sale, play camp games, have a sing-a-long time, make roasted marshmallows and do a craft. Raise money by charging admission, selling tickets to participate in the activities and offering crafts for purchase.

3. Holiday helpers. During the Christmas season set aside a day, afternoon or evening when church attendees can get some help from students who plan to go to camp.

Offer childcare so parents can shop without their kids. Provide gift-wrapping and have homemade fudge, sweet biscuits by the dozen, and bags of party mix for sale. People can shop for goodies while they’re waiting for their packages or dropping off or picking up kids.

• • • • • • • • 20190 Pacific Hwy, Coralville, 2443 Ph: 02 6556 5002

Retreats and camps offer students much needed time off to disengage from the noisy, hectic, day-today world and hear the Lord whisper his love.

Camps and retreat centres offer students crucial time and space to meet intimately with God. Fundraisers that invite the church body into the process of helping students get to camp allow the church to invest in the lives of their youth. Students not only get the chance to create lifelong memories at camp but they also build memories in the process of getting there.

Courtesy of Challenge Weekly, NZ

Overnight Accommodation Holiday Accommodation Camps & Conventions Self Contained Units Tennis Court Gymnasium BBQ Areas Canoes

www.ekalanurra.com.au Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 29

many options

A

kiwi

holiday

If you’re searching for a real Kiwi holiday then you’ve found it here!

Bethany Park at Kaiteriteri, is a slice of golden paradise at the top of the South Island, neighboring the Abel Tasman National Park. Just off the beaten track in a quiet spot away from the road you’ll find a beautiful tree lined holiday park on over 60 acres and a fully catered Camp facility that is truly an historical part of Kaiteriteri.

Bethany Park has hosted tens of

thousands of Kiwi’s and international travelers alike. While many campgrounds in New Zealand have been franchised or developed, Bethany Park has remained a locally owned and operated Campground, supporting and hosting communities, churches, schools and events each and every year. It is a real piece of Kiwiana.

Offering over 200 camping sites as well as cabins and self catering facilities it has been the summer

home to many generations of families who faithfully return year after year to their favourite holiday spot to spend some time relaxing together.

There is also a camping facility for groups with a catered full service or self service option. The camp facilities and activities are available all year round and it has proved to be an excellent base to further explore the Tasman region by land or sea. There are numerous walking and mountain bike tracks, glow worms, caving, kayak adventures and of course ocean fun just on the doorstep.

With a clear vision, a new director, and a strong foundation, Bethany Park is moving forward again with exciting developments on the horizon.

Temporary communities, lifetime memories The anthemic Australian catchcry, ‘We are one, but we are many’, is taken seriously in Uniting Church circles. Neither geography, landscape nor demographic could deter five very different Uniting Church SA camping and conference centres from coming under the one umbrella brand: Uniting Venues SA. Stretching from Tarooki on the Limestone Coast, through Adare at Victor Harbor, to Nunyara in the Adelaide Hills, across the wheat-belt

with Emmaus and finally to Thuruna on the Eyre Peninsula, Uniting Venues SA covers a lot of territory, but also shares an awful lot of common ground.

“All of the campsites share the same goal: to see people come to know Jesus in a life transforming way,” reflects Mark Lee, Manager of Uniting Venues SA. “From that strong a central point, it’s easy to commit to practical steps forward.

“Whether you’re heading to the

30 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

hills, or taking to the beach, we’ve got you covered with five laid-back locations across Adelaide and beyond,” said Mark.

“We’re more than venues – we’re in the business of building temporary communities, for memories that last a lifetime.”

Mark Lee General Manager Camps and Conference Centres

many options

An Unforgettable Experience For 50 years Teen Ranch has been dedicated to giving young people an unforgettable camp experience while developing the physical, mental, spiritual and social aspects of their lives.

Located in Cobbitty, on the outskirts of South Western Sydney, Teen Ranch has a large property to facilitate an exciting variety of activities.

These include horse riding, canoeing, high & low ropes, archery, abseiling and rock climbing, swimming and other initiative based activities.

Camps run all year round with midweek camps, weekend camps and week long school holiday and also roundups.

www.teenranch.com.au

A place of rest Chittick Lodge is situated in Gerringong on the NSW South Coast less than two hours drive from Sydney.

Within minutes of all this is Chittick Lodge surrounded by trees in a residential area and with a large grassy slope suitable for games and activities giving the Lodge a secluded feel.

As an outreach facility of the Gerringong Uniting Church, Chittick Lodge has been offering accommodation since 1967. It is on the land originally owned by the Methodists where, in 1870, a Wesleyan Chapel was built. The chapel is still in existence and used as a meeting hall for groups.

Chittick Lodge sees a wide variety of groups use its facilities each year.

It is generally a favourite with school

groups running study camps, community groups, youth groups and church groups that have a great amount of fun as well as forming a community of friendships.

Chittick Lodge has seen a great deal of change during its 40 or so years of operation and we plan to continue to make improvements to our facilities to adjust to the needs of those who love to visit here.

Prospective guests are welcome to contact us to make a suitable time for a visit to the Lodge.

For more information about Chittick Lodge, Gerringong and surrounds visit our website at www.chitticklodge.org.au.

47 Hoddle St

Yarra Junction, Vic 3831

p: (03) 5967 1594 f: (03) 5967 2561 e: adanac@cyc.org.au

ENJOYMENT COMES NATURALLY PROPERTY

18 acres of landscaped grounds Safety & seclusion of a country town One hour scenic drive from Melbourne Adanac is easy to get to but hard to leave

FACILITIES

Zoned Accommodation for up to 120 guests Bathroom facilities within accommodation heated & carpeted Comfortable en-suited leaders rooms 150 seat Dining room common (break out) rooms 200 seat function room Indoor auditorium/gymnasium

ACTIVITIES

ACCREDITED

ARTA A DEVELOPING THE INDUSTRY

Christian Youth Camps

National Accommodation Recreation and Tourism Accreditation

adanac.cyc.org.au

Qualified Professional Staff Canoeing 100m Waterslide Flying Fox Low Ropes Beach Volleyball Nature Trails

Mtn Biking Archery plus many more

Centrally Multiple

Raft Making

Risk Assessments for all activities plus comprehensive VELS material available for download

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 31

many options

Combining Camp and Conference Facilities The combining of Camping and Convention facilities on the one site is only a possibility for a minority of Christian Camps. In both Australia and New Zealand these C&C facilities are usually located inside or close to major population centres, like Melbourne, Sydney or Auckland, or adjacent to major tourist destination centres.

In Auckland, Willow Park Christian Camp & Convention Centre is located over the road from the lovely Eastern Beach at Howick. Although just half an hour from downtown Auckland City, Willow Park is a world away from the business of city-life and set in seven acres of park-like grounds on the edge of Auckland’s beautiful Waitemata Harbour.

It is an extremely popular location for School and Church camps, Ministry and Business conferences, or with families, couples and individuals just wanting to get away from their home setting and relax.

One of the pleasures at Willow Park is the top line catering service and dining room facilities. The goal is to satisfy group cultural and health needs, from the time of booking or enquiry through to the time of departure.

The bonus of having a Conference Centre associated with the camp is the regular incidence of conference delegates returning to make private use of the camp facilities and camp organisers looking to extend the effectiveness of their school and group camps through better use of the Conference and Recreation facilities.

www.willowpk.org.nz

CENTRE WITH A DIFFERENCE KCC is a Christian conference centre with a difference. Eleven weekends and two weeks of the year KCC organises Bible teaching conventions centering on ‘big preaching’ from some of the world’s most gifted expositional Bible teachers.

The other 41 weekends and 50 weeks the centre operates as a Christian conference centre providing friendly mountain hospitality, quality accommodation and delicious catering to a variety of Christian, community and school groups.

The many church and Christian groups who stay at KCC are partnering in the gospel in a very effective way. Churches and other Christian groups receive double value when they stay. As well as receiving great value accommodation during their retreat they also support an organisation which supports their church with its transformational convention ministry.

While originally designed for convention delegates, the conference centres are perfectly suited to churches, schools and community groups outside of convention times. There’s the cosy lodge for small groups, the fully-enclosed centre for added winter warmth, the premium centre with en suites and the basic accommodation centre for the budget conscious.

The combination of convention ministry and Christian conference centre complement each other well. They make KCC an ideal venue for churches and Christian groups looking not just for a splendid retreat location but also knowing all revenue goes to a not-forprofit site which organises, proKCC Conference Centres motes and is home to a unique (02) 4782 5588 gospel convention ministry.

32 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

www.kcc.org.au/centres

many options

Camp Columba!

Doing- Learning- Growing Camp Columba is situated 15km north of Gore (a funky little town at the bottom of the world) just off State Highway 1 in Pukerau. With accommodation facilities and adventure activities to cater for groups from 10-180 people, Camp Columba continues a 50-year tradition of serving the community. Beautifully set out grounds and lots of open space makes Camp Columba a perfect place to Do, Learn and Grow. These words are at the centre of what Camp Columba stands for.

Doing: It is our goal to provide an environment where individuals are able to participate in activities they may have never had a chance to do before.

Learning: It is our desire to

help individuals overcome challenges and fears by accomplishing tasks such as the high ropes course , rock climbing, canoeing and flying fox to name a few.

Growing: At Camp Columba individuals will have a chance to grow physically, emotionally and spiritually, as they develop relationships, work through new challenges, and experience the Creator through His creation and the programs here at camp.

Camp Columba is committed to meeting the needs of those who

come to camp. We are constantly looking at new ways and developing new programs that will enhance and enrich one’s experience here at Camp Columba.

For more information you can reach us at:

www.campcolumba.org.nz Ph 03 205 3702 | fax: 03 205 3702

Te Rau Aroha

WAIHI BEACH CAMP & RETREAT CENTRE

Only 2-hours southeast of Auckland and a 2-minute walk to Waihi Beach, the camp is on the boundary between the lovely Coromandel Penninsula and the beautiful Bay of Plenty. Nearby activity options include swimming, tramping, climbing, shopping, fishing, boating, golfing, or visiting harbours, beaches, streams, gold mines, museums, shops and wine and kiwifruit vineyards.

Bookings Officer: Jackie Tappin, Anglican Diocese of Waikato PO Box 21 Hamilton 3249 New Zealand • P +64 +7 857 0020 • E jackie@hn-ang.org.nz

Ideal for SCHOOL & CHURCH Youth Camps. The main camp sleeps 80+. CHAPEL onsite.

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 33

many options

a

beautiful place

“Wow, this place is amazing. We didn’t even know places like this existed anymore. What a fantastic facility – just incredible!”

These are the words often spoken by campers young and old or inbetween when they visit what is one of the truly beautiful nature spots in the Waikato region if not New Zealand. Totara Springs Christian Centre is reknowned as one of the largest centres of its kind in the country and a great venue for school camps seeking education outside the classroom, church retreats, youth camps, ministry camps, business conferences, sporting and artistic events, holiday camps and weddings.

The Camp is situated in a beautiful setting nestled right at the foot of the Kaimai mountain range, just outside Matamata a town now internationally famous as the Hobbit village filming location for The Lord of the Rings trilogy movies. With over ninety acres of park-like grounds and native bush with streams, walks and bush trails there is plenty to do.

There is also a large indoor sport’s and activity centre and breakaway areas as well as a large hot pool fed by natural springs. Sleeping facilities exist for 420 people either in fully serviced motels, 3 lodge complexes and 18 cabins. In addition there are also powered caravan and tent sites. All camps are fully catered

for by a resident catering team from a brand new commercial kitchen facility completed in June 2010.

So many activities exist including Abseiling, Flying Fox, 150-metre Hydro-slide, BMX track, Go Karts, Climbing Wall, River Slides, Mini Golf, Kayaking, Beach Volleyball, Paint Ball and Train, that you are ensured a wonderful outdoor holiday experience. A full size gymnasium provides physical relief for both campers and conference centre visitors. Totara Springs Christian Centre has clearly demonstrated over many years that they are a positive benefit for schools, public and community groups from all over the North Island and beyond.

In addition to school and church camps, a number of specialized camps are hosted. Four times a year during the school holidays, a three day/two night OSCAR approved Junior Kids Camp takes place for 6-8 years olds, plus a five day/four night OSCAR approved Kids Camp for 9-12 years olds. Teens don’t miss out either as they have a minimum three camps a year to choose from including a winter one to the snow covered mountains of the central North island.

Summer family escape camps are a highlight of every year, where Mum, Dad and the kids can put their feet up or enjoy the many activities

34 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

of choice, while being waited on with no dishes or cleaning to do.

Totara Springs has for many years hosted Intermediate School Sports camps which have become famous throughout the upper North Island. Six times a year Intermediate Schools send their elite sports people to compete in 32-events over a week. Many years later these grownup children still talk of their camps experience as being the best week of their lives. Youth sports camps and masters sports weekends are also hosted.

Totara Springs has a dedicated team of approximately twenty-five incredibly talented people in areas of hosting, instructing, catering housekeeping and property management, who can meet the needs of most people and structure a camp to suit special demands.

As a Christian Camp ministry, they are proud of being able to provide a fun loving and safe environment for their campers, and stand behind their belief in God as creator, who has provided their beautiful setting as a place of fun and relaxation, and who continues to bless it for the many thousands of the current and future generation who get to use it and through which they will make life long friendships.

www.totarasprings.org.nz

Blue Mountain Adventure Centre

On a cool, damp morning on the side of a ridge overlooking the Whakapapa River, a dozen teenagers from South Auckland dismantle the makeshift camp where they have just spent a rain-soaked night. A couple of kilometres away, another group takes turns abseiling down a 35-metre rock face overlooking the foothills of Mt Ruapehu. A third group is watching a team mate negotiate steel cables suspended five metres up in a stand of pines.

This is Winter Peak Adventure; a week-long crash course of team work, confidence-building and problem solving, hosted and run by The Salvation Army Blue Mountain Adventure Centre BMAC).

Nestled between the banks of the Piopiotea Stream and the village of Raurimu, the centre is one of The Salvation Army’s lesser-known masterworks. BMAC has, for the past 21 years, provided an outdoor education experience for thousands of people, from pre-schoolers upwards. They include school students, youth group members, parents, church groups, and community groups

Quality outdoor education While it may sound simply like a good excuse to go thundering down rapids on a raft or squirm through the Okupata limestone caves, BMAC is primarily about education and changing lives for the better.

As the only Christian outdoor adventure centre in the country, BMAC’s beating heart is a team of committed staff. Continual training, updating and assessing technical skills and safety procedures, personal training are behind the centre’s success.

Collectively, the instructors have an array of skills ranging from specialist instructor qualifications for the full spectrum of adventure activities through to training in social and youth work, counselling and tertiary biblical studies.

This broad skill set and a wellgrounded team are critical to fulfilling BMAC’s aims of developing the physical, emotional, social and spiritual facets of their charges’ lives. Apart from the ‘hard skills’ like tying knots or teaching how to read and negotiate a rapid in a kayak, there is a multitude of basic practical skills and knowledge to pass on, as well as more complex personal and inter-relational issues to help untangle.

Transforming lives is what BMAC is about – and not just young people’s lives. You take people out of their normal environment, put new challenges in front of them and live them the space to reflect on their lives and their futures, and they will make positive changes to varying degrees.

For memories that last a life time contact The Salvation Army Blue Mountain Adventure Centre today.

50 years of Christian Camping In the late 1950s a group had been camping at New Year at Foxton School, sleeping on palliasses (basically mattress covers filled with straw) and enjoying Christian fellowship. They decided there would be benefit in a purpose-built facility. Foxton was chosen because it was close to a supporting Church and was known as “Sunny Foxton!”

So, 50 years ago Foxton Bible Camp Inc. was established and in December 1961 the first Family Camp was held in the new buildings at Foxton Beach.

Eventually cabins were constructed to obviate the need for caravans and tents, and as popularity grew, so did the site. It now can cater for 220 in dorms, 30 cabins, a tourist flat, 2 halls and a well-developed play area.

The Camping agenda was increased from just a New Year Family Camp to camps in other holidays for Primary age and High School age.

We’ve taught the Bible from cover to cover, conjured up themes from “Super heroes” to “Commonwealth Games ”, eaten tonnes of food, and sold thousands of books. Our campers from the last 50 years, some of whom have travelled from overseas to experience our lasagne, are now spread throughout the globe and a few are enjoying heaven!

The benefits of the Christian camping experience are evident in many churches around the country, and even more so since Lakeview Bible Camp in Rotorua, and Tussock Lodge in Cheviot have been developed.

Do we believe in Christian Camping as a vital tool – sure do! We look forward to seeing many more young leaders develop in the years to come, and have no problem continuing to teach from the Bible. There’s got to be another 50 years’ worth in that book!

For more information visit

www.biblecamp.org.nz

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 35

tips

Jenn Miller offers some practical advise when camping with children

T

hose of us who grew up camping have rosy memories of running barefoot through pebbled streams, sleeping in tents beneath a canopy of stars and roasting marshmallows by moonlight. Some of the best summer memories of childhood were made beneath giant trees, on a bed of pine needles eating hot dogs and hobo dinners, singing around campfires and talking in giggly whispers to our tent mates until the wee hours.

Why wouldn’t we want to create those memories for the next generation? Because twenty years later we realise what went into those camping trips on the ‘grown up’ end and the mountain of details, packing and potential for disaster looming just behind the next rain cloud. So what’s a parent to do?

Forego the rosy camping memories in favor of the more predictable Motel? Of course not! Consider the following as you prepare for the family camping trip of a lifetime and you’re sure to recreate the dream for the next generation… just don’t forget to pray against the rain.

1. Location, location, location If there is one thing that will make or break your camping trip with kids, it’s where you choose to go.

Rule number one of camping with kids: Check your expectations at the door, and consider what would be fun for them. Start small: like in the back yard.

Pop a tent on the lawn and roast a marshmallow over the grill. Move on to local campgrounds with plenty of amenities (pools, playgrounds and candy bar bingo are always big hits with the under twelve crowd). ‘Camping’ does not have to be synonymous with ‘deprivation’. Many campgrounds have en-

tertainment profiles to rival a four star resort. Do your homework, consider your audience, and choose your location accordingly.

2. Gear The biggest deterrent for most parents to camping with kids, especially little ones, is the copious amount of gear that is assumed to be needed to make the experience a success. Yes, kids are a gear heavy proposition, whether you stay home or go camping, but it needn’t be as bad as you imagine.

More than a little of the charm associated with camping is simplifying life, doing without and making it up as you go along. Apply the same rule for your weekend camping trip that you would a ‘round the world backpacking trip: less is more.

The basics: a tent, a sleeping bag and maybe a therma-rest mat; that’s all you really need. For most families, a weekend warrior tent from your local adventure store will more than fit the bill. Contrary to popular marketing campaigns, your kids do not each need a color coordinated flash light and firefly catching box, a ‘camp pillow,’ or their own, character-themed tent. The only piece of gear I wouldn’t leave home without if camping with a toddler: a solid hiking backpack that can double as a stand alone containment unit (high chair). Beyond that, it’s fun to do without… you’re camping, remember? Use a mason jar to hold your fireflies.

3. Food Some kids are notoriously difficult to feed, even with all the amenities in a modern kitchen and the best of preprocessed, boxed ‘kid food.’ Camping is a wonderful opportunity to encourage that sense of adventure and branch out a little in the nutritional department.

What kid doesn’t like packaging up a little piece of hamburger and few slices of potatoes and carrots in tin foil and

36 • Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011

5

tips for CAMPING

poking it down into the coals of a campfire to cook?

Remember your goal: to make the kids fall in love with camping and have fun! Now is not the time to insist on a balanced diet, you can bat nutritional clean up when you get home. Break out the hotdogs and roasting sticks, gorge yourselves on marshmallows and teach the fine art of creating that perfect brown shell. Make use of that picnic table and keep a supply of ‘drive by’ food on deck for kids to snag on the run between swimming and bug catching. Don’t forget to pack a few ‘comfort foods,’ flavors that will be very familiar and comforting to a child who is beginning to feel a little out of his element… just in case.

4. Entertainment So you’ve arrived at the campsite, you’ve set up the tent, unpacked the car, and now the kids are standing around

with kids looking at you as if to ask, “What do we do now?” And you’re staring back. The answer: “Anything you want! We’re camping!” Go swimming, rent boats, take a hike, build fairy houses out of sticks and pine cones, ride bikes, throw horse shoes, play badminton, do anything, do everything. The only rule is to have fun!

Of course, it’s always good to have a few ‘secret weapons’ in your back pocket for when enthusiasm is waning and you sense imminent mutiny. A treasure hunt tops the list of old standbys. Create a list of 25 items to be gathered (by teams if possible) and provide a prize to the winners. Make sure a few of the items will be hard to find in your location of choice. Hide away a new card game to break out in the unlikely event of rain or boredom, but make it a good one that everyone can play.

Third, pack a book. Not a boring book – and not a schoolish book. A real, living, breathing adventure book that will blow their socks off, such as Eragon, The Princess Bride, or Treasure Island (yes, those are actually books as well as movies and the books are far better). Read around the campfire, and in the darkness in your tent… and to chase away the rain, should it find you.

Leave the Gameboys at home.

More than a little of the charm associated with camping is simplifying life, doing without and making it up as you go along.

5. The Hallelujahs!

Perhaps the most important thing to pack when camping with kids is your sense of humor. By day three somebody is going to hit the wall and throw a temper tantrum, the baby might cry all night, the three year old will probably pee the bed, and who knows, you might even have four pukers in one tent at two a.m.; it’s happened to us. There’s no way to ‘make it all better’ at those moments, but there are a few items in my ‘Mama kit’ that are known to come in very handy at the worst moments.

I call these the Hallelujahs, not to be confused with the Hail Marys which are what you say just before you need a Hallelujah. Why the Hallelujahs? Because they are an answer to prayer and will make you rejoice: Anti-bacterial wipes. We’ve used these for everything from disinfecting the peels of questionable fruits and veggies in a pinch in third world countries, to cleaning up vomit, to mopping the floors of our tents. Oh yes, and they can be used as intended to wipe snail slimed hands before handing over a piece of watermelon.

Bags: Snack containers, ice packs, the place to pack your emergency pair of dry socks, ‘waterproofing’ for your mobile phone on a rainy afternoon, nappy blow out containment and what I had the kids fill with toys to pack for the trip: one bag, that’s all you get.

Coke. We discovered this one, quite by accident, camped outside of Vienna, Austria. We were sitting on our tarp, hot, tired, demoralized on several levels, four months into a year long camping adventure, sipping cold Cokes, the nectar of life. He summed it up perfectly for us, our friend Pirate Scott, as he cheerfully tramped by to his tent. ”Coke is good for morale! Cheers!” And so it is. Maybe it’s not Coke for your family, but find out what it is, and pack it. Hallelujah.

Find a Christian Camp & Venue 2011 • 37

ďŹ nd a CHRISTIAN

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