The key message children took away from Kids Connect Camp in Victoria

Raft building was all part of the fun at the Victorian Kids Connect Camp held at Anglesea.

BY LERISSE SMITH

It was a simple gathering, but it made a powerful impact.

In Victoria’s seaside town of Anglesea, a special Salvation Army event sparked a wave of hope for kids doing it tough.

For four unforgettable days earlier this month, 37 disadvantaged children aged eight to 12 swapped their life struggles for something brighter: a fun-filled camp where laughter, adventure, friendship and the comfort of belonging reigned.

But this wasn’t just any camp.

The camp offered a first entry into a Christian camp for children doing life tough and a place where hope was reignited and every child was reminded they mattered.

Kids Connect Camp provided an initial opportunity for children facing difficulties to experience a Christian camp, a place where hope was reignited and every child was reminded that they mattered.

“Our key message to kids is about knowing God has a plan for them and that they are loved by an amazing God,” said Naty Keung, Salvos Children’s Secretary for Victoria.

“A successful camp doesn’t happen by chance; it’s the result of a team of incredible leaders coming together with purpose and passion. Our amazing leaders are all passionate about kids and willing to bring the children closer to Jesus!”

“Our key message to kids is about knowing God has a plan for them and that they are loved by an amazing God.”

Fully funded by generous external donors, the camp was free for every child and has been running for over a decade. Children and leaders came from various Victorian corps and local mission, including Maryborough, Castlemaine, Delacombe, Wyndham, Frankston North, Dandenong, and Reservoir.

From the moment they arrived, the campers were not only welcomed but also seen and known.

With 24 dedicated leaders from the local mission and a 1:2 leader-to-child ratio, each child who was invited through a local invitation received care and connection that made a lasting impact. Paid children’s workers, corps officers and junior leaders were also on hand to support and serve the excited campers.

Kicking off the camp was Salvos Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Coordinator, Chris Waixel, who ran an Acknowledgement of Country workshop.

The event kicked off with a moving moment led by Salvos Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Coordinator Chris Waixel, who ran an Acknowledgement of Country workshop. The workshop offered the kids a powerful connection to the deep cultural roots of the Indigenous community.

Then it was action time!

Canoeing, raft-building, skateboarding and mountain bike riding ensured the camp buzzed with energy as kids and leaders alike embraced every challenge. But it was more than just fun. The activities built courage, teamwork, and meaningful connection.

And just when it seemed the event could not get more special, it did.

Ministry Assistant at Castlemaine Corps, Beth Anstice, unveiled a beautiful hand-painted heart maze to the campers, using it to teach the children about the love of God and that no matter where their life journey took them, God was still there and loved everyone.

On the final day, the Ministry Assistant at Castlemaine Corps, Beth Anstice, unveiled a beautiful heart maze she had painted, using it to teach the children about the love of God and that no mattered where their life journey took them, she reminded them, “God is still there and loves us as always.”

“The camp was a great success,” Naty said. “It was so encouraging and inspiring to see children from all walks of life embrace friendship, fun and friendship, and to hear and experience God’s love in a powerful way.”