For nearly three decades, generations of young people arriving at the Greater Sydney Conference summer camps have been greeted by the man they know simply as “Uncle Danny”.
Whether driving buses, helping with activities, assisting with security or quietly stepping in wherever needed, Danny Kea has become a constant presence at summer camps and youth ministry events—serving faithfully behind the scenes for 28 years.
Originally from Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, Mr Kea first became involved with summer camps as a bus driver. Not long afterwards, he was asked if he would also help with security.
“I said, ‘I don’t really want to use the word security—security might scare the young people.’ I said, ‘I’ll just do whatever you need me to do.’”
From that point on, he never stopped coming back. Each year, he takes annual leave from his job as a truck driver so he can serve at the camps. Over the years, his involvement has expanded to helping at Pathfinder camporees and expeditions, Adventurer camps and other youth events. Recently he served on the security team at the South Pacific for Christ launch.
His servant-hearted attitude has left a lasting impression on many leaders over the years.
Pastor Simon Gigliotti, president of the Northern Australian Conference, said Mr Kea has always been willing to lend a helping hand.
“He would be there for summer camp set-up—helping load gear into trucks, preparing the site and making sure things were ready to go,” Pastor Gigliotti said.
“Throughout the camps themselves, he would drive buses, assist with security, help with activities and serve as an all-round positive contributor to the experience.
“A truly servant-hearted man, doing his best to honour God through faithful service to others.”
Pastor Cheonneth Strickland, secretary of Greater Sydney Conference, also paid tribute to Mr Kea’s longstanding contribution.
“He has a heart for young people, is humble and dependable, and is always willing to help where needed,” Pastor Strickland said.
“He has been a blessing to many, and I have appreciated his commitment to ministry.”
Mr Kea says working with young people is what keeps him returning year after year. In some cases, he first met them as campers before later welcoming them back as volunteer staff. And he has no plans to step away from camp life any time soon.
“I love serving the young people,” he said. “Every time I go to summer camp, they always call me Uncle Danny. It’s just heartwarming when they call me that name.
“I want them to feel happy and to really feel welcome, to come close to God. That’s the whole idea.”
Tracey Bridcutt is the communication director for the South Pacific Division.
