Nearly 500 children and family members from 17 Adventurer clubs across the North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) came together to put their faith into action through community service projects during the conference’s biennial Adventurer Camporee.
Held from October 9 to 11 at Yarra Holiday Park (Stuarts Point, NSW) under the theme “Love, Serve, Grow”, the event saw Adventurers assemble 280 care packs for local children and create artwork for a school in Nepal.
In partnership with Adventist Community Services, children prepared the care packs containing essential items and handwritten messages of encouragement for children in the local community.
“Seeing so many willing hands serving others was a beautiful example of our theme in action,” said NNSW Children’s and Family Ministries director Carolin Schmitz.
The camporee also featured the launch of Asian Aid Australia’s new Faraway Friends award. Through interactive activities, Adventurers explored four countries, learning about different cultures and the experiences of children living overseas.
As part of the initiative, participants contributed drawings and encouraging messages to a large collaborative canvas, which Asian Aid plans to deliver to a school in Nepal.
The event also provided opportunities for older children to develop leadership and service skills. A group of 18 Adventurers joined the Serve Squad, assisting with activities throughout the camporee under the mentorship of district director Ros Camps.
In addition to the service projects, families participated in worship programs, creative activities and opportunities to connect with other Adventurer clubs.
Guest speaker NNSW Adventist Education general manager for mission Marty Benard presented evening messages exploring the camporee’s theme, while Sabbath activities included an Adventurer club parade and a nature challenge encouraging families to explore God’s creation.
“Adventurer Club ministry creates beautiful opportunities for parents and children to grow in faith together, to build friendships with others and connect with other families in our wider communities,” said Ms Schmitz. “We praise God for His leading over the event,” she concluded.
