2015 agm report
Transcription
2015 agm report
CAMP CLAYTON ANNUAL REPORT 2015 CHRISTIAN YOUTH CENTRE INC. 1948 - 2015 See, I am doing a new thing! INDEX 1 2-3 4-6 Mission, Purpose and Core Values Board President Report 7 Management Team Reports Group Reflections 8 - 9 Youth Work Report 10 - 11 12 Current and Future Directions / New Map PEAK Program Report 13 PEAK Intern Profiles 14 Fun Day, Trivia Night, High Tea Fundraisers 15 16 - 17 Volunteer Reflections Financial Reports 18 Solo Sons Report 19 New Ministries - Boost and Family Camp 20 MAC and Golden Ambassadors Report 21 Volunteer Camp Report 22 Our Board 23 24 - 25 Farewell to leaving Staff and Board, Our Assocation Our Staff Camp Clayton PO BOX 3184 Ulverstone, TAS 7315 41 Clayton Rd Ulverstone, TAS 7315 64251893 [email protected] www.campclayton.org.au MISSION, PURPOSE AND CORE VALUES Mission Core Values To reach young people for Christ Our Core Values are a set of guiding principles that are essential and enduring to Camp Clayton, the organisation. Although many values are upheld, the following have been selected as prominent in the operation of Camp Clayton. Core Purpose “Camp Clayton exists as a place of Christian testimony and activity for the purpose of ministering to the spiritual and physical needs of people, particularly young people, in the context of Biblical truth, compassion, and duty of care.” Camp Clayton exists to: • Develop and run programs for underprivileged, misfortunate, distressed and needy young people and adults through the teaching and application of Christian principles. • Facilitate the conduct of programs by churches and groups for people of all ages for the purposes of Christian growth and development. • Provide a safe, healthy and suitable venue for hire by Independent groups who are prepared to abide by the conditions set down. These purposes are achieved by Biblical Truth Camp Clayton exists as a place of Christian testimony, upholding the Word of God, and reflecting the teaching of the recognised mainstream evangelical churches, with a commitment to the Statement of Faith. Faith Personally and corporately anticipating God’s provision, recognising that it is God who sustains this site. Diligence in Service This is motivated by our Christian faith and commitment as servants of God. Integrity In all our dealings, they will be done with honesty and justice, upholding the highest ethical, moral and spiritual standards. Compassion We seek to be sensitive to needs, and then meet them with Godly love. Exhibiting an identifiable Christian lifestyle. Generating funds to develop, upgrade and maintain the property and facilities. Adhere to the principles embodied in ‘The Great Commission’ (Matt 28:18-20) Temporary Community Where relationships of support, trust, and respect are upheld, in an environment of acceptance. Evangelism We want to be seen to live what we believe, distinct from the world, as testimony to our faith, and a role model to the community. Spiritual Development The nurture of Christian young people in faith, leadership and growth, the outreach and ongoing spiritual care of campers. Isaiah chapter forty three verse nineteen See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. 1 BOARD PRESIDENTS REPORT It is my privilege to give my first Annual Report as President. Firstly I wish to acknowledge the significant contribution of the previous President over 13 years. David Grey has served with insight, compassion, wisdom and the selfless giving of his time for the betterment of Camp Clayton. David has shown a real commitment to seek Godly guidance to which we have a lot to be thankful for. January saw a new beginning of Camp Claytons Peak Leadership Program. Four dedicated young people commenced what we trust will become a well-known and respected 11 month Internship. Esther, James, Sarah and Zac have put aside this year to better themselves for God and in the process give a major contribution to Camp. We were blessed to have Ginny Bryant and Raiah Hark visit from Crowsnest Lake Bible Camp and assist the Peak Co-ordinators Alex and Tamara Grey with the first few weeks of implementing what had taken some years to prepare for. I would like to thank the Peak Sub-Committee for their servant hearts, the giving of their time and insight over many meetings to see this come to pass. It has been my pleasure to chair the committee and see God at work – Marilyn Steers, Matt Marshall, Alex and Tamara Grey (Dwayne Wescombe for the earlier stages). I give God the Glory for any success that comes about. I would particularly like to mention the significant contribution of Alex and Tamara, how they have taken on the Peak co-ordinators role in addition to their normal commitments. I must say they have risen to the challenge and have found exceptional support in Matt Marshall. It’s been challenging of course in its inaugural year but I must commend the staff in how they have adapted to change, been a big encouragement and embraced the Internship. 2015 saw the consolidation of our finance structure after a review in 2014. The booking system venue 360 has been bedded down and we are seeing this streamline rates & projections. With the fine tuning for rates to rental groups we will see Camp finances in a stronger position. I would like to acknowledge the continued effort of the management team and staff to keep expenses on budget and in some cases with some lateral thinking, some areas have been below budget, this is greatly appreciated. April saw what turned out to be a major fundraising event for the Peak Internship, the Family Fun Day was held on Anzac Day and gave an opportunity to open the doors and allow several hundred people to enjoy Camp Clayton, many whom had not been on our grounds before. It was very exciting to see the potential of the site with volunteers and staff buzzing around camp to keep up with the demand. A fundraising subcommittee has been established this year to organise events to raise funds to run Peak, Tamara Grey, Marilyn Steers, Emma Anderson, Marion Priddle, Andrea Scott, Angela and Laura Gates have been very creative with their ideas and I must extend my appreciation for the effort they have shown. 2 Volunteers have played a major role again this year with many valuable hours being put into camp, celebrated by Septembers Volunteer Camp. (More on this on page 20) The MAC program continues to grow and proves to be a great encouragement to the participants. Levina is doing a great job with running day activities and small group respite camps are proving popular. The joint Glenhaven/Camp Clayton working group is actively seeking potential ways to expand the MAC Program as the National Disability Scheme is rolled out. The Board has been reviewing the Vision of Camp to ensure its relevance and provide direction for the immediate future. This is a process not to be rushed as it is important to be well thought through and be able to be easily communicated. A site master plan for the next 5-15 years is also underway which will further strengthen and build on what has been achieved over many years. This year has seen Phillip Jeffrey join the management team, employed 2 days per week as a business manager after the departure of Dwayne Wescombe. Phil brings top end accounting skills to the role with many years of experience and is proving to be a great asset for camp. Miriam Beswick has filled the role of senior admin officer to give support to the business manager. Miriam’s position became possible after Joanne Geard left camp to pursue other interests. I would like to thank both Dwayne and Joanne for their contribution to Camp Clayton. Since last year’s AGM 3 Board members have retired: Graeme Smith served 1 year, Peter Jopson 8 years and Chris Smith 16 years, that’s collectively 25 years of service to Camp Clayton. I would like to thank each of them for their input and support. Graham with his business skills, Peter with his wisdom and insight and Chris with his lateral thinking ability to challenge ideas. Each member has made a valuable contribution to the growth of God’s Kingdom at Camp Clayton. I am thankful for their positive contribution and it has been a pleasure to work with them. This gives opportunity for others to join the Board. If you feel you can make a contribution and have a heart for the ministry at Camp Clayton, why not put your name forward, it is a rewarding experience seeing God at work. On the theme of doing new things, we welcome the safe arrival of Eliana, a baby girl to Stuart & Melanie Crabtree. Mel resigned her youth worker position in April. A big thank you to Ian “Yowie” Anderson as he has stepped up in the youth worker area in Stu’s absence and Mel leaving to begin a family. Mel has done a great job guiding this key ministry area of camp. We are very thankful and wish her well in the important role of motherhood. Raiah Hark has accepted the youth workers position and is currently working through the visa process. Tamara Grey has stepped in to assist as the temporary female youth worker until the visa application is resolved. Also this year has seen the safe arrival of Joash, a baby boy to Lucas and Hannah Scott. Congratulations to Matt Marshall and Kaylia Cameron on their engagement and late October wedding. We are blessed with many new things and change is inevitable. We can look to our heavenly Father for strength when things around us are new and changing, I am reminded of Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” I would like to take this opportunity to thank David Grey, Marilyn Steers, Rose Lanham, Simon Eyles and Andrew Briggs for their dedicated support around the Board table, may God richly bless them and their families. Numbers 6: 23-27 “The Lord bless you and keep you The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” We can truly give God the glory for the amazing year we have had, things don’t always unfold the way we plan but we can be thankful for the blessings we see revealed at Camp Clayton. David Gates Left - Volunteer Camp Above - Fun Day at Camp Clayton 3 MANAGEMENT TEAM REPORTS Alex Grey Ministry, Maintenance and Outdoor Education and Recreation 2014/2015 has been a huge year of change and growth for Camp as an organisation. We have had a number of changes in key staff and continue to see God leading us forward to reach further for Him, and make a difference in our community. I have been continually amazed at the commitment of our staff, as they adapt and work hard to see Camp flourish through highs and lows. This year our incredible Youthwork team saw Melanie Crabtree leave the team to become a first time mum. Melanie has served on the team at camp for over 5 years and was crucial to the great changes in intentional programming and volunteer staff excellence. We have missed her on the team since April but are excited to celebrate with Stuart and Melanie with the addition of their beautiful daughter Eliana. This year has been an exciting year of refreshing Camp’s ministries. God has blessed us with significant growth in camper attendance, development of new camps for this coming calendar year, and the PEAK Leadership Program with four fantastic young interns. With further detail in another specific report, I can say that PEAK 2015 has been a huge blessing to the ministry of Camp. Our interns have worked very hard around the site on various projects and are now a core part of the staff team. They run activities, cater for groups, clean and prepare the site. They are integral to the day to day running of our campsite. Whilst fulfilling these roles, they have also been completing their Cert IV in Christian Ministry and Theology, going on outtrips/adventure challenges, listening to keynote speakers and running camp programs. They have all continued to grow in themselves and in God, and have thoroughly blessed this place. Excitingly this year we have begun to see the fruits of our labour and the blessing of God as we have tried to curb the decline in ministry camper numbers back into growth. It was encouraging to see at our last Little Tackers camp we had over 60 campers! (9 in 2014) and our October camps saw early bookings on the rise, in fact our limit to Junior Girls was due to leader availability. It was also exciting to run our first adventure camp in April, this was our largest senior (Gr 9-12) aged camp in a number of years, and the outdoor program suited this age group well. I’m most excited to know that each of our programs have a genuine intentionality built into everything we do, our programs to the message that Jesus is our Saviour, and wants to be a part of each of our lives. It’s the same message we have been sharing for over 60 years, but it is even more important today in an ever changing world. Aerial view of Camp Clayton 4 As I hope is evidenced by your presence at the AGM or in a recent visit to the site, we are continuing to work hard at ensuring our site is well kept, up to standard and always improving. Matt has continued to lead this area, though Lucas, Adrian and PEAK all play their part too. This year we have seen work done to a number of the staff residences that were due for improvement. Much of the site presentation (lawns, painting, etc.) has been handled by the PEAK Interns. This year has seen us converting Seaview into accommodation for groups, so that the aging Villa can become the PEAK lodge, which will have guests moved from our deliveries area and into the safer and more attractive location of Seaview. Our Outdoor Education and Recreation has continued with its high standard, it has been important to continue to improve and stay current with industry standards, as schools more than ever are looking for safe, fun, learning environments to bring their students to. Our PEAK Interns have made a big difference to facilitating these groups as they have become competent in running the activities. This year we set built a new activity named, Gaga ball and have made some exciting plans to add more in the future as funds become available. Again it’s important we do not become stagnant into the future as this is a core reason for many of our groups coming. God continues to bless, challenge and lead us into the future! It is paramount we do not forget His hand in this site and His ministry. I am thankful that we do not journey alone, as He is our reason for being here and the purpose for why we exist. Praise be to Him. Alex Grey Melissa Gregory Phil Jeffrey Steve Hext Ministry, Maintenance and Outdoor Education and Recreation Catering Team Manager Business Manager Daily Site Operations Manager Melissa Gregory Catering Team Manager As I ponder on the past twelve months at Camp, I’m reminded of the verse Isaiah 43:18-19 – “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun” So the beginning of the year certainly looked much different to what it does today. We have welcomed new staff, volunteers and interns into our team and have enjoyed growing and learning from each other. We have expanded what we offer to customers with outside catering and the MAC program. I am very encouraged by what we will be doing over the next few years. It’s hard to think that our interns have only been with us for the past nine months, it feels like they have been part of the team for years. The kitchen has really appreciated all the hours they have contributed to working in the kitchen, so a big Thank you goes to them. We welcomed a new causal employee, Gina Mahnken who started in our kitchen at the beginning of this year. We are also currently looking for a part-time apprentice as Priscilla is reducing her hours this month. I want to thank each of our kitchen staff for their hard work and commitment to their role here at CC. Your work is exceptional. “Thankyou for the encouragement at the last AGM, [we are] rejoining a team for working in the kitchen. We really enjoyed the time we spent at Camp Clayton. Great Friendship” Peter Unwin Kitchen Volunteer It has been very encouraging to see new volunteers coming into our kitchen this year. We have had two school work experience students, our baking teams in regularly, work for the dole participants and many others just dropping in to help including the wonderful guys visiting from Canada. This is a great time to connect, have some wonderful conversations and encourage one another. Outside catering is an area which is growing. We have seen an increase in bookings for us to provide platter style food to outside events. We have supplied weddings, afternoon teas, church events and conventions. This has helped in our quiet period. What a highlight the MAC cooking program continues to be for our kitchen staff. Our MAC students love to cook and they love to eat what they cook. This year we have seen class sizes double to around 8 participants per class. We focus on basic cooking skills, encourage everyone to have a go and to have fun. The Kitchen Staff have really enjoyed teaching the cooking program! It’s very rewarding to both staff and students. Student feedback is that this is their favourite thing to do at camp!! And I must say I don’t think I have ever seen so much food consumed in one meal! The MAC cooking program is an area that we feel like we are giving back, bringing hope and joy to people that don’t get to do this kind of thing at home. One girl said to me in our last class, “thankyou for letting me cook in your kitchen, I had so much fun”. One session we did this year, as a staff team was a vision day. We walked the four corners of our site and dreamed of what these areas could be in the future. We prayed for the people who came before us, and for dreams they fulfilled many years ago. We prayed for our dreams and hopes to be fulfilled. 2015 has been a year of stretching and strengthening, in Isaiah 54:2 –“enlarge the place of your tent, stretch our tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cord strengthen your stakes.” We are not holding back, see I have already begun a new thing! Can I leave you with a special story about one of our community volunteers? I had the pleasure to sit with this lady a few months ago in church, after she took up an invitation by Priscilla to attend. We must never underestimate the influences we have on the everyday people around us. This is what Camp Clayton is all about, bringing people to meet with Jesus one step at a time. This lady now attends regularly and is serving in our church. Management Team Reports Continued over the page... 5 MANAGEMENT TEAM REPORTS CONT... Phil Jeffrey Business Manager I am still in the early days of this new role but I consider it a great privilege to have joined an organisation such as Camp Clayton. The rich heritage of ministry found at Camp Clayton was one of the primary factors that attracted me to the role. I am happy to say that this remains the primary focus of the Board, management team and staff. During this short time, I have been using the past few months to build relationships with the Board and management, and been “learning the ropes”. I truly appreciate the support that I have received from all parties involved with Camp Clayton. In particular the management team and staff have made the transition as seamless as possible. The new management team structure, introduced in the previous financial year, has begun to pay dividends with an improved operating result this financial year. The financial report found later in this Annual Report has further details of this. The management structure creates an environment of increased communication between the different functions and activities found at camp. Increased communication in any organisation is always a major advantage. Another benefit of the structural change is the opportunity for leadership development; this will provide long term benefit to Camp Clayton and its ministry. Although compliance is always a headache for ‘not for profit’ entities, the major difficulties faced by organisations such as ours is increased costs. This does remain a major focus of the management team, but I can report that the management team has a real focus on driving revenue at Camp Clayton. Examples of this are found elsewhere in the Annual Report. This financial year has seen major changes in the finance and administration function of Camp Clayton, with the resignation of Dwayne Wescombe and Joanne Geard. I had the privilege of working with both of them as a client and always felt that during these interactions that they operated efficiently and with the best interest of Camp at heart. Dwayne was also of great assistance in the first few weeks of my employment. I wish both of them not only success in to their future careers, but in life and their Christian walk. These resignations allowed the Board to completely review the finance and administration function at Camp. One of the results of this review was the design of the Business Manager’s role. Another need identified during this review was the need for high level administrative support for the management team. Miriam Beswick was appointed to provide this, only a few weeks before my employment. It has been a steep learning curve for both of us! Miriam has been a great addition to the staff at camp. She has a wonderful desire to learn about, but also improve the functions of the organisation. I would like to thank Miriam for her dedication to her role, and her willingness to support me, it has made my job a lot easier. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dianne Nash for the valuable contribution she makes to the Camp Clayton team each day. Her dedication and quality of performance cannot 6 be understated. I appreciate the changes in the Administration department have created extra work for her and she has been faithful in ensuring the financial systems are correctly maintained. I would also like to express my thanks to Tamara Grey for her work on the Annual Report. The production of Annual Reports, although needed for compliance purposes, can be thankless tasks. On behalf of the management team well done! As I look into the financial and administration practices of Camp Clayton, and in camp life in general, I am excited by what has been achieved over the past couple of years and what can be achieved into the future. It is exciting to be part of God’s great purposes to reach people with the life changing message of the Gospel. Steve Hext Daily Site Operations Manager One of my main responsibilities is customer liaison, this involves taking care of all our customer needs, from the time they make an enquiry until after they have completed their visit. This includes making sure all their requirements are met while they visit with us. I love this part of my job, as it’s a pleasure to help our guests enjoy all parts of their experience with us, right from the get go. As a general rule, many of our groups are shrinking in size, which can be expected due to the lack of jobs and financial stability in Tasmania at the moment. Despite this, we have been blessed to see some new groups joining us this year. We particularily enjoyed a recent stay from Elizabeth College from Hobart. This lovely music group was on tour and it was a pleasure to have them. A large percentage of our groups continue to rebook, which lets us know that we are doing a great job and customers are satisfied with our site and their time with us. One significant change we have made this year is introducing a new self cater option for Bayside Lodge, This means that can now hire Bayside Lodge per room to help with sleeping arrangements and also to relieve some financial burden.For example: a Church group of 20 people could hire as little as three rooms, thus greatly reducing their hire cost rather than receiving a per head cost. We hope this will result in more groups using our site. Due to staff changes this year I have moved my location to the front desk of the office to take a more active and hands on role in the ‘person’ side of camp. That means when you arrive for a visit or ring I’ll probably be the person who answers the phone or who greets you as arrive. So make sure you pop in for a visit, I’d love to show you around our fantastic site! I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our excellent staff, they are all an asset to Camp Clayton and are always willing to go the extra mile. They are an amazing team of people and it’s great to work with so many people that you can genuinely love and have a laugh with around the morning tea room. GROUP REFLECTIONS Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre Miss Jaynes’ patchwork I would like to begin with my liaising with the staff at Camp Clayton, they are so helpful, kind and considerate towards myself and all my children that I bring from the Tasmanian Aboriginal community. Eleven ladies had the pleasure of spending from Friday, 14 August until Sunday, 16 August 2015 at Camp Clayton for a weekend of craft and laughter. Returning again this year was an easy decision, and plans are already afoot for an extended four day stay next year as the experience was so pleasurable. In particular Steve Hext, what an absolute champ, he always fits us in as they have a very tight schedule.The same goes for all the other staff, always very welcoming. The facilities are top class and there is heaps to choose from. My youth/clients love Camp Clayton. When I tell the children we are going to Camp Clayton for a session they jump up and down with excitement and have the biggest smiles as they really enjoy our sessions at Camp Clayton. I have been a Youth Worker with Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre for 10 years and Camp Clayton is the best facility I have taken the children to for group sessions. A one stop shop for children and family entertainment. Brendan Murray Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre Youth Worker No aspect of co-ordinating our stay and requirements were too much trouble for Steve who greeted me on arrival to confirm arrangements and to make sure everything met our needs. The accommodation in Parkdown Chalet gave us ample room for our individual work spaces and store enough crafting supplies within easy reach to keep us working away into the early hours of both Saturday and Sunday mornings! ‘Break-out’ time was also great with the comfortable lounge and kitchen area close enough that all the ladies could have a cuppa, have a chat, or rest their weary hands while still being part of our group. The bedrooms were large and the ensuites clean, but not much time was spent there even though a restful nights sleep was had by all. The location was lovely with some ladies having an early morning walk on the beach and even playing on the trampoline! There were ample yummy breakfast choices supplied to our Chalet which gave us the freedom to start our day whenever suited us and enjoy a ‘self-paced’ morning to decide when to craft, when to share, and when to upgrade from our jarmmies! Having said that though, we were more than happy to make our way to the dining room to see what magnificent food had been prepared by the chef, Simon, and we were never disappointed. He did a fabulous job and I am quite sure we all ate too much because there was plenty of food and it was too good to leave! I doubt the dessert plates from Saturday evening even needed to be washed up after everyone made certain there was no skerrick of his beautiful deconstructed cheesecake left behind. Nothing was too much trouble for him and he kept us well supplied for milk or anything else for our Chalet as well. My only disappointment was that I forgot my camera because the sunset Friday evening to welcome us was gorgeous! Thankyou to everyone for providing for us, and looking after us all so well, looking forward to seeing you again next year. Chef Extraordinaire - Simon 7 YOUTH WORK REPORT Over the last year, Camp Clayton’s Youth Work office has made significant steps toward improving attendance at holiday camps. By the grace of God, this progress has facilitated Camp Clayton’s core purpose of ministering to the spiritual needs of young people in the name of Christ. Increased numbers of children at holiday camps allows greater opportunities to share the Gospel, give campers Bibles and connect young people to the Church. Evidence of this growth has been especially demonstrated this year through the success of Adventure Camp and Little Tackers camp, as well as the implementation of an online registration process. Adventure Camp ran for the first time in April 2015, despite being cancelled in April 2014 due to lack of registrations. Low numbers has been an issue in recent years for holiday camps, particularly for grade 9-12 campers, the target age group for Adventure Camp. The decision was made in 2014 to develop ‘Adventure Camp’, which would offer an alternative experience to regular holiday camps that provided high-adventure outdoor activities. These activities were promoted as a novelty for young people in an age of technological prevalence. Whilst the number of registrations in 2014 did not warrant the camp going ahead, 14 campers enrolled in 2015, which was considered a viable number. Advertising for the 2015 camp happened approximately one month earlier than for the 2014 attempt, allowing more time for young people and their families to consider and complete their registrations. Additionally, the 2015 camp was made two days shorter than the proposed 2014 event, which brought down the cost of the camp, making it more affordable. Indicators of Adventure Camp’s success go well beyond the mere fact that it actually ran for the first time. Christian community, Biblical truth and personal challenge permeated the camp’s culture and created opportunities for lasting impacts on the young people’s lives. Camp staff and volunteers actively sought to build relationships with the campers that modelled Christ’s love. Resultantly, campers were able to develop trust and respect for one another, despite a number of disagreements throughout the week. On the closing night, each attendee spent at least one hour handwriting personal messages of encouragement for the other campers. The camp leaders also utilised the outdoor settings of camp as platforms for teaching the young people about God the Creator. Personal testimonies and devotions were spread throughout the camp and facilitated informal, deep discussions about Christian living. Outdoor activities, such as abseiling and hiking also provided challenging experiences for the campers that pushed their boundaries and encouraged them to try new things. Consequently, campers had a memorable time that challenged them physically, socially and spiritually. “ Camp staff and volunteers actively sought to build relationships with the campers that modelled Christ’s love” Another successful camp was the Little Tackers event, held in the July school holidays. 61 children registered for this camp, more than double the previous attendance for any previous Little Tackers. Increased numbers can be attributed to intentional promotion initiatives carried out by some of Camp’s ministry staff. Staff members visited classrooms of various schools around the North-West coast, handing out catalogues and explaining what happens at camp. A “Frequently Asked Questions” sheet was also developed, to address a number of concerns expressed by teachers and parents about sending children to camp. Approximately one third of campers indicated that they heard about camp through school, showing that visiting classrooms with this information was the most influential method of advertising. Continued emphasis on developing relationships with schools will be important for advertising camps in the future. On behalf of my husband and I, we wanted to extend our thanks to you all for this summers camp that finished today, our son Ryley has had the most fantastic time, he is just raving about it all, the food and activities, is quite emotional as he bonded with his [cabin leaders] Zac and Tim in cabin 4, he has never been away from home for more than one night so it was fantastic to hear that he felt supported and was so looked after. Graeme and Christine Haywood Eddie enjoying the Rockwall at Adventure Camp 8 Alex Grey Stuart Crabtree Iain Anderson Ministry Manager Ministry Coordinator Ministry Coordinator Good promotion of camps is of little value if the camps are not God-honouring. The Little Tackers program seamlessly incorporated the studies, thereby creating a camp that constantly taught children about God. Most games and activities directly connected to the study content, prompting campers to think about God throughout the day. Effectively, Biblical teaching was the focus of the camp, as the majority of activities extended the children’s thinking about what had been taught. Additionally, 33 children were given Bibles and a number of leaders commented that their campers learned how to use a Bible during the camp. Isaiah 55:10-11 says: communication and payment. Camp Clayton does not measure its success by counting the number of children who attend holiday camps. Rather, it seeks to increase the number of campers so that its true success – faithful Christian witness and testimony – can be shared as broadly as possible. God will bless camps with the right number of children as the staff and volunteers submit to Him. May all of camps’ prosperity be attributed to God. Stuart Crabtree As the rain and the snow come down from Heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Camp staff and volunteers at Little Tackers believe they faithfully taught God’s Word, and therefore rest on the hope that He will use that Word for the purposes He intended. Camp Clayton’s desire to reach young people with God’s Word means they endeavour to make camps as accessible as possible. The beginning of 2015 saw the implementation of an online registration process for camps, which also became available on tablets and smartphones partway through the year. This has a number of advantages beyond ‘keeping with the times’. Registrations via the internet is convenient for parents, facilitates faster communication and reduces the amount of time camp staff spend on paperwork. Correspondence between camp and parents – such as invoices and confirmation letters – are automatically generated by the system, providing an immediate, paperless means of communication. Some minor challenges have accompanied this change: youth work staff are still in the process of transitioning from a paper-based system to one fully online; and there are still some issues with internet registrations that need to be resolved. Overall however, the ability to register online should ease the administrative workload of the youth work team and cater for the majority of parents’ preferences in relation to Adventure Camp - Bushwalking 9 CURRENT AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS - NEW! Vision for Camp Site Master Plan Over the course of this year the Board have revisited the Vision and Mission of Camp Clayton. Proverbs 29:18 tells us “Where there is no vision, the people perish. But he that keeps the law, happy is he.” Consideration is being given to a site master plan that will be finalised once the vision/mission process is reviewed. The master plan is to include future requirements for activities, buildings and site improvements. It is important that the Vision remains relevant and is easy to communicate. We want to see God’s will continue to unfold on this site and be a place of Christian testimony and growth for young and old for many years to come. Camp Clayton is in a fantastic position with what has been achieved over many decades. We have a great opportunity to build on this work. This process has not concluded yet but has recently been extended to members of the management team to include their thoughts to make a contribution to a better final version of the vision. 10 It is important to anticipate what the future needs will be and put this into a plan to give purpose to what we do and when we do it. See, I am doing a new thing! 11 PEAK LEADERSHIP PROGRAM REPORT The very first PEAK Leadership program is almost at it’s completion for this year and has thus far been a huge success! Each Intern is completely unique and special and brings so many amazing qualities and skills to the table. We have really enjoyed getting to know each one and having the chance to sow into their lives. They are such a blessing to us and to the team at Camp Clayton. The Interns have been hard at work this year training in all areas of camp work and are able to operate our on site activities unsupervised. This greatly assists our staff here at camp and I know many of the Interns have shared about the great experiences they have had working along side the groups and getting to know the campers. They are also able to clean areas efficiently, prepare and cook food for groups, complete many administration tasks, maintenaince and site presentation tasks around the site. This has been incredibly beneficial to camp and to its staff. Each Intern completes one week rotation in each work area (Youthwork and Administration / Maintenance and Activities / Kitchen and Hosting / Site Presentation and Cleaning). They all seem to have enjoyed the different areas and have learnt a lot about working as a team. Some Interns prefer one area over another, but they are all learning perserverance in the jobs that demand more from them and are out of their comfort zones. It’s great to hear the staff sharing stories about the Interns and how much they enjoy watching them learn and grow. They have also almost completed their study with ACOM, a Certificate IV in Christian Ministry and Theology. Each Intern spends 1.5 hours each evening after work studying and writing assignments. This has brought forth many wonderful insights into their relationship with God and establishing great habits with their spiritual walk, including regular devotional times and journaling. matter how well they plan, more often then not, things change quickly when they are out, so they have become skilled at ways to hit the ground running. Although an unexpected surprise, the PEAK lodge has become a place of learning new building and renovating skills as they prepared Seaveiw Lodge to become new accomodation for Camp. The new PEAK lodge (previously the Villa) will be ready for the next bunch of PEAK interns in 2016. The Interns also had the opportunity to Supervise a camp each this October. it was exciting to see them put many of their new skills and the things they learned from their year at camp and also from their ACOM course, into practice, creating meaningful programs for our junior campers. As a staff member, it’s been an awesome experience having these young people around to share our lives with, we love chatting and laughing with them around the staff room table and enjoying deep conversations about our creator. Many of the interns take the opportunity to learn more about our awesome God when working with our staff, asking plenty of questions. Each Intern has been a surprise, a delight and such an encouragement to have at camp this year. We can’t wait to see where God will take these amazing young people in the future. They have so much to offer and we know that there are great things in store for their future. Alex and Tamara Grey So far this year, the PEAK team have had the opportunity to go on 3 retreats, each having a unique enviroment and purpose. There are still two more scheduled for later this year. Each retreat allows the interns to discover God in a new way, learn more about themselves and push their limits physically. All four have expressed that the retreats are one of the highlights of the program. Matthew Marshall and Alex Grey love to challenge the interns while on retreat. Over the year we have been blessed to learn from over 15 guest speakers sharing on a range of topics from Personalities, Prayer, God moments, Apologiectics and many others. This a fantastic time of learning and sharing together from experienced and passionate Christians as they come and share their knowledge with us! The Interns have also been out and about in our community throughout the year helping spread God’s love and blessing to many church and community groups. They have really enjoyed learning how to be “Adventurously expectant!” in this area, as no PEAK Snow Day 12 See, I am doing a new thing! PEAK PROFILES James Kennedy Zachary Harris Age: 20 Age: 20 From: Punchbowl Bible Chapel, Launceston (TAS) Came from: Cardinia Christian Centre (Melbourne) I have really enjoyed the PEAK program. I have learnt so much through the studies about spiritual gifts, leadership and about what God wants me to do. My favourite part has been the regular speakers on a Wednesday evening. It has been great to hear from people about really relevant and important topics. I would definitely recommend this as a good Gap Year experience, or even after doing a year of Uni like I did! It is hard work, but incredibly rewarding. I came with a plan to step outside my comfort zone doing maintenance and manual jobs, as I had not experienced much of this so far and I feel like I have really grown in this area. I have enjoyed learning these new skills, but it has definitely been very challenging for me. I felt God say that He wanted me to come here when I met Simon Eyles at the Planet Shakers Conference. I have been really surprised at how much work has been done to make the program good - the planning that has gone into all the speakers and outside stuff. I have enjoyed finding out about all the different aspects of the Camp. I am really looking forward to next year - I have learnt so much here, but now I am looking forward to spending time artistically and earning some money. Although I don’t know exactly what my plans are, I feel like I have a better idea of where I’m going, and where God fits into that. I have really enjoyed hanging out with kids at the outside programs at Burnie and around. I have learnt a lot about how to construct a Youth Ministry Program gaining a lot more perspective and knowledge on this, which I know will help me in my future endeavours. The only hard part of the program has been all the camp food, although it’s good, I can hardly look at a Roast or a Potato. They make me want to cry a little bit. Esther Beckedorf Age: 21 Sarah Hingston From: Christian Family Centre, Murray Bridge (SA) Age: 18 From: Devonport Church of Christ, Devonport (TAS) The PEAK program has been great! I have really enjoyed the community programs and assistance we have given to other Churches in the area. Being able to serve others and bless them has been really special. I have been learning about how to share Christ with people who have never had any experience or heard about Him. People from all walks of life. This has been a stretch sometimes but so worthwhile.. At times I have struggled with the office work and the readings of our ACOM course. I have enjoyed the content of the course and have gained a lot of skills. Seeing other people’s point of view and their perspectives has been good for my faith and relationship with God. I have found that I have enjoyed working in the kitchen, or even the cleaning more than working in admin or in Youth, which will help me in the future to go in a direction that most suits my skills and interests. Seeing the camp from all angles has been really great. JAMES DY KENNE SARA H HIN GSTO N Last year I was doing an internship with another campsite in South Australia when it was suddenly closed. I wanted to stay with what I know, so I applied here. The planning and preparedness of Tamara and Alex for the internship program blew my mind. I expected to just assist and help out, but we have been really included. Our first day did not include vacuuming which was a treat, instead we climbed Mt. Roland. The best thing about the internship has been the outdoor recreation activities- like sleeping in the snow! The most difficult has been finding ways to separate work and personal life while living on site. Since beginning this internship, I have discovered what it really means to be a Christian – to have a personal relationship with God. I am now working through and dealing with my depression and anxiety issues. My mentor is amazing and has been such a help to me.. I am not sure what next year holds, but I love Tasmania and I want to stay! ZAC HARRIS ORF ECKED RB ESTHE 13 FUNDRAISING EVENTS - NEW! In an effort to support our PEAK Leadership program, the PEAK planning committee coordinated 3 fundraisers this year. FUN DAY at Camp Clayton TRIVIA NIGHT at Camp Clayton The first was a family FUN DAY held on the 25th of April, 2015. The response from the community on the day was overwhelming! Our car-park overflowed, our Kitchen was flat out the entire afternoon, many people waiting up to an hour in lines for our big activities and many people who help at camp who arrived were quickly put to work! The atmosphere was one of excitement and fun and many families commented on the excellent pricing of the activities (over half were free!), the quality of the food and were impressed with our cheerful volunteers and amazing facilities. It was a hugely successful day. On the 25th of September, our second fundraiser for the year was held for all those who love a good bit of trivia. The FUN DAY Committee (Tamara Grey, Angela Gates, Laura Gates, Marion Priddle and Emma Anderson) had three goals for the FUN DAY and we believe that all of three of these goals were met and perhaps even exceeded! The event raised over $600 and everyone went home happy! Some more than others, as the prizes for the evenings winners were pretty good. First place received a free stay at Bayside, 2nd place received their choice of a session on the Giant Swing or High Ropes and third received a chocolate basket. Last place followed tradition with a lovely wooden spoon, which was won by our PEAK Intern team. I’m sure they will have the opportunity to put it to good use in their next Kitchen rotation. 1. We hoped to raise about $5000 when we actually raised $9210.55! 2. Raise awareness of Camp Clayton and its excellent facilities, activities and food. So many people commented on their experience and asked for another FUN DAY soon! 3. Ensure that it was good value for money and family orientated Comment received “…I just thought you should know how impressed I was with the well thought out and organised fun day that was held today. It was the best family fun day I have been to. My girls enjoyed it immensely. The activities and events targeted all age groups. The activities were spaced out well which I found extra helpful for keeping an eye on my young children. …Also the cost of things was fantastic, it made it affordable for everyone. Also a big thank you to all the volunteers. They were very helpful, polite and extremely friendly. So it was definitely a winner in this household and we will definitely be back if you hold this event again. Well done to you all and thank you again” We were also in awe of the weather on the day, the bureau was forecasting heavy rain for the week leading up to the day, but the committee set to work praying for sunshine and on the day of FUN DAY, we awoke to blue skies and not a cloud to be seen! A flat out miracle! Thank you God! The FUN DAY committee have already begun work on making the event even better for next year, please book the 16th of April, 2016 in to your diaries. Fun Day at Camp Clayton 14 Fiona Hingston and Chris Anderson did an amazing job of putting the evening together. There were 8 rounds in all and the opportunity to buy answers, all for a good cause! There were many new faces and the children were able to enjoy a movie on the big screen or play in the stadium while the adults enjoyed many a laugh, especially when one of the waitresses accidentally gave away one of the answers! Thanks to all who supported this event. We hope to see you next year! HIGH TEA at Camp Clayton The final fundraiser of the year is a High Tea to be held on the 25th of October. 150 people are poised to enjoy a great cup of tea, enjoy some great games and delight in a full sweet and savory buffet that we know will definitely hit the spot! A highlight of the afternoon will definitely be the Amazing Apron Auction. Many incredibly crafty people have donated a fabulous, one of a kind apron, to be worn by our wait staff on the day and then auctioned off to some very lucky people to take home and enjoy. The HIGH TEA committee hope to raise $3000 on the day. VOLUNTEER REFLECTIONS It has been an absolute privilege to be involved at Camp Clayton again, almost 14 years since moving out of the Parkdown flat and finishing my time as Youth Work Co-ordinator. On the outside, so much has changed since I first attended as a camper in the early 1990s – gone is the Tarzan Swing, Grass Sled, Ben Hur and “learn to drive” in the Camp Mini! The introduction of the high ropes, giant swing, bouldering wall, challenge course and The Hollow have definitely added a “wow” factor! And though some of the more recent large construction projects occurred during my time as a staff member (the stadium, dining room and kitchen), the outdoor environment and overall look of the site is now extremely impressive. “...it is so obvious that the inside of Camp – it’s heart – hasn’t changed at all. It is still all about the people; But despite the continued changes and improvements to the outside, it is so obvious that the inside of Camp – it’s heart – hasn’t changed at all. It is still all about the people; the staff who work so tirelessly, the volunteers who love being part of the action, and the campers who almost always go away changed. It is still about serving our amazing God and using this place to show His amazing love to people. I feel incredibly blessed to be just a small part of the chain of people who have called Camp Clayton “home”. It makes me smile to think that I got to help introduce this crazy-wonderful place to Alex, Tamara, Mel, Stuart and Iain – then much younger versions of themselves – who have blown me away with their continued passion and commitment. I now get the joy of introducing my own children to Camp. They are already working out how many years it is until they can be a cabin leader (which is quite a few!). I think my 10 year old daughter summed it up best, as we recently drove along Clayton Road ready for Volunteer Camp… “Yay! We’re home!” Jacinta Carswell the staff who work so tirelessly, the volunteers who love being part of the action, and the campers who almost always go away changed.” See, I am doing a new thing! 15 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE For the Year Ended 30 June 2015 2015 & For the Year Ended 30 June 2015 2014 INCOME 2015 2014 Cash Trade and other receivables Inventories Prepayments 1,196,813 45,715 20,071 57,085 1,128,226 20,173 20,627 55,974 Total current assets 1,319,684 1,225,000 Property, plant and equipment 2,996,927 3,030,918 Total non-current assets 2,996,927 3,030,918 TOTAL ASSETS 4,316,611 4,255,918 Trade and other payables Employee entitlements 171,646 99,449 134,368 102,981 Total current liabilities 271,095 237,349 Borrowings 634,195 584,574 ASSETS General site fees CYC camp fees - youth camps CYC camp fees - adult camps Canteen net trading surplus Fundraising Livestock net trading surplus Interest received Rental income Operating grants Other income 1,058,344 31,162 1,339 80 21,898 32,764 38,377 18,965 20,753 990,857 38,141 17,055 1,308 85 16,380 31,660 43,151 12,500 66 Total Income 1,223,682 1,151,203 EXPENSES Catering Depreciation Employee benefits Staff training and amenities Administration costs Interest expense Maintenance, cleaning and repairs Motor vehicle expenses Utilities CYC camp expenses Other expenses FINANCIAL POSITION Current assets Non-current assets 182,008 116,760 673,427 20,170 100,328 21,365 47,527 4,868 69,015 22,852 4,108 193,358 111,653 677,111 15,792 102,437 19,832 47,696 12,211 74,872 15,686 5,349 1,263,158 1,275.997 Total non-current liabilities 634,195 584,574 (39,476) (124,794) TOTAL LIABILITIES 905,290 821,923 Childrens Support Fund donations Special fundraising proceeds General donations income General donations expense 2105 (136) 20,606 (6,195) 2,351 3,937 137,835 (12,383) 3,411,321 3,433,995 Net Non-Operating Items 16,516 131,740 Reserves Accumulated funds 2,146,161 1,265,160 2,146,161 1,287,824 TOTAL EQUITY 3,411,321 3,433,995 Total Expenses NET SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) Non-Operating Items (22,960) Profit for the year For the Year Ended 30 June 2015 6946 16 LIABILITIES Current liabilities Non-current liabilities NET ASSETS EQUITY FINANCE REPORT The CYC Board can report a deficit of $22,960 for the financial year ended 30 June 2015. This is in comparison to the small surplus of $6,946 in the 2013/14 financial year. The 2013/14 result was improved through a significant bequest. There has been a considerable improvement in the operational performance of Camp Clayton in the 2014/15 financial year. Camp finished with an operating deficit of $39,476, compared to the $124,794 result in the previous year. The greatly improved result was driven not only through costs savings, but through improved revenue. My Active Choice, the joint initiative with Glenhaven Family Care, made a positive contribution to this improved revenue. The increase by 6.8% in general site fees is, however, one of the most pleasing results in the increased revenue for this financial year. Although expense management will remain a major focus of the management team during the forthcoming year as we aim to move Camp Clayton into operating surplus, there will be considerable focus to drive revenue growth. This revenue growth will not only be sought through traditional means, such as general site fees, but through a number of new initiatives that have been outlined elsewhere in this Annual Report. The financial review measures mentioned in last year’s Annual report have been fully implemented within this financial year. These measures included changes to the accounting systems and price reviews. This year’s financial results do not reflect the full financial effect of these measures. These measures will contribute positively to the Camp Clayton operating performance in the long term. Further rolling out of Venue360 was undertaken during the year. Invoicing for all groups is now undertaken within the Venue360 software. The Camp Clayton accounting and financial records have received a positive management from our auditors (Synectic Audit and Assurance) commending the systems in place. This result can be attributed to the outstanding and tireless work of Dianne Nash, who manages the accounting system in a very professional manner and is without doubt a credit to her skills and dedication. Dianne would like to thank Michelle Neasey for her training and guidance in this area. For over 35 years the Development Fund has been the key method of financing developments at Camp Clayton, meaning that commercial borrowings have never been necessary. To be successful the Fund needs to continue to attract new investments on an ongoing basis so that various investors can continue to withdraw their money at short notice when required. With strong prudential arrangements this Development Fund is operated carefully and has key monitoring criteria. We are actively seeking new investors and very competitive interest rates apply to these investments. We would encourage those who make use of general bank investment opportunities to consider the Development Fund as a better alternative that also offers the significant difference of supporting Christian Ministry. Camp Clayton also operates a significant provision account (represented on the Statement of Financial Position), that holds money set aside for large scale expenses, projects, major replacements or significant earmarked gifts. In this way cash flow is managed effectively for larger expenses and the integrity of donations for specifically marked purposes is maintained. Camp Clayton, it should be noted, is a Deductible Gift Recipient for those who wish to make tax effective donations. Note 1: The following “Statement of Financial Performance” and “Statement of Financial Position” are both consolidated reports. Note 2: Full audited financial statements for Christian Youth Centre Inc (with notes forming part of the financial statements) are available from the Camp Clayton office at the request of any Authorised Association representative. Phillip Jeffrey “I just thought you should know how impressed I was with the well thought out and organised fun day that was held today. It was the best family fun day I have been to. My girls enjoyed it immensely. The activities and events targeted at all age groups. Also the cost of things was fantastic, it made it affordable for everyone. Also a big thank you to all the volunteers. They were very helpful, polite and extremely friendly. We will definitely be back if you hold this event again. Well done to you all and thank you again” -A comment from the FUN DAY at Camp Clayton 17 SOLO SONS “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” -DEUTERONOMY 6:6-9 (NIV) This passage is one of my favourite passages and one that has deeply influenced the way I approach camps, particularly Solo Sons. It is written after the Israelites have left Egypt and they received the 10 commandments. God’s desire was that they would pass down the laws from generation to generation. This command and desire is still present today in the New Testament but instead of the commandments we are called to impress Christ’s love and desire for us upon our children, but also the children we work with here at camp. One of our goals for the past few years has been to not only create camps that provide and emphasise opportunities for manly activities and father/son time but to also ensure that times are structured to provide intentional opportunities for conversation. When structuring these times it is important to ensure that the campers are kept busy, so they don’t get bored, but are also doing things where they can converse and discuss. At Solo Sons in 2014 this goal was achieved well by providing times of chores in the morning. Essentially seeking to encourage the boys to take responsibility for the messes they have been making collectively (even if they didn’t create that actual mess). This was a great time for our Dads and Big Brothers to have conversations with the boys as they washed up from breakfast, cleaned the dining room and completed other chores available. Two of our major activities at Solo Sons this year also learnt themselves to this concept of intentional conversation times. The first was a rafting activity. We took the campers down to the beach end of Clayton rivulet believing that three of the support staff had been trapped in a boat up the river slightly. The boys needed to work with their Big Brothers and Dads to build a few different rafts in order to rescue us. This was an awesome activity that allowed the Dad’s to talk and teach the boys some good skills about knots, rafts and life. It was also able to descend into a good old fashioned water fight, always a winner for fun! The second major activity that we had planned for the Saturday was taking the boys to the Dinosaur Park in Ulverstone to use the pedal buggies. These buggies are great because in small groups of 2-6 they are able to work together and ride around the park, stopping to use the playground or just keep riding and talking to their Dads. T-B Bushwalking, Finger Blasters and Campfire - eating and enjoying the fish they caught as they listen to the study leader share 18 One of the main ways that these activities were a success however was because our Dads used these opportunities to share their faith, to talk about Jesus Christ and God’s love for these boys and to encourage them in the skills that they had shown throughout the weekend. We are very blessed in that the team we have for Solo Sons continue to use the opportunities of the world around them and their experiences to share who Jesus is to these campers, and also demonstrate the love of Christ to the campers. Iain Anderson BOOST - NEW! Young girls are repeatedly told by the media, by magazines, by the world in general that they are not good enough, that their bodies are simply there to look good and that this is where their value lays. Whereas God tells us that these girls should be looking to him to find their value and worth. He tells us that their value is not in their appearance but in the simple fact that He loves them and has created them. Our Goals The BOOST camp for girls in grade 3-6 aims to catch girls who are at risk of developing (or may already have) low self esteem, eating disorders, depression, a lack of confidence, bad body image and struggle to deal with their emotions or stressful situations. To be a safe, caring, loving environment that encourages the girls to be themselves, without the pressure to be something more or different. During the weekend camp, the girls will have 5 study times to share with them God’s image of them, how and why He values them, understanding emotions, stressful situations and how to deal with them and learning to love themselves for who God created them to be. The activities over the weekend will seek to build confidence, encourage gifts and skills and provide positive affirmation. For each camper to feel connected, appreciated for who they are and confident in who God has created them to be. To create an atmosphere of honesty and God’s truth, where the girls can share freely and allow the girls to work through their mistakes and move on with His forgiveness. To encourage the girls to love their bodies, to realise they are strong and capable by providing opportunities for the girls to participate in Camp Clayton’s onsite activities. Let’s teach a generation to shine! The first BOOST camp is set to launch 13th - 15th of November, 2015. Book in online at www.campclayton.org.au/boost.html FAMILY CAMP - NEW! Introducing a new member of the Camp Clayton Ministry Camps’ family…Family Camp! During 2015 we were extremely blessed to have Terry Williams make time in his busy schedule to come down and share with us on the topic of making lifelong disciples of Christ. Terry has been instrumental in forming Here2Stay.org.au and researching why young people are leaving the Church and God. As he shared with us his passions it was encouraging to see that Christian camping is still an important aspect of faith development, and we provide a key environment for it to happen. One of the things that Terry pointed out to us was the importance of the family environment as the primary place of faith community for young people. Something that we recognise is that there are many families within the Church who do not know how to input well in the spiritual lives of their young people. Families are scared that they will do something wrong and in doing so scare their children from the Church. Therefore Camp Clayton has decided to create a new camp to minister directly to families, to help provide support, education and practical tips to help families become Christ-centred families. Our goal for this camp is to help families “turn off and tune in” to family. We are using Bayside and each family will pay to hire one cabin for their family. We will do everything else, prepare a program, cook the food, provide entertainment and speaker(s) who can provide practical input into families to help them in undertaking this essential role. We are super excited about Family camp, and we have a real feeling that God is leading us to this place of ministering which stays central to the mission and core purpose of Camp Clayton. We are seeking to reach young people for Christ, but we understand that in order to do this effectively we can not do it alone. We want to take what we can do and build into the lives of families to equip them to fulfil this mission themselves. In order for this camp to be a success though, we need your help! We need you to be sharing about this camp. This is a new camp, and it is happening in January 2016. This means we need the word to get out there about this camp. We are primarily targeting Christian families and so we want to ask you to share about this with your Churches. We would also appreciate your prayers as we prepare for this camp! We are excited, but also a little apprehensive about stepping out in faith in this way. If you are interested in attending Family camp, registrations are now open on the website! If you would like to be involved somehow or have questions about it please contact the Youth Workers on 64251893 or [email protected] See, I am doing a new thing! 19 MAC The MAC program continues to be enjoyed by all and Janene, Kay, Caz and Levina regularly welcome new participants to the program. The program runs each Monday and Tuesday where 10-12 participants attend for a wide range of activities, both on and off site. In October, we hope to start a new group on a Thursday. This group will enjoy the same activities; however their mornings will focus on developing life skills and will follow with a practical application. There has also been a request to run the program for those who are outside the cohort of 15-24 years. If this goes ahead then that group will meet on Wednesdays. Not only do we run a program at Camp Clayton, but we also offer one on one service in various areas such as offering parenting skills to a young mum with a disability, accompanying a young person for swimming therapy and outings on a social basis with others. This year, we also were able to hold 9 weekend retreats. These are always very popular with the participants always wanting to return. These camps are state funded and are for those outside the cohort of 15-24 years. The highlight this year was the approval of a $10,000 grant from the government, from which we purchased 7 trikes, musical instruments, garden beds, IPads, a television and a Wii Console. All these have given much pleasure to our participants with the trikes being extremely popular and they can often be seen riding around the camp site. We continue to offer trips off site and we hire the Ulverstone Community Bus to transport everyone. Our participants love their outings and it gives them the opportunity to be out in and be part of the community. We are currently in the process of applying for a grant so that we are able to purchase our own bus for future use. The MAC program doesn’t just offer activities for our participants to do, but it changes them. From arriving rather shy and at times reserved, in no time at all have they become more confident in themselves which allows them to learn and practice new skills. New friendships are established and the group has become very caring towards each other. There is often a lot of laughter. Our biggest compliments come from outside the group. Parents are always grateful for the opportunities that their child has been given from the MAC program. Three support workers from other service providers who bring clients to us have commented that they would like to work here. The most recent one wrote ‘I have been very impressed with seeing how many of the clients I support get so much happiness and contentment from attending your program. If any positions arise within your organisation, I would greatly appreciate an interview’. When we read and hear that, I think we can say that we do what we do well. One of the MAC participants enjoying a bike ride around camp GOLDEN AMBASSADORS The 2015 Golden Ambassadors camp was held on the 1st week of February. There were approximately 90 seniors in attendance. The study leader was John Sypkes with the theme being ‘The Role of Seniors in the Modern World’. The camp this year celebrated its 30th anniversary. Highlights were, The Men’s Choir led by Dennis Pitcher, Bus trip to Waratah, Variety night on the Thursday evening Committee members Peter and Evie Morse were greatly missed due to Peter’s ill health. The camp this year was again enjoyed by all who attended with old friendships being rekindled. Committee members for 2015 are Graeme and Eileen Sherriff, Brian and Heather Morse, Peter and Evie Morse, Diane Neasey and Levina Hext Brian Morse Enjoying their Day Trip 20 VOLUNTEER CAMP Volunteer Camp was a hit again this year with over 130 people attending the weekend or stopping in to catch up. We were incredibly blessed to have Scott Camac share with us on the topic of Influence and Remington Martin organised a fantastic worship band for the weekend. There were many new faces at this years camp, looking to find out what is happening at Camp Clayton and ways they can become involved which was such an encouragement! A number of the new families that joined us last year have volunteered to assist us with our holiday camps in 2015 and many of their children are also becoming regular camp attendees, showing that this initiative is really having an impact at Camp Clayton. The Big Fathers Day breakfast was a real treat this year with a special Fathers Day treat of freshly brewed coffee by Andrew Turner. Some showed up just for the Sunday morning breakfast! Special thanks to a wonderful couple who donated to our Volunteer Camp this year to help ease the financial costs for Camp Clayton. What a blessing! We can already see the fruits of this special camp by our rising volunteer and holiday camp numbers, so thank you so much for seeing the potential and importance of this camp and wanting to support it. If you didn’t make it along this year, book it in your diary for the next, it’s a great weekend filled with laughter, friendship and thankfulness for the work God is doing at Camp Clayton and in the volunteers lives through it’s ministry. And it’s free! Book it in your diary: 2 - 4 September 2016 Tamara Grey T- B Andrew Turner making coffee, Scott Camac sharing, Golf Ball Challenge and some girls enjoying the water See, I am doing a new thing! 21 OUR BOARD David Gates David Grey Roseanne Lanham (President) (Treasurer) (Secretary) Joined The Board in 1999 Joined The Board in 1998 Joined The Board in 2013 David joined the Board in 1999, and has served on the Building Committee to construct the stadium, the extensive Kitchen and Dining project, the Waratah and Hellyer Houses and the Parkdown refurbishment. He owns and operates his own building business. I consider it a privilege and blessing to serve on the Camp Clayton Board. I am a member of a number of other community Boards and serve on the Christian Education National Board, as well as being a member of the Romaine Park Christian Centre Leadership team. I believe I have a sound understanding of governance, management and strategic planning combined with a Kingdom view of the CYC ministry. I am a team player committed to growing and improving how the leadership teams function and operate. I also have a strong vision and passion for this ministry which is underpinned by my commitment and prayer. I live in Launceston and am married to Rick and we have four kids; almost all teenagers! I work as a midwife and love it and choose to work night shift. We go to Punchbowl Christian Church and have been involved in Youth and Childrens Ministry there, and I also enjoy singing in the worship team. I love to travel and camp and one day hope to be a grey nomad. Rick and I have been involved at Camp Clayton for quite a few years and it is great to watch as our kids become a part of the next generation who have a heart for Camp and the work here. David is Chairman of Camp Claytons Peak Internship Subcommittee. He is the current North West Chairman of Master Builders Tasmania and is also a member of State Council ( Board of Management). Attends: Romaine Park Christian Centre Attends: Punchbowl Christian Centre Attends: Romaine Park Christian Centre Andrew Briggs Simon Eyles Marilyn Steers (Public Officer) Joined The Board in 2008 Joined The Board in 2009 Joined The Board in 2013 Simon works at Highfield Industries as workshop foreman. He is married with 3 children. Simon has served on The Board since 2008 and is an elder at the Deloraine Gospel Chapel. He also runs a kids Club and a boys Youth Group at the Chapel. Marilyn has worked as a Nurse / Midwife in Burnie for over 27 years. She has undertaken volunteer work with Red Cross, World vision, Glenhaven and Camp Clayton, and has an interest in issues affecting third world countries, including Global Poverty. She is actively involved in committees at work and Church. Andrew is an active member of the Deloraine Gospel Chapel and the Golden Valley Fire Brigade. He is married to Trish and they have seven children. Andrew runs a small farming enterprise and operates onsite vans at the family’s caravan park, Quamby Corner. He enjoys trail bike riding and camping. Attends: Deloraine Gospel Hall 22 Attends: Deloraine Gospel Hall Attends: Romaine Park Christian Centre STAFF & BOARD FAREWELLS Dwayne Wescombe Mel Crabtree Joanne Geard Jess Overton Served for 7 years Served for 5 years Served for 7 years Served for 3.5 years Peter Morse Peter Jopson Chris Smith Graeme Smith Served in a Volunteer Capacity for 8 years Served on the board for 8years Served on the board for 16 years Served on the board for 1 year OUR ASSOCIATION Acton Chapel Margate Christian Church Riverside Gospel Chapel Vern Elphinstone Oldaker Street Christian Centre Romaine Park Christian Centre Burnie Gospel Hall Punchbowl Christian Centre Marj Weeks Phillip Weeks Boat Harbour Bible Chapel Heather Brough Jim Wilson Graeme Young Leigh Erb Basil Young Deloraine Gospel Chapel Barry Anderson Andrew Briggs Simon Eyles Peter Anderson Rick Lanham Roseanne Lanham Cliff Nightingale Peter Unwin Graeme Smith Gwen Cooper David Gates David Grey Bruce Jubb Kevin Keep Michelle Neasey Marilyn Steers Russell Steers Eastside Bible Chapel Ridgley Bible Chapel Sheffield Bible Chapel Charles Hyland Neville Byard Clifton Smith Hope Christian Church Peter Jopson Tim Wilson Darren Cohen Bill McNab Allen Murfet Sam Dyer Ulverstone Gospel Hall Alec Campbell 23 Phil Jeffrey Steve Hext Alex Grey Melissa Gregory Management Team Managment Team Management Team Management Team Business and Administration Manager Daily SIte Operations Manager Responsible for oversight of the organisation Responsible for site bookings and day to day running operations as well as hosting groups Ministry, Maintenance and Outdoor Education and Recreation Stuart Crabtree Iain Anderson Tamara Grey Lucas Scott Ministry Coordinator Ministry Coordinator Stuart is responsible for Ministry Coordination including oversight of Holiday Camps, Ministry Camps, Camper Follow-up, Leadership development and Choices Programs to the Schools. Iain is responsible for MinistryCoordination including oversight of Holiday Camps, Ministry Camps, Camper Follow-up, Leadership Development and Choices Programs to the Schools. Volunteer Coordinator and Designer Assistant Activities Coordinator Tamara is responsible for Volunteer recruitment, graphic design, advertising and website. She also assists the Youth Workers. Assisting with activity operations, training and maintenance as well as hosting groups Catering Team Manager Responsible for management of all catering operations including staffing, training, food safety program, menus and ordering. activities Responsible for he management of activity operations,training, safety and maintenance. He also oversees all the Ministries and Youth Work Programs. maintenance ministry management team OUR STAFF Matthew Marshall Bruce Smith Maintenance & Projects Maintenance Casual Responsible for maintenance and various new site projects as well as hosting groups. Responsible for electrical testing and tagging and miscellaneous other duties. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do yo 24 I am making a way in Judy Van Tatenhove Site Presentation Responsible for overall site presentation including cleaning operations and grounds. Mark Fry Housekeeping Housekeeping Responsible for assisting in regular room cleaning. Responsible for assisting in regular room cleaning. Priscilla PAGE Simon Harkness Maree Knowles Annette Smith Gina Mahnken Chef Chef Kitchen Casual Kitchen Casual Kitchen Casual Responsible for catering – food prep, cleaning, food service and safety. Priscilla is also in charge of the day to day running of the Kitchen. Responsible for catering – food prep, cleaning, food service and safety. Responsible for catering – food prep, cleaning, food service and safety. Responsible for catering – food prep, cleaning, food service and safety. Responsible for catering – food prep, cleaning, food service and safety. Miriam Beswick Dianne Nash Reception and Administration Administration Responsible for administration and PA to the Management Team. Responsible for accounts management and reception. farm (voluntary) administration kitchen site presentation Adrian Price Bruce Jubb Farm Bruce volunteers his time to manage the cattle on the farm. ou not perceive it? n the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah chapter forty three verse nineteen 25 VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Volunteering Prayer Ministry Camps The number one method of supporting Camp Clayton is through prayer as individuals and as Churches. The Camp Clayton Newsletter will keep you up dated with what’s happening– you might like to use this in a personal prayer time or maybe use it to lead a corporate prayer time at Church. Whichever way we appreciate and value your prayer. Can you remember the leaders and supervisors who were around for you when you were at camp? Can you remember the impact they had on you and your faith walk? Will you invest in the next generation? We are always in need of volunteers to help run our Ministry Camps. Our Holiday Camps need Mums & Dads, Grandparents, Aunts & Uncles, Study Leaders, Supervisors, Cabin Leaders and prayer partners (Solo Sons and BOOST require people to take on similar functions.) These roles are important to the successful running of camps, but at the same time provide you with the opportunity to build into, and have a positive impact, in the lives of children and young adults. Unfortunately we have had to reduce the numbers of campers at some camps over the past couple of years because we had insufficient adults in these important roles. We would love to see these camps full again – can you help? If God is prompting you in this way then please contact us on the information below. Kitchens We can always do with an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. This helps us keep expenses down so that we have more to sow back into ministry. Working in the kitchen for a weekend is a great experience and can be a lot of fun. Can you spare a weekend to help in the kitchen? Would you like to work in the kitchen during a Holiday Camp? Can you spare a day to help out for a baking day? If you would like to be involved please contact us on the information below. Board The Camp Clayton Board is always looking for a broader representation from the Member Assemblies. If you are a member of one our Association Member Assemblies and feel God moving you to serve in this way, please contact us on the information below. Financial Investments You may not be in a position to donate money, but instead may be happy to place your investment within the Development Fund at CYC for a competitive interest rate (reviewed six-monthly against bank rates). CYC is authorised to hold investments and through this is able to finance long term capital projects at much better rates than commercial borrowings. In fact, CYC has never yet made use of commercial borrowings because investments have been so strong. There is still a strong need to attract new investments on an ongoing basis to allow this process to work effectively. Could you prayerfully consider this? Brochures are available on request. Please contact us on the information below. Children’s Support Fund Were you financially helped by coming to a camp? How about giving that opportunity to another young person? This fund is to assist disadvantaged children in our community to attend holiday camps. This is an ongoing fund that needs financial contributions. It is possible to have automatic monthly contributions from your credit card or maybe you would prefer to make a one-off donation. Please contact us on the information below. Bequests Remember Camp Clayton when you are planning your will to ensure that what you believe in, and maybe what you have invested a lot of your time and resources in, will live on for future generations. Please contact us on the information below. General Volunteering Donations Maybe you just want to get involved at Camp Clayton but don’t know where you might fit it. Please contact us on the information below and we can organise a time to sit down and see where your skills and abilities can best be utilised. There are wide and varied opportunities so we’re confident there is somewhere you would be of great benefit to Camp Clayton and the work that God is doing here. Sometimes God blesses us with extra money and then leads us to sow into His work somewhere. Maybe you are in that position and God is leading you to sow into His work at Camp Clayton. If you are in this blessed position please contact us on the information below. Become a Volunteer Financial Support Tamara Grey [email protected] 64251893 Phillip Jeffrey [email protected] 64251893