Young woman holding a small dog outdoors at Katoomba Christian Convention, smiling with scenic mountain views in the background.

“He Will Always Pursue Me”: Jade’s KYCK Story

Every time girls came back from KYCK, they spoke about the way God had worked in their lives and this year, she finally experienced it for herself. Growing up as the only Christian in her family, Jade’s faith journey hasn’t always been straightforward. But at KYCK, she was reminded to stop running and surrender every part of life to Him.

1. Please introduce yourself!

My name is Jade Foster and I came to KYCK with my school, PLC Armidale. And this was my very first time at KYCK. We make the trip every year because KYCK genuinely changes the lives of so many of our girls at youth group. Even though this is my first year, I always hear the stories of the other girls coming back, and I figured I had to experience it for myself. 

Young girl smiling and holding a small brown puppy outdoors in a scenic natural setting during late afternoon.

2. Tell us a bit about faith background.

My faith journey has been a little rocky. I did not grow up in a Christian household and I am still the only Christian in my family. I lived with my old Pastor for a period of time and that was how I came to know Jesus. I used to attend church because it became a routine and I thought that I needed to so I could ‘pay my pastor back’ for everything he and his wife did. Fortunately, when I was around 14, I realised that the reason I go to church shouldn’t be for another person, but to praise the One who got me out of really hard situations. 

I realised that the reason I go to church shouldn’t be for another person, but to praise the One who got me out of really hard situations. 


3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?

One thing I took home from KYCK was that I need to stop running. The reason God feels distant from me sometimes is because I’m running in the opposite direction and He is trying to bring me back. And that I need to surrender all of my life to Him, not just parts of it.

The reason God feels distant from me sometimes is because I’m running in the opposite direction and He is trying to bring me back.

4.  If someone’s never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?

GO! It so, so worth it! There is nothing better than being surrounded by like-minded people who only want to help you grow.

5. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

KYCK was an amazing reminder for God’s love for me and that He will always pursue me. It really encouraged me to see so many people my age and it was so good to remember that even though I have read the book of Jonah many times, there is always something new I can take from it. 

…even though I have read the book of Jonah many times, there is always something new I can take from it.

6. Describe KYCK in one word.

Vibrant.


Save the Dates — KYCK 2027

KYCK 26 Christian youth conference in Katoomba, NSW, Australia, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual growth for high school students.

KYCK 1 09–11 April
KYCK 2 16–18 April
KYCK 3 23–25 April
KYCK 4 24–26 September

Find out more.

Every time girls came back from KYCK, they spoke about the way God had worked in their lives and this year, she finally experienced it for herself. Growing up as the only Christian in her family, Jade’s faith journey hasn’t always been straightforward. But at KYCK, she was reminded to stop running and surrender every part of life to Him.

By Patrizha Yeomans
Group of young people smiling outdoors at Katoomba Christian Convention during Spark 2026 event.

Spark 2026: Chasing Meaning

Group of young people smiling outdoors at Spark 2026 event, representing Katoomba Christian Convention, with trees in the background.

What are we actually living for?

At Spark 2026, more than 1,400 young adults gathered in Katoomba to wrestle with that question. Across three days of talks, worship, conversations and Deep Dives, we explored why this world ultimately leaves us wanting and where true meaning is found.

“The talks were both a great encouragement and challenge to think about where we seek meaning apart from God and how Jesus is the only place we will find true satisfaction. I really enjoyed the different perspectives that the three speakers brought, each distinct in their own style yet so cohesive to the overall theme.” – Liz

“I really appreciate that KCC has started a conference like this for young adults, because it is really important for this age group to hear about what God has in store for them from older believers and to share in fellowship with other young believers.” – Kalea

Live worship band performing on stage at Katoomba Christian Convention with vibrant lighting and a large screen displaying religious messages.

OneBodyWorship returned to lead attendees in lifting their voices to God, with optional extended worship sessions at the end of every evening. Check out the photos below for highlights from the weekend, the recap video on Instagram, and listen to Spark 2026 Spotify playlist here.

“The worship and praise is always a huge highlight for me. There’s something really special about worshipping alongside so many other young adults, and it genuinely feels magical every year. OneBodyWorship are an absolute blessing and joy!” – Sophie

Day 1: The Things We Chase Are Fleeting

Kirk Patston kicked off Spark by asking us to picture a helium balloon: it’s fleeting, and it’s hard to control.

Ecclesiastes describes life in a similar way, like a vapour or a breath that disappears. So what do we actually gain from all our toil under the sun? The things we chase for ultimate meaning can never deliver what we are searching for.


“You’re not going to produce anything new or lasting. You’re not going to produce a profit. Your little achievements along the way are going to be like a helium balloon — short-lived and hard to control.” – Kirk Patston

But Kirk didn’t leave us in despair. If the things under the sun cannot offer lasting meaning, where should we look? He reminded us that as Christians, we are people of the resurrection.

Watch a snippet of his talk below.

“The first sermon Kirk delivered. It was confronting but beautiful. He really shone a light on lots of different things from a different perspective and now I see the world a little bit differently in the way of realising I stress way to much about things that at the end of the day are just “mist in the wind”.” – Caleb


Day 2: Christ Is the End of Meaning

Saturday was packed. We heard teaching from both Kirk and Arnaldo, spent the afternoon diving into big questions during our Deep Dive sessions, and had plenty of time in between to hang out and build community.


In the morning, Kirk returned to Ecclesiastes and challenged us to ‘have a go’ and live with ‘carefree generosity’. He connected this to Jesus’ parable of the talents where one servant chose to bury what he had been given rather than put it to work. Kirk reminded us that while we don’t know what tomorrow holds, that is no excuse to stand still: Share the kind gifts that God has given you with as many people as you can.

“I was encouraged that living a holy life doesn’t preclude us from having fun, and in having a go we can honour God.” – Jacob


“I’ve been struggling to remember that God gives us gifts for us to enjoy in life, and I’ve been really focused on having to do everything right. It was so good to hear that God has given us all of these earthly things as gifts, that they are not designed to be gains but gifts for enjoyment and to point us back to God.” – Chloe

Saturday afternoon also gave everyone a chance to tailor their time with our Deep Dive seminars, tackling big topics around real-world faith and discipleship. With 11 different sessions to choose from, nearly 600 seats were filled with the most popular topics being: Loving God with All of Our Mind and Real Faith in Hard Places.

Young woman speaking into a microphone during a conference at Katoomba Christian Convention, with a presentation slide in the background.
A speaker presenting to an audience at Katoomba Christian Convention, with a digital screen displaying a slide behind him.
Deep Dives

As the afternoon wound down, everyone gathered for Spark Under the Stars for a Mexican feast and live music, before heading back inside for our evening session with Arnaldo Santiago.

Arnaldo brought us back to the question at the heart of the weekend: What is this all for?

He reminded us that we were created for deep meaning and purpose. This life matters, but the world in its current state cannot satisfy our deepest desires. Ultimately, Christ is the end, Christ is the goal of our lives.


“Appearing with Him in glory is why you exist.” – Arnaldo Santiago

Watch a snippet of Arnaldo’s talk below.

The day closed with communion, prayer, and a powerful symbolic moment as attendees physically laid their burdens at the foot of the cross.

Young man with curly hair praying with head bowed and eyes closed during a Christian event at KCC in Katoomba.

Day 3: Meaning-Filled Mission

On our final day together, we heard Erica Mandi Manga on what it looks like to share Jesus with those around us and gathered for our fireside Q&A.

Fireside Q&A

She helped us think about what it means to live out our purpose among the people God has placed around us and to pay attention to the lives of our friends. Erica challenged us to pay attention to the lives of our friends. What questions are their lives asking?

  • What gets them most excited?
  • Where do they spend their money?
  • Where do they invest their time?
  • What do they talk about most?
  • What do they fear?

If Jesus is the source of meaning, then our lives aren’t just about finding that meaning for ourselves. We’re sent to share the good news with others.

And when it comes to talking about Jesus, honesty is better than perfection. We don’t need to have every answer or present ourselves as people who have everything together. We can be honest about our own lives, our struggles and still point to our hope in Jesus.

Watch a snippet of her talk below.

The weekend kept bringing us back to the same truth: we were made for something more than what this world can offer.

We were made for Christ.

“SPARK IS SUCH A GREAT EVENT. God was truly working. There were so many little things that happened right as I needed them. Whether it was a song lyric that responded to the line of prayer I was praying or something I needed to hear this weekend. It was all just evidence of a God in control of the little moments.” – Lauren


Save the Date: Spark 2027

We can’t wait to do it all again next year!


Spark 2027
27-29 August.


All Spark talks now on KCC One!

Panel discussion at KCC Spark 2026 event featuring diverse speakers on stage with a large screen in the background.
Diverse speakers share insights during a panel discussion at KCC Spark 2026, part of the Chasing Meaning series, highlighting faith and community.

SPARK Talks are now live on KCC One! Subscribe today to watch and be encouraged.

Subscribe today: https://www.kccone.org.au/subscription

What are we actually living for? At Spark 2026, more than 1,400 young adults gathered

By Patrizha Yeomans
Young girl smiling at a youth event, holding a plate, in a casual setting.

“A Game-Changer Weekend”: Sophie’s KYCK Story

After a period of doubting her faith, Sophie encountered God’s presence in a powerful way at KYCK 22. Now, after six KYCKs, she describes the conference in one word: belonging.

1. Please introduce yourself!

Hi! I’m Sophie and I’m from BASIC (Brothers And Sisters In Christ) YG. I’ve been to KYCK 6 times since 2021! KYCK26 was unfortunately my last KYCK as a youth.

Young girl holding a Captain America-themed cake in a kitchen setting, celebrating a baking activity at Katoomba Christian Convention.

2. Tell us a bit about faith background.

I grew up in a Christian household where my mum was a Christian and my dad wasn’t. Because my dad wasn’t a Christian, I ended up doubting my own faith in God multiple times but at KYCK 22, I really felt God’s presence for the first time. I fully understood the joy in following Jesus and how He has fully planned out my life. Ever since, I have been trying to live a life for Jesus, attempting to boldly share the undeserving love that He has for all of us.

Ever since, I have been trying to live a life for Jesus, attempting to boldly share the undeserving love that He has for all of us.


3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?

My main takeaway from KYCK 26 is that Jesus has come to seek and save us, the lost. We can never run from God because God will always bring us back! We do not have to worry as our path has been planned out, that nothing in life is random. We need to live like Jesus, setting an example for non believers as we should act as a reflection of Christ!

We can never run from God because God will always bring us back!

4.  If someone’s never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?

I’d fully encourage them to go, as you never know how KYCK might change your life! KYCK was my favourite weekend every year, and it really is a game-changer weekend.

5. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

KYCK has encouraged my faith as it has reminded me that I am so loved. No matter how far I run, God is always a step ahead, and that we cannot hide from Him.

KYCK has also encouraged my faith as it has reminded me that I am not alone, and seeing so many other teens just like me praising and worshipping God is just a small glimpse of how amazing heaven is going to be!

…seeing so many other teens just like me praising and worshipping God is just a small glimpse of how amazing heaven is going to be!

6. Describe KYCK in one word.


BELONGING!

KYCK is a place where I feel like I belong, just all one in Christ Jesus!


Save the Dates — KYCK 2027

KYCK 26 Christian youth conference in Katoomba, NSW, Australia, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual growth for high school students.

KYCK 1 09–11 April
KYCK 2 16–18 April
KYCK 3 23–25 April
KYCK 4 24–26 September

Find out more.

After a period of doubting her faith, Sophie encountered God’s presence in a powerful way

By Patrizha Yeomans
Three young women smiling at the Katoomba Christian Convention during a vibrant, colorful event related to Spark 2026 preparations.

5 Ways To Prepare For Spark 2026

Spark is almost here! Here are a few simple ways to prepare for a weekend of Chasing Meaning and thinking about the life we were made for.

1. Pray before you come

Pray for the weekend!

Please pray:
• For the 1300+ people coming, that God would help us see clearly what our lives are really for.
• For wisdom and clarity for the speakers, and that God’s Word would be spoken faithfully.
• That God would bring encouragement, and good conversations through the weekend.
• That friendships would grow and new people would feel welcomed and included.
• That those who arrive feeling uncertain, tired and weary, or disconnected would find hope in Christ.
• God would use Spark to shape not just one weekend, but the way we live afterwards.
• For all the practical aspects of the weekend, including our volunteers, staff, musicians, AV teams, venue logistics and travel. Ask that everything would run smoothly so the focus remains on God’s Word.

2. Sign up for Deep Dives & Dinner Under The Stars

Alongside the main sessions, there are Deep Dives on Saturday afternoon exploring different topics about faith. If you haven’t already, don’t forget to sign up ahead of time if there’s one you want to attend.

And don’t forget Spark Under the Stars on Saturday night! Fireside hangs, live music and a Mexican feast. $25.

For those staying onsite at KCC, this dinner is included with your accommodation. No extra ticket needed.

3. Get familiar with the songs

Start getting in the Spark mood with our Spark 2026 Spotify playlist.

Listen on the way to Katoomba or while you’re doing chores, or on your morning commute!

4. Pack for the Mountains

We’re almost at the end of winter but not yet! Katoomba in August can still be very cold.

Bring:
• Your Bible
• Water bottle
• Warm clothes and layers
• A jacket
• Your e-ticket

And remember, Spark is a nut-free event, so please don’t bring food or snacks containing nuts.

5. Come ready to consider what it means to live the life we were made for

It’s easy to arrive at a conference thinking about everything else going on in life. Before Spark, take some time to slow down and consider:
• What questions am I bringing with me? (You’ll have to chance to ask our speakers questions during our ‘Fireside Q&A’)
• Where am I currently looking for meaning or purpose?
• What am I hoping to take home from this weekend?


It’s not too late to join us!

Promotional image for Katoomba Christian Convention 2026 with gaming controllers and cameras highlighting the event theme.

It’s not too late to join us in the Mountains! Register here.

Spark is almost here! Here are a few simple ways to prepare for a weekend

By Patrizha Yeomans

“I’ve Been Trusting Jesus Ever Since”: Darcy’s KYCK Story

Darcy first came to KYCK after seeing the way Jesus had transformed his older brother’s life. What began as curiosity quickly became something much deeper. At KYCK, Darcy encountered the overwhelming love of Jesus and later, gave his life to Christ.

1. Please introduce yourself!

Hi my name is Darcy. I’m from Grace Youth in Bega and this year was my third and final KYCK.

2. Tell us a bit about faith background.

I first learnt about Jesus in late 2023 through my older brother. I could see Jesus working through him so I decided to go along to church with him and check it out. I attended my first KYCK in 2024 and felt the overwhelming love and joy from Jesus Christ. In December 2024, I gave my life to Jesus and got baptised. It’s been super hard not growing up in a Christian household especially with my brother moving away, but I’ve been trusting Jesus ever since! 

I attended my first KYCK in 2024 and felt the overwhelming love and joy from Jesus Christ.


3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?

The main thing I took away from KYCK this year was God’s forgiveness towards Jonah and the Ninevites. If God can forgive a wicked and evil nation like the Ninevites, I know he can forgive me.

If God can forgive a wicked and evil nation like the Ninevites, I know he can forgive me.

4.  If someone’s never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?

KYCK is a highlight for me each year. You get to learn about God, dive into his word, and worship with thousands of other young Christians.

5. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?


KYCK has helped me grow in my faith so much! Being surrounded by so many other like-minded Christians and making so many new friends is so encouraging. 

6. Describe KYCK in one word.

Beautiful.


Save the Dates — KYCK 2027

KYCK 26 Christian youth conference in Katoomba, NSW, Australia, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual growth for high school students.

KYCK 1 09–11 April
KYCK 2 16–18 April
KYCK 3 23–25 April
KYCK 4 24–26 September

Find out more.

Darcy first came to KYCK after seeing the way Jesus had transformed his older brother’s

By Patrizha Yeomans
Three men smiling at BASECAMP 2026 event, representing Christian community and fellowship at Katoomba.

Over 1,200 Men Encouraged to be “Resolute” at BASECAMP 2026

Last weekend, 1,200+ men gathered across two weekends to open God’s Word together at BASECAMP 2026. For those who couldn’t join us in person, more than 80 people joined BASECAMP online, with around half tuning in from regional and interstate locations.

Over 1,200 men gathered at BASECAMP 2026 event, listening to speakers on stage in a large indoor venue, promoting Christian fellowship and spiritual growth.

“BASECAMP is most definitely a highlight on my annual calendar. In a life that is so fast paced with work, family and church I long for that one weekend to just pause, surrounded by brothers with solid bible teaching, encouraging testimonies and worship.”

– Sebastian, BASECAMP26 Attendee


Whitefield lifted the room with heartfelt worship, leading the men to praise God with one voice. Listen to the BASECAMP 26 playlist here!

Male musician singing and playing acoustic guitar on stage at BASECAMP 2026 event, with another musician in the background, under stage lighting.

“Belting out hymns with hundreds of men was a snapshot of heaven.”
– Mark, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

We kicked off the weekend with our Friday Kick-Off Feast, an optional roast dinner that gave everyone a chance to enjoy a good meal together before the weekend got underway.

“Food was delicious, teaching was solid, worship was amazing, men supporting other men and the Holy Spirit was moving. What else do you need?”

– Ben, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

Group of five men standing outdoors at night, smiling, with trees and a vehicle in the background, during BASECAMP 2026.

BASECAMP was also a chance to share in the encouragement of Christian fellowship with old friends catching up and fathers and sons experiencing the weekend together. In the conversations over coffee, meals and between sessions, we were reminded that following Jesus was never meant to be done alone.

“Being at BASECAMP with my two boys was amazing – a dream come true! About 10 or so years ago, I remember standing next to one of the fellows from church and his son was next to him (I took a picture of them). I have been waiting ever since to take my boys. My eldest son will be married very soon, so to be able to stand with them as men, and sing wholeheartedly with all our voices, was touching for my soul.”

– Peter, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

“Time to get to know God and each other better is time well spent.”

– Matthew, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

International speaker Matt Fuller and local speaker Matt Steele unpacked what it means to live with courage, steadiness and confidence in God, even when life doesn’t go according to plan.

A man speaking passionately at BASECAMP 2026 event, emphasizing resolute faith and leadership among men, with stage lighting highlighting the speaker.

Matt Fuller took us through passages in Genesis where we were reminded through the life of Abraham that courage in the Christian life is not about being fearless. It is about trusting the promises of God. However, his story includes moments where fear and disappointment led him to doubt God’s kindness and take matters into his own hands. We were reminded that doubt and disobedience can easily go hand in hand: when we stop trusting God’s promises, we’re tempted to build our own way. But shortcuts only lead to disaster.

The story ultimately points us to Jesus, whose perfect obedience accomplished what ours never could.

We were challenged to ask: Will I trust God, or will I try to build my own way?

That question also applies to the relationships around us. In Matt Steele’s talk, Reactive or Resolute, we considered how easily pressure and tension can make us reactive. Rather than allowing our steadiness to depend on the emotions or actions of those around us, we were encouraged to look to Jesus, who remains steady and unwavering in every circumstance.

“Matt Steele’s presentation helped me to understand relational dynamics and how Christ shows us steadiness.”

– Jason, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

A smiling man in a checkered shirt speaking at a Christian event, with a music stand in front of him and stage lights in the background.

“I felt reassured that God is with us, despite our many faults and even in the times when we feel far away. He forgives and makes a way and my response is to genuinely make sure I trust Him at all times.”

– Graeme, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

“Challenged to take my time and be less reactive. Keep trusting God and try to better remember the bigger future, trying to keep the here and now difficulties in perspective.”

– Peter, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

“Encouraged in my faith (by trusting in His promises) and strengthened to do good works for God’s glory.“

– Kim, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

“Great speakers, relevant topics on biblical masculinity and how to navigate thinking about being ‘manly’ and ‘godly'”

– Jason, BASECAMP 26 Attendee

Over 1,200 men attending the BASECAMP 2026 conference, seated in an auditorium, listening attentively to the speaker, representing a large Christian men's gathering.

There were plenty of laughs throughout the weekend too, including when Mitch performed his original song, When I Turned Thirty.

But there were also more heartfelt moments, as BASECAMP Chair and MC L-T spoke vulnerably about some of his own personal struggles

“… absolutely loved LT’s testimony and being so vulnerable, please keep the real life testimonies coming!”

– Sebastian, BASECAMP26 Attendee

We’re grateful for a weekend of honest conversations, fellowship and, most importantly, time spent being reminded of the goodness and faithfulness of God. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for more.


Catch up or re-watch on KCC One!

Couldn’t make it to BASECAMP, or want to keep the momentum going? All the BASECAMP talks will be available on the KCC One app on Wednesday, 19 August. Use code “BASECAMP2026” by midnight Sunday, 13 September when subscribing to the KCC One app for a FREE MONTH of access!

Watch a snippet of Matt Fuller’s first talk ‘Called To Go’ here.

You can also access our free devotional series ‘BASECAMP Local’. BASECAMP Local takes this year’s teaching a step further, helping you reflect on what it means to live with courage and put God’s Word into action.

Flyers for BASECAMP 2026 and local event, featuring bold text and chain graphic, promoting Christian youth gatherings in Katoomba.

Written by the BASECAMP Committee, this four-part series explores the lives of Abraham, Moses, Stephen, and the thief on the cross, drawing practical lessons for following the example of a biblical man.

Subscribe to KCC One for as little as $4.99/month (on an annual subscription): https://www.kccone.org.au/subscription


Save the Date: BASECAMP 2027

Mark your calendars and start planning with your mates – you won’t want to miss it.

“Awesome, relevant, meaningful content. Not rushed, plenty of time throughout conference to digest and ruminate on the teaching, conviction and inspiration. I’ve already registered for 2027 and bringing mates along.”

– Rob, BASECAMP26 Attendee

Last weekend, 1,200+ men gathered across two weekends to open God’s Word together at BASECAMP

By Patrizha Yeomans
A young man with sunglasses and a cap smiling while looking into a mirror at Katoomba Christian Convention, representing faith and community.

United in Christ: Matt’s Spark Story

In a season where it can feel easier to conform to the world than stand out for Christ, gathering with over a thousand other young adults encouraged Matt to keep living wholeheartedly for Jesus. Read how Spark challenged and reminded Matt that what unites Christians is far greater than what divides them.

Smiling man wearing sunglasses and a cap enjoying outdoor event at KCC in Katoomba.

1. Please introduce yourself!

My name is Matt West, I’m 28, I grew up in a Christian family, but decided to follow Christ myself at a CMS Summer School camp in 2011, currently attending Padstow Baps.

2. What made you want to attend Spark last year (2025)?

I was always a big fan of KYCK, but once I saw the Perry’s would be speaking at Spark, I was convinced. More importantly, I think it’s never been harder to be a Christian young adult. I’m passionate about seeing young adult lives changed and committed to Christ. 

3. Describe your Spark experience!

There seems to be so much expectation to conform to worldly things right now and as a Christian, it’s easy to feel different or isolated. After high school, all I wanted was to fit in. I went to uni, thinking that was the ‘right thing to do’. After just 9 months, I dropped out and became a tradie, which was a turbulent environment for a Christian to say the least. Everyone around me seemed to have their life together, and I just didn’t. Over the last few years, I have realised that fighting to be like the world will only lead to disappointment. Spark was an amazing reminder that I’ll always be a part of a huge community of people, and that being united together in Christ is FAR better than anything the world has to offer. 

“Spark was an amazing reminder that I’ll always be a part of a huge community of people, and that being united together in Christ is FAR better than anything the world has to offer.”

4. A takeaway from the weekend?

I remember being convicted by Mitch’s message to not live out a ‘lukewarm’ faith, but to be sold out for Jesus.

5. How have you been living differently post-Spark?

1 Corinthians 12:12. “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.”

Perhaps the thing I’ve wrestled with the most in recent years is “why are Christians different?”. Some people like their worship loud, some like it soft. Some like their church to have pews, some want IMAX level recliners. We all come from different churches, studying different degrees and working different jobs… and that’s a good thing! Spark reminded me that ultimately, we are united by so much more than what divides us. Because of God’s gift of grace, through the blood of his Son shed on that cross, we are all ONE in Christ Jesus. God loves us all the same, regardless if we’re a lawyer or an electrician, if we’ve been to Bible college or if we’re new to our faith. What a comfort that is. 

“Spark reminded me that ultimately, we are united by so much more than what divides us.”

6. What would you say to someone who’s on the fence about coming?

Just come, it’ll be mad.


It’s not too late to join us!

Promotional image for Katoomba Christian Convention 2026 with gaming controllers and cameras highlighting the event theme.

Every day the world tells us to look within ourselves, work harder, achieve more, and create our own purpose. But what if meaning isn’t something we have to invent?

At SPARK, we’ll explore why the promises of our culture so often leave us wanting more and how Jesus offers the life we were truly made for. Register here.

In a season where it can feel easier to conform to the world than stand

By Patrizha Yeomans

“I Found My Faith at KYCK”: Charlotte’s KYCK Story

Charlotte never expected a random invitation to youth group would completely change the direction of her life. After years of years trying to fill what she describes as a “Jesus-sized hole” in her heart, she came to KYCK expecting a fun weekend with friends and instead met the Jesus who loved her freely and completely.

1. Please introduce yourself!

Heyyy my name is Charlotte, I attend MOBC (Mortdale Oatley Baptist Church) and I’ve attended KYCK 2 times now!

2. Tell us a bit about faith background.

I grew up going to church because I had to for school. I attended a Catholic Primary School and was taught that I would need to earn my way to heaven through a multitude of works. For 5/6 year old me, it sounded like a lot of effort to try to make someone love me. For about 10 years after that, I was in the world, trying to fill what I now know was a Jesus-sized hole in my heart, with things of the world.

On a random Friday I had a friend ask me “hey, my church runs a youth group on Fridays, do you want to come?” and I said yes. I don’t know why I said yes because I had never really been a “religious” person but after attending my second week of youth, I was hooked. I wanted to know who this ‘Jesus guy’ was who claimed to love me, without me having to earn it. KYCK 25 came around and I attended with my youth group. I wasn’t expecting much, just to have fun and hang with mates, but I ended up learning so much about God that it made me want to commit my life to Him.

I ended up learning so much about God that it made me want to commit my life to Him.


And that’s what I did! I found my faith at KYCK. This year, I made sure to go up the back of the shed and renew the promise to Jesus that I would stop running and let Him in on every aspect of my life!!

3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?

The most important thing for me this year was to stop running from God and really let Him enter all the rooms of my life. To let Him change me and who I am as a person so I can really make disciples and tell my friends and family about Jesus!

4.  If someone’s never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?

I would say come. It did wonders for my faith and I know it can do wonders for yours. It’s an awesome way to spend time with friends and learn more about the free gift we have in Jesus, and the friend we have in Him too.

5. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

KYCK has helped me grow in my faith by helping me understand God’s character even better but also by breaking down books that I would’ve never guessed had a deeper meaning. I would’ve always thought that Jonah was about a guy who got swallowed by a fish and then told people about God. KYCK helped me understand the deeper meaning of God’s mercy and compassion for us.

KYCK helped me understand the deeper meaning of God’s mercy and compassion for us.

6. Describe KYCK in one word.

Refreshing.


Save the Dates — KYCK 2027

KYCK 26 Christian youth conference in Katoomba, NSW, Australia, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual growth for high school students.

KYCK 1 09–11 April
KYCK 2 16–18 April
KYCK 3 23–25 April
KYCK 4 24–26 September

Find out more.

Charlotte never expected a random invitation to youth group would completely change the direction of

By Patrizha Yeomans
Young woman smiling at KYCK youth event, sharing her inspiring faith journey with Jesus.

“God Isn’t Random”: Holly’s KYCK Story

Holly has been to KYCK four times, but this year was different. After a season of doubt, unanswered questions, and personal loss, she came face to face with a powerful truth through Jonah, that God isn’t random, even when life doesn’t make sense.

1. Please introduce yourself!

I’m Holly and this is my 4th time at KYCK!

2. Tell us a bit about faith background.

I grew up in a Christian household but didn’t really felt like a Christian until late last year. I didn’t really feel like God was ACTUALLY there and it felt like He never answered my prayers and I often felt quite alone. One night I whispered “God, if you’re really there why aren’t you showing me?” My uncle also passed away and I couldn’t understand why God decided it was his time and none of it made sense to me. It wasn’t until KYCK this year that I learnt that God isn’t random in the slightest. Jonah’s story showed me that there was a reason for my uncle’s death, and while I don’t know what the reason is, I’m almost certain he knows what He’s doing. I also realised that God doesn’t always answer prayers instantly, and sometimes they need to be answered later in life.

“Jonah’s story showed me that there was a reason for my uncle’s death, and while I don’t know what the reason is, I’m almost certain he knows what He’s doing.”

3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?

God isn’t random, theres always a reason.

4.  If someone’s never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?

KYCK is an amazing convention where christians from all around Australia come to learn about Jesus together.

5.  What’s the funniest thing that’s happened at KYCK?

My youth group (upper mountains) had a ‘KYCK’s got talent’ and one of the entries was someone pretending to struggle doing a single pushup — it was very funny.

6. Describe KYCK in one word.

Ineffable.


Save the Dates — KYCK 2027

KYCK 26 Christian youth conference in Katoomba, NSW, Australia, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual growth for high school students.

KYCK 1 09–11 April
KYCK 2 16–18 April
KYCK 3 23–25 April
KYCK 4 24–26 September

Find out more.

Holly has been to KYCK four times, but this year was different. After a season

By Patrizha Yeomans
Young woman smiling outdoors at KYCK youth camp, representing faith and community.

“Jesus Doesn’t Reject Us”: Emilyn’s KYCK Story

After giving her life to Jesus at a camp in 2023, Emilyn has continued to grow in her faith and KYCK has been a key part of that journey. This year, she was reminded of a powerful truth: no matter how many times we run, Jesus never rejects us.

1. Please introduce yourself!

My name is Emilyn and I’ve been to KYCK 3 times!

Young woman smiling outdoors at KYCK camp, sharing her faith journey and personal growth in a natural setting.

2. Tell us a bit about faith background.

I grew up in a Christian home but I gave my life to Jesus at another camp in 2023 when I was 14. My faith continued to get deeper and the following year, I went to KYCK which helped me so much to continue to grow and experience God’s love!!! 

3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?

From this year’s KYCK, I have taken home that Jesus does not reject us, no matter how many times we reject Him. His mercy is so great, there is nothing we have to done to earn it, but there is also nothing we can do to get away from it!! 

“Jesus does not reject us, no matter how many times we reject Him.”

4.  If someone’s never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?

I would say that KYCK is bound to be one of the best weekends of your life! It is such an incredible opportunity to learn about Jesus, experience His love, make new friends, connect more deeply to your youth group, and to fall more and more in love with Jesus!!

“I would say that KYCK is bound to be one of the best weekends of your life!”

5.  What’s the funniest thing that’s happened at KYCK?

Meeting new friends and randomly guessing their names and getting them right!! 

6. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

KYCK has helped me to grow in my faith because of the themes each year. You really learn and deeply understand certain aspects of faith and about Jesus (such as His mercy or the freedom we receive in Christ!)

7. Describe KYCK in one word.

Life-changing!


Save the Dates — KYCK 2027

KYCK 26 Christian youth conference in Katoomba, NSW, Australia, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual growth for high school students.

KYCK 1 09–11 April
KYCK 2 16–18 April
KYCK 3 23–25 April
KYCK 4 24–26 September

Find out more.

After giving her life to Jesus at a camp in 2023, Emilyn has continued to

By Patrizha Yeomans
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