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.
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 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
After a period of doubting her faith, Sophie encountered God’s presence in a powerful way
By Patrizha Yeomans
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!
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 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
Darcy first came to KYCK after seeing the way Jesus had transformed his older brother’s
By Patrizha Yeomans
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.
“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!
“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
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.
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
“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
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
Charlotte never expected a random invitation to youth group would completely change the direction of
By Patrizha Yeomans
“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 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
Holly has been to KYCK four times, but this year was different. After a season
By Patrizha Yeomans
“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!
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 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
After giving her life to Jesus at a camp in 2023, Emilyn has continued to
By Patrizha Yeomans
“PEAK”: Connor’s KYCK Story
For Connor, KYCK isn’t new but it never gets old! Growing up knowing Jesus, he was reminded again that no matter what life throws at him, Christ’s love and support never changes.
1. Please introduce yourself!
Hey! My name is Connor and I’m from St Mick’s youth group Wollongong and this will be my 5th KYCK!!!
2. Tell us a bit about faith background.
I’ve forever known Jesus throughout my life as I grew up in a Christian household so Jesus never left my life.
3. What’s the main takeaway for you from KYCK 26?
The fact that Jesus will always step to support and love us throughout life. It will always be the one thing that will stay true in my life.
4. If someone’s not a Christian or never been to KYCK, what would you say to them?
Go to KYCK and ASK THOSE QUESTIONS (the questions that cast over your mind about Christianity)!!!!
KYCK is one of — if not the BEST place for true Christian encouragement where you can fully dive into God’s word. How will you get answers if questions are not asked?
How will you get answers if questions are not asked?
5. Why should someone come to KYCK?
KYCK has amazing worship music and has helped me grow a live for worshipping our lord and saviour through powerful ever changing gospel music.( highly recommend Build my life by housefires! )
6. Describe KYCK in one word.
PEAK
Save the Dates — KYCK 2027
KYCK 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
For Connor, KYCK isn’t new but it never gets old! Growing up knowing Jesus, he
By Patrizha Yeomans
“Overjoyed To Be Serving”: A KYCK Volunteer Story
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we’re continuing to highlight the people who help make KYCK happen. Behind every weekend is a team of volunteers quietly serving with faithfulness and joy. Today, we’re meeting Sophie from the Coffee Team!
1. Please introduce yourself!
Hi my name is Sophie, I’m 18 years old and I attend St Paul’s Anglican in Castle Hill.
2. How many times have you attended KYCK and what made you want to volunteer this year?
I have volunteered at KYCK three times and my first time ever at KYCK was actually as a volunteer! My church doesn’t usually come to KYCK but I had a friend from another church attend and she always raved about it so when I saw the opportunity to be a Barista at KYCK, I was really excited.
3. What do you love about volunteering at KYCK?
I love the community of volunteers, everyone is so overjoyed to be serving the Lord and are always so friendly and encouraging. I also love working in the coffee tent and getting to meet so many of the youths and leaders who have come from far and wide to be in community and learn about Jesus.
4. Favourite memory or highlight at KYCK 2026?
Getting to witness all the youth return to the auditorium after the Saturday night session, having just committed their lives to Jesus.
5. Main takeaway from the talks?
You can’t escape Gods love, He is with us wherever we run.
6. Something you’re putting into action post-KYCK?
In meeting so many people and hearing their life stories and testimonies at KYCK, I’ve learned that you don’t have to be a minister to be on mission for the Lord. You can serve Him in whatever you do and whatever career you find yourself in.
“I’ve learned that you don’t have to be a minister to be on mission for the Lord.”
Volunteer at KYCK 2027!
We’d love you to serve with us in 2027, please send us your expression of interest and we’ll be in touch! Click here.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we’re continuing to highlight the people who help make
