“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
A woman with a joyful expression engaging in conversation with a man at the Katoomba Christian Convention, highlighting community and faith.

Ministering with Joy: 4 Ways to Get Ready for the Day

Setting aside a little time to prepare can help you be fully present for what God has in store. Here are 4 simple ways to prepare your head and heart for our one-day event.

1. Get to know the songs ahead of time

    We first saw Liam & Jenny Denny lead worship at Katoomba Easter Convention this year with their band Mountainkind.

    We’re excited to welcome the duo to Oxygen to bring a stripped back, acoustic sound to our worship sessions. You can listen to our Spotify playlist here

    2. Pray for the day

    • Pray for renewed joy. Pray that God would refresh weary hearts and restore the joy of serving Christ. Ask that every attendee would leave with a renewed delight in the privilege of gospel ministry.
    • Pray for endurance. Pray for attendees who are experiencing discouragement, burnout, isolation. Ask God to strengthen them to endure faithfully and keep their eyes fixed on Jesus through every season of ministry.
    • Pray for Matt Fuller as he teaches. Ask God to give him wisdom, clarity, humility, and courage as he opens God’s Word, and that his teaching would encourage and equip everyone attending.
    • Pray for encouraging fellowship. Pray that the day would be marked by honest conversations and genuine encouragement. Pray that attendees would feel less alone and return to their ministries strengthened for the work God has called them to.

    3. Invite someone to come with you

    Who can you bring joy to and gift a day of refreshment? Consider inviting a fellow pastor, ministry worker, volunteer, or someone from your church team. You’ll have someone to reflect with throughout the day and continue the conversations afterwards.

    Use promo code JOY in the checkout and get the standard rate if you purchase two or more tickets in one transaction! Register here.

    4. Plan your travel

    Please note there is no free parking available near the venue, and therefore we recommend taking public transport to get to the conference.

    • By car: The closest paid public parking near the venue is Broadway Shopping Centre.
    • By train: The church is 650m west (away from the city) along George St from Central Station.
    • By bus: Every all-stops bus along Parramatta Rd or King St stops outside the church. West-bound, the church is at the bottom of the hill after Central Station. City-bound, it is the first stop past Broadway Shopping Centre


    Buy 2 tickets, get the Standard Rate!

    Oxygen 2026 conference banner with clouds and the theme 'Ministering with Joy' emphasizing leading through pressure without losing heart.

    Grab one for you and another for someone else – your Pastor, your Youth Leader, your Women’s or Men’s ministry leader.

    Buy two or more tickets in one transaction and get the standard rate! Just use the promo code JOY in the checkout.* Register here.

    *Valid for two or more Last Minute in-person tickets in one purchase with promo code applied. Not applicable to online or Student tickets. Promo code must be entered at checkout – please check the discount has been applied before finalising payment.

    Setting aside a little time to prepare can help you be fully present for what

    By KCC Staff
    Large audience attending a Christian conference at Katoomba Christian Convention with a stage and speakers in the background.

    6 Ways to Get Ready for BASECAMP 2026

    BASECAMP Men’s Conference is coming up (it’s not too late to get your ticket)! Here are six ways to prepare your head and heart before you come.

    ​1. Tune your heart for worship with the BASECAMP Spotify playlist

    Familiarise yourself with the BASECAMP song list by following our Spotify playlist here. Whether you’re looking for a playlist for relaxing, study or the commute to work, the BASECAMP playlist is filled with hymns that will tune your heart for worship.

    2. Grab your BASECAMP merch

    We have a fresh drop of BASECAMP merch for 2026 including our new tee, hoodie, beanie, socks, gear clip key chain and stickers! These items will be sold exclusively on-site.

    3. Secure your Online Conference Pack

    If you can’t join us in-person this year, you can join us online at a convenient location of your choice! Registrations will give you access to BASECAMP 2026 live and 30 days on-demand until midnight, 6 September 2026. Make sure you register before midnight Sunday 28 July to secure your Online Conference Pack (printed booklet and pen) in time for the event! Register now.

    4. Pray for BASECAMP

    Please join us in praying for BASECAMP men’s conference!

    • Pray for our speakers, Matt Fuller and Matt Steele, that God would speak powerfully through them as they faithfully teach his Word. Pray that their messages would encourage men to be resolute in Christ and live with conviction.
    • Pray for the men attending BASECAMP, that God would prepare their hearts to hear his Word with humility and faith. Pray that they would leave encouraged, challenged and more resolute in following Jesus in their homes, churches and workplaces.
    • Pray 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.
    • Pray that the impact of BASECAMP would extend beyond the weekend, strengthening men, families and local churches across Australia. Pray that the men who attend would return home equipped to serve Christ faithfully and encourage others to do the same.

    5. Familiarise yourself with Scripture that will be preached on the day

    Prepare your hearts and heads for the topic of RESOLUTE by reading the following passages that will be covered at BASECAMP 26:

    • Genesis 11:27-12:20
    • Genesis 16
    • Genesis 21:1-12; 22:1-19
    • Luke 8:40-56

    6. Download the KCC One App to access FREE content after BASECAMP!

    After BASECAMP, you’ll be able to access BASECAMP Local, a series of written reflections designed to help you continue thinking through this year’s theme, Resolute. Whether you’re reading through it personally or working through it with a group of men at church, it’s a practical way to keep applying God’s Word long after the weekend ends.


    It’s not too late to get your ticket!

    There’s still time for you and your friends to join us for a fantastic day, hearing powerful preaching with 1,000+ brothers! Special discounts also apply for students, interstate and regional delegates. Grab your last-minute tickets here.

    BASECAMP Men’s Conference is coming up (it’s not too late to get your ticket)! Here

    By KCC Staff

    5 Ways To Prepare for OneLove This August

    OneLove 2026 is almost here! We’re so excited to gather with almost 2,000 women as we lift our eyes to Jesus and strengthen our trust in the One who abundantly provides.

    Here are five simple ways you can get ready in the lead-up:

    1. Familiarise Yourself with the Songs

    Worship is a beautiful part of the OneLove experience. Get to know the songs ahead of time so you can engage fully on the day. We’ve made it easy with our official OneLove 2026 Spotify playlist. Listen here


    2. Start Praying for OneLove

    • True Satisfaction: Pray that every woman attending would come with a heart ready to unmask the false promises of our world. Ask that they would lay aside the exhausting pursuit of achievement, approval, and control, and open their hearts to encounter the rest found only in Jesus. Pray that women wouldn’t just attend the conference but be deeply transformed by the truth they hear.
    • Faithful Teaching: Lift up Melissa Kruger and Justine Toh as they speak at OneLove 2026. Pray for health, safe travels and that the Holy Spirit would lead them, giving them boldness and faithfully point women to the abundant provision of God through His Word.
    • Rich Fellowship: Pray for rich fellowship and meaningful encouragement across generations. May the joy of this wider sisterhood remind every woman that they are not alone, but united because of Christ.
    • For Volunteers & Staff: Pray for the staff, volunteers, and everyone working behind the scenes to make OneLove 2026 happen. Ask for physical energy, joy in their service, and smooth logistics, praying that their teamwork would reflect Christ’s love and run seamlessly.


    3. Figure Out Your Transport

    Planning your transport early will save stress on the day. While there’s plenty of parking onsite, we’d love to encourage carpooling with your friends!

    You can also consider public transport options. It’s a 3 minute walk from Norwest Metro Station or short bus trip from Blacktown or Parramatta Stations.


    4. Pack Smart for the Day

    While OneLove will have food, books, and merch available, it’s a good idea to bring a few basics:

    • A water bottle
    • Your favourite pen to take notes
    • A physical Bible

    5. Invite Someone to Join You

    You never know who might say yes.

    Whether it’s a friend from church, your sister, a neighbour or a coworker, OneLove can be a life-changing experience for someone who’s never been.

    You can use our free promotional resources here.


    We can’t wait to welcome you to OneLove 2026!

    Haven’t registered yet? It’s not too late. Grab your ticket now!

    Inspirational graphic with the word 'Satisfied' and the message 'Trusting the one who abundantly provides' for faith and spiritual encouragement.

    OneLove 2026 is almost here! We’re so excited to gather with almost 2,000 women as

    By KCC Staff
    Two women smiling and enjoying a Christian event outdoors at Katoomba Christian Convention, with people and stairs in the background.

    Recover the Joy of Your Calling: 5 Reasons to Attend

    Many pastors and ministry leaders are not simply battling workload. They are carrying discouragement, fatigue, isolation and the quiet erosion of joy – a slow drift that can be hard to name, and harder to address.

    Ministry can wear you down in ways that are hard to talk about. That is why our one-day special Oxygen event has been designed as a smaller, more intimate scaled event, to give you practical encouragement for long-term faithfulness.

    Here are 5 reasons to attend:

    1. Renew your perspective on the purpose and privilege of ministry

    While our event theme will recognise the growing reality and challenges of ministry, sessions will draw our attention to focus on the privileges of ministry: there are seasons when all of us need reminding that we have the best job in the world.

    2. Recover the joy that has been eroded by pressure

    Our sessions will provide theological depth and practical wisdom for enduring pressure without losing heart, so you can come away with practical tools for sustaining joy under pressure.

    3. Feel less isolated in the real challenges of leadership

    Through teaching and shared experience, we hope to create a space for you to have honest reflection, so you feel personally encouraged and less alone in ministry struggles. 

    4. Gain practical, biblical tools for enduring well over the long haul

    Our speaker Matt Fuller brings years of pastoral experience, biblical depth, and practical wisdom to the realities of ministry leadership today. Dwelling on 1 Peter, he will be sharing his own experiences on the sorrow and joys of ministry.

    5. Connect with other ministry leaders who understand your world

    Ministering with Joy is for men and women serving in paid or voluntary ministry roles — in local churches, on campuses, chaplaincy and in ministry organisations.


    Register Today

    Ministering with Joy is a focused, one-day gathering designed to strengthen weary leaders with a deeper vision of the privileges of being an under-Shepherd of the Lord Jesus.

    This is not a conference about strategies or systems. It is a day of teaching, honest conversation, and practical encouragement for those who want to endure well, and rediscover the deep joy that belongs to this calling.

    Register here.

    Many pastors and ministry leaders are not simply battling workload. They are carrying discouragement, fatigue,

    By KCC Staff
    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
    Young man sharing his faith journey at Katoomba Christian Convention.

    A Faith Refocused: Cooper’s Spark Story

    For Cooper, KCC Conventions have long been a space to re-centre and refocus his faith. After ‘graduating’ KYCK, he came along to Spark with others from his church where he found it to be a meaningful weekend in fellowship and God’s Word.

    Smiling young man outdoors at Katoomba Christian Convention, capturing a moment of joy and faith amidst a vibrant event setting.

    1. Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your faith journey.

    I’m Cooper from Molong District Baptist Church and I’m 19. 

    I committed my life to Christ at KYCK 2019, and would say I later truly fell in love with God. I’ve been attending KCC conventions (particularly KYCK) every time I could, and they’ve always been a good way for me to re-centre and refocus my faith.

    2. What made you want to attend Spark?

    I attended SPARK with a group of young adults from my church so that we could wrestle with Scripture and continue to grow in fellowship together.

    3. Describe your Spark experience! What was a highlight for you?


    My SPARK experience last year was an overall positive, and extremely constructive for my faith at the time. It kept my head inside God’s good Word. A highlight for me, though, was late night free time with people from other churches, where we played board games into crazy late hours, laughing and talking about life and faith.

    A highlight for me, though, was late night free time with people from other churches, where we played board games into crazy late hours, laughing and talking about life and faith.

    4. One main takeaway from the weekend?

    I loved hearing Preston and Jackie Hill Perry talking about their walks with each other. I loved how whacky and awesome their love story was and how they came to know each other inside of having faith. It certainly gave me a little more confidence and hope on a topic which I think every young Christian will wrestle with.

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

    KCC conventions have been life-changing for me and they have become so important for me to bring people along to.  I would greatly encourage anyone to make the effort — you just don’t know how much fun you’ll have.


    Get your ticket now.

    Colourful image of gaming controllers and tech gadgets promoting the Katoomba Christian Convention 2026, focusing on spiritual growth and community.

    We live in a world that tells us to create our own meaning. But so often, chasing success, relationships, experiences, or approval leaves us feeling exhausted, confused, and still wanting more.

    At Spark 2026, we’ll explore why our culture’s promises fall short and how the good news of Jesus redefines what a truly meaningful life looks like.

    Together, we’ll consider how life can be deeply purposeful and secure, both now and forever, in Christ. Register here.

    Follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you don’t miss the latest updates!

    For Cooper, KCC Conventions have long been a space to re-centre and refocus his faith. After 'graduating' KYCK, he came along to Spark with others from his church where he found it to be a meaningful weekend in fellowship and God’s Word.

    By KCC Staff
    Close-up of a smiling male speaker at Katoomba Christian Convention, highlighting faith and community engagement.

    “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!!!

    Young male speaker at Katoomba Christian Convention, smiling outdoors with a lake and trees in the background, promoting faith-based youth events.

    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 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.

    For Connor, KYCK isn’t new but it never gets old! Growing up knowing Jesus, he

    By Patrizha Yeomans
    A joyful KYCK volunteer smiling outdoors, representing dedication and service at the Katoomba Christian Convention.

    “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!

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

    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

    By Patrizha Yeomans
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