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
“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
Deep Mercy: Highlights from KYCK 1–3
Over three weekends, more than 5,600 teenagers and youth leaders attended the KYCK conference in Katoomba. Founded in 1993, KYCK is a Bible preaching event aimed at inspiring high schoolers to live for Jesus alone. Each year, youth are invited to hear and respond to God’s word through powerful Bible talks, uplifting worship in song (led by Aslandia in Week 1, Seraph in Week 2, and Gather in Week 3), inspiring testimonies, and a Saturday afternoon scavenger hunt.
“We had a great time at KYCK! The talks were great, the worship was so encouraging, and the youth left challenged to run to Jesus.” – Nikita, KYCK 26 Youth Leader
Over the years, KYCK has become a treasured space for teenagers to explore and deepen their faith with like-minded company. Each year, teenagers travel far and wide for fellowship in Katoomba. We are so encouraged that in 2026, we had 201 youth groups from 21 different denominations including youth groups from the ACT and NT!
“Just the fellowship I get to have each year there and it reminds me each year I’m not alone in my journey with Christ.” – Naomi, KYCK 26 Youth
This year, speakers Pre Shunmugan and Chris Mann opened the book of Jonah to explore the theme of deep mercy. They helped youth uncover the reality of running from God and the call to surrender to Him, showing that while we deserve judgment, God responds with extraordinary mercy to those who cry out to Him.
“(I was most encouraged by) Learning how much more there is to Jonah than just him and the fish, and how deep Gods mercy is for us even though we don’t deserve it.” – Abigail, KYCK 26 Youth
“I have really been challenged this year to think about the ways I’m running from the Lord or hiding from him which has been great to think over and create practical changes.” – Zali, KYCK 26 Youth
“Only running to the deep mercy of God will save you.” – Pre Shunmugan
“The talk about the rooms of our lives that we tend to keep the doors locked so God can’t get in also impacted me and really challenged me to think about how and which doors I have closed off to God, and how i want to go about opening those doors and trusting Him to work in those aspects of my life.” – Charlotte, KYCK 26 Youth
Through Jonah’s story, young people were challenged to see both their own hearts and God’s and were confronted with the question of what they truly care about. Chris’ last talk invited them to share in God’s compassion for those who are lost.
“I pray God might do something in all of us this weekend. Something we can’t shake. He would give us His heart for the lost, for the thousands in our schools, in this city, for the millions in Australia, for the billions in the nations that don’t know Jesus.” – Chris Mann
Above all, they pointed to Jesus as the greater Jonah, the one who took our place so that we might receive mercy and be sent out to live for Him. You cannot save yourself.
Special guest Katie Stringer also lead an engaging and interactive seminar on how to share Jesus with others. Youth were also invited to respond by submitting answers which showed up on the screen in real-time, reflecting how they feel about sharing Jesus with others.
“Katie Stringers talk was so inspiring it encouraged me to be bold and share the gospel!!!!!!!!!!” – Tabitha, KYCK 26 Youth
“…kids were inspired to start prayer and Bible study groups at their schools.” – Evan, KYCK 26 Youth Leader
“May you do an amazing thing through the young people gathered in this room today Lord. We know 7000 teenagers are coming to KYCK this year… Could you send 7000 out to share Jesus with their friends in their ordinary days – May we put our hand in yours, feel the fear and do it anyway. And would you turn our ordinary days into something extraordinary … Even more than we could ask or imagine!” – Katie Stringer
As KYCK came to a close, youth had the opportunity to share open mic reflections, giving voice to what God had been doing in their lives across the weekend. These moments were both powerful and encouraging, as many spoke of being challenged, convicted, and renewed in their faith. Watch a snippet from KYCK 2 below.
Over three huge weekends, we witnessed the powerful work of the Holy Spirit: 72 youth put their trust in Jesus for the first time, 330 recommitted their lives to Him, and 82 said they want to know more about Jesus. Praise God!
For teens already walking with Jesus, KYCK is a chance to hear God’s Word taught by speakers outside their usual church circles—bringing familiar truths to life in new and meaningful ways. It’s also a powerful reminder that they’re not alone in their faith, but part of a much bigger movement of young believers across Australia.
“(I was most encouraged) To see all these youth groups from so far come together and praise God together — also seeing so many people become a part of God’s family on Saturday night.” – Sophia, KYCK 26 Youth
“I committed my life to Jesus at KYCK and it’s gonna change my life.” – Milly, KYCK 26 Youth
“I remember I used to be unsure about my faith in God, but KYCK brought me friends who encouraged me to go back to church and KYCK which in turn has helped me bring some of my friends to know the Lord Jesus.” – Beth, KYCK 26 Youth
This community extended beyond the mountains, with the second weekend of KYCK available via online livestream — making it possible for youth to join from wherever they were.
Thank you to every youth group, leader, volunteer, speaker, musician, and attendee who made these weekends so special. Please keep praying that God would continue growing the seeds planted at KYCK long after the mountain weekends are over!
Early Bird tickets are still available for KYCK 4 this September!
KYCK will return for a fourth weekend on the 26-28 September in Katoomba. KYCK 4 Early Bird tickets are still available until midnight, 30 June AEST from our website: https://www.kyck.org.au/
KYCK 27 – Save the Date!
KYCK 1 09–11 April KYCK 2 16–18 April KYCK 3 23–25 April KYCK 4 24–26 September
Over three weekends, more than 5,600 teenagers and youth leaders attended the KYCK conference in Katoomba. Founded
By KCC Staff
Fear Not: A Weekend at KEC 2026
We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2400 adults, youth and children gathered at Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) to be empowered by God’s Word. Through powerful Bible talks, inspiring testimonies and uplifting worship in song by bands Mountainkind and Whitefield, delegates were encouraged to ‘Fear Not’.
Among the many who joined us, delegates travelled from New Zealand to be there in person, while another tuned in via livestream from Western Australia.
Since 1962, KEC has become a family tradition for many—a cherished space for people of all cultures, generations and denominations to gather as ‘one in Christ Jesus’, to hear and respond to God’s Word.
“KEC is a spiritual highlight each year for our family. Like a good hearty roast dinner is the preaching and fellowship at KEC.” – Alistair
“I attended this year because every year this is a great time away together as a family, spent in Gods word. It is always a great time to take a step back from the mundane of everyday life and re-centre on Christ.” – Zoe
“We love the formula of friends, mountains, and Bible teaching!” – Sue
“It is now a part of the annual rhythm of our family. Honestly it’s on our favourite times of the year being able to have a dedicated time to learn from God’s Word and worship Him with so many others… Especially special because it is over Easter!” – Isaac
This year 1800+ delegates joined the Adult Program to hear from a wide range of international and local speakers. We were blessed by the faithful teaching of Jim Samra, Nancy Guthrie, Malcolm Gill, Jonathan Dykes and Mark Stephens — along with with Anna Brotherson and Amy Townsend who gave short talks.
Throughout the weekend, Jim took us through Exodus and Matthew, drawing out connections we might have missed. Again and again, we were reminded that God has not abandoned us. Even in the storms of life, He is present with us and, in His sovereignty, places us exactly where He wants us to be.
“There is no place that we can go that God is not with us. There is no time where we can go that God will not be with us.” – Jim Samra
In the evenings, Mark Stephens opened God’s Word for us, reminding us of the powerful work of the Holy Spirit.
“Sin remains but it does not reign.” – Mark Stephens
Perfection will not come until Jesus returns, but we are on the way. Transformation is not out of reach. Because of the Spirit, our future is secure. We live in the tension of the now and the not yet, holding both deep joy and a longing for what is still to come.
Nancy Guthrie opened up Habakkuk and showed us a faith that can face disaster and still rejoice. A trust that holds steady, even when life doesn’t.
“What I know about my future glory and my own future of sharing in it is changing how I feel about my present reality.” – Nancy Guthrie
On Sunday, we were reminded that God is uniquely at work when His people gather, and that Jesus is still building His church. Amy Townsend challenged us to be bold in pursuing Him and not to let fear hold us back. She spoke honestly about moments where she was paralysed by gospel opportunities and encouraged us to step forward in faith.
“I’ve forgotten who it is that saves… I let my fear grip things so much — because of my love, because of my concern, but it made the whole situation me-centric.” – Amy Townsend
On Monday, Malcolm Gill asked us to consider how we are spending our lives. Are we making the most of the time we have, or are we distracted by things that will not last? So often we chase what is fading, nibbling at what the world offers, yet never fully satisfied. But it is only the Lord Jesus who can truly meet our deepest needs.
“Friends, we chase many things, we chase fading things, but it is only the Lord Jesus who can meet our deepest needs.” – Malcolm Gill
Jim closed KEC by helping us see God’s presence in the wilderness seasons of life. His presence is seen in His provision. He gives not too much and not too little, but exactly what we need. His provision satisfies, and in it, our striving can cease.
“He invites us into the wilderness so that we might know that He provides. He provided for the past. He provided for today. He will provide for tomorrow.” – Jim Samra
Here is what a few KEC 26 attendees had to say about the talks:
“I was most encouraged by the speakers this year! I really loved the speakers and how each one of them were so passionate and uplifting and they all brought something new from the passage to get me to reflect on. I was really challenged and encouraged by this year’s topic as it was highly relevant.” – Leticia
“The KEC26 theme of Fear Not could not have come at a better time. Shifting my perspective in these storms of life to asking God what he wants me to learn in this season has been really helpful for me in my current stage of life.” – Sophie
“The topic of not fearing but trusting always in the Lord. All the talks were particularly relevant, life-changing and encouraging this year.” – Rodney
While adults enjoyed rich teaching and fellowship in the main session, over 500 children and youth were served by one of eight programs, ranging from toddlers to Senior High (Year 11-12). Quiz Worx served the Primary Program with puppetry, music and stories, while Tom Stanton taught Junior High, and Craig Tubman in Senior High.
QuizWorx at the Primary Program
“(What encouraged me most) was people praying for each other and my child engaging at the junior high program. He says KEC is the best, even better than his youth camp at our home church.” – Petunia
Junior High
“Our kids love the kids programs too and this year the youngest has moved to Junior High. They have made great friends and woke up early today to text them about their Katoomba experiences. In the evenings the kids join us in the adult sessions and what a joy to see them participate and make notes of their learnings.” – Stella
Senior High
Catch up on KEC 2026 on KCC One!
If you missed out on KEC this year or simply want to re-listen, part one of the KEC 2026 talks are available on the KCC One app tomorrow (22/04/26) with the rest of the talks dropping weekly.
Download it now to access teaching from our KEC 26 speakers, plus other resources to help you keep encouraged year-round. Subscribe here.
We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2400 adults, youth and children gathered at Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) to be empowered by God’s Word. Through powerful Bible talks, inspiring testimonies and uplifting worship in song by bands Mountainkind and Whitefield, delegates were encouraged to 'Fear Not'.
