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Articles Tagged: blue mountains events

“A Reset Button for Me”: Corey’s BASECAMP Story  

For Corey Matthews, BASECAMP has been a spiritual reset for over two decades. In this interview, Corey reflects on the power of gospel-centered teaching, the strength found in shared vulnerability, and why he believes BASECAMP is one of the best investments a man can make each year. 

1. Please introduce yourself! 

My name is Corey Matthews. I’ve been married to my wife Carla for 33 years now and we have 4 delightful adult kids, all of them have wonderful partners, 3 of them married and the last one is planning to be married later this year. To date, we have three beautiful grandkids and we are loving this new stage in life.  

2. How long have you attended BASECAMP?  
I’ve been attending BASECAMP, when possible, since around 2001. 

3. How has BASECAMP encouraged your faith?

In my early years of becoming a Christian and attending BASECAMP, I clearly remember the profound impact these events have had on me. They still do today but I think I’ve become more expecting of it knowing how good the teaching and preaching always is.  

It’s like a reset button for me, I can be so easily distracted by worldly influences. Conferences like this, sitting under solid teaching for an extended period, enables a spiritual recharge or refocus and gets my perspective and priorities realigned. I think we need this, we need constant reminders of God’s amazing grace. 

It’s like a reset button for me, I can be so easily distracted by worldly influences. Conferences like this, sitting under solid teaching for an extended period, enables a spiritual recharge or refocus and gets my perspective and priorities realigned.

4. Why do you think men should set aside time to attend conferences like BASECAMP? 

I think the vulnerability I have seen by those that have been interviewed or have given testimonies over the years that has been so powerful. Whether it’s been stories of conquering addictions, dealing with chronic illness or disability, or just struggling with sin in general. Understanding that we are all so dependent on God’s grace as we journey through life, and hearing of other people’s experiences and their trust in God, is always such an encouragement to me. 

Understanding that we are all so dependent on God’s grace as we journey through life, and hearing of other people’s experiences and their trust in God, is always such an encouragement to me. 

As my wife so rightly says, why wouldn’t  you set aside time for such an amazing opportunity to sit under God’s word with your brothers in Christ and listen to relevant topics that us men need to hear. It’s such a privilege and so many of our brothers from around the world would love to have the accessibility that we do in Sydney, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. 

It’s such a privilege and so many of our brothers from around the world would love to have the accessibility that we do in Sydney, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. 

5. What would you say to someone who’s thinking about coming to BASECAMP for the first time? 
It’s one of the best investments, of both your time and money, you’ll make all year! 

Register for BASECAMP 2025

The theme for BASECAMP is ‘Wise up with Jesus’ — Strength & purpose through Jesus’ wisdom. Join us to find wisdom for your life that really works!

Standard ticket rates apply from now till 27 July. We also provide heavily discounted rates for our interstate and regional brothers who join us online due to their distance from Katoomba.

Register here: https://basecampmen.com/registration/

For Corey Matthews, BASECAMP has been a spiritual reset for over two decades. In this

By Patrizha Yeomans

Seeking The Kingdom First at KEC 2025

We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2,400 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, delegates were encouraged to seek the Kingdom first.  

Among the many who joined us, delegates travelled from Western Australia to be there in person, while another tuned in via livestream all the way from Singapore.  

During the Monday open mic session, Wesley from Darwin shared, “Coming here and singing hymns that everyone knows, feeling the building reverberate with so many voices… it’s something I only get when I’m here.” 

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. 

“It’s an annual commitment we make to “reset” for the year.  We are always challenged and encouraged in our relationship with God through the bible talks and program.” – Lisa, KEC 25 Attendee 

“KEC spiritually continues to fill me up every year I come, thank you.” – Greer, KEC 25 Attendee 

“I loved being inspired and challenged from hearing God’s word taught with clarity, and the great opportunity to meet together with other believers of all ages, from many locations and denominations to fellowship together “All one in Jesus Christ”. – Denise, KEC 25 Attendee 

This year 1,912 delegates joined the Adult Program to hear from a wide range of international and local speakers. We were blessed by the faithful teaching of Kirk Patston, Glen Scrivener, and Phil Ryken, and encouraged by special guest Anna Powell, who shared short talks every evening. Anna’s honest reflections helped us see our stories—failures and all—through a kingdom lens. As she reminded us, “I am completely secure in Him, and this is a kingdom worth seeking first.” 

Throughout the weekend, we were reminded that while the world shouts “seek success, sex, self, and stuff!”, Jesus gently calls us to something far better: seek first the Kingdom of God. We were challenged to pray “Thy Kingdom Come” not just with words, but with Kingdom-shaped prayers that reflect our deep longing to see God at work—in our lives, our churches, and our world. 

Kirk Patston took us deep into the book of Job, leading us through riddles and the raw poetry of suffering. His thoughtful teaching reminded us that the ‘heavy chapters of lament in the Bible is to assure us that God is thoroughly familiar with how hard our lives can be’. Through Job’s story, we were encouraged to remain faithful in both joy and sorrow, to trust God in the uncertainty, and that He is always worthy of praise. 

On Sunday, we were also challenged by Phil Ryken to proclaim the Kingdom—to be bold, contagious Christians who seize every opportunity to speak of Jesus.  

Here is what a few KEC 25 delegates had to say about the talks:   

“The encouragement from God’s Word was delivered through all the speakers.” – Lei 

“It is so hard to pick (what encouraged me most) because the concept of Seeking First the Kingdom encompasses all. I was really struck by the idea of a perspective shift, where instead of seeing where/how I can invite God into my life and plans, looking at how He’s already working and asking to be a part of His plans.” – Rylea 

“I love the high calibre talks, I’m really spurred on in my faith every year.” – Tina  

While adults enjoyed rich teaching and fellowship in the main session, 555 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 Kohei Yamada taught Junior High, and Joshua Kim in Senior High. 

“Our son, Isaac, has been talking about Jesus dying on the cross for our sins so we can go to heaven! Touches our hearts and we’re so thankful for the wonderful teaching there every year.” – Abigail  

“Our youngest child (12) said to me today that every year KEC is the highlight of her year. This is especially because she’s made such good friends and really engaged with the night sessions. Her new friendships are so precious to her as they grow together in faith. And she just loves the evening sessions – being able to sing with so many people, to hear challenging Bible talks, to have fun over supper and to hear encouraging life stories. Our other kids also look forward to KEC each year and would be devastated if we didn’t come.” – James  

Catch up on KEC 2025 on KCC One! 

If you missed out on KEC this year or simply want to re-listen, part 1 of the KEC 2025 talks will be available from Wednesday, 7 May on the KCC One app!

Download it now to access teaching from Glen Scrivener, Phil Ryken, Kirk Patston, and Anna Powell—plus other resources to help you keep seeking first the kingdom all year round. 

“Kirk’s talks were EXCELLENT and I purchased the KCC+ subscription to re-listen to them!” – Laur a

Save the dates for KEC 2026! 

Katoomba Easter Convention will return next Easter long weekend, 3-6 April 2026. Jim Samra will join us to teach from God’s word. Sign up to our mailing list to be the first to hear about KEC 2026 registrations and event updates.   

We praise God that over the Easter long weekend, over 2,400 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, delegates were encouraged to seek the Kingdom first.  

By Patrizha Yeomans

“A Rare Gift”: 20 Years of BASECAMP

Having attended BASECAMP for over 20 years, Jason shares how the event has become a treasured space where men gather to depend on the grace and goodness of God. In this story, he reveals how BASECAMP consistently challenges and refreshes his faith, and why he continues to return year after year. 

1. Can you please introduce yourself?  

Hello, my name is Jason Perini. I am 41 and attend Bulli Anglican Church. I have been attending men’s events at KCC for over 20 years and BASECAMP since it began. A few men from my church all travel up to BASECAMP City together, it’s always a meaningful day for me. 

2. Why did you start attending and what keeps you coming back? 

I started attending BASECAMP because I need it. 

Like most of us, life can weigh me down and BASECAMP is a God given gift to help lift me up. Each year, I marvel at all these men coming together. We collectively depend on the grace and goodness of God to direct us towards humility, praise, and love for Jesus and each other.  

I am grateful to L-T and his team that they keep making BASECAMP such a valuable ministry to men. 

3. Tell us a BASECAMP highlight! 

For me, the highlights are never one thing, but the combination of things together that make BASECAMP what it is. 

I once heard a story about a musician that got frustrated with playing the piano because he wanted to find the notes in between the notes the piano offered. He could sense there was more music in the piano that he could get at, so he started playing the fiddle because it offered him more notes, more music. I have no idea about music, pianos or fiddles but for me, BASECAMP reminds me there are more notes, more music to my Christian life that I often get access to in my local church context. 

It’s of great personal joy to me that BASECAMP steers away from cliches and surface level faith. 

The whole day – from the teaching, singing, interviews and everything in between, is trying to draw me closer to God and my brothers. That’s a rare gift in my experience, and one I treasure. 

4. How has BASECAMP challenged and encouraged your faith? 

BASECAMP challenges and encourages me to go deeper in my relationship with my Heavenly Father. It challenges me to pay attention to the layers and complexities of being a man in 2025. It reminds me of the wonder and security found in knowing Jesus as Lord, Saviour, and Brother, the Holy Spirit as Comforter and Guide, and experiencing God as a loving, tender, and strong Father. 

5. Why would you recommend BASECAMP to others? 

I would recommend BASECAMP to all men at any season of life. 

If you’re in a season of feeling ‘on fire’ for God in your faith, I believe it will fan that flame. 

If you’re in a season of feeling ‘stale, dry and flat’ in your faith, I believe it will give fresh air and refreshment. 

Wise Up With Jesus at BASECAMP 2025

There are a multitude of men, especially young men, looking for something that works. This is why Jordan Peterson has more than 8,000,000 followers, Joe Rogan has 14,500,000 listeners and Andrew Tate has more than 9,000,000 disciples.

These men offer something that ‘works’. Get rich. Get a woman. Get fit. And in Peterson’s case, 12 Rules for Life that will take you from an anxious, lost boy to a confident, productive man. They offer something that works, and men (especially young men) are running towards them.

Yet, in Jesus, we have what really works. A Savior that never disappoints. A well that never runs dry. A truth that sets the captives free.  A wisdom for life that never fails. This is why the theme for BASECAMP is ‘Wise up with Jesus’ — Strength & purpose through Jesus’ wisdom. Join us to find wisdom for your life that really works!

Choose the BASECAMP format that works for you: 

  • a six-hour recharge in Sydney;
  • an overnight weekend retreat in the Mountains; or
  • join us online from wherever you are!
Register Today

Having attended BASECAMP for over 20 years, Jason shares how the event has become a

By Patrizha Yeomans

“A Great Gift and Privilege”: How KEC Encouraged Kathryn’s Family 

For Kathryn and her family, Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) was an opportunity to step out of life’s busyness and be deeply encouraged in their faith. Though they had only attended one day of KEC in 2023, last year they committed to the full experience. Read Kathryn’s story below.

Caption: Kathryn and her husband, Amish

1. Can you please introduce yourself and your family?

My name is Kathryn, and I attended KEC 2024 with my husband, Amish, and two daughters, Jasmine and Lani (16 and 19 years old). While we had attended one day of KEC 2023, this was our first KEC that we attended in full.   

2. What made you start attending KEC?

For a number of years now, we have had numerous friends share their own KEC experiences and speak highly about the entire weekend. It was this alongside their kind invitation to attend with them that encouraged us to start attending. 

3. What was the highlight of your KEC experience?

As this was our first year attending, we felt everything was a highlight – the ease of registering, friendly welcomers, meeting new and old faces, worshipping God together, learning and growing in God’s word. My daughters also attended the night sessions which they absolutely loved.

4. How has KEC encouraged your faith

I was particularly encouraged by the intentionality to live Hebrews 10:25 [in] ‘not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.’  It is a great gift and privilege to worship alongside my family, friends and others, share in God’s Word, and bear each other’s burdens. Alongside this, it has reminded me that my journey with Christ is not a solitary one. Instead, it is woven into the fabric of a much larger story – one where each person’s faith contributes to building and strengthening the whole body of Christ. 

It is a great gift and privilege to worship alongside my family, friends and others, share in God’s Word, and bear each other’s burdens. Alongside this, it has reminded me that my journey with Christ is not a solitary one.

5. Why would you recommend KEC to other families?

Whether you are exploring faith or a seasoned Christian, KEC invites you to explore your questions, share your burdens and joys, and meet like-minded people doing just the same. It is a safe environment for all ages, where talks and activities are both engaging and transformative. 

Can’t make it in-person? Join us online!

Easter Convention kicks off NEXT FRIDAY! For those who just can’t make it in-person, our online program is still a fantastic way to do KEC. You can livestream over the weekend, or catch up on-demand with 30 days access. Either way, don’t miss out!

If you’re keen for a day trip, KEC day tickets are also on sale, so you can still experience time away from life’s busyness, listen to powerful, fantastic preaching and enjoy family time in the beautiful Blue Mountains.

Visit our website for more information: https://easterconvention.com/ or go to https://easterconvention.com/register/ to register your place!

For Kathryn and her family, Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) was an opportunity to step out of life’s busyness and be deeply encouraged in their faith. Though they had only attended one day of KEC in 2023, last year they committed to the full experience. Read Kathryn’s story below.

By Patrizha Yeomans

3 Reasons To Attend Spark This Year

There are a lot of conferences, camps, and weekends away out there. So why make time for Spark? Simple: Spark isn’t just another event—it’s a space created just for you, a young adult navigating real life, real faith, and a world that’s constantly trying to define what matters.

1. Biblical teaching that actually challenges you

At Spark, you won’t just get feel-good vibes or Instagrammable quotes. You’ll hear biblical truth, taught clearly and powerfully, that calls you to something deeper: a life of holiness. It’s the kind of teaching that stays with you, sparks conviction, and pushes you to live differently on Monday—not just on Sundays.

And this year, we’re thrilled to welcome Preston Perry.

Poet, apologist, and truth-seeker—Preston brings deep theology in a way that actually makes sense. You’ve seen him on With the Perrys, Apologetics with Preston Perry, or heard his bold, thoughtful takes on culture and faith. In August, he’s joining us at Spark to bring real talk, bold faith, and some serious wisdom.

2. A community of young adults who get it

Faith can feel lonely in this stage of life. Maybe you’re the only Christian at your uni. Or maybe you’re working and wondering how to hold onto your faith when it makes you unpopular.

At Spark, you’ll meet hundreds of others just like you—young adults who get it. Who are asking the same big questions, who are trying to figure out how to follow Jesus when the world is constantly offering something else. You’ll find real community here—and maybe even friendships that last beyond the weekend.

3. You only get one life—live it for Jesus

The world tells you to “find yourself,” chase experiences, hustle, grind, repeat. But what if your life is meant for something more?

The truth is: you get one shot at this life. It’s not a test run. And what you do now—how you choose to live, who you choose to follow—really matters.

Spark is here to help you stop sleepwalking through life. To wake you up to the incredible purpose God has for you. To remind you that holiness isn’t boring—it’s bold. It’s radical. And it’s the life you were made for.

So why Spark? This year could be the one where something shifts. Where God calls you to more. Where you finally stop chasing what the world offers and start chasing Him.

We’d love to see you there.

🎟 Secure your spot now → https://sparkconference.com.au/register
📍 SPARK 2025 | “Be Holy As I Am Holy” (1 Peter 1:16)

There are a lot of conferences, camps, and weekends away out there. So why make

By Patrizha Yeomans

Sneak Peek of Talks at KEC25

With only a few weeks to go until Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC), we’re excited to give you a preview of what’s in store for the adult program this year! Our speakers—Phil Ryken, Kirk Patston, and Glen Scrivener—will be opening the Scriptures to help us explore what it truly means to seek God’s Kingdom first. Here’s what you can expect from their talks:

Kingdom Come! – Phil Ryken

What does it really mean to seek God’s Kingdom first? Phil Ryken will be unpacking this question in a four-part sermon series titled Kingdom Come!. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, he will challenge us to consider how the Kingdom of God shapes our priorities, transforms our prayer life, fuels our evangelism, and anchors our hope for eternity. Expect rich biblical teaching that will encourage and equip you to live each day with Kingdom-minded purpose.

Stubborn Seeking – Kirk Patston

Life is full of hardships, disappointments, and suffering—but how do we continue to seek God’s Kingdom in the midst of them? Kirk Patston will be preaching from the book of Job in a series called Stubborn Seeking. His talks will explore the difficult questions that arise in suffering—questions about our faith in God, our expectations of life, and our relationships with family and community. Through Job’s story, Kirk will point us toward the faithfulness of God and the hope that sustains us in trials.

Christ’s Passion – Glen Scrivener

Before we can seek God’s Kingdom, we must first look to the One who sought it perfectly—Jesus. In his three-part series Christ’s Passion, Glen Scrivener will open up the Psalms to show us how Jesus is the ultimate ‘seeker’ of God’s Kingdom. His zeal and devotion serve as both our hope and our example, strengthening our faith and deepening our love for God. These talks will be a powerful reminder that our ability to seek God first is only possible because Christ sought us first.

KEC25 is shaping up to be an incredible weekend of learning, fellowship, and encouragement. We can’t wait to see how God will use these talks to challenge and grow us in faith. If you haven’t registered yet, now is the time—don’t miss out!

There’s still time to register!

With only a few weeks to go until Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC), we’re excited to

By Patrizha Yeomans

Faith, Friendship, and Firepit Chats: Why BASECAMP is More Than a Conference 

Every year, hundreds of men gather at BASECAMP with a shared desire—to grow in faith, strengthen their relationships, and be challenged by solid biblical teaching. For Mike, BASECAMP has been a transformative experience. It’s not just the powerful teaching or the atmosphere of worship that stands out, but the depth of conversations it sparks.  

1. Introduce yourself and how long you’ve been attending BASECAMP!  

My name is Mike and I’m a Youth Pastor at Harbourside Church in Mosman. I’ve probably been coming along to Basecamp for 7/8 years. 

2. What have been some of the highlights of attending BASECAMP? 

The shared gathering of a couple thousand blokes all with a desire to deepen faith and strengthen relationships with one another is a big highlight for me. I’ve often seen incredible depth in relationships form over the weekend as our groups have spent time reflecting and discussing content that we’ve been hearing. I’ve personally found some great strength in one particular relationship with a mate of mine and our times at BASECAMP discussing the content has had a huge part to play in that.  

A favourite memory would be what BASECAMP helps facilitate rather than something specific at the conference. As our group often stays the full weekend (in the Mountains), we had a great firepit night on the Sunday evening. It followed on from the content we had in the 2023 edition and provided a space and language to have a chat about how we were honestly doing with our emotions as well as a commitment to support one another. Without BASECAMP’s content and encouragement to pursue those sorts of things, stuff like that wouldn’t happen with our group of lads. 

3. How has BASECAMP encouraged your faith? 

I always come away from BASECAMP with a strong challenge, regardless of the teaching content. I think that’s largely down to the commitment and focus to provide good solid Biblical teaching that challenges me to ask some really good questions of myself, my faith and my lived experience following Jesus. I’ve never come down the mountain and thought, “Ah, well I didn’t really get much from that one.” It’s always been a transformative weekend and I leave encouraged and refreshed. 

BASECAMP provides just a small space within the grand scheme of a year to take some time out and hang out as a bunch of lads, to know we’ll get solid teaching, great content and have plenty of food for thought that will foster great conversations both up at the mountain and back home.

4. Why do you think men should set aside time to attend conferences like BASECAMP? 

Particularly in the church on Sundays, it’s tough to have properly deep conversations, where you actually work through the hard/serious/challenging/emotional stuff. It’s often just checking in and seeing how each other’s weeks were. Which don’t get me wrong, that’s great, but it doesn’t always scratch the itch for real depth in relationships. BASECAMP provides just a small space within the grand scheme of a year to take some time out and hang out as a bunch of lads, to know we’ll get solid teaching, great content and have plenty of food for thought that will foster great conversations both up at the mountain and back home. I couldn’t encourage it more highly to men’s groups of all sizes in churches. 

Men, we know you love a good deal so make sure to grab your early bird tickets before they end this month!

Register here

Every year, hundreds of men gather at BASECAMP with a shared desire—to grow in faith,

By Patrizha Yeomans

“20 Years of Encouragement”: Merilyn’s KEC Story

Through powerful teaching, shared worship, and time spent with others, Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) has left a lasting impact on countless families. Merilyn’s story is one of them. With over 20 years of KEC under her belt, it has been a significant part of her walk with God.

Caption: Merilyn and her family

1. Please introduce yourself!

Hi! I’m Merilyn, and I’m married to my wonderful husband, Ray. We’ve been very blessed with three terrific children who are all married now, and we have five beautiful grandkids, with another one on the way!

Caption: Merilyn and her husband, Ray at Katoomba

2. How many KEC’s have you been to and what made you start attending?

We’ve been to about 20 KECs since our first back in 2003. Our good friend Helen from church had been encouraging us for a few years, and we’re so thankful she didn’t give up! We had a great time, and our kids—who were 12, 11, and 9 at the time—really enjoyed it too. They were eager to go back the next year, so we did! We also then took my sister’s family along, and that became our rhythm for many years.

3. Can you share a KEC highlight?

There’s a moment I’ll always remember, though it’s hard to fully describe. It was from one of the speakers, who passionately spoke the threefold “Holy, holy, holy”. The words were so loud and deep, echoing through the auditorium in a powerful way. Even though it was many years ago, every time I read those words, I’m reminded of the awesomeness and greatness of God – He is Worthy!!

4. How has KEC encouraged your faith?

God always has something to teach me, I never choose KEC based on the theme or who the speakers might be, the songs, others who share… I know it’s going to help me grow in my Christian walk.

God always has something to teach me, I never choose KEC based on the theme or who the speakers might be, the songs, others who share… I know it’s going to help me grow in my Christian walk.


As a couple, we haven’t been able to attend KEC in person recently. Instead, we’ve gathered a small group of others who are also unable to attend. For the four days of the convention, we meet in a different home each day to fellowship, share, and experience the convention together in a new way.

5. Why would you recommend KEC to others?

KEC brings together people from many denominations, it’s a beautiful reminder that we’re all part of the same body and are indeed ‘all one in Christ Jesus’.

Caption: Merilyn and her family at KEC 2019!

It’s not too late to register!

It’s not too late to register for KEC 2025! Whether it’s a full weekend, or just a day, you can still experience time away from life’s busyness, listen to powerful, fantastic preaching and enjoy family time in the beautiful Blue Mountains.

For those who just can’t make it in-person, our online program is still a fantastic way to do KEC. Either way, don’t miss out!

Register here

Through powerful teaching, shared worship, and time spent with others, Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) has left a lasting impact on countless families. Merilyn’s story is one of them. With over 20 years of KEC under her belt, it has been a significant part of her walk with God.

By Patrizha Yeomans

9 Ways To Prepare For KYCK25

Across three weekends this April, high schoolers across NSW will gather for the KYCK youth conference. Speakers Nathan Lee and Danny Mitchell will teach from the book of Galatians about freedom in Christ. Special guest Polly Butterworth will also be returning to the platform with an interactive seminar! 
  
If you’re joining us this month, here are 9 ways to prepare your hearts and minds for KYCK:    

1. Get pumped for worship with the KYCK 25 playlist       

Looking for the perfect soundtrack to get ready for KYCK 25? Whether you’re after high-energy worship or quiet praise for reflection, this playlist will help you learn the songs we’ll be singing together. Listen now! 

2. Get ready for our photo scavenger hunt  

KYCK ON isn’t happening this year, but we’ve got something just as exciting—a photo scavenger hunt with limited edition tees up for grabs!  

To join, you’ll need a social media account (or you can use your youth group’s). Get ready to crack riddles and questions over the weekend and put your puzzle-solving skills to the test! 
 
3. Meditate on the book of Galatians  

Make the most of KYCK by diving into Galatians before the weekend. Spend time reflecting on what it truly means to be free in Christ. Have questions? Write them down so you can discuss it with your group too.  

4. Learn the memory verse!  

Commit the memory verse to heart. This year, it’s Galatians 2:20.  

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 

5. Start packing!  


Start with the essentials—a Bible (physical is best for fewer distractions), a notebook/ your favourite pen to jot down key takeaways, and comfortable clothing suited for the unpredictable mountain weather. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so layer up with a warm jacket or hoodie. If rain is on the forecast, don’t forget a raincoat or umbrella. 

Other handy items? A water bottle to stay hydrated and money if you’re planning to grab food or merch.  

6. Pray for God to work powerfully through KYCK     

Prayer is powerful! Please join us in committing KYCK to God in prayer:     

  • Praise God for the 5,500+ youth that are attending KYCK25. Pray for His protection over us on site at Katoomba. 
  • Pray that as the gospel is preached at KYCK, the Spirit will work powerfully in the hearts of youth, that they will be challenged to live out the freedom that comes from being children of God. 
  • Pray that God will protect our speakers Nathan and Danny ahead of KYCK. Pray that they will preach the true gospel clearly and faithfully as well as what it means to be justified by faith in Christ alone. 
  • Pray that KYCK will be an opportunity for youth who don’t know Jesus to meet Him for the first time.     

7. Stay up to date with KYCK on socials and the KCC One app    

Stay up to date with the latest KYCK news, and interact with our live segments by following us on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok. Download the KCC One App to gain daily encouragement from KCC’s library of sermons, topical talks, testimonies, and devotionals in audio, text and video formats.   

8. RSVP for the Saturday Night BBQ   

Support high school scripture and teachers by purchasing the Saturday night BBQ at KYCK. Held each Saturday, 6.15pm-7.15pm in the Plaza, it’s $8 per person and includes 2 sausage sandwiches & a soft drink! RSVP here. 

9. Still haven’t registered? Join us online!   

If you can’t make it to Katoomba this April, you can still join us online! We’ll be live-streaming our KYCK 2 weekend (25-27 April) and you’ll have a front row seat to all the action. Click here to register today!   

Across three weekends this April, high schoolers across NSW will gather for the KYCK youth conference. Speakers

By Patrizha Yeomans

“I Had Been Praying for Years” – A Testimony of Faith at KEC 

For Camille, attending Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) for the first time wasn’t just about hearing great Bible teaching or enjoying time in the mountains — it was about witnessing God’s transforming power in a close friend’s life. Though she only attended one night session, Camille left deeply encouraged by the unity, worship, and impact of the gospel at KEC.

1. Can you please introduce yourself and when you started attending KEC?

My name is Camille. I’m 24 and I’ve been fortunate to be Christian all my life. I went to KEC last year with my boyfriend Peter, and another couple – Eliza and Ben. They were there for the entire weekend, but Peter and I just attended the night session. This was my first ever KEC!  

2. What made you start attending KEC?  

I came along to KEC because of Eliza. She has always one of my closest friends but wasn’t a Christian. She had been brought along to KEC the year before (2023) by her partner’s family, and later described to me how she was so moved during the weekend that it brought her to tears.  

That weekend was a massive turning point for her and now she has a relationship with Jesus! When she invited me to come along last year, I was really interested to see what it was all about, and what exactly it was about KEC that had been so powerful for her.  

3. Can you share a KEC highlight?  

I think my highlight was standing in the congregation, next to Eliza, thinking just how incredible it was that we were here, together, worshipping God. I had been praying for Eliza for many years and it was just so incredible to see her fully embracing the faith and so changed. We don’t go to the same church, so this is still a new and special experience for me.  

I had been praying for Eliza for many years and it was just so incredible to see her fully embracing the faith and so changed.

4. Why would you recommend KEC to others? 

KEC has been an encouragement to me in many ways, but particularly in how it has shaped Eliza’s journey. Even though I only attended one night session, I would recommend KEC as it was a beautiful way to spend Easter, surrounded by God’s family. It’s not often you’re singing with a chorus of hundreds of Christians or praying alongside that many brothers and sisters in one place. So, I really appreciate the opportunity that KEC offers for Christians from different walks of life to come together.  

Whether you spend the whole day or just join us for an evening session, there’s something for everyone at KEC. We can’t wait to see you in the mountains over Easter! Register here.

Not sure how to make the most of your day? Here’s a simple guide to help you plan your visit and enjoy everything KEC has to offer.

For Camille, attending Katoomba Easter Convention (KEC) for the first time wasn’t just about hearing

By Patrizha Yeomans
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