Young woman wearing a wide-brimmed hat and glasses outdoors, representing the KYCK Committee at Katoomba Christian Convention.

Meet the KYCK Committee: Hannah Killen

Hannah, a member of the KYCK Committee, is pictured at Katoomba Christian Convention, showcasing her involvement in youth ministry and Christian community events in Australia.

For National Volunteer Week, it’s a privilege to introduce some of the dedicated hearts that make KYCK possible. Today, the spotlight is on Hannah, who joined the committee last year!

1. Can you please introduce yourself and your role in the KYCK committee?

I’m Hannah Killen, and I’m the newest member of the KYCK committee, I joined last year and am learning and helping out wherever I can but focusing at the moment on elements of the program. 

2. Coffee or tea?

Ooo honestly until recently I drank both equally by the litre but nowadays it’s gotta be tea. 

3. What is your favourite worship song?

Now if Olivia Dean released worship music that’d be top of my list but until then, I always come back to Build My Life by Pat Barrett. 


4. Did you attend KYCK as a teenager?

I came to KYCK as a youth, and I’ve got to be honest, I couldn’t tell you what the talks were about. But I do remember the car ride chats with my leader driving and my friends in the back, and the veryyy late nights cramped on blow-up mattresses, talking through our big, unanswered questions about God.

KYCK was a big step for me in realising that being a Christian isn’t something to be ashamed of or something you should be scared to share. I felt so much bolder after KYCK because I grew closer with people from my church, and it gave me the courage to tell others about Jesus at school in the weeks, months, and even years that followed.

KYCK was a big step for me in realising that being a Christian isn’t something to be ashamed of…


5. Why do you volunteer?

I’m passionate about young people encountering the powerful life and person of Jesus, and I think that learning about Jesus and being in Christian community should be fun, full of creativity, and bursting with life. I want to be part of seeing that happen. 

6. Do you have a favourite KYCK memory?

The first time I came as a leader on the Saturday night.

When the invitation is given for those who’d like to follow Jesus to head out the back, it’s that moment before everyone returns that really undoes me. Just thinking about it… the image of heaven rejoicing as we stand together in the shed, it feels like a taste of heaven. And that’s what fuels me to keep going in ministry and to be bolder in sharing Jesus.

Just thinking about it… the image of heaven rejoicing as we stand together in the shed, it feels like a taste of heaven.

7. What’s your favourite KYCK merch item?

Can’t go past the iconic hoodies – every year they just seem to get better. 

8. Tell us how you met Jesus?

It was more a case of Jesus meeting me. I grew up always knowing He was real, but it wasn’t until my early teens, after watching a lot of hardship and suffering in my family, that I started to really doubt whether He cared about me at all.

In that mess, when I felt lost and confused about where Jesus was in all the pain my family was going through, He met me there. He showed me that He wasn’t distant or laughing at my suffering, but sitting with me in it.

In that mess, when I felt lost and confused about where Jesus was in all the pain my family was going through, He met me there.

He’d already been through it on the cross, showing His love, not to shame us for our sin, but to show us that we can’t do it on our own. He’s the one who brings us forgiveness.


9. What’s something you love about KYCK?

The list feels endless but you can’t beat the community. It’s getting to see the universal church come together under the banner of Jesus as Lord, and it’s a beautiful thing to see this cross generationally (that being, bums in seats from ages 13 to 60+). 

It’s getting to see the universal church come together under the banner of Jesus as Lord…

10. Finally, if you could go back and tell your teenage self one thing, what would it be?

Don’t idolise people or things over Jesus. Everything and everyone pales in comparison. Don’t get caught up chasing people’s approval or trying to measure up, you already have the Holy Spirit with you, speaking truth as you read God’s Word.

Don’t idolise people or things over Jesus. Everything and everyone pales in comparison

For National Volunteer Week, it’s a privilege to introduce some of the dedicated hearts that

By KCC Staff
Joshua Hayward, KYCK Committee member, smiling at the Katoomba Christian Convention event.

Meet the KYCK Committee: Joshua Hayward

Portrait of Joshua Hayward, KYCK committee member, smiling in front of a blue curtain at Katoomba Christian Convention.

For National Volunteer Week, it’s a privilege to introduce some of the dedicated hearts that make KYCK possible. This week, the spotlight is on Josh, who has been serving on the committee since 2023! Having attended the conference himself as a teenager, Josh brings a deep passion for seeing young people grow in their relationship with Jesus.

1. Can you please introduce yourself and your role in the KYCK committee?

Hi! I’m Josh, I’m currently at church at All Saints Petersham and love being part of the Program team on the committee. I’ve been on the committee since 2023.

2. Coffee or tea?

Coffee. Like, a lot.

3. What is your current and all-time favourite worship song?

Father You Are All We Need by Citizens. (So good!).

Current favourite song is probably Who You say I Am by Hillsong.


4. Did you attend KYCK as a teenager?

I did! I loved having the Bible preached in a way that was clear, applicable, and helpful, and really did help me follow Jesus. I have fond memories of going around during morning tea, meeting a bunch of people from other youth groups, and hearing about what God was doing in other parts of the world.


5. Why do you volunteer?

There is nothing better than seeing people come to know and grow in Jesus. Volunteering is a great way to serve Jesus and his people. Using the time and energy he has given me to help KYCK be faithful and fun is a no-brainer!

6. Do you have a favourite KYCK memory?

Every Saturday night ever. It is such a privilege to be a part of someone’s story with Jesus, and to sit and listen to the way God has been at work in their life in bringing them to trust in his Son for life.

7. What’s your favourite KYCK merch item?

I have a limited edition KYCK hat from maybe 2019 that I may or may not have “borrowed” from Andy Stevenson, former chair of the committee. It’s pretty well-loved (ignore the sweat stains), but I think it’s still pretty good!


8. Tell us how you met Jesus?

When I was 15, I realised that everything I had learned as a kid about Jesus was true. He really is holy, I really am sinful, but he really is gracious. And his grace is SO much bigger than my sin! So I got to trust in Him for forgiveness and life, and I’ve been loving following Him since! (And still regularly reminded that His grace is bigger than my sin).


9. What’s something you love about KYCK?

I love that KYCK is an opportunity for thousands of young people to come together for the name of Jesus and hear his Word. Especially for young people who might feel alone in the Christian life, whether they are the only Christian in their school/town or might not have a youth group at their church, KYCK is an opportunity to see that you’re not alone. Jesus is Lord, and there are a whole bunch of young people also following Him!

10. Finally, if you could go back and tell your teenage self one thing, what would it be?

Living for Jesus really is better. In every way! So live with him as King.

For National Volunteer Week, it’s a privilege to introduce some of the dedicated hearts that

By Patrizha Yeomans
Youth group of young people at KYCK 26 Christian youth event in Katoomba.

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.

KYCK 26 Draft worship team performing on stage at Katoomba Christian Convention.

“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

An engaging speaker at KYCK 26, part of the Katoomba Christian Convention, delivering a message to young attendees.

“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.

A speaker at KYCK 26 conference on stage with a large screen behind, delivering a message about unity in Christ.

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

An inspiring speaker at KYCK 26 youth conference, delivering a message of faith and hope on stage with vibrant background visuals.

“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 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

Over three weekends, more than 5,600 teenagers and youth leaders attended the KYCK conference in Katoomba. Founded

By KCC Staff
Group of young people engaged in worship at Katoomba Christian Convention, with hands raised in a dark, vibrant setting.

7 Ways To Prepare For KYCK26

KYCK is just around the corner and whether it’s your first time or your fifth, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few simple ways to get ready for the weekend ahead.

If you’re joining us this month, here are 9 ways to prepare your hearts and minds for KYCK:    

1. RSVP for the Saturday Night BBQ

Make the most of your Saturday night and register for the BBQ. It’s a great chance to hang out and support high school Scripture and teachers!

Time: 6.15pm–7pm
Cost: $9 per person (includes 2 sausages + a soft drink)

RSVP here.

Young people enjoying BBQ at KYCK26 event.
Group of youth at outdoor BBQ night during KYCK26 Christian youth event in Katoomba.

2. Get the Playlist on Repeat

Put the KYCK Spotify playlist on repeat and come ready to sing LOUDLY!

3. Make Your KYCK Stycks

Making your KYCK Stycks is all part of the fun and a way to represent your youth group! Find all the guidelines about making your Stycks here.

Colourful KYCK-themed sticks with messages for youth event preparation at Katoomba Christian Convention.
Brightly decorated KYCK sticks with motivational messages and symbols to remind youth to prepare for the KYCK26 event at Katoomba.

4. Learn the memory story!

We’re doing things a bit differently this year. Instead of a memory verse, we’re doing a memory story! Start learning it now. Watch the video here or spend some time memorising the graphic so you’re ready to go for the weekend.

Zacchaeus' story of repentance and forgiveness at Katoomba Christian Convention.
Illustration of Zacchaeus’ memory story with key points about his transformation and Jesus’ interaction.

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, and we’d love you to join us in bringing KYCK before God:

  • Pray for those who don’t yet know Jesus, that KYCK would be the place where they come to know Him for the first time.
  • Praise God for the 6,000+ youth attending KYCK this year, and pray for safety as everyone travels and gathers in Katoomba.
  • Pray that as the gospel is preached, the Spirit would work powerfully. That it would challenge and grow young people to live with eternity in mind.
  • Pray for our speakers, Pre, Chris, and Katie, that they would be faithful, clear, and bold as they teach, helping us understand God’s mercy through the book of Jonah.

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.   

KYCK is just around the corner and whether it’s your first time or your fifth, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few simple ways to get ready for the weekend ahead.

By KCC Staff

Growing Together in God’s Garden: Dylan’s KYCK Story

Growing up in a Christian family, faith has always been part of Dylan’s story. But like many young believers, Dylan has had her share of doubts and questions about God. Over the years, KYCK has strengthened her faith and filled her with joy as she worships alongside thousands of brothers and sisters in Christ.

1. Please introduce yourself!

Hey, I’m Dylan Clark. I go to Kensington Eastlakes Anglican Church, and I’ve been to KYCK six times—sometimes twice in one year and with different churches like Wild St and Sydney East Anglican.

2. Tell us a little about your faith journey.

I was blessed to grow up in a Christian family; my dad is a minister, so church has always been a big part of my life. I don’t remember the exact moment I decided to follow Jesus because, for as long as I can remember, I’ve always known Him.

Of course, being human, I’ve had my ups and downs. There have been many times when I stumbled or doubted my beliefs, but God was always bigger than my struggles.

3. Main takeaway from KYCK 2025?

A big takeaway KYCK 25 was the reminder that we’re all part of God’s garden—we don’t need to grow alone. Our Father in heaven cares for us deeply, and we’re called to care for one another in that same love.

A big takeaway KYCK 25 was the reminder that we’re all part of God’s garden—we don’t need to grow alone.

4. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

During my early high school years, I began to realise how deeply sin affects the world—and that it’s not something you can hide from. It broke my heart to see friends drifting away from God, but KYCK reminded me that I’m not alone. There are so many others standing firm and struggling faithfully in this sinful world. Hearing thousands of voices praising God together was so encouraging!

…KYCK reminded me that I’m not alone. There are so many others standing firm and struggling faithfully in this sinful world.

5. What’s been a highlight at KYCK?

I have so many highlights from over the years, but if I had to choose one, I’d say this year’s KYCK Week 2 with Wild St was unforgettable. We were right at the back and ended up standing on our chairs during worship—it was such a beautiful sight seeing everyone around me praising God together as brothers and sisters in Christ.

6. What would you say to say to someone who has never been to KYCK?

I’d recommend KYCK because it’s always one of the best weekends of the year. It encourages me so much and helps me grow in my faith and love for God. And honestly, why not? It’s three days to love, live, and learn about God!

It’s three days to love, live, and learn about God!


Registrations are now open! In 2026, we’ll dive into the book of Jonah to discover the depths of God’s great mercy. How deep does His mercy go?

Deep enough to save a rebellious prophet, a whole city, and the world through Jesus. Don’t miss out on a weekend away in God’s Word with thousands of other youth. Register now to secure the best price!

Growing up in a Christian family, faith has always been part of Dylan's story. But like many young believers, Dylan has had her share of doubts and questions about God. Over the years, KYCK has strengthened her faith and filled her with joy as she worships alongside thousands of brothers and sisters in Christ.

By Patrizha Yeomans

From Youth to Leader: Rylan’s Heart for KYCK

Rylan’s faith grew gradually, shaped by family, church, and a moment of conviction in high school that made things real. These days, he leads youth up in Port Macquarie. Rylan shares what keeps him coming back to KYCK: worshipping with thousands, watching young people step into faith, and remembering that we never “graduate” from growing in Christ.

1.   Please introduce yourself!

Hey everyone, my name is Rylan, i’m 19, and currently youth leading at Centre Youth (Camden Haven Anglican Church) up near Port Macquarie, and I have attended KYCK 4 times, 2 as a youth and 2 as a leader.

2.   Tell us a little about your faith journey!

I grew up in a family who loved Jesus. My parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles have all been a part of my faith journey. I had the privilege of going to a Christian school and I grew up in church, but my faith wasn’t really my own until later on in my childhood. In Year 8 or 9 we had an Easter service at my youth group where God really spoke to me and convicted of my sins. It was at this point I truly understood what sin was, what that meant for my life and that I needed Jesus to save me.

From there life didn’t just become easy and my worries didn’t all go away, but now I have hope and understanding in my purpose and identity in knowing Jesus as my personal Saviour. Today, I am still growing and learning day by day, but I have Jesus by my side always.

Today, I am still growing and learning day by day, but I have Jesus by my side always.

3.    What stood out for you at KYCK 25?

It has been a couple months now but I think something that really stood out for me from KYCK 2025 was that we don’t graduate from faith. As Christians we don’t just stop growing at a certain point. The word of God is living and so our lives with Jesus should be continually growing as we keep striving to be more like Jesus each day. 

4.    How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

There really is nothing like being in a room full of thousands of teens and leaders worshiping God altogether. KYCK is a big family and a taste of what it’s going to be like in heaven. To be surrounded by so many likeminded Christians and to play some part in people coming to know Jesus for the first time is truly special. Every time I go, I am encouraged by the Biblical teaching and fellowship with so many believers.

KYCK is a big family and a taste of what it’s going to be like in heaven.

5.   What is a favourite memory from KYCK?

Too many good memories to choose from so I’ll just pick some from 2025! Our youth went to KYCK #2 (some of you might have seen my videos), but a highlight was definitely taking my youth around and interviewing teens during breaks or before sessions. It was a great way to meet new people and interact, but I also loved seeing my youth kids get out of their comfort zones and do these funny little interviews. Also seeing my home church MBM lead worship was amazing. 


Register for KYCK 26!

Registrations are now open! In 2026, we’ll dive into the book of Jonah to discover the depths of God’s great mercy. How deep does His mercy go?

Deep enough to save a rebellious prophet, a whole city, and the world through Jesus. Don’t miss out on a weekend away in God’s Word with thousands of other youth. Register now to secure the best price!

Rylan’s faith grew gradually, shaped by family, church, and a moment of conviction in high

By Patrizha Yeomans

Finding Joy Where It Lasts: Abbie’s KYCK Story

After years of knowing about God but living like the world, it was at KYCK 2022 that everything changed. Surrounded by joyful worship and powerful teaching, Abbie recommitted her life to Christ and discovered a joy far deeper than anything she’d found elsewhere. Now, four KYCKs later, she continues to grow in faith, leaning into God’s love and living out her identity as His child.

1. Please introduce yourself!

Hi!! My name is Abbie and I’m from Fusion youth group (Maitland Evangelical church). 2025 was my fourth year at KYCK.

2. Tell us a little about your faith journey.

I always grew up in a Christian home and always knew God existed, but didn’t always like the concept of ‘following rules’ and ‘religious expectations’. It was in year 7 when I went to a new school and friendships got really messy. I was fully swayed by the world and the message it had for me, not God’s. It was when I attended KYCK in 2022 and realised what I’d been missing out on all this time. All my joy could be found in God. I recommitted my faith on that Saturday night, and have been striving to live my best, most honest Christian life ever since.

All my joy could be found in God.

3. Main takeaway from KYCK 2025?

My takeaway was that God plants the seeds and grows the tree of our faith, but we help to actually bear the fruit that everyone can see on the outside.

4. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

KYCK, every year, helps me to remember that I always belong in God’s kingdom and to lean further into His love and comfort. He knows us better than anyone else!

5. Favourite memory at KYCK?

The worship is always my favourite thing at KYCK. It gives the little snapshot of what heaven will feel and sound like, and nothing is more encouraging than having around 2000 young Christians singing with you.

6. What would you say to say to someone who has never been to KYCK?

You should definitely go to KYCK if you want to explore who God is and what being a Christian is. Come if you want to deepen your faith, if you want to encourage your friends in their faith, and if want a great weekend full of amazing songs, talks, food, and fun activities. I promise that you won’t regret it.


Registrations are now open! In 2026, we’ll dive into the book of Jonah to discover the depths of God’s great mercy. How deep does His mercy go?

Deep enough to save a rebellious prophet, a whole city, and the world through Jesus. Don’t miss out on a weekend away in God’s Word with thousands of other youth. Register now to secure the best price!

After years of knowing about God but living like the world, it was at KYCK

By Patrizha Yeomans

From Fitting In to Living for Jesus: Zoe’s KYCK Story

Raised in a Christian home, Zoe knew about Jesus from an early age but admits she once kept Him at the edges of her life. That all changed in 2022, when a weekend at KYCK helped her see what true joy and identity in Christ look like. Since then, Zoe’s been learning what it means to live freely as God’s child.

1. Please introduce yourself
My name’s Zoe Lane, I’m 17 years old, I go to St Matthias Youth, and I’ve attended KYCK four times now!

2. Tell us a little about your faith journey.
I’m really thankful that I was raised by faithful Christian parents. I went to church my whole life, and I grew up learning memory verses, singing Colin Buchanan songs and hearing Bible stories. I knew of Jesus and was surrounded by people that loved Him, but I tended to separate Him from the rest of my life. In primary school, I didn’t want to seem “different”, so when my friends were making a joke about Jesus or Scripture lessons, I stayed quiet. By year 7, all I wanted to do was fit in, and standing out as a Christian was not in my plan. I became consumed with pleasing others, so I matched my language and my behaviour to their worldly ways just to make people like me. When we had school chapel, I’d look around at the other kids watching the floor or rolling their eyes during the sermon and I’d do the same.

I placed Jesus in a small corner of my life to prioritise validation from my friends and the temporary happiness this brought me. When year 8 came around, my mental health started to decline. I was in different classes to my friends, and my previous efforts to fit in seemed to be losing its effect. I felt overwhelmed by anxious thoughts about how others perceived me, became increasingly quiet, and retreated from my friends and family. The image I’d built on pleasing others had fallen apart, leaving me confused about who I was and my purpose in life. I started to take Jesus seriously at KYCK in 2022, where I chose to live for Him for the first time. I went because my friends and leaders encouraged me, but as we drove up the mountain, I wasn’t thrilled for the six lengthy Bible talks.

On the first night, I was amazed at 2,000 people worshipping Jesus and began to sense a shift in my view of Him. I was captivated by the joy the speakers spoke about- not temporary happiness from human acceptance, but permanent joy in a secure identity in Jesus. I didn’t have to create an image but just be His image-bearer. When the opportunity came to go up the back and openly declare that I’d chosen to follow Christ, truthfully, I didn’t go. I regret it to this day, but I believe a small part of me that night still wanted to fit in with my friends who also didn’t go. Despite this, I know God was working in me as I chose to live for Jesus, choosing to fit into His eternity rather than fit Him into my life. As I returned to school, Philippians 4:6-7 kept my eyes on Jesus and sustained my joy.

I was captivated by the joy the speakers spoke about- not temporary happiness from human acceptance, but permanent joy in a secure identity in Jesus.

    3. Your main takeaway from KYCK 25?
    One big takeaway from KYCK 2025 for me is that I can come to Jesus broken, and He will transform me. I still easily get fixated on trying to “fix” my sin by myself, but KYCK 2025 has been a helpful reminder that it’s called the ‘fruit of the Spirit’ for good reason! It’s the Holy Spirit, not our works, that transforms us to be godlier. This relieves a huge burden to constantly try to ‘perfect’ myself, and to me, is true freedom.

    4. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?
    KYCK has really encouraged my faith by not only being a key turning point in my walk of faith but also filling me with confidence in my identity in Christ! I still tend to worry about how others perceive me- but each year at KYCK I’m reminded that God’s grace is all I need, and human acceptance doesn’t match up to it in any way! When I focus on my relationship with God first, I can trust that He will look after everything else. I don’t need to find my worth in what others think of me when the God of the universe loves me! I think this is an amazing truth that we can forget in our busy lives, but everyone should know it.

    I don’t need to find my worth in what others think of me when the God of the universe loves me!

    5. Favourite memory from KYCK?
    My favourite memory of KYCK is from 2023, when myself and my discussion group all went up the back on Saturday night and decided to recommit to Christ! Then when we went back to our accommodation, we all sat in a circle on a bed and cheerfully took turns thanking God for each other and praising Him! It was such a wholesome moment of fellowship that’s stuck with me over the years, and I always love seeing so many teenagers’ lives changed on Saturday night at KYCK.

    6. Something you’d say to someone who has never attended KYCK?
    I’d say definitely go!! Whether you’re Christian or not, KYCK is an incredible opportunity to hear about Jesus from the talks, or have questions answered from youth leaders. The games, food and worship are also always great too, and you get to build deeper friendships over the weekend!


      Registrations are now open! In 2026, we’ll dive into the book of Jonah to discover the depths of God’s great mercy. How deep does His mercy go?

      Deep enough to save a rebellious prophet, a whole city, and the world through Jesus. Don’t miss out on a weekend away in God’s Word with thousands of other youth. Register now to secure the best price!

      Raised in a Christian home, Zoe knew about Jesus from an early age but admits

      By Patrizha Yeomans

      Belonging in God’s Family: Grace’s First KYCK Experience

      For Grace, attending KYCK for the first time was an experience she’ll never forget. What struck her most wasn’t just the energy of the worship or the powerful talks, but the simple reminder that she didn’t need to prove herself to God. At KYCK, she was reminded she already belonged to His family.

      1. Introduce yourself!

      Hey! My name is Grace McNamara, and I’m currently in Year 10. I go to Albion Park Presbyterian Church, but came to KYCK with Nowra Baptist. This is my first year attending KYCK!

      2. A takeaway from the weekend?

      One thing that really spoke to me was the reminder that we don’t need to prove ourselves to God. There will be moments in life when we feel like we’re not living as part of God’s family, times when we doubt, struggle, or feel like we don’t belong. But if we collapse fully into God’s love, we’re reminded that we are saved, we are free, and we do belong.

      But if we collapse fully into God’s love, we’re reminded that we are saved, we are free, and we do belong.

      3. What would you say to someone who’s thinking about coming to KYCK next year?

      Definitely recommend it! Even if you don’t know God, it is a great way to see His impact on others, to hear their stories and feel welcomed by everyone around you.

      Everyone is super welcoming and open to talking about God and their faith. 100% recommend for anyone and everyone.

      4. How has KYCK encouraged your faith?

      KYCK has helped me grow in my faith by introducing me to heaps of other Christians that share my beliefs. It is really encouraging to be surrounded by these people and shows you that you’re not alone.

      “It is really encouraging to be surrounded by these people and shows you that you’re not alone.”

      When you sing praise at KYCK, the room is full and overflowing with voices singing their heart out and truly meaning the lyrics. The talks speak into your walk with God and have many applications to your daily life. it is an experience that really grows and encourages you.


      Registrations are now open! In 2026, we’ll dive into the book of Jonah to discover the depths of God’s great mercy. How deep does His mercy go? Deep enough to save a rebellious prophet, a whole city, and the world through Jesus. Don’t miss out on a weekend away in God’s Word with thousands of other youth. Register now to secure the best price!

      For Grace, attending KYCK for the first time was an experience she’ll never forget. What

      By Patrizha Yeomans

      From Wagga to Katoomba: Why KYCK Is Worth the Drive

      The youth of South Wagga Anglican Church make the trek each year to experience the joy of worshipping with thousands of others their age. For many of them, KYCK is a powerful reminder that they’re not alone in their faith and that even from regional Australia, they’re part of something much bigger.

      Kylie (far left in pink)

      1. Please introduce yourself!

      Hey! I’m Kylie and I’m the families & children’s minister at South Wagga Anglican Church. This was my very first KYCK, but as a church it was our fourth. We have around 200 people who attend our services each Sunday and about 20-25 youth. 

      2. Why do you make the trip to KYCK each year?

      Our youth look forward to attending KYCK each year, it’s a real highlight for them to experience such an amazing program for teens who love Jesus and are expressing their faith together.

      3. What was your group’s favourite part of the weekend?

      Our youth really loved the times of praise & worship, and the fellowship.  It can feel isolating in the country, so they were encouraged to know that there is so many other youth who follow Jesus too!

      It can feel isolating in the country, so they were encouraged to know that there is so many other youth who follow Jesus too!

      4. What was a highlight for you as a leader?

      Watching our youth connect with one another and be encouraged in their faith,  and resolve to follow Jesus more publicly when they got home.

      5. What would you say to another regional youth group thinking of coming next year?

      Start planning early to go,  it’s worth the effort to see the seeds you’ve been nurturing get a boost of fertiliser in a big weekend of lots of growth! 


      Country KYCK Bonus is back in 2026!

      Since 2014, over 6,500 country youth have made the trip to KYCK — how epic is that?!
      We know coming from the country takes extra effort, so we want to give your group a little boost to make it easier. Find out more here.


      Registrations are now open!

      In 2026, we’ll dive into the book of Jonah to discover the depths of God’s great mercy. How deep does His mercy go?Deep enough to save a rebellious prophet, a whole city, and the world through Jesus. Don’t miss out on a weekend away in God’s Word with thousands of other youth. Register now to secure the best price!

      The youth of South Wagga Anglican Church make the trek each year to experience the

      By Patrizha Yeomans
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