2021 has been another challenging year, however thanks to our dedicated members, volunteers and donors we have adapted to ensure we can continue to serve some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

Undoubtedly the highlight of 2021 for the Order of Malta Australia was the Asia Pacific Youth Camp hosted on the Gold Coast in September.

It truly was an experience of a lifetime for the participants, their carers and for our members and volunteers involved.

For guests with disabilities, the Order of Malta Youth Camp provided more than just a break from daily routine. It was an opportunity to get out in the world and be inspired by what it has to offer and be challenged in a supportive, fun environment.

Attendees at the 2021 Camp included a pair of siblings who had never been apart from their parents in over 20 years, who after battling home sickness for the first couple of days didn’t want to leave their new friends at the completion of the camp. There was also a young man who would rarely communicate verbally but was talking by the end of the camp. In another instance, a carer sent camp photos to a participant’s parents who were amazed to see their reclusive son dancing excitedly with his new friends. There were so many examples of joy, laughter, love and care during the week, and all had life changing experiences.

The camp was also life changing for our members and volunteers. One young member commented today that the experience was reminiscent of the Lourdes pilgrimage in the precious communal care and joy. An opportunity to serve people in need, nurturing a spiritually rich environment, an opportunity to live our charism and be closer to God.

The 2021 Asia Pacific Youth camp has inspired us to expand our programs assisting youth with disabilities.

Plans are already underway for smaller regional camps and activities, regular national camps in addition to participating in the annual Asia Pacific Camps once international travel opens.

This Christmas we are asking if you would make a tax-deductible gift to the Order of Malta Youth Camp project.

To ensure the ongoing viability of this initiative I also ask you consider an ongoing automatic monthly donation, to ensure we can plan future camps with confidence.

• A monthly gift of $50 could cover the costs of a disabled guest to attend a two day Camp
• A one-off gift of $200 could pay for a guest to participate in a once in a lifetime experience i.e., a dolphin encounter

Gifts of all sizes are greatly appreciated and donations of $2 and more are tax deductible.

Donations can be made online using our secure payment facility.

Thank you for your support. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families an abundance of God’s blessings this Christmas and throughout the New Year.

Yours sincerely

John Murphy

National Hospitaller