This time last year we could not have foreseen the many challenges 2020 would bring. Not only did we experience the devastating bushfires across the country but also Covid-19 continues to impact all of our lives. Thanks to our dedicated members, volunteers and donors the Order of Malta Australia have been able to adapt and ensure we can continue to serve some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

One casualty of the pandemic was our Asia Pacific Youth Camp that was scheduled to be hosted in 2020 on the Gold Coast Queensland but had to be postponed to 2021.

For over thirty years the Order of Malta, has a tradition of holding camps for disabled youth aged between 18 to 30. For guests with disabilities, the Order of Malta Youth Camps are more than just a break from daily routine. It is 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.

The objectives of the camps are:

• Help young people overcome personal barriers by providing a safe space to enjoy sports, have fun and interact with others regardless of ability.
• To forge a sense of community. Participants come together through group activities, social events and both physical and mental challenges. Through participation attendees become alumni in a global network.
• An opportunity to serve. Our newly formed Order of Malta Volunteers (OMV) will formulate and oversee activities and care of our special participants. This camp will be life changing for the participants and volunteers alike.

For the 2021 camp, 150 young people with disabilities, volunteers and carers will come together for a once in a lifetime experience of fun, friendship and adventure at a premier sporting facility on the Gold Coast. Guests from all around the Asia Pacific region and Australia will participate, including those from disadvantaged communities in the outback.

The venue was chosen as it has elite facilities and services accessible for those with disabilities. As with all our activities, strict safeguarding and Covid safety precautions will be followed.

As hosts we need to raise $250,000 for the accommodation, meals and activities for participants over five days. This Christmas we are appealing for donations to the Order of Malta to provide our disabled guests with a once in a lifetime opportunity.

A gift of:

• $500 could cover all meals for one participant
• $1,650 could pay for a disabled guest to attend the camp
• $5,000 could pay for the theme park excursion

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