UPDATE: 2021 Order of Malta Youth Camp on the Gold Coast
Christien Saklawy pictured with his mother Janet in Hong Kong 2019
“I participated in the Order for Malta Camp for Young Adults in Hong Kong in October 2019. It was one of the best weeks of my life. For once, I was allowed to be myself. It was OK and normal to be me, not the “disabled me”.
The volunteers were caring, encouraging and went out of their way to ensure I had a great time.
I made lots of new friends and loved travelling overseas. I really had a ton of fun doing things outside my comfort zone and would normally not have the opportunity to try. I got to do archery and table tennis and rock climbing and went on a roller coaster. I even got up on stage and performed (with others!!).
I just can’t wait to enjoy that again on the Gold Coast in 2021. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.”
Christien Saklawy, Australian participant in the 2019 Order of Malta Asia Pacific Youth Camp in Hong Kong
The Australian Association’s hosting of the Asia Pacific Young Camp has been like so many things in 2020 affected by the current COVID -19 pandemic. However with excellent support from the Queensland Department of Education, at who’s facilities the Camp will be held, the camp has been rescheduled for 19th to 24th September 2021.
The Camp is a wonderful opportunity for The Order’s guests who have challenges in their lives, their carers and an enthusiastic group of volunteers to come together for constructive fellowship and personal growth.
The Australian Association continues to plan for a Camp encompassing all the Asia Pacific Associations and delegations of The Order of Malta. The COVID requirements will at all times be factored into those plans. Fundraising will be actively managed to allow the best Camp possible to be provided for the 150 guests, carers and volunteers expected to attend.
We need to raise $250,000 to host the 2021 Asia Pacific Youth Camp. Donations to support this project are tax deductible.
