AUSTRALIA—Approximately 120 people gathered for a four-day family campout hosted by the Sydney congregation from January 23-26.

Brethren from around the country responded to an open invitation, traveling from Adelaide, Melbourne, and as far away as Perth, Western Australia, to stay in cabins and tents.

This was the first congregational campout at Mount Keira Scout, although some had previously been to the site for pyc.

Brethren began arriving at the campsite at 3 p.m. Friday afternoon, busily setting up their tents and cabins under the direction of camp organizers Ben Klusenberg and Ross Macdonald.

Three group meals were included in the camp fee: Friday night dinner, Sabbath morning brunch and a Sunday spit roast. Many stayed on site the entire time, while others drove up for the day-time activities.

Friday dinner was served in the main hall, which was decorated in royal purple tablecloths and Frangipani flowers. The decorations remained for Sabbath brunch the next morning, which was cooked by a handful of volunteers.

A campfire at the main fire pit kick-started the evening activities Saturday night. Many brethren showed up to fellowship and enjoy the outdoors after a day of sitting inside for Sabbath services.

On Sunday morning, a six-a-side soccer tournament was held on the main field. Six teams participated, with brethren cheering from the sidelines and encouraging those on the field.

The day finished with a lamb-spit roast after a dip in the pool. Members ate dinner outside of the main hall, with Wollongong lights decorating the skyline. Clouds rolled in, cooling the temperature and giving relief to many with sunburns and headaches from the hot sun earlier in the day.

Perth member David Wright said he felt a sense of Philadelphian unity throughout the day. “God’s Spirit very much permeated the camp and all of the activities,” Wright said, “The campsite was a wonderful way to relax and enjoy God’s creation while being with the brethren.”

The weekend events ended with campfires, card games and fellowship.

“It was so nice to hear laughter each morning as brethren started fellowshipping,” organizer and Sydney deacon Ben Klusenberg said, “God’s Spirit was amongst us as we tent hopped for a cup of tea or coffee, a beer or wine, which provided an opportunity to deepen the family relationship and to really get to know each other. Yes, we really are a blessed people.”