BASECAMP in mountaineering terms is a place where climbers set up a temporary community for shelter, preparation and planning, equipping and acclimatisation, and the start of an exciting adventure. It is a place to come alongside other climbers and adventurers who are embarking on a similar expedition. It is at BASECAMP where climbers engage the skills and insights of others more experienced in what is ahead to help guide them safely to the summit and back.

Baptist Camping Victoria’s BASECAMP has a similar purpose. It is a place designed for young people to come and establish a temporary community to develop, challenge and ultimately explore their God-given futures with other likeminded people. It is a place of safety, of equipping and preparation – and definitely the start of an exciting adventure!

The traineeship has been running since 2007 with many young people completing the program. Armed with a greater sense of self and gained qualification, these graduates have gone on to successful careers in education, youth work, social work, outdoor recreation and full-time ministry roles in the Church.