As I look back on my years as a Tasmanian police officer, I can’t help but think about the countless times I encountered the devastating reality of youth suicide. Each time, it underscored the critical importance of connection. I’ve seen how powerful a sense of belonging can be for a young person, which is why I’m so passionate about the work we do at Camp Clayton.
Why Connection Matters
In Australia, suicide remains the leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 24, accounting for over 30% of deaths in these age groups (AIHW). I’ve seen firsthand the impact of isolation and hopelessness, but I’ve also seen how transformative community can be.
Camp Clayton provides a safe space where young people can leave behind their everyday pressures and build authentic, lasting relationships. Research consistently shows that strong social bonds and peer support are vital for resilience, mental health, and personal growth (National Mental Health Commission). These findings align perfectly with what we see every day at Camp Clayton. Temporary communities, like the ones we foster here, equip young people with the tools to thrive—not just during camp, but for years to come.
The Role of Peer Support and Faith
At Camp Clayton, we believe in peer-led camps empowering youth to lead from the front. These camps reflect what research tells us: peer support builds resilience, fosters trust, and creates a sense of belonging (Peer Support Australia). Like many other organisations that use our site, watching these peer-led initiatives empowering youth reminds me of their incredible power to positively impact lives.
Faith is also at the heart of what we do. At Camp Clayton, we encourage young people to explore the question, “Who do you think Jesus is?” Many find hope and purpose in their faith, which provides an unshakeable foundation in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether it’s through worship, quiet reflection, or simply being part of a community of faith, our campers leave with a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
A Personal Connection
I often think of one young person I encountered during my time in the police force. They were struggling, isolated, and overwhelmed. While I was able to connect them to the right support, I couldn’t help but think how much earlier intervention might have helped. The support, connections, and skills that could have been nurtured in a setting like Camp Clayton could have changed the story entirely.
That’s why I am so committed to what we do here. At Camp Clayton, I see young people flourish in ways that are inspiring. Whether they’re conquering their fears abseiling down a cliff, sharing laughter during a meal, or having a heartfelt conversation around a campfire, these moments of connection have a profound and lasting impact.
Join Us in Building Lasting Connections
The work we do at Camp Clayton is about so much more than activities and accommodation—it’s about building resilience, nurturing faith, and creating connections that last a lifetime. We are honoured to host organisations that run peer-led initiatives empowering youth and helping them thrive in ways that ripple through their lives.
If you’re looking for a meaningful, faith-centred experience for your school group, holiday camp, or community retreat, Camp Clayton is ready to welcome you. Together, we can create moments and connections that will endure for a lifetime.
Book now at campclayton.org.au. Let’s make a difference—together.
Written by Melle Zwerver – CEO Camp Clayton – November 2024