2026 HBC Family Camp FAQs
Why the change of venue from Phillip Island?
The excellent facilities, close accessibility and cheaper cost of Belgrave Heights Convention Centre makes for a refreshing change after many years at the same location.
Who is speaking / what will the teaching be like?
We’re excited to have Rev Dr Murray Capill (Reformed Theological College) bringing the main teaching across the weekend. Expect clear, Bible-rich preaching/teaching with time to reflect, discuss, and apply. The first session will be Friday night at 7:30pm, so don’t be late!
What’s the overall program structure?
Download the schedule (subject to change) here
I’m not coming to camp – what’s the plan for Sunday service?
Our regular Sunday service will be at Belgrave Heights, as part of camp. But we’re expecting the whole church on Sunday – you don’t need to have registered. Free lunch will be available for all after the service as well.
What about meals?
Belgrave Heights is proud to have MasterChef contestant Ute Klangruk heading up the kitchen. (Be sure to being the battery operated candles for a romantic dinner!) Be sure to advise of any food allergies at the time of registration.
All meals are included with your ticket.
What does accommodation look like?
There is a brand new Hope Centre with rooms of various sizes, each including a private ensuite. (But you need to book in quickly as we cannot accommodate the whole church in the Hope Centre – so first in best dressed!). There is also some budget accommodation with a shared toilet/shower block a short walk from the rooms. No linen is provided so be sure to bring your own linen.
Free Wi-Fi will be available.
Do families stay together, or are children housed with other children?
Families generally stay together, especially for younger children.
If there are any age-based youth room arrangements (e.g., older teens), that will be clearly communicated and will include appropriate supervision and consent.
Will there be specific activities for younger children?
During the two Saturday morning sessions, we are planning to provide a children’s program. This will be suitable for the Sunday School aged children.
What about “camp activities” for Saturday afternoon “free time”?
Belgrave Heights Convention Centre isn’t well known as an “activities camp”, but there will still be plenty of things to do, such as:
- Newly created low ropes course
- Recreational Centre for various ball games etc. suitable for children, youth and young adults alike!
- Additional sporting activities
- Great fellowship spaces for conversation and connection
- Kayaking at a nearby lake
- One or two group excursions to nearby walking tracks in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges
The heart of the weekend is teaching + worship + fellowship, with relaxed downtime.
Can we camp (tents/caravans)?
As this is our first time at the site, we’ve decided for security and fellowship reasons that there would be no camping.
Can I attend for just one day or part of the weekend?
Yes, you can, however, we would love you to experience as much as possible of the fellowship and teaching, so if possible, aim to be there full time. It is also essential that you register so that we know correct numbers for catering.
What should I bring?
A suggested list:
- Bible, notebook, pens
- Comfortable clothes + warm layer (evenings can be cool)
- Bedding, linen, favourite pillow, toiletries, towels and vitamins/medications
- Water bottle
- Board games, walking shoes, and a great attitude(Basically same as previous camps)
What if I have financial constraints?
Please don’t let cost be the reason you miss out. Confidential assistance (as always) is available via the elders who can provide a discount code/financial assistance to ensure you can attend.
Can I invite a friend?
Yes!
When do I need to register by?
Registration will close on midnight Sunday 1 March so we can confirm numbers and catering with the venue.
Late registrations MAY be possible for a short time, but will incur an additional fee.
What volunteers are required during camp?
During registration, you will be asked if you would like to volunteer.
WELCOMING: We would love to have a bunch of people assisting with welcoming and check-in.
FIRST AID: Ernest Tay and Dr Irene Tan will provide First Aid during the camp.
PHOTOGRAPHY: We would love to have as many exciting photos of camp as possible. These may be emailed to camp@hillsbiblechurch.org
OTHER: There’s many needs on camp. We’ll let you know (or tell us how you’d like to help out)!