HeartKids are dedicated to fostering connections and providing supportive events for individuals of all ages affected by Childhood-onset Heart Disease (CoHD). Each year, we host multiple Teen Camps across Australia, bringing together young people navigating life with CoHD. These camps provide a unique opportunity for teens to connect, share experiences, build friendships, and participate in a range of exciting activities. In 2023, we hosted camps in Perth, Darwin, Victoria, and Queensland. Hosting camps across the country, made possible by our nationwide HeartKids teams, allow us to connect with a broad community of teens, providing them with memorable experiences and create important new friendships.
Queensland Teen Camp 2023
Our most recent camp was the Queensland Teen Camp on the Sunshine Coast. Over 30 wonderful teens joined us for a journey filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a number of exciting activities.
From exploring the wonders of Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium to bodyboarding sessions at Dicky Beach, engaging in a drumming workshop, and dancing the night away at the last night disco – the camp not only provided moments of fun but also fostered the development of lasting friendships and valuable insights into managing healthcare.
One teen camper reflected on her experience at Camp:
I just attended the Heartkids Teen Camp 2023 in Queensland and I had the time of my life. I would highly recommend it for anyone with a heart condition who is 13-17 – you will love it!
You can see all the fun from Teen Camps on HeartKids dedicated Instagram page for young people YouthZone.
At our Victoria Teen Camp in September we also had the privilege to create the following video with some wonderful heart teens. Hear their insights on life with CoHD and the importance of connection, made possible by events like Teen Camp!
Looking Ahead to 2024:
Our 2024 Teen Camps are already underway with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Camp being held in Sydney this week! We have three more exciting camps lined up for 2024, which are still open for registrations:
- NSW/ACT Teen Camp: Sydney, 15-18 April
- VIC/TAS/SA Teen Camp: Victoria, 30 September – 3 October
- WA/NT Teen Camp: Perth, 16-19 December
For more details on this year’s camps and to register, head to Teen Camps.
Get Involved:
Our deepest thanks go out to everyone who contributed to the success of HeartKids Teen Camps 2023 and to those offering their support in 2024. Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, or healthcare professional, your support has been instrumental in making our camps immensely successful and impactful on the lives of young people.
Curious about becoming a volunteer at one of our camps? Head over to our Teen Camps page for more information on how you can get involved and contribute to creating enriching experiences for these incredible young individuals.
