Church of Christ Youth Camp

DESCRIPTION

NameChurch of Christ Youth CampAlternative NameCamp GreenhalghTypeComplexGeolocation^[1] Last edited by: Will Chittick

DescriptionThe Church of Christ Youth Camp was situated on the side of the hill at the east end of The Esplanade on the rise above the present day location of the Ski Way Park.

The Following story is by David Crawford -

'28th November 1951 was a red letter day when The War Memorial Youth Centre was opened. It comprised 10 acres with 1800 feet lake frontage and a three bedroom fibro cottage. Situated at Oak Flats on the southern shore of Lake Illawarra, it was to become a force in the churches.

'The cost was $4,250. A further 10.5 acres were purchased later. A contour map and 3 dimensional model was made. Plans were drawn up and an overall site plan prepared. Tennis court and open air sanctuary was included together with many trees that were planted. Conditions were against this and trees and shrubs just did not grow.

'A general purpose hall was built using professional as well as volunteer labour and was opened on 2nd September 1954. It was named Perkins Hall.

'By this time accommodation had improved with the erection of several huts donated and built by individuals and groups. Gone was the BYO palliasse (straw provided), crockery and cutlery. Camping had taken on a new meaning.

'December 30 1955 disaster struck when a tornado hit the area. Huts were demolished while tents disappeared into space. Some people were scared but no injuries occurred and people from close churches were quick to respond to the needs of campers. The whole area was covered in a thick layer of hail stones.

'1958 saw further development when water and electricity became available. The Directors of Samuel Taylor Pty Ltd gave $17,000 for the erection of toilet and ablution blocks.

'Growth in numbers using the site were starting to show. 1957 was 600 campers and 1958, 1200. Christmas camp 1960, 61 decisions were made and 1961 a further 51. The site was now taking a step from recreation to evangelism.

'In recognition of Roy Greenhalgh’s years of service to the Youth Department as Director, and the brotherhood generally, the property was named Camp Greenhalgh. '

'At this time the telephone became available and was connected. Dial 1101 and ask for Albion Park 69682.

'A full programme of camping and group activities now took place. Missionary house parties, Christian Endeavour, Church workers, Sunday School officers and teachers.

'Hosanna Hall, a tin shed of large proportions was to be demolished, but a fire in the stored mattresses and other gear did the work for us.

'1968 the area along the shore was resumed for a road at Valuer General’s price. This area is now developed into a public park with all amenities and is worth seeing.

'1978 saw a change in direction for camping. Age ranges were different and older people were continuing to attend even after marriage. Small groups were proving beneficial when one-on-one evangelism was effective.

'The writing was on the wall. Development was starting in the area and Mount Warrigal (Native Dog Hill), was to be built on. We would be hemmed in with houses. Believing that there are no mistakes in God’s timing, a property owned by Ambassadors for Christ at Stanwell Tops came on the market. A Special Conference referred the matter to a small committee to investigate. Their findings were favourable, and a Resolution was put to the churches to sell Camp Greenhalgh and purchase Stanwell Tops.

'A meeting of churches endorsed the sale and purchased with certain conditions which were met by the vendors.

'The next phase of Camping was taking place. The purchaser of Camp Greenhalgh did not want the buildings and Dapto Church of Christ proposed that they undertake the selling of the buildings and demolition of those they could not sell. This meant the proceeds would remain in the district to extend the work of the Church.'

Information Contributed by David Crawford and John Hunter, for the publication Gillis, Kevin, 2014, 'Oak Flats Garden Suburb', The Tongarra Heritage Society.External LinkChurch and News 1962

Photograph

Church of Christ Youth Camp

Map or Plan

Lake Illawarra Including Lake Foreshores Estate Map

Place

Greenhalgh Reserve

Church of Christ Youth Camp, The Esplanade, Oak Flats.

Photo courtesy of David Crawford.

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CollectionPlacesLocalityOak FlatsPlaceGreenhalgh Reserve

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Church of Christ Youth Camp