NatCamp 2025, took place on 27 September – 1 October, in the Blue Mountains. The camp was filled with laughter, new friendships, and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. This year, St John Youth and Cadets from across Australia were joined by our friends from Hato Hone St John New Zealand.
NatCamp 2025 was a particularly meaningful event, as we continue to celebrate our Centenary of Youth, reflecting on the legacy of the past 100 years while looking forward to a bright future together.
Outside of competitions, participants enjoyed some incredible adventures. A day out in Sydney’s city gave participants the chance to see iconic sights including the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. The group also experienced the beauty of the Blue Mountains region with a day spent exploring the breathtaking views of the Three Sisters, riding the attractions at Scenic World, and heading out on a classic Aussie bush walk. These experiences gave everyone the chance to bond, discover new places, and enjoy some of the beautiful landscapes our state has to offer.
Competition day was action packed, with youth and cadets competing for the Sir Kingsley Norris Trophy at the National Youth Championships. Teams were tested across five stations, each designed to challenge clinical knowledge, leadership, problem solving, communication and teamwork in realistic first aid and emergency scenarios. The standard of skill and determination displayed was outstanding.
We are proud to say that the youth from our state, Team NSW, were crowned National Youth Champions and awarded the Sir Kingsley Norris Trophy for 2025!
A heartfelt thank you goes to all involved in bringing NatCamp 2025 to life: the countless cadet leaders, volunteers and staff, who made this camp possible. An especially big thank you to Ben McClure and the State Youth Team for their work and Dr Christian Kunde for the success of the National Championships. We also wish to thank Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, who partook in activities and celebration with our participants.
To all our youth and cadets who participated – well done! Your energy, compassion and dedication shone through every activity and challenge. NatCamp 2025 reminded us once again that the future of St John is in incredibly capable hands.
