Max Beck – The Power of Generosity
In the ever-evolving world of property development and philanthropy, few names are as synonymous with giving back to the community as Max Beck.
A passionate advocate for improving health outcomes in the community, one of Max’s proudest achievements is his management, design and construction of the visionary $1 billion redevelopment of Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. A world class medical facility including private rooms that deliver the highest standard of care for children, while providing warm, comforting spaces for families navigating the most difficult times in their lives.
Now in his eighties, Max continues to be a tireless advocate for social good, using his platform to support those in need. One of his most impactful contributions is his involvement with The Portsea Camp—an institution cherished by Max and the Beck family for the life-changing experiences it provides to disadvantaged children across Victoria.
A Lifetime of Community Service
Max Beck’s commitment to community service spans more than 30 years, with his passion for philanthropy growing alongside his love for cycling. What began as a small group of friends riding around Dendy Park in Brighton has blossomed into the Bay Riders—a group that has raised over $1 million for children’s charities since its humble beginnings, including The Portsea Camp.
Beck’s connection with the Bay Riders began when a group of mates decided they needed a more sustainable way to stay active. The idea of cycling came about during a casual chat about knee troubles—and before long, Max and his friends were on their bikes. What started with just two riders has grown into a group of 35 members, including the Sorrento chapter founded alongside local business owners Rob Pitt, Mark Clavin, and community identity Lino Tarquinio.
The Bay Riders quickly became a philanthropic force, supporting children’s causes and raising significant funds over the years. Leading by example—one pedal at a time—Max now rides over 200 kilometres a week and dedicates much of his time to family and giving back.
The Bay Riders: A Force for Good
For Max, cycling with friends has always been about more than just fitness—it’s the mental health benefits, the camaraderie, and the shared purpose. The Bay Riders embody the spirit of giving, creating a community of people who support each other while working together to help those less fortunate.
“It’s 50% about the exercise, but the other 50% is about our mateship and mental health,” Max explains. “We come together, support each other, and help those who need it most.”
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Stride or Ride for The Portsea Camp: A Lifeline for Children
In March 2020, The Portsea Camp closed its gates for the first time since opening in 1946, as Melbourne entered COVID-19 lockdowns. Like many organisations across the state, the camp was at serious risk of never reopening. But thanks to a Herald Sun article titled Save the Camp, a groundswell of community and philanthropic support breathed new life into the site—and leading the charge (or should we say pedal) was Max and his Bay Riders, determined to see the camp thrive once more.
Combining their two passions—cycling and giving back—the Bay Riders launched their first Portsea Camp cycling challenge in 2022. Members rode 60+ km through the stunning landscapes of the Southern Peninsula, rallying the community to support children facing severe disadvantage.
Three years on, the Bay Riders are still pedalling strong for The Portsea Camp. What began with 35 dedicated cyclists has now grown into a movement, including nearly 100 walkers and runners. In November 2024, they hosted their inaugural Stride or Ride event and have plans to expand it each year.
Just as The Portsea Camp has long been a beacon of hope for children doing it tough, Max Beck and his Bay Riders have taken up the mantle—raising vital funds for the camp’s Make a Difference and Wellness programs, which are more essential than ever in the wake of the pandemic.
The psychological effects of COVID-19 have left many young people feeling disconnected and struggling to relate to others.
Sandra Martin, CEO of The Portsea Camp, Educational and Developmental Psychologist, explains:
“Three years post-COVID, we continue to see ripple effects that have left many children and teenagers feeling disconnected. Events like Stride or Ride are essential in helping us raise the necessary funds to support our programs. With the community’s help, we can continue to provide safe, structured environments where children can rebuild social skills, reconnect, and develop healthy coping strategies.”
The Power of Giving Back
Max Beck’s philosophy is simple: “Life’s about putting back.” Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or giving time and services, he believes everyone has the capacity to change lives.
Through his ongoing support of The Portsea Camp and leadership in fundraising initiatives like Stride or Ride, Max has shown the incredible impact of philanthropy and the power of community.
His commitment to helping children facing economic and social barriers reflects his belief that even small actions can make a big difference.
“To take ‘cycling with my mates’—something I’m passionate about—and turn it into a way to genuinely change young lives is incredibly rewarding,” he says.
Max Beck’s enduring legacy of community service, together with the unwavering dedication of the Bay Riders, is a powerful reminder of the impact we can all have when we give back. Whether through time, resources, or simply showing up in support, we each have the power to make a difference.
Leading by example, Max Beck continues to prove how one person’s dedication to a cause can inspire many—and create lasting change.
A Fresh Look for Our Flying Fox Stairs
About The Project
At The Portsea Camp, adventure is at the heart of everything we do, and one of our most exciting activities is the Flying Fox. Every year, thousands of children take the leap, soaring through the air and creating unforgettable memories. To keep this experience safe and enjoyable, we knew it was time to give the Flying Fox stairs a well-deserved refresh.
The Rebuild
In December 2024, we partnered with Mothmade, who expertly rebuilt our Flying Fox stairs, ensuring they were sturdy, safe, and ready for years of adventure. But we didn’t want to stop at just functionality—we wanted to bring some colour and excitement to the space!
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A Splash of Colour, Thanks to Dulux
To brighten up the new stairs, we reached out to Dulux, who generously donated paint to help us create a vibrant and inviting look for our campers. Their support made all the difference, and thanks to their generosity, we received:
· 1 x 4L Dulux Chalkboard paint
· 1 x 4L Dulux Weathershield in Fun in the Sun
· 1 x 4L Dulux Weathershield in Coral Oasis
· 1 x 4L Dulux Weathershield in Dynamic Green
· 1 x 4L Dulux Weathershield in Silken Purple
· 2 x 4L Dulux Weathershield in Blue Astro
With these fantastic colours, the Flying Fox stairs now look as exciting as the activity itself!
A Huge Team Effort
Once the paint arrived, our incredible Experiences Team took over, bringing the Flying Fox tower to life with a fresh, vibrant coat of paint. A massive shoutout to Ellie, Mikaela, Brady, Billy, Luke, Celeste, and Poppy, who put in the time and effort to make the structure look absolutely amazing! Their hard work has transformed the space into a bright, fun, and welcoming area for our campers.
Special Thanks
A huge thank you to Andrew Larke from the Bellwether Foundation, who was the key connection that linked us with Dulux in the first place. His support helped make this project possible, and we truly appreciate his efforts in securing this incredible donation.
We want to extend our gratitude to Mothmade for their expert work in rebuilding the stairs, to Dulux for their generosity in providing the paint, to Andrew Larke for making the connection, and to our Experiences Team for their fantastic effort in making it all come together.
At The Portsea Camp, every detail matters when it comes to creating an unforgettable camp experience. We can’t wait for our campers to see (and climb!) the refreshed Flying Fox stairs and continue making lifelong memories
Nathan Wimhurst: 25 Years of Laughter, Leadership, and Lifelong Memories
A Journey That Started with a Nudge
For over 25 years, Nathan Wimhurst—aka “N8”—has been the heartbeat of The Portsea Camp. A true legend, Nathan’s passion for adventure, his infectious laughter, and his ability to make every kid feel like a star have left a lasting impact on generations of campers and volunteers.
Nathan’s journey to Portsea all started with a friendly nudge. After an eye-opening summer camp experience in the U.S., where he saw firsthand the life-changing power of camp, Nathan was hooked. He couldn’t wait to bring that same magic closer to home. And so, he ended up at Portsea—and let’s just say, the rest is history.
A Leader in Many Roles
Over the years, Nathan has rocked countless roles—room leader, activity coordinator, health and wellbeing guru, and more. But his commitment didn’t end at camp; he’s always been there for families, offering meet-and-greets, answering questions, and making sure the kids were ready for an unforgettable experience. And when camp’s over? Nathan’s the guy organising reunions, keeping those camp friendships alive long after the equipment is packed away.
Memorable Moments and Camp Challenges
Ask Nathan about his most epic camp moments, and he’ll tell you it’s impossible to pick just one. Whether it’s running camps with 300 kids or rolling with the punches during smaller, pandemic-impacted groups, he’s seen it all. Extreme heat? No problem. Storms? Bring it on. But through it all, Nathan’s favourite memories are the laughs, the friendships, and the sense of community that makes camp truly special.
The Impact of Camp on Families
For Nathan, camp isn’t just about the kids—it's about the whole family. For some, it’s a chance for kids to break free from their everyday struggles. For parents, it’s a well-earned moment of rest. But for everyone involved, it’s a chance to build resilience, form lifelong friendships, and create memories that will last forever. “Every child takes something different away from camp,” Nathan says. “But every child takes something valuable.”
Mentoring the Next Generation
One of Nathan’s proudest achievements is mentoring the next generation of volunteers. His passion for camp is contagious, and he’s helped build a tight-knit team that will carry the Portsea Camp torch for years to come. “If a volunteer is having fun, they’ll stick around forever,” he laughs.
Nathan’s influence isn’t just felt at camp—many of his former campers come back as volunteers themselves, eager to pass on the love. Some even stop him years later in Wodonga, reminiscing about their favourite camp memories.
A Life Full of Adventure and Giving Back
When he’s not at camp, Nathan’s life is a whirlwind of adventure—motorbike riding, remote-control car racing, amateur theatre, kayaking, rock climbing—you name it. He also volunteers with Country Hope, supporting children with life-threatening illnesses, continuing to make a difference in every way possible. That’s just N8 being his amazing self.
A Legacy That Speaks Volumes
Nathan’s decades of service to The Portsea Camp speak volumes about his belief in the power of camp to change lives. “I think that volunteering at Portsea camp has brought about many positive changes in myself as it has helped boost my self-confidence, my self-esteem, my self-worth. The children of Portsea camp have taught me more than I could have ever imagined and, in general, has made me become a better version of myself whilst also keeping me young at heart.”
Nathan’s not just a volunteer—he’s a leader, a mentor, a friend, and above all, a true champion of fun, laughter, and life-changing impact.
Thank You, Nathan!
Thank you, Nathan, for 25 years of pure awesomeness. The Portsea Camp is a better place because of you.
Brian Edward: A Legacy of Helping Children be Happy, Healthy, and Well
A heart full of generosity and a lifetime dedicated to helping others have made Brian Edward APM, OAM, former Police Chief Superintendent and The Portsea Camp’s regional champion of Geelong, a local hero. At 84, Brian remains on a mission to ensure that children in need across Geelong experience the joy, growth, and adventure of life-changing outdoor camps—fostering lasting memories and positive connections.
A Lifelong Dedication to Supporting Youth
Since retiring in 2002 from a distinguished 45-year career with Victoria Police, Brian has devoted his time to supporting children facing hardship. As the children’s camp coordinator for the Lions Club Geelong Corio Bay, he has spent more than two decades providing young people with opportunities to experience the great outdoors.
Recognized for Service and Contributions
Brian’s dedication to the police force and tireless fundraising efforts have garnered significant recognition, including the Australian Police Medal in 1996 and the prestigious Order of Australia Medal in 2021 for his 45 years of service and significant contributions to community organisations. More recently, Brian was awarded the 2023 Westfield Geelong Gate Local Hero award. His work speaks volumes, and its impact is truly felt in the lives of the hundreds of children he has helped.
Fundraising Success: Making a Difference
Over the past 23 years, Brian has secured more than 100 grants and raised over $400,000 through various channels, including the Geelong Community Foundation, Geelong Magistrates' Court, and other local philanthropic trusts. Through his efforts, he has helped sponsor nearly 1,400 children, enabling them to attend transformative five-day wilderness camps at Licola and Making a Difference adventure camps at The Portsea Camp.
A Journey Full of Excitement and Adventure
Referred to Brian through family support services such as The Smith Family, refugee programs through Cultura, or local schools, children embark on their camp journey with excitement and anticipation. Brian and his volunteers fondly recall the joy on the children’s faces as they board the McHarry’s bus from Geelong, make the scenic crossing on Searoad Ferries, and arrive at The Portsea Camp, ready for their summer adventure.
"They love the whole experience—wide-eyed as they look for dolphins during the ferry ride, and once at camp, they can’t wait for the challenges and activities ahead. From high ropes and kayaking to talent shows, it’s a chance for them to grow, make friends, and experience a world beyond their usual surroundings."
A Passion for Helping Young People
For decades, Brian has volunteered as a camp leader, ensuring that children have the best possible experience and supporting other volunteers in making each camp a success. This commitment to youth is not a new chapter for Brian—it has been part of his life since his early days in the police force. As a Junior Police Trainee from 1957 – 1959, Brian was required to qualify as a Youth Leader by undertaking the Victorian Association of Youth Clubs and YMCA courses – it was at that time in 1958, Brian attended The Portsea Camp, formerly The Lord Mayors Camp and began volunteering with the Kilsyth Youth Group.
Brian’s passion for working with young people continued throughout his entire police career, including ten years on the board of Bethany Community Support and today that passion for helping children lead, happy, healthy and fulfilling lives is stronger than ever.
"I’ve always been passionate about helping young people find positive experiences and removing the barriers they often face. It really does make a difference and can be the turning point that helps them build a brighter future."
A Special Experience: January 2025 Camp
The most recent camp in January 2025 at Portsea was particularly special. Forty children from The Smith Family, along with a dedicated team of volunteers, participated in the summer adventure camp. The mix of 104 children and 38 leaders made for a memorable and enriching experience.
"It was a real privilege to witness the leadership and dedication of Damon Veitch, the Make a Difference camp coordinator," Brian says. "I first recruited Damon as a junior assistant many years ago, and to see his growth and leadership now is incredibly fulfilling."
Looking Toward the Future
Looking ahead, Brian remains as committed as ever to ensuring these opportunities continue for years to come.
"I’ve already started applying for grants so we can provide these wonderful experiences at The Portsea Camp to even more children from Geelong each year," he shares. "As a community, together we can achieve great things. I hope my work inspires others to give back and help those who are less fortunate."
Since April 2024, Brian has raised over $40,000 and sponsored 65 children to attend The Portsea Camp. His work is a testament to the power of community, kindness, and the incredible difference one person can make in the lives of others.
A Deep Dive into Nick Martin's English Channel Fundraising Strategy
Here, we explore the fundraising strategy that saw a local identity raise over $150,000 and leave a lasting legacy for The Portsea Camp.
The Beginning of a Fundraising Journey
As Melbourne plunged into lockdown in March 2020, two strangers, less than 500 meters apart, grappled with the reality of survival in a pandemic. Newly appointed Camp CEO Sandra Martin—just five weeks into the job—sat alone in her camp office, contemplating the once-thriving social enterprise around her, now plunged into silence with its gates firmly shut. Closed for business for the first time since 1946.
Below her, in the crystal blue waters off Portsea’s front beach, a lone swimmer crawled up and down during the allowed one hour of outdoor activity, keeping physically and mentally fit. Little did either know that in the face of such adversity, one of The Portsea Camp’s most celebrated moments would be born: a grassroots fundraising project that would see locals and strangers alike raise over $150,000 for a charity they knew little or nothing about.
Nick's Reflections on the English Channel Swim
Fast forward two and a half years, and Nick reflects on his English Channel swim with his trademark modesty and shares some words of advice for anyone contemplating taking on a project - large or small - in the name of charity.
“You must be authentic. And your connection to the cause must be real,” says Nick.
“It was never just about me swimming the English Channel as a personal challenge. My personal connection to the Camp was critical and kept me going when training - or the actual English Channel crossing - became overwhelming.
“We worked hard to help people understand what The Portsea Camp meant, what its purpose was, and create an emotional connection to the kids behind the Camp gates.
“Once we told the story, it became about the collective impact the community could have on a deserving and worthwhile cause.”
Nick believes it was getting the story out about the Camp that really resonated with donors. Suddenly, it wasn’t just Nick, the local swimmer and former lifesaver, taking on a personal challenge—it became about the kids. The swim would become their story too.
Nick's Training and Motivation
Not surprisingly, Nick’s emotional connection to the Camp became his greatest motivation during his gruelling training schedule and Channel swim. 10km swims became 20, 30, and then a 48km swim across the Channel. He connected with a long-distance swim coach. He overcame shoulder surgery. He learned to eat and drink in the water. He trained himself mentally to look into darkness for 10 hours at a time. He tried to mimic the conditions of the Channel swim. And always, he swam in the waters just below the Camp, in full view of his goal.
“Throughout all the training, all the setbacks—which invariably there are—a critical motivation was always the kids and not letting them down. Kids need to know that things get tough. But it’s the tough times that enable the good times.
“Giving up was not an option.”
It was this determination not to let the kids down that ultimately became Nick’s saviour at the most critical point in the swim. Within sight of France—just a couple of kms from land— the wind and tides started to pull him backwards.
Nick says this was the moment he felt the kids, more than 15,000 kilometres away, push him forward, one agonising stroke at a time, urging him to reach their goal together. Telling him: "Don’t give up. Don’t give up.”
“You can't let the kids down was ringing in my ears”.
Looking Ahead
Nick Martin continues to swim each day in the waters off The Portsea Camp and maintains a keen interest in the charity and the kids who benefit from it. Asked if he has another big swim in him, Nick laughs and says he’s probably more suited to dry land fundraising these days but admits he still thinks of the kids spurring him on as he swims below. And maybe, just maybe, there’s another swim challenge, because there’s always a need for a challenge that combines personal and community goals.
Bunnings Helps Refurbish The Portsea Camp’s Western Wing
A Fresh New Look for The Portsea Camp’s Western Wing, Thanks to Bunnings, Monarch, Taubmans, and Local Volunteers
We are excited to share the remarkable transformation of The Portsea Camp’s Western Wing, brought to life through the dedication and generosity of Bunnings, Monarch, Taubmans, and local community members. This project was a true team effort, with an impressive collaboration of organizations donating not only materials but also their time and expertise to give our camp a much-needed facelift.
Prepping for Success: A Team Effort
Before the painting could even begin, the groundwork was expertly laid by members of the Rosebud Men’s Shed, Point Nepean Men’s Shed, and SES, along with Marlene and Lisa from Rosebud Bunnings. This team undertook all the essential prep work, including sanding, priming, and undercoating the area to ensure a flawless finish. Their dedication the week prior to the main event set the stage for the transformation that followed.
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The Final Touches: A Painting Project Like No Other
Once the prep work was complete, teams from Bunnings, Monarch, and Taubmans took over to give the Western Wing its vibrant new look. Here’s what they achieved:
- 22 inside poles: Brightened with fresh coats of paint.
- 7 outside handrails and 7 stair rails: Made safer and more stylish.
- 28 inside window reveals: Refreshed with new colour.
- 14 doors and archways: Rejuvenated to enhance the interior.
- A full room: Completely repainted, transforming it into a welcoming space.
- 7 window reveals: Finished to perfection.
Monarch’s Contribution
Monarch generously donated 50 paint brushes, roller sleeves, drop sheets, and paint buckets, along with four of their dedicated team members, who spent the day volunteering their time and skills.
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Taubmans’ Expertise
Ella and her team from Taubmans donated 60-70 liters of high-quality paint, covering all areas with exterior, interior, and metal paints. Six Taubmans team members worked tirelessly, adding their professional touch to ensure the Western Wing looked its absolute best.
Bunnings’ Massive Support
Bunnings, led by Marlene from Rosebud, donated all the necessary PPE, ladders, and even kept the team fueled with lollies and soft drinks. An incredible 65 team members from Bunnings lent their time, including 50 from their Melbourne head office and 15 Activities Organisers from across Melbourne.
A United Effort for the Community
This project was a shining example of what can be achieved when local businesses and community groups come together. The Rosebud and Point Nepean Men’s Sheds, SES, and the hardworking teams from Bunnings, Monarch, and Taubmans have left an indelible mark on The Portsea Camp. Their combined efforts have not only improved our Western Wing but also uplifted the spirit of community and service that defines our camp.
Thank you to everyone involved—your work will continue to inspire and bring joy to the children and families who visit The Portsea Camp for years to come!
From Garden to Table: Teaching Sustainability at The Portsea Camp
Veggie Patch Project at The Portsea Camp
At The Portsea Camp, we are dedicated to creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for children, and one of our most exciting initiatives is our veggie patch project.
This garden is more than just a patch of green—it’s an outdoor classroom where kids learn the value of growing, harvesting, and enjoying their own fresh produce, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability.
Yates Australia Sharing a Vision for Sustainability
Thanks to our amazing neighbor Andrew Larke, we were introduced to Yates Australia, a company that shares our vision of sustainability. Yates generously donated their time, staff, dirt, and seeds, playing a key role in bringing this dream to life. Their contributions have helped us create a flourishing vegetable garden that will be a vital resource for children at the camp for years to come.
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Bunning Provided Seedlings for Summer and Winter Crops
In addition, Bunnings Rosebud has been an invaluable partner, providing us with seedlings for both summer and winter crops. This allows us to keep the garden thriving year-round, teaching kids the importance of seasonal growing and the benefits of fresh, homegrown food.
We also want to give a special shout-out to Sarah and her team, who have been dedicated to maintaining the veggie patch. Their hard work in nurturing the plants and keeping pests at bay has been essential to the garden’s success. They’ve been instrumental in ensuring that the garden grows strong and healthy, allowing the kids to fully enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of their labor.
The Joy of Homegrown Food for Kids
Through this garden-to-table initiative, we are teaching the next generation about sustainability, self-sufficiency, and the joy of homegrown food. Kids at The Portsea Camp now have the chance to get their hands dirty, learn the entire process from planting seeds to harvesting vegetables, and experience the satisfaction of preparing their own meals from what they’ve grown.
A heartfelt thank you to Yates Australia, Bunnings Rosebud, and Sarah's team for their incredible contributions. Together, we’re not just growing food—we’re growing the future. Stay tuned as we continue to cultivate our garden and our vision for a greener, healthier tomorrow!
Food Safety at Camp: 5 Essential Tips
Ensuring Peace of Mind for Parents of Children with Food Allergies
Sending your child off to camp is an exciting milestone, but for parents of children with food allergies, it can also bring feelings of anxiety. With food allergies now affecting approximately 1 in 20 children in Australia, the concerns surrounding food safety at camp are real and growing. At the heart of every parent's decision to send their child to camp is the desire to know that their child will be safe, supported, and included. Understanding the complexities of food allergies and the measures that can be taken to manage them is crucial in alleviating those concerns.
The Growing Concern Over Food Allergies
Food allergies are a growing concern, particularly in children. An allergic reaction, especially anaphylaxis, can be severe and life-threatening, making it essential to take precautions when it comes to food at camp. According to Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia, approximately 2% of Australians suffer from severe food allergies, with numbers on the rise. Common allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. These allergens, and the risk of cross-contamination, can make food an understandably worrying topic for parents.
But the impact of food allergies extends beyond physical health risks. Many children with food allergies also face emotional challenges, such as isolation or anxiety, particularly during shared activities like mealtime. The communal aspect of eating at camp can exacerbate feelings of exclusion, making it all the more important for camps to offer an environment where children feel secure and understood.
The Importance of Rigorous Allergy Management
When it comes to managing food allergies at camp, preparation, training, and communication are key. Effective allergy management goes beyond just avoiding certain foods; it’s about creating an environment where children with allergies can participate fully and safely in camp activities.
Camps, including those like The Portsea Camp, play a pivotal role in educating both staff and campers on how to manage food allergies. Camps should implement clear policies and procedures to prevent allergic reactions and ensure everyone knows how to respond should one occur. Regular training for all camp staff—especially kitchen and program staff—on food safety, allergy awareness, and emergency procedures is essential.
Key Strategies for Effective Allergy Management
- Staff Training: Camp staff should be trained not just on food safety protocols but also on allergen awareness and the specific needs of children with allergies. This includes recognising the signs of an allergic reaction, understanding how to handle cross-contamination, and knowing the steps to take in an emergency.
- Meal Planning: Developing allergy-friendly menus is crucial to ensuring that all children can enjoy their meals without fear. Collaborating with parents to understand their child’s allergies and dietary needs helps camps provide delicious, safe meals while promoting inclusivity.
- Emergency Protocols: Anaphylaxis can occur quickly, so it’s vital that camp staff are trained to recognise symptoms and act swiftly. Camps should have clear emergency protocols in place, ensuring that all staff know where medications (such as adrenaline injectors) are stored, and how to administer them in the event of an emergency.
5 Essential Tips for Parents Sending Children with Food Allergies to Camp
If you’re a parent considering sending your child with food allergies to camp, here are five essential tips to help ensure a safe, enjoyable experience:
1) Communicate Openly with Camp Staff
Make sure to have a conversation with camp coordinators and kitchen staff well before your child arrives. Discuss your child’s specific allergies, any cross-contamination concerns, and dietary restrictions. The more information you provide, the better prepared the camp will be to meet your child’s needs.
2) Provide Detailed Information
Write down a comprehensive list of your child’s allergies, including specific foods to avoid and any cross-contamination risks. Make sure the camp has detailed information about symptoms, emergency procedures, and emergency contact numbers. This helps camp staff create a safe, tailored environment for your child.
3) Pack Safe Snacks
While camps will make every effort to ensure meals are allergy-safe, it’s always helpful to send your child with some of their own safe snacks. This can provide reassurance, especially during outings or when other children are eating foods that may not be safe for your child.
4) Educate Your Child
Empower your child by teaching them about their food allergies and the importance of avoiding specific foods. Encourage them to speak up if they are unsure about a meal or snack, and teach them how to advocate for themselves when necessary. The more they understand their allergies, the more confident they will be in managing them.
5) Encourage Open Communication
Encourage your child to communicate directly with kitchen staff or camp leaders if they have any concerns about their food. Ensuring there’s a safe, open channel for these conversations will make your child feel more secure, and it will give them a sense of control over their food choices.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment for All Campers
At its core, managing food allergies at camp is about more than just avoiding harmful foods. It’s about creating an environment that fosters inclusion, support, and confidence. At The Portsea Camp, we strive to provide an experience where children can grow, explore, and make lasting memories—without the added worry of food-related risks.
We also play an essential role in promoting food education. This is an opportunity to teach children not only about how to manage their allergies but also about the importance of healthy, nutritious eating. By integrating nutrition education into camp programmes, children can develop a better understanding of food, which supports both their physical health and emotional well-being.
Conclusion: Empowering Children to Thrive
As a parent, it’s natural to feel apprehensive about sending your child with food allergies to camp. But by working closely with camp staff, preparing your child with the tools and knowledge they need, and ensuring open communication throughout the process, you can help create a safe and positive experience for your child. Camps that prioritise food safety and allergy management, like The Portsea Camp and others across the country, are committed to providing environments where children can enjoy the joys of camp life with confidence.
The ultimate goal is for children to feel empowered—to explore new experiences, make lasting friendships, and take part in camp activities, all while knowing that their health and safety are being cared for. With a shared commitment from parents, camp staff, and children, we can create an enriching and supportive environment where every camper, regardless of their dietary needs, can thrive.