The Chef's Charity Gala Luncheon

A Must For Food Lovers!

Join us for one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most celebrated culinary events, the Chefs Gala Lunch, where exceptional food, great company, and a generous spirit come together for an unforgettable afternoon.

This year’s Gala Lunch brings together some of the region’s most exciting culinary talents, under one roof for a curated, collaborative feast unlike anything else on the Peninsula calendar, including special guests, Chef Ryan James and Chef Michael Demagistris, the Continental Sorrento, Italico, Onda and Mubble

With a curated menu influenced from paddock to plate, the sun-drenched Mediterranean, charming French cuisine, succulent Italian fare in an opulent dining experience set in the iconic Continental Sorrento, each venue brings its own distinct character to a menu that celebrates the very best the Mornington Peninsula has to offer.

Doors open at 12pm for welcome entertainment and canapes followed by seated lunch with matched wines from Turners Crossing, Cellar Connection, Rohana Valley Winery, gin from Bass and Flinders Distillery and artisan beers from Jetty Rd Brewery.

The Chef’s Gala Luncheon carries a meaningful purpose beyond the food and festivities, enjoy panel talks from our guest chefs along with an auction and exciting prizes to be won all in fundraising support for The Portsea Camp Making a Difference

Dress: To Impress

Tickets: Tickets available now

by The Portsea Camp

Comedy for a Cause

Our friends at the Sorrento Portsea RSL are hosting a Comedy for a Cause event.

All proceeds from the evening are being donated to The Portsea Camp in support of our Making a Difference programs.

Saturday March 21st

Featuring comedians from Melbourne and Sydney International Comedy Festivals

Doors open 6pm for 7.30pm show, nibbles & bar snacks available, drinks at bar prices

Sorrento Portsea RSL – 1/3 Hurley Street, Sorrento

Tickets just $35

by The Portsea Camp

Annual General Meeting 2026

You’re warmly invited to join the Board for The Portsea Camp’s AGM.

Together, we’ll look back on a successful 2024/25 and discuss our exciting roadmap for the year ahead. It’s a great opportunity to connect with our team, learn more about our recent work, and share a few refreshments.

We look forward to seeing you there!

The Nautilus Centre

Address: 3704 Point Nepean Rd, Portsea 3944

by Emily Weston

Vibes 2026 - Let's Do Lunch

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Let’s do Lunch!

EMBRACE, EMPOWER, CONNECT

Join us for the annual Vibes Charity Luncheon in the Longshore Room of The Portsea Hotel for a transformative event that celebrates the power of women supporting women, while giving back to the next generation.

This promises to be an unforgettable afternoon with an inspiring lineup of women, including,

Mia Fevola, Fashion Entrepreneur, and media personality as seen on Celebrity Get Me Out of Here and Dancing with the Stars.
Lisa Davenport, Influencer and Founder of Hampton Housewife
Katie Pratt, CEO and Founder of Elliatt Fashion
and our MC for the day, award-winning CEO, keynote speaker and best-selling Author, Colleen Callander

The proceeds from the day directly support The Portsea Camp Vibes Wellness program providing girls and female identifying youth aged 8-17 with the tools to build resilience and confidence, allowing them to thrive and embrace a brighter and more hopeful future.

More than a lunch, this is about paying it forward to the next generation. By joining us you are creating a ripple effect of empowerment, resilience, and opportunity for our women of tomorrow.

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Can’t Make it to Lunch?

You can still make an impact and empower a girl to thrive by donating to the Vibes Rise and Soar campaign

Your generosity can lift a girl up and help her reach her full potential. Your donation provides young women with confidence, self-esteem, resilience, and leadership skills, creating a stronger future for the next generation.

Right now, nearly 50% of Grade 6 girls feel they have no hope for the future, struggling with anxiety and self-doubt in a time of life that should be filled with joy. But we know that with the right support, confidence can grow, resilience can build, and dreams can take flight.

Our Vibes Sponsors

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by Emily Weston

POOL TO BEACH PROGRAM

JOIN THE WAITLIST

From pool confidence to beach confidence — together, safely.

Dates: 27–29 March 2026
Location: The Portsea Camp, Portsea VIC
Who: Families with children aged 5+
Cost: Fully subsidised
Places: Strictly limited

The Pool to Beach Program is a gentle, supportive weekend designed to help families confidently transition from swimming in pools to enjoying Australia’s beaches safely.

Developed specifically for beginners and families new to Australian beach conditions, this program takes learning step by step in a calm, welcoming environment where questions are encouraged, fears are respected, and learning happens at your pace.

Delivered in partnership with Portsea Surf Life Saving Club, this fully subsidised program gives families the practical skills, knowledge and confidence to enjoy open water environments safely.

Who is this program for?

This program is ideal for:

Families with children aged 5 years and over
Confident pool swimmers wanting to learn about beach and open-water safety
New Australians and immigrant families unfamiliar with local beach conditions
Parents who want to feel confident supporting their children at the beach
Families with no prior ocean experience required

What families will experience

Over the weekend, families will:

✔️ Learn the key differences between pools and open water
✔️ Understand waves, tides, currents and rips
✔️ Practice safe beach entry, exit and self-rescue skills
✔️ Try guided kayaking in calm conditions
✔️ Explore rock pools and local marine life
✔️ Learn directly from qualified swimming teachers and community surf lifesavers
✔️ Build confidence together, as a family

All water activities are carefully supervised, safety-focused and designed for beginners. Safety equipment, flotation aids and all water-based gear are provided.

Sample Program Overview
A full detailed schedule will be provided closer to the date. Below is an indicative overview.
Friday Evening – Welcome & Orientation
Families are welcomed to The Portsea Camp with a relaxed introduction to the program, facilitators and weekend ahead, followed by icebreaker activities to help families connect and feel comfortable.
Saturday – Introduction to Open Water & Water Safety
Families take part in theory and practical learning sessions covering the differences between pools and open water, how to read beach conditions, identify hazards and safe swim zones, followed by guided water safety activities and kayaking in calm conditions.
The evening includes guided discussions, water safety trivia and reflection on learnings.
Sunday – Surf Coast Exploration & Reflection
Families visit the Back Beach to observe surf conditions, learn about local hazards, explore rock pools and marine life, and reflect on the confidence and skills gained over the weekend before closing and certificate presentations.

Program Delivery

Facilitators include:

Qualified swimming teachers
Community surf lifesavers
Portsea Surf Life Saving Club representatives

Equipment provided:

Life jackets and flotation aids
Kayaks and paddles
Rescue boards
First aid equipment

Accommodation & Meals

Families staying overnight will be accommodated in private family rooms with their own ensuite bathrooms, providing comfort and privacy throughout the weekend.

All meals are fully catered on-site, allowing families to relax, connect and focus on learning without worrying about logistics.

Staying on site means families can fully immerse themselves in the experience, avoid daily travel, and enjoy The Portsea Camp in a safe, supportive environment.

Flexible Attendance Options

To support families with different schedules, travel needs and confidence levels, the Pool to Beach Program offers flexible participation options:

Families can choose to attend:

Friday night + Saturday program
Saturday day program only
Saturday day program + Saturday night
Friday to Sunday (full weekend experience)

This flexibility allows families to participate in the way that best suits them — whether attending the core Saturday program or enjoying the full immersive weekend experience without long travel days.

A Shared Learning Experience

This program is designed as a family learning experience, where parents and carers actively participate alongside their children.

Our qualified instructors and surf lifesavers are responsible for water safety, instruction and activity supervision, while parents and carers remain responsible for the general supervision and behaviour of their children throughout the weekend.

This shared approach supports positive behaviour, builds confidence together, and ensures a safe, respectful and enjoyable environment for all families.

The program is delivered in line with The Portsea Camp’s child-safe and trauma-informed practices.

Fully Subsidised – Thanks to Community Fundraising

This program is proudly fully subsidised thanks to the Portsea Surf Lifesaving Club's volunteer team and the incredible fundraising efforts of Nick Martin and his English Channel charity swim.

Nick’s extraordinary commitment has enabled families to access this life-saving education regardless of financial circumstance.

Places are limited – Register early

To ensure personalised support and safe group sizes, places are strictly limited.

We encourage families to register early and share this opportunity with friends, schools and community networks who may benefit.

👉 Register Now: LINK TBC

FAQ – Pool to Beach Program

Do children need to be strong swimmers?

Children should be confident swimming in a pool, but no ocean or surf experience is required. The program is designed specifically for beginners transitioning to beach environments.

Do parents need to enter the water?

Yes — this is a family learning experience. Parents and carers participate alongside children so they can support learning and confidence beyond the program.

Who supervises water activities?

Qualified swimming teachers and community surf lifesavers supervise all water activities and deliver safety instruction. Parents remain responsible for the general supervision and behaviour of their children.

What should families bring?

Families will need to bring:

Linen (sheets, pillowcases, blankets or doonas)
Swimming attire
Towels
Toiletries
Sunscreen, hats and water bottles
Comfortable clothing for indoor and outdoor activities

All water safety equipment and kayaking gear is provided.

What if the weather is poor?

Safety is our priority. If conditions are unsafe, water activities will be adapted or replaced with indoor learning, demonstrations and coastal safety education sessions.

Are meals included?

Yes. All meals are fully catered on site for families staying overnight.

Can we attend only part of the program?

Yes — families can choose from flexible attendance options, including Saturday only, overnight or the full weekend.

Is this program culturally inclusive?

Yes. The program is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of families from all cultural backgrounds. Modest swimwear is welcome, and our team is experienced in supporting culturally diverse families.

by Kate Philistin

Vibes Wellness Week

Registrations now closed

Send an email to mad@theportseacamp.com.au to join the waitlist.

Girls’ Vibes Week: Empower, Connect & Grow

A Transformational 5-Day Retreat for Confidence, Resilience & Adventure

Step into a week designed to uplift, inspire, and empower female-identifying participants aged 8–17.
The Girls’ Vibes Week brings together younger and older participants for five unforgettable days of growth, adventure, and connection in a supportive and inclusive environment.

From conquering fears on the high ropes and kayaking along the coastline, to exploring mindfulness, creativity, and friendship, this immersive experience helps participants embrace their potential, build resilience, and grow with confidence.

Teens will also have the exciting opportunity to mentor and support younger participants, building leadership skills while fostering positive role models within the camp community.

🌿 Program Details

Location: The Portsea Camp – A peaceful coastal retreat where nature meets self-discovery

Dates:
Monday, 6 July – Friday, 10 July 2026

Who Can Attend: Participants aged 8–17 years seeking empowerment, connection, and personal growth

Ticket Price: $750 per participant (includes accommodation, meals, and all activities)

Transport: Self-drive is available.

💫 Workshops & Facilitators

The week will feature engaging workshops and activities led by experienced facilitators (TBA), covering topics such as:

Confidence & Leadership
Emotional Resilience & Self-Worth
Mindfulness, Yoga & Wellbeing
Creative Expression & Arts
Adventure & Team-Building

Final facilitator lineup and workshop details will be announced closer to the camp date.

🌸 A Week of Empowerment, Resilience & Adventure

💕 Confidence, Connection & Mentoring

Empowerment & Leadership Workshops – Develop confidence, self-belief, and purpose.
Sharing Circles – Safe, supportive spaces for open conversation and connection.
Team-Building Challenges – Strengthen trust, communication, and collaboration.
Resilience & Self-Worth Sessions – Learn strategies for handling challenges and emotions.
Mentoring Opportunities – Teens mentor younger participants in age-appropriate activities, helping build leadership and positive role modeling.
Age-Based Breakouts – Separate sessions for 8–12 and 13–17 age groups, ensuring relevance and comfort.

🌿 Adventure & Outdoor Growth

High Ropes, Giant Swing & Flying Fox – Face fears and celebrate courage.
Kayaking & Water Confidence – Embrace adventure on Portsea’s stunning coastline.
Beach Exploration & Coastal Hikes – Connect with nature and reflect in peaceful surroundings.
Belaying & Leadership Activities – Support and encourage one another through challenge-based learning.
Adventure Team Missions – Work together to solve outdoor challenges and build unity.

🌼 Wellness & Evening Activities

Daily Yoga & Mindfulness – Start each morning with balance, calm, and focus.
Creative Journaling & Reflection – Express thoughts and emotions through writing.
Art & Expression Workshops – Explore identity through painting, poetry, and movement.
Body Confidence & Self-Esteem Activities – Build inner strength and self-acceptance.
Evening Socials & Fun Nights – Enjoy campfire gatherings, disco nights, talent shows, and creative performances, giving every participant a chance to shine and celebrate together.

🎉 End-of-Camp Celebration

The week concludes with a general celebration of achievements, friendships, and fun memories. This is a time to dance, perform, laugh, and enjoy the camp community — no formal ceremony, just celebration of the week together.

🌟 What You’ll Gain

Confidence & Self-Belief – Recognise your strengths and embrace who you are.
Emotional Resilience – Learn to bounce back from challenges with courage.
Inner Calm & Mindfulness – Develop tools for self-awareness and balance.
Positive Friendships & Connection – Build strong, positive bonds across all ages.
Leadership & Mentoring Skills – Teens gain experience guiding and supporting younger participants.
New Skills & Lifelong Growth – Leave inspired, capable, and empowered.

💖 Why Join the Girls’ Vibes Week?

✨ Find Your Strength – A transformative week focused on empowerment and self-discovery.
🌊 Step Outside Your Comfort Zone – Conquer challenges and experience breakthroughs.
🧘‍♀️ Balance Challenge & Calm – A blend of adventure, creativity, and mindfulness.
🤍 Build Belonging, Friendship & Mentorship – Teens mentor younger participants, creating a supportive and empowering community.

🔔 Important Information

This program is designed for participants aged 8–17, with activities and workshops tailored to suit different age groups, ensuring a safe, empowering, and age-appropriate experience for everyone.

📞 Questions? Call (03) 5984 2680
📧 Email: mad@theportseacamp.com.au
💳 Payment: All payments securely processed via Stripe

🌸 Join us for a week of empowerment, adventure, and fun.

It’s time to grow, thrive, and step into your power — together.

Making a Difference (MaD) Scholarships:

At The Portsea Camp, we believe every child deserves a chance to experience the joy, adventure, and growth that camp brings, and our Making a Difference (MaD) Scholarships help make that possible. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for kids who may not otherwise be able to attend, thanks to a blend of business revenue, community fundraising, and family contributions.

How Scholarships Are Funded

Here’s how we make it happen:

Business Revenue:
Income from our school and community camp programs helps keep the camp running, and any profit goes straight to funding camp spots for kids.

Fundraising and Donations:
Generous donations from fundraising events, local supporters, businesses, and community champions play a major role in covering costs.

Family Co-Contribution:
The program is based on a “pay what you can” model. The more support a family needs, the more we cover, ensuring that funding is provided based on individual family circumstances.

How Many Scholarships We Can Award?

The number of fully and partially funded places we can offer each year depends on several factors, including:

1. How much profit The Portsea Camp School & Community camp business has made, which can be returned to the charitable purpose of the organisation.

2. How much we have raised through donations, sponsorships, and other fundraising efforts.

3. The mix of family needs and resources available for each camp.
Scholarship Costs & Family Contributions.

A week of camp normally costs $990 (inclusive of GST), but we automatically reduce this to $750 with a base subsidy of $240 funded by The Portsea Camp for every child attending one of our 5-day programs. From there, families make a co-contribution based on the scholarship awarded:

1. Full Scholarship:
No cost to the family, thanks to donations and sponsors covering the full amount.

2. Partial Scholarship:
$100 family contribution, with the rest covered by donations and sponsors.

3. Sliding Scale Scholarship:
$200 family contribution, with the remaining balance funded by our generous donors and supporters.

4. Full Fee Paying:
Families who are not applying for a scholarship can choose to self-fund or use their NDIS/Active Kids Vouchers. Families who fully self-fund can register and pay directly through The Portsea Camp website. Payment plans are also available—contact our team for more information.

Community Support Makes a Difference!
Regional hubs across Victoria organise fundraising events to support local families. Funds raised in each region are used to help children from those communities attend camp. Make sure to include your postcode on the application form so we can direct support appropriately.

Your time and detailed responses help us create a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for all campers. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive at The Portsea Camp!

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP HERE

by Damon Veitch

Creative Arts and Writing Camp 2026

Creative & Writing Camp: Explore, Create, Connect!

A 5-Day Adventure in Storytelling, Art, and Nature

Step away from the ordinary and immerse yourself in a transformative week of creativity at The Portsea Camp. Children and teens will explore writing, art, and storytelling, connect with nature and the beach, and build lasting friendships, all while discovering the joy of self-expression in a stunning coastal setting.

📍 Location: The Portsea Camp – Where the beach, ocean, and bushland spark imagination and adventure.

📅 Camp Dates

Monday, 29th June- Friday 3rd July
🕛 Drop-Off: Monday at 12:00 PM
🕐 Pick-Up & Showcase: Friday at 12:00 PM

Age Groups:

Juniors: 8–12 years old (Years 3–6)
Teens: 13–16 years old (Years 7–10)

Ticket Options:
🎟️ 1 Day – $150
🎟️ 3 Days – $500
🎟️ 5 Days – $750

✨ Why Join the Creative & Writing Camp?

🌊 Nature-Inspired Creativity: Let the ocean, bushland, and beach walks fuel your imagination for writing, art, and storytelling.

✍️ Write, Illustrate, & Create: Participate in workshops led by award-winning children’s authors and guest creatives, covering poetry, journaling, illustration, visual storytelling, and more.

🎨 Hands-On Art & Expression: Explore pottery, painting, music, dance, photography, and crafts, using multiple mediums to express yourself.

🤝 Collaborate & Connect: Share ideas, work on team challenges, and create in a supportive, inclusive environment.

💫 Friendship & Fun: Bond with fellow campers through interactive activities, storytelling circles, and collaborative projects.

🧠 Life Skills: Build confidence, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-expression through creative and nature-based challenges.

🌿 Camp Adventures Include:

Creative Writing & Storytelling: Explore writing techniques, visual storytelling, and imaginative expression.
Visual Arts & Crafts: Experiment with colours, textures, and mediums to make unique masterpieces.
Music & Dance: Express yourself through rhythm, movement, and sound.
Photography: Capture the beauty of the coastal environment through your lens.
Pottery & Hands-On Creation: Bring your ideas to life in clay and other creative forms.
Nature & Beach Connection: Guided beach walks, outdoor writing sessions, and nature-inspired activities.
Team Challenges & Friendship Building: Fun games and activities that foster teamwork and strong bonds.

✍️ Tailored Programs by Age Group

Juniors (Ages 8–12 / Years 3–6):
An engaging introduction to creative writing, storytelling, and hands-on arts. Focus on self-expression, teamwork, and nature-based inspiration.

Teens (Ages 13–16 / Years 7–10):
Deepen writing and artistic techniques, refine personal style, and explore new creative outlets. Mentorship and skill-building activities tailored for older participants.

🌈 What You Will Gain

Creativity & Self-Expression: Learn new ways to express yourself through words, art, and movement.
Confidence: Challenge yourself to try new things and trust in your abilities.
Teamwork & Friendship: Collaborate with others and make meaningful connections.
Connection with Nature: Reflect, explore, and gain a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.
Skills for Life: Gain artistic, writing, and life skills that extend beyond camp.

Important Information
This camp is ideal for children who enjoy being part of a creative environment. If your child requires additional support or has specific behavioral needs, please contact us to discuss the best fit for their experience. Our goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable adventure for all participants.

Questions?
Contact us at (03) 5984 2680 or mad@theportseacamp.com.au

Spots are limited—secure your place today and enjoy a school holiday filled with artistic adventures, personal growth, and unforgettable memories!

Payment
All payments are securely processed via Stripe.