Life-changing Portsea Camp’s history with Kerang family

I remember hearing about Portsea Camp many years ago when I was in Primary School. I thought it must be an exclusive camp you could attend by invitation only, and it sounded like the most amazing adventure; one that I would have loved to attend.

Established in 1946, the location of The Portsea Camp on the Mornington Peninsula was previously a Military Camp and later redeveloped into a children’s camp as an escape for those experiencing hardship. With a jam-packed schedule of outdoor activities including hikes, canoeing, swimming and more to encourage confidence building and create friendships, the benefits of the 10-day break can only be a positive one. Over the years, the camp has become a much sought after getaway for kids aged 8 to 13 and, as such, has attracted children from all walks of life who have seen the benefits for themselves.

With 44 years’ experience both as camp Volunteer and Leader, Gary Myers of Kerang, has a long history with the camp which began with his mother, Marion (late of Kerang) who initially persuaded Gary to attend as a child.

“My mother, Marion became involved with the camp as a Leader in 1963, when she took a group of between 10 to 15 local country kids to participate who may never have had the opportunity of a holiday by the sea,” Gary told The Bridge. “Portsea Camp Committee ran Kerang and district which she was part of for a long time and when that finished, she took over. Mum was a Volunteer for 16 years and attended 2 sets of camps.”

However, that is not where the family connection to the camps stops.

Marion’s son-in-law John Turner – 1 year.

Daughter Pat - 17 years and attended 2 camps.

Daughter Jenny Makeham – 1 year.

Grandson Jarrad Myers – currently 10 years, attending multiple camps some up to 4 camps per year.

Great grand-daughter Maddie Makeham - 3 years.

Great grand-daughter Jess Makeham - one year.

The camps, which are completely run by volunteers and have relied upon from donations to facilitate the program, has made a positive impact on the lives of many children over the years who say it was their “best holiday ever as a kid.”

It’s that sort of feedback that is the reason why Gary and his family have been such a huge part of Portsea Camp’s longevity, and it’s certainly something Gary does not take for granted.

“Seeing the change in the kids from the moment they arrive to when they leave makes you realise how worthwhile it all is. They are supported in a safe and inclusive environment with counsellors and other support staff there should they need it. Sometimes they just want someone to talk to without being judged; they just want to be accepted. It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do, volunteering on the camp,” Gary says with a smile.

Each year a number of local kids are offered a sponsorship so that those experiencing financial hardship, who could benefit from the camp, don’t need to go without. There is also the option of paying what you can afford, in part or full payment. 

Portsea Camp Kerang would not be possible without money raised from local clubs, groups and private donations, with areas including Kerang, Murrabit, Barham, Koondrook, Quambatook, Boort, Cohuna, Macorna, and Pyramid Hill offering their support.

After 44 years organising the Gannawarra and District leg of Portsea, Gary handed over the running to son Jarrad in 2018. Jarrad had previously attended as a Leader in 2014, and while he was underage at the time, the help was needed. Jarrad is still currently an active Portsea Camp Volunteer.

Gary says that although he has stepped down from his role, he is still advocating for donations and support for the camps to ensure their future.

“A lot goes into making them happen, both financially and logistically. Right now, the issue is being able to transport the kids to the camps, so ideally a bus service to accommodate that would be a massive help.”

If you would like to offer your support, or know someone who would like to attend one of these life-changing adventures at Portsea, please contact theportseacamp.com.au or call 5984 2333.