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Youth Adventures

YWAM Youth Adventures is a 10-day program designed to engage your high school group or youth group in service and volunteerism. The dynamic program starts at our training campus in Townsville where your team will undergo four days of hands-on training before we take you on outreach in communities in North Queensland or Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Youth Adventures is the ultimate service-based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!

Training

The goal of the training is to equip your team as they learn more about themselves and prepare for outreach. Training includes:

  • Teaching from experienced speakers
  • Team building
  • Leadership development
  • Hands-on outreach preparation
  • Cultural orientation

Outreach

After the training, we take you and your team on a six day outreach to your chosen outreach location in either North Queensland or Papua New Guinea. Once there, we will work together alongside trusted local contacts.

Your outreach could include activities such as:

Children’s Programs
Hands-On Projects
Relationship Building
Intercultural Experiences

Outreach Locations

You will have the option to choose from the following outreach locations in North Queensland and Papua New Guinea.

Cost and Dates

Program fees cover accommodation, food, resources for both training and outreach, and program merchandise. Travel to and from Townsville is not included. 

North Queensland

Four days of training at the YWAM Townsville City Campus.
Six days of outreach in either Charters Towers, Palm Island, or Yarrabah.
Cost: $670 per person (includes travel to and from your outreach location)

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Four days training at the YWAM Townsville City Campus.
Six to ten days of outreach in Port Moresby.
Cost: From $1,750 per person (includes flights to and from Townsville to Port Moresby)

Dates

If you are interested in participating in Youth Adventures, simply let us know your preferred dates and we will do our best to accommodate your team during your chosen time frame. 

Reviews

Darcy

“It was awesome to journey through the five or so days of outreach prep learning more and more. Once we got to Palm Island the experience was incredible, just hanging with the children and talking to the people in the church was super. Overall the whole experience was awesome, every opportunity we were given was an incredible one and I’d definitely do it again.”  

– Darcy, 14 years

Daniel

“Youth Adventures is unique in the fact that all of the training, accommodation, outreach preparation, and other logistics are taken care of by YWAM’s dedicated and passionate team. This gives our teachers the freedom to participate in the experience alongside our students. I have been particularly impressed by the way YWAM encourages our students to step out of their comfort zone and grow in their confidence. I have seen students come “out of their shell” during Youth Adventures, some of which have now taken on leadership roles at our College. I strongly recommend Youth Adventures to schools and youth groups who are looking for opportunities to engage their students in volunteering and practical cross-cultural experiences while helping them develop strong character, faith, and values.”

– Daniel Clark, Principal of Annandale Christian College

Lucy

“At YWAM you feel wanted and free to explore and strengthen who you are. The atmosphere that YWAM Townsville encompasses has allowed me to know and strengthen the best version of myself. Every Youth Adventures trip that I have been on has allowed me to gain a new perspective of my faith, myself, and the world. It refuels my tank, allowing me to go home, confident that I can make an impact and conquer my own life’s adventures.”

– Lucy, 17 years

Adam

“Since 2014, Community Church Warragul has been partnering with YWAM Townsville by sending teams of youth and young adults to participate in the YWAM Youth Adventures program. For us, a highlight of the program has been the mentorship offered to our youth by the dedicated and passionate staff. They are relational, caring, and supportive for all of our youth and leaders. As a church, we desire to teach, equip, and lead the next generation, empowering them to make positive decisions and grow in their personal faith. This partnership with YWAM Townsville has given us another platform upon which to encourage our youth in this path and has been a great strength to the youth group itself. I highly recommend the YWAM Youth Adventures program to church and youth groups and also high schools that are looking for opportunities to not only engage the next generation in cross-cultural missions, but also inspiring them to develop their character, values and faith.” 

– Pastor Adam Mihail, Community Church Warragul

Frequently Asked Questions

What is YWAM’s experience with sending teams on field activities?

In the 27 years that YWAM Townsville has operated, it has earned considerable recognition in North Queensland and Papua New Guinea. YWAM Townsville sends dozens of land-based teams up to PNG and throughout Australia each year.

YWAM Medical Ships Australia & Papua New Guinea partners with the National Department of Health and spends up to 10 months of the year delivering free health services and training to some of the most remote villages in Papua New Guinea.

What should my group size be?

There is no limit on how big a group is for training but for each outreach location, there is a maximum group size. Generally, big groups participate in training together and then separate into multiple teams for outreach. The smallest a group can be is six participants and two adults.

Do the participants have to be Christian?

No, YWAM Youth Adventures is available to anyone who wants to give a helping hand and develop personally. Often we have non-Christians in the group and they still find the ten days meaningful and impacting.

How many leaders do I need to send with my group?

It is required to have a ratio of at least one leader to every five minors, with a minimum of two leaders per outreach location.

Why do you ask leaders to come along?

It is a privilege to help coach youth through life! One of the greatest places to do this is outside of the normal environment. YWAM gives opportunity to relate to each other and to grow as a team so that once you return home, you are able to share memories and continue to foster the development that has happened during outreach.

What is your child protection policy?

Every YWAM volunteer and staff member must hold a current Queensland Blue Card (Police Check) and have undergone a child protection policy briefing. Every adult that participates in the program is requested to have a police check prior to arrival and must adhere to YWAM’s Working with Minors protocol. Our full child protection policy can be made available upon request.

Is travel insurance included?

Fees include limited coverage under a group travel policy. This policy includes limited coverage for overseas medical expenses, emergency assistance, and evacuation. We make no representation with respect to the adequacy of this policy and recommend that each participant consider their own insurance requirements to ensure each participant’s personal circumstances and requirements are met. The coverage under the group travel policy does not provide cover for loss of income in the case of injury or sickness suffered on outreach.

How are flights booked?

The cost for your outreach includes flights to outreach and any additional travel while in Papua New Guinea, except when participating in outreach on the ship. You will need to book your own travel to and from the ship. Flights are booked four weeks prior to the program start date, once the fees have been paid. Late payments may result in the cancellation of your outreach.

What is the role of Youth Adventures staff?

Each team is led by at least one experienced YWAM staff member that has had exposure to leading outreaches in multiple situations. The YWAM staff are there to help organise the logistics of your trip.

When coming with a group, who is responsible for the group?

As part of joining Youth Adventures, there is a joint duty of care. You as a group leader still maintain your normal (as per your organisation’s policy and procedures) level of duty of care for those participants joining the trip. On top of this YWAM Townsville takes on an extra duty of care for everyone on the trip (group leaders and participants and YWAM staff and students). Group leaders will be briefed on safety precautions on arrival to training and the outreach destination.

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    Discipleship Training School - Townsville Campus

    Our Discipleship Training School (DTS) gives you the opportunity to set aside five and a half months of your life to grow in your faith while serving the world around you. After 13 weeks of training and discipleship at our campus in Townsville, Australia, we take you on nine weeks of cross-cultural outreach. The DTS is a life-changing experience!  

    Dates
    • 13 October, 2024 - 14 March, 2025
    • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
    • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
    • 19 October, 2025 - 20 March 2026

     

    10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship (Non-Current - in transition period)

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    Discipleship Training School - Port Moresby Campus, Papua New Guinea

    The DTS will run from our satellite campus in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The DTS will include a unique combination of discipleship, hands-on missions experience during both lectures and outreach, and the opportunity to make history as we establish a new campus in Port Moresby for generations to come.

    Dates
    • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
    • 13 July - 12 December, 2025

     

    Apply Townsville

    Apply Port Moresby

    Introduction to Global Health & Development

    Be immersed in a powerful combination of essential basic healthcare knowledge and community development training, with a focus on preventing illness, promoting holistic wellbeing, and empowering communities to develop their strengths.

    Townsville Campus

    To be announced

    Port Moresby Campus
    • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
    • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
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    HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

    HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

    HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

    HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

    HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

    HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

    HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

    HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

     

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    Global Health & Development Gap Year

    Our Global Health & Development Gap Year calls those whose heart beats to see communities thriving - physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. The Global Health & Development Gap Year is designed for both those that have experience in the health / community development industry, and for those who are starting out on their journey of healthcare in missions.

    10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship (Non-Current - in transition period)

    HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

    HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

    HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site

    HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

    Dates

    26 January - 12 December 2025

     

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    Discipleship Bible School

    During the course, you will have an opportunity to dig deep into the Bible, reading through all 66 books, gaining an overall perspective of God’s story. You will learn techniques for effective Bible study, and your speakers will help unlock the Bible’s fascinating content.

    You will also be taught on topics. For example – you will look at Worldview and Origins as you study through Genesis, Exodus, and Job. Or you might look at Leadership and Worship as you study the life of David in 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Chronicles, and the Psalms. Each book is filled with insights to be discovered!

    Dates

    26 January - 27 June 2025

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    Introduction to Radio & Media

    Good communication is essential for strong relationships, healthy families, and communities! Our mission is to train and equip effective communicators to share good news and influence positive community growth.

    CUA31020 Certificate III in Screen and Media

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    All Courses

    Our wide range of registered training courses are designed to help equip you for your field of passion.

    We combine elements of informal, formal, and non-formal education to not only impart knowledge and skill, but also good character, important life skills, and the motivation to serve and invest into the lives of others.

    Learn more about our approach to training

    Learn More (Townsville campus)

    Learn More (Port Moresby Campus)

    Join YWAM Staff

    Our volunteer staff team is a diverse mix of different nationalities, ages, skills, giftings, and backgrounds. Their dedication and passion makes what we do possible and we are always looking to expand our team!

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    Pathways with YWAM

    We have a range of pathways within our training and ministry that allows you to specialise in your area and grow your skillsets. From Hospitality to Global Health you can upskill yourself while impacting those around you

     

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    Resources

    Joining us for a Discipleship Training School (DTS) or Gap Year with us soon? We have compiled a few resources to help prepare you for the amazing journey that’s ahead!

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    For Parents

    Do you have a child that is interested in a YWAM DTS or Gap Year? We have created some resources for you as your child navigates their YWAM experience. 

    Canvas Online Training

    Login to complete your course homework here

     


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    YWAM Precinct

    Our recently developed YWAM Precinct located in Townsville’s CBD is the perfect hub for youth to find belonging and empowerment. A high, medium and low ropes course, brand new cafe, and multi-purpose warehouse space for seminars and other activities allows youth the opportunity to flourish through adventure based learning.

     

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    Youth Ambassadors

    As a Youth Ambassador you will have the opportunity to lead your peers and the wider community in helping to support the work of YWAM Medical Ships in Papua New Guinea.

     

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    Work Experience

    We offer the opportunity for students to complete their work experience at our city campus in Townsville. This unique opportunity gives students the ability to not only explore a future career pathway, but also get a taste of working with a local charity that is dedicated to serving the community.

     

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    Schools & Youth Leaders

    We know that really quality, committed youth workers, teachers and families are some of the best things young people can have in their formative years. Our hope is to make your job a little bit easier by offering adventure based learning, mentoring resources, leadership and training pathways, and service based learning opportunities for youth. 

     

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    Transitional Accommodation

    YWAM operates a home in Townsville for at-risk youth. YWAM receives tenant referrals from local collaborating youth support organizations.

     

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    Vision & Approach

    We have the hope to create a safe environment for the youth of Townsville to be, believing everyone has the right to hope for an abundant and healthy life physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. YWAM works in partnership and by invitation through Australia and Papua New Guinea.

     

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    School Seminars

    Our school seminar programs are designed to empower and motivate youth to live full and productive lives. Book these engaging and interactive seminars to strengthen your young people. 

     

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    Youth Adventures

    Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!

     

    Apply Now!

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    Impact Summer

    Make an Impact during your Summer as you engage in epic adventure, learning and serving. 

    High Ropes, bringing history to life, purpose driven teaching, breakfast, lunch, dinner! What more do you need?

     

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    VET in Schools

    Vocational education is one of the best ways for young people to explore their passions and get equipped. We offer several registered training programs for youth. In addition to all of the expected elements of a training program, our courses have an emphasis on building good character and the soft skills needed to be employable, while also giving students the chance to practice their skills within our organisation. 

     


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    Adventure Based Learning
    Adventure based learning programs are complete with a high, medium, and low ropes course, cafe, and multi-purpose youth space to run programs with a ‘learn by doing’ and ‘challenge by choice’ philosophy.
     

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    Precinct Cafe

    Help build healthy lives and communities in Australia and Papua New Guinea while dining at the YWAM Precinct Cafe

    YWAM Precinct Cafe is a not-for-profit cafe located at 312 Walker Street in Townsville’s CBD.

     


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    Dental Trailer

    YWAM Medical Ships is now operating a Dental Trailer in collaboration with key stakeholders in Port Moresby with the purpose of providing dental services, training opportunities, and health education to schools in the National Capital District.

    Apply Now

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    Ship Outreaches

    YWAM Medical Ships - Australia & PNG has been operating medical and training vessels in PNG since 2010.

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    Our Footprint

    Delivering basic services in Papua New Guinea (PNG) poses enormous challenges with 84 percent of the population living in remote, rural areas.

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    Advocate

    Join the YWAM Medical Ships team by becoming a Community Ambassador or Youth Ambassador in your local community.

    Apply Now (Townsville Campus)
    Apply Now  (Port Moresby Campus)
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    Mission Build
    Mission Building is a volunteer program that gives you the opportunity to experience life at our campus all while supporting our work in Australia and PNG. Join us for two weeks to three months at a time that suits you!
     
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    Youth Adventures
    Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!
     

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    Townsville City Campus - DTS, Volunteer, Donation
    Support our community service projects and youth work in North Queensland by giving a donation to the YWAM Townsville City Campus. The campus also serves as the headquarters for the YWAM Training and Medical Ship, 99.9 Live FM, all training activities, youth work, and a home-base for all of our volunteer staff and students.
    • DTS Fees
    • Volunteer Fees
    • Tax-Deductible Donations
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    Donate to support the work in Papua New Guinea
    Join us in the vision of building healthy lives and communities for a healthy Papua New Guinea by giving a tax deductible donation that has the power to change lives!
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    Ship Outreaches, Dental Trailer Outreaches, and more!

    Joining us on outreach in Papua New Guinea soon? We are looking forward to having you! Your volunteer fees can be paid online on this page

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    YWAM Medical Ships - Port Moresby Campus

    Payments are in Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) currency. Volunteer payments, donations, and projects in Port Moresby, PNG.

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    Support Our Volunteers
    All of our staff are full-time, self-funded volunteers, including our Managing Director! Each of our volunteers raise their own financial support outside of the organisation. This includes essential living expenses, outreach costs, and travel expenses.
    Our staff include accountants, cooks, administrators, mariners, outreach leaders, medical personnel, trainers, housekeepers, program developers, communications officers, youth workers, and so many more! It truly does take a dedicated and diverse team to make what we do possibl

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    Leave A Gift

    Leaving a gift to YWAM in your will is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

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    Charity Gift Shop

    Join us in the vision of supporting healthy villages in Papua New Guinea by giving a tax-deductible donation that has the power to change lives!