Last week, the 2026 International Camp Directors Course (ICDC) was held at the stunning Camp Cottermouth in Canberra, providing an inspiring backdrop for four focused and rewarding days of professional learning, reflection, and connection.
Cave Hill Creek and Silverband Lodge were well represented, with owner Ange attending alongside Leighton, Manager, Silverband Lodge and Zach, Program Coordinator, Cave Hill Creek. Ange completed the highly regarded Train the Trainer program and also assisted with the delivery of the course along with Paul from Urban Challenge in NSW and Matt from Kangaroobie in VIC, contributing practical insight and hands-on experience to support fellow camp professionals.
Leadership, Learning and Professional Growth
The International Camp Directors Course is auspiced by the International Camping Fellowship (ICF), a global organisation dedicated to supporting quality camping and outdoor recreation experiences worldwide. Through leadership development, professional education, and international collaboration, the ICF plays a key role in strengthening the camp sector and fostering shared standards and best practice across countries and cultures.
The Australian Camps Association facilitates an Australian program, bringing together leaders from across the camp and outdoor recreation sector. Over the four-day program, participants engaged in meaningful discussions around leadership, governance, risk, culture, and the evolving role of camps in supporting young people and communities. The program ends with presentation of ‘model’ camp scenarios by participant groups, a fun way to apply the learnings of the week.
Connecting with Camp Professionals from Accross the Sector
One of the standout elements of the week was the strength of the connections formed. Camp directors and emerging leaders attended from across Australia and beyond, creating rich opportunities to share experiences, exchange ideas, and explore common challenges and opportunities.
These relationships are vital to the continued growth and innovation of the camp and outdoor education industry, helping organisations learn from one another and strengthen best practice across the sector.
Strengthening the Future of Camp Leadership
A significant outcome of the course is that Ange is now qualified to deliver the International Camp Directors Course program in Australia. This is an exciting step that will allow Cave Hill Creek and Silverband Lodge to play an even stronger role in developing leadership capability within the camp industry.
By supporting current and emerging camp directors to grow their skills, confidence, and impact, we can continue to enhance the quality, safety, and inclusivity of camp experiences nationwide. We look forward to the positive flow-on effects this experience will bring to our team, our partners, and the many groups and communities who share in life-changing experiences at Cave Hill Creek and Silverband Lodge.
