CAMP Manyung, a not-for-profit initiative transforming young lives, has turned 100 with campers, families and community members gathering to celebrate the milestone.
The seaside camp on Sunnyside Rd, Mount Eliza, is the longest-running residential camp in the state, run by YMCA Victoria, attracting around 14,500 campers every year.
Heavy rain didn’t deter guests from attending the celebration on 16 November including 95-year-old Ian Rose, who first volunteered with the YMCA in the 1940s and later brought his own family to the camp in the 1970s.
He was amazed at how much the place has evolved.
YMCA Victoria CEO Carolyn Morris spoke at the event alongside former CEO Peter Burns, Mornington MP Chris Crewther and state government representative David Strickland.
They shared reflections on how the camp had shaped generations and what the future might look like.
Camp manager Jim Boyle talked about what made the site special, pointing out its inclusive features.
“This means everyone, regardless of ability, age, background or culture can participate fully,” he said.
Boyle also shared hopes of transforming the self-contained Regatta House building into a modern, fully accessible accommodation space – a project that would need strong philanthropic backing.
After the birthday cake was cut, the rain finally eased, giving visitors a chance to explore the heritage-listed bunkhouses designed by Eric Nicholls and Walter Burley Griffin and built by volunteers during the Depression.
Some guests even had a go on the flying fox, while others headed back to the dining hall for a classic camp afternoon tea, accompanied by live acoustic music from local performer Mietta.
First published in the Mornington News – 25 November 2025
