Petition to Bring SUFM Back to Tidal River Campground

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the relevant decision-makers reconsider allowing Scripture Union Family Missions (SUFM) to return to Tidal River Campground next summer (2027/2028).

For generations (60+ years) Tidal River SUFM has been a valued part of the Tidal River camping experience. It has provided children and families with a free, inclusive, and welcoming program that encourages friendship, outdoor play, creativity, and positive values. 

Many families have long lasting fond memories of attending SUFM as children (myself and my husband, in the early 1980s, included) and have since returned with their own children (our own children, and their extended family and friends, included), making it a treasured tradition that spans generations.

SUFM has never been just another holiday activity. It has helped create a sense of community within the campground, giving children the opportunity to connect with others, build confidence, and enjoy fun, supervised activities while families camp together. It has also allowed parents to have a great rest (each morning and some evenings) as SUFM allows children to be dropped off without parents needing to stay and supervise. This not only gives children awesome childhood experiences and build core memories, but also provides much needed breaks for parents.

Participation has always been voluntary, and families have been free to choose whether or not to attend. Multiple people we know have met their spouses there and created lifelong friendships and built inter-connections between family groups. Some might argue that this program is exclusive to Christians. This is definitely not the case. All children and families are welcomed, as evidenced by the way that people of other faiths and non believers are always welcomed, no questions asked. In fact, only this past summer I saw many Muslim families being joyfully welcomed into family fun evenings and children’s events.

The absence of SUFM would be a significant loss for many regular visitors who have come to associate it with the unique experience of camping at Tidal River. Its return would continue to support family-friendly recreation, strengthen community connections, and preserve a much-loved tradition. 

Some of the program’s highlights that many people treasure include: The Annual Sandcastle Competition that attracts hundreds of people, the Amazing Race (for older kids and young adults), Foxholes on the beach at night, Family Fun Nights, Weekly concerts, the morning program and evening programs and so much more. 

For many Victorians (and visitors from interstate and abroad), a summer at Tidal River isn’t complete without SUFM. We hope future generations can enjoy the same experience.

We respectfully ask that you:

* Reconsider the decision preventing SUFM from operating at Tidal River next summer.

* Engage with SUFM representatives to address any concerns that led to this decision.

* Work collaboratively to find a solution that allows the program to safely and appropriately return for the benefit of camping families.

By signing this petition, we express our support for bringing SUFM back to Tidal River Campground and preserving an experience that has positively impacted countless families over many years.

Please help us bring SUFM back to Tidal River next summer!