Held from 30 November to 2 December at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the festival brought together more than 6,000 youth and young adults from across Australia for three days of prayer, formation, music, and fellowship. This year’s gathering held special meaning as it formed part of the global Jubilee Year, celebrated under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” 

ACYF provided pilgrims with a rich variety of experiences, including daily Mass, prayer, workshops, keynote sessions, live concerts, justice activities and an interactive expo. Young people connected with school and parish groups, speakers, musicians and bishops from across the country, creating a dynamic environment of shared faith and joyful community. 

The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle was among the largest delegations attending, travelling with more than 90 pilgrims led by Bishop Michael Kennedy.

Bishop Michael journeyed with the group throughout the festival, joining them in prayer, reflection and celebrations. 

“As we draw near the end of this Jubilee Year of ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, ACYF has offered our young people the opportunity to discover how God draws near and walks with them in every moment of their lives. This ACYF journey – through prayer, conversation, music, friendship, and encounter, invites them to experience the Church as a living, breathing community of faith. The joy and goodness of our young people who ventured to Melbourne has also given me great hope for our future,” he said. 

“My prayer is that this festival opens their hearts to hope, strengthens their trust in God’s love and inspires them to carry the light of Christ into the world long after they return home.” 

Over the three days, our diocesan pilgrims embraced the festival with enthusiasm – meeting young Catholics from across the nation, taking part in formation and worship, and celebrating their faith with renewed energy. 

James Camden, Director of Mission and Evangelisation, said the experience had a profound impact on participants.

“What struck me most is how willing our students and young adults have been to deepen their understanding, ask big questions and genuinely engage with their faith. ACYF gives them room to explore who they are and who God is calling them to become. We know they are returning to their schools and communities inspired to lead, to serve, and to continue seeking truth with hearts full of joy,” he said. 

ACYF offered many of our pilgrims their first major encounter with the wider Church in Australia, and the experience has left a lasting impression. 

Henrique Antevere Menezes, a young adult pilgrim from Wallsend-Shortland Parish, reflected on his experience.

“ACYF was a true refreshment for my soul. I witnessed the Holy Spirit at work and learned to appreciate life’s simple blessings, knowing there are people out there who pray for the things I often take for granted. This experience has deepened my faith, helping me see others more in the light of Christ and value the goodness in people before their flaws.” 

Ryan Gato, Head of Religious Education and Spirituality for Catholic Schools, reflected on the powerful impact of the Australian Catholic Youth Festival on the faith formation of young people, saying:

“ACYF has shown us that faith flourishes when shared and celebrated in community. Over these days, our students have stepped into spaces of learning, prayer and reflection – encountering a Church that teaches, listens and walks alongside them. Watching their enthusiasm and openness to deepen their understanding has strengthened my belief that the Holy Spirit is actively shaping the formation of this current generation of young people.”

As our young people return home, we pray that the inspiration they received in Melbourne continues to grow within them and strengthens their desire to share hope, joy, and Christ’s message in their schools, our parishes, and communities.

Check out a snapshot of some of the fun our pilgrims had in Melbourne!