1. How do I get to RYLA?
Your sponsoring Rotary club will discuss transport arrangements with you. A Rotarian from the club may be available to take you to the venue and back, or you may prefer to transport yourself.
2. What do I bring to RYLA?
All of your personal belongings for the duration of the seminar – in other words the required amount of jocks and socks and anything else you may like to wear! It is also handy to pack a change of clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting wet or dirty. Also bring some cash, small notes if possible (a ‘shop run’ is conducted every day for any essentials eg. Toothbrush, chocolate). You will also need to bring two towels, a sleeping bag and pillow. Please also ensure that you have suitable clothing for the RYLA Presentation Dinner on the last night of the seminar. The dress code for this is semi-formal – a dress or pants and top for girls and shirts and pants for guys, no denim or sneakers please. Folders, pens etc will be provided so you don’t need to bring any stationery. NOTE For anyone that has musical or other talents, we also encourage you to bring along any instruments, music, equipment or props to contribute to our Concert.
3. I am going to RYLA alone and do not know anyone. Will everyone else know one another?
No! The majority of people who come to RYLA do so solo – and therefore have a great opportunity to meet and make new friends. We can confidently tell you that as well as RYLA being an amazing leadership and personal development program – it is a great social opportunity as well.
4. Does RYLA cost me anything?
RYLA does not cost participants anything financially – only your time. All costs of the program are covered by your sponsoring Rotary club, except for transport if you are getting there by your own means. After RYLA finishes you are expected to go back to your sponsoring Rotary club to give a short presentation on your experience. There may be other things they ask of you eg a meeting before the camp, maybe helping in some way with fund-raising etc. Not much for such a great opportunity! Also don’t forget some small notes for any essentials you may need throughout the seminar.
5. What type of accommodation will I be staying in?
RYLA is always held in a beautiful location somewhere within District 9780, this year at Kangaroobie. Accommodation is in comfortable, single sex dorms. The main area has picturesque views and an amazing open fire. The food is awesome!
6. What kind of activities do we do at RYLA?
Your time at RYLA will include fun activities, interactive workshops and sessions, time outdoors and indoors, small and large group activities and free time to socialise with the other participants. You will be given a more detailed program when you arrive at the camp.
7. I understand that RYLA is a drug and alcohol-free seminar but can I smoke cigarettes?
Yes, there is a designated smoking area at the accommodation.
8. Who is chosen to attend RYLA?
The young people who go to RYLA are all aged 18-25 years and live, work, study or are originally from a location within District 9780. The program is designed to support those young people who are already in leadership positions either in their workplace, school or community as well as those who are keen to enhance their skills in this area. Everyone who attends RYLA does so because someone sees leadership potential in them. Sometimes people attend because they have heard about the program from a past participant and want to personally grow and develop. Lots of young people have completed the RYLA program over the years varying in qualifications, interests and backgrounds. RYLA is beneficial for any young person who wants to learn more about themselves and others and is prepared to contribute their ideas and life experiences at the seminar.
9. How many other young people attend the RYLA seminar?
Approximately 40-50 young people from across district 9780 attend the seminar. They often make great relationships and lifelong friends and contacts.
10. I can’t attend the whole seminar due to other commitments – can I attend part of the seminar?
No – to get the most out of the RYLA experience it is important you can commit to the whole 6 days. The last day concludes at around 12:30pm.
11. RYLA a whole week off work and away from friends and family – should I commit?
Yes – past participants would encourage you to do so. The comments from those who complete the program is that it is life changing.
12. What are the benefits to my employer if I attend?
We can provide a brochure for employers about the benefits of RYLA. You can print this out and share with your employer if you would like to share more about the program.
13. Why have I been nominated to attend RYLA?
Because someone sees leadership potential in you and thinks you will contribute greatly to the community if these skills are enhanced, and you develop self-confidence and self-belief.