The North New South Wales Conference (NNSW) has appointed pastor Trent Keegan as associate youth director, joining Pastor Ashley Smith in leading the Conference’s youth and young adult ministries. The decision is part of a restructure aimed at creating one unified team to support young people from their teenage years through to university.
Announcing the changes, NNSW president Pastor Cristian Copaceanu said the goal is to strengthen coordination and disciple-making across all age groups. “We are blessed to have a committed, experienced and missional team in the youth space with Pastor Ash Smith and pastor Trent Keegan capably supported by Shanna Waters,” Pastor Copaceanu said. “Trent has had 10 years in outdoor recreation and three years in ministry, and we’re excited to see how God will use his gifts in this new season.”
Pastor Keegan previously served in local church ministry in Cooranbong at Avondale University Church and most recently at Gateway Church. Before entering full-time ministry, he worked extensively with young people in fitness and outdoor leadership. He holds certifications as a gym instructor and personal trainer, a diploma in outdoor recreation and leadership, and served for three years as a light cavalry scout in the Australian Army Reserve.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Ministry and Theology from Avondale University in 2022 and is passionate about mentoring young people in practical discipleship.
“I feel excited stepping into this role. It’s a big responsibility and an honour to be called to it. My heart is for discipleship, helping people build a genuine, authentic relationship with God and guiding them in that journey,” pastor Keegan said.
Pastor Keegan is married to Erin, and they have one daughter, Ayla, with a baby boy on the way.
The appointment follows the transition of Pastor Blair Lemke, who, after eight years of service as young adults director, has requested reassignment to local church ministry.
Pastor Copaceanu expressed gratitude to Pastor Lemke for his dedication, “We want to thank Pastor Blair Lemke for his significant service in the young adult space, which has and will continue to have an eternal impact on the lives of so many. We look forward to seeing what the Lord will do through him in the next chapter of his ministry.”