ZulaRoo Surf House Update: A Refuge for Israelis in Australia
Earlier this year, we introduced you to the ZulaRoo Surf House located in Apollo Bay, Victoria, a haven for Israeli travellers. “Zula,” an Israeli term for a cosy spot, perfectly encapsulates the atmosphere we’ve strived to create at our Surf House. This unique ministry provides a complimentary place to stay for Israelis journeying through Australia.
We officially inaugurated our Surf House on Australia Day, where believers from across Victoria gathered at ZulaRoo to pray for the property, the Bolton family who graciously host the Israeli guests, and for the welfare of all Israelis who will find refuge here. The warmth of Apollo Bay on that day mirrored our community’s deep devotion to God’s Chosen People.
Since December, our Surf House has seen a steady flow of more than 40 Israeli guests. Word-of-mouth referrals have brought many Israelis through our doors, even though we haven’t yet advertised the Surf House in Israel. Our guests have varied from solo travellers and newly-met groups of up to five, to long-time friends and honeymooning couples. Here are just a few of the messages taken from our guest book at Zularoo:
“Thank you for the warm experience, it was so homey and that’s an amazing feeling when we’re thousands of miles away from home in these crazy times.”
“From the first moment our paths crossed at the support rally, we felt such a strong connection to you and your presence there made us feel loved and protected.”
We are so honoured and blessed to be able to offer these young travellers a home-away-from-home, even if it is just for a short time. The Bolton family, our hospitable hosts, have had the privilege of sharing the message of Yeshua the Messiah with these backpackers. Together, they have also celebrated Shabbat and Jewish holidays like Hanukkah, fostering a sense of home and tradition away from home.
We now appeal to your generosity to help us finance and prepare this haven, this ZulaRoo, where Israelis can find a safe and welcoming refuge as they journey through our shores. God’s call to comfort His people resonates deeply with us here in Australia. We humbly seek your support on this journey of faith and obedience, inviting you to partner with us in Project ZulaRoo – a mission dedicated to comforting and caring for God’s people (Isaiah 40:1).
Our aim is to raise $1.4 million to secure this property entirely. You can go to celebratemessiah.com.au/zularoo to learn more about the Surf House, and celebratemessiah.com.au/donate to support us. •
