//News
Whats going on with the Flying BibleMan
Western Australians walk to keep Flying Bibleman in the air!
Bible Society supporters are quite innovative when it comes to finding creative, healthy and enjoyable ways to raise money for Bible distribution. In Western Australia, a tradition has grown out of their pioneering spirit which directly benefits the people of Australia’s vast outback.
Early one Saturday morning in October, 15 brave adventurers set off on a hike that would see their dedication sorely tested.
The Bibbulmun Track is a 1,000km walk stretching from the outskirts of Perth to Albany in the State’s south. The walkers typically do a section at a time and progress ‘down the track’ each year.
Setting off this year from just outside Manjimup meant that the walkers had to first travel by bus almost 400 kilometres to pick up the where they left off previously.
They got off to a great start though as the Manjimup Baptist Church provided overnight accommodation and a hearty breakfast to get them going.
As in previous years, the SES were on hand to support the walkers. The SES volunteers make sure that the walkers turn up at their checkpoints, help out with any evacuations that are needed and provide encouragement to the team. They provide a great service and the Bibbulmun walk serves as a training exercise for them too.
One walker was taken to the nearest town and returned to Perth with a severe knee problem. Another got a major lung infection, had to seek medical help and did not complete the hike. Yet another had a very bad fever with a lung infection, but he recovered enough to complete the hike. Finally, another walker rolled his ankle but did not give up! They all got drenched on the last morning, but such was their dedication that they took it all in their stride – literally! After four days in the bush, the comments ranged from "I’ll never do that again” to “Put me on the list for 2005”.
Adding a personal touch this year, the Flying BibleMan, Phil Zamagias, was on hand to meet the group, encourage them from scripture and pray for them as they set off. Phil reminded the group that their gifts given to God’s work are a ‘fragrant offering’ which pleases the Lord; Philippians 4:18b.
“I was totally overwhelmed by the love and generosity of the Bibbulmun walkers’ said Phil, “It was a privilege to meet them and one I will not forget”.
The Bibbulmun walkers are aware that Bibles must be provided to people in very remote parts of Australia. This can be a costly exercise but one which they feel is a part of their responsibility in the body of Christ. The money raised this year will pay the entire fuel bill for the Flying BibleMan’s ministry.
You too can be part of the Flying BibleMan’s ministry to the Outback of Australia. Contact the Bible Society office in your state and consider whether you can make a regular donation to keep the ‘Flying BibleMan ‘in the air over the Australian Outback. Your gifts will help strengthen the church by building a firm foundation on the Word of God.