Community Displays | Promised Land - Zeehan TAS
Monday: 23 March
A Warm Welcome at Tasmazia
Setting Off with Purpose
What a beautiful morning it was to hit the road! We left Devonport with hearts full of anticipation, heading up through the stunning high country towards Queenstown. Our route took us past Lake Barrington, where the excitement of the National Rowing Championships was already buzzing in the air — athletes and supporters from all over had gathered, and we were right in the thick of it.
Bubsie Takes Centre Stage
Our first stop was Tasmazia, nestled along Staverton Road at the junction to Lake Barrington — a perfect spot, as it’s a favourite destination for teams, tourists, and locals grabbing a bite before their adventures. Kylie, the wonderful manager, welcomed us with open arms, and we set up outside the entrance where Bubsie could be admired by everyone passing through — and even spotted from the road!
Throughout the morning, a lovely stream of people came to see Bubsie and receive a book. Locals from the surrounding area, competitive rowers, curious tourists — such a wonderful mix of people! One visitor even turned out to be from the very part of New Zealand where Kevin grew up, which made for a delightful and unexpected connection. Kevin also couldn’t resist sampling Tasmazia’s famous Devonshire date scones — a well-earned treat!
Friends on the Road
We were also blessed to have Dean and Diane Way join us for the display. Dean’s warm relationships with several of the local people made a real difference, and it was such a joy to serve alongside them. After a refreshing bite to eat, Dean and Diane generously escorted us along a shortcut — a narrow but quicker road connecting to the Cradle Mountain route — saving us valuable time. We said our warm goodbyes at the junction, grateful for their kindness and company.
From there, the drive to Zeehan was simply breathtaking. Steep roads plunging down into dramatic gorges, sweeping high country vistas, and dense, fragrant forested stretches — Tasmania’s scenery never fails to take your breath away.
Unexpected Blessings in Zeehan
Making the Most of Every Moment
We rolled into Zeehan just after 4 pm to find that most businesses had already closed for the day — many shut shops at 2 pm in this quiet town. But the Lord had other plans! The Post Office was open, and the friendly lady there quickly posted on Facebook that Bubsie would be on display until 4:30. Right across the road, the Op Shop was also open, and the kind lady there generously invited us to park Bubsie under her awning to shelter from a light sprinkle of rain. Such lovely community spirit!
A Reunion Written in the Stars
Not long after we set up, a couple arrived who had been eagerly anticipating our visit — they had already read Bubsie and the Boys and were so excited to meet us! As we chatted, we discovered we knew his sisters well, making it feel like a little family reunion right there on the street. It was one of those precious, God-orchestrated moments that make this ministry so rewarding. They also happened to know the dear lady we were planning to visit in Zeehan after the display, which made the world feel wonderfully small.
A couple of other local residents also stopped by, and it was a delight to place a book in their hands too.
Tea, Conversation & Prayer
After the display wrapped up, we drove over to visit our dear friend in Zeehan. She welcomed us in with the warmth only a true sister in faith can offer — a lovely afternoon snack, rich conversation, and the sweet privilege of praying together before we left.
Onward to Queenstown
With the afternoon fading, we set off for Queenstown, eager to arrive before dark. The road between Zeehan and Queenstown is not long, but it is beautifully winding and delightfully narrow — a reminder to slow down, take in the scenery, and trust the journey. Just like ministry itself.
What a privilege it is to travel these roads with such purpose.