Throughout the course of history, tragedy has struck. While many times it is extremely devasting, it seems that we are able to come together stronger than ever as one. One jet ski group in Australia is doing just that. The 14 member group is riding from Australia to Papua New Guinea and back, to help raise awareness for Sarz Sanctuary charity that supports victims of the 2017 London Terror Attacks. One of the victim in the terror attack was an Australian.
The Sarz Sanctuary Charity is an organization that was created for 21-year-old Sara Zelenak. She was one of the 8 murder victims in the attack. Her family was a well-known throughout he jet ski community and especially for ocean riding. After he death, her family created the Sarz Sanctuary where they provide support for people who are suffering from traumatic experiences. Julie Wallace, Sara’s mother says, “We want to honor Sara’s life and give purpose to her loss by helping others who have, like us, suffered traumatic grief. We are motivated to find a greater good from what has happened. We keep a positive outlook and want to build this positivity in others.”
The riders knew this trip would not be easy but they were up for the challenge. They left from Weipa, which is a town on the west side of Cape York Peninsula. What started as a 14 member group went down to a 12 member group as one jet ski started taking on water and had to be towed to land. Throughout he ride, the group experience tough wind and sea but kept on riding in memory of Sara.
Mark Wallace, Sara’s Father says, “Sara is in our heart every day and she directs us in what we’re doing. This is an event where we feel that support of her and we can give back to others.” Losing a daughter is one of the hardest things parents could experience. However, through this tragic event the family is organizing events in memory of her and helping other families deal with traumatic events.
