NSW man comes ‘home’ to his identity

A young man from regional New South Wales says a Birthright trip to Israel has transformed his relationship with his Jewish identity, as the Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA) reports rising interest in the program since October 7, 2023.

Will Border, from Wingham on the NSW mid-north coast, reconnected with his Jewish heritage through his great-grandfather while researching his family tree. He was encouraged to apply for Birthright after connecting with a local Chanukah outreach event.

“I was always aware that I was Jewish. My grandma would always bring it up and discuss it,” Border said. But growing up away from a large Jewish community meant few chances to explore that identity further.

The 10-day trip changed that. “I’d definitely say it brought it home to me,” Border said. “To be able to see it live in action, and to be able to learn more, and actually experience, not just read about it. That’s what was a highlight for me.”

Border said the experience has inspired him to deepen his Jewish practice. “I’ve recently started reading more religious texts, as well as philosophy, and I want to integrate that in my daily life.”

He also formed lasting friendships with other young Jewish Australians he met on the trip. “We have plans to meet up and have Shabbat, and be able to learn about each other,” he said.

Natan Kessler, who directs Israel programs for the ZFA, said Birthright has partnered with the organisation in Australia for 25 years. The program was suspended briefly after October 7, but interest has grown since.

“Since October 7, we’ve definitely seen a rise in numbers generally,” Kessler said. The ZFA has also introduced a new volunteer program alongside the classic 10-day itinerary.

Kessler said participants are typically those without strong existing ties to Jewish community life. “It’s generally for those who perhaps don’t have such a ­connection to their Jewish identity or to Israel, and probably don’t have too many Jewish friends, haven’t gone to a Jewish school.”

Kessler said this season just over 170 people took part in the classic program, with around 100 more joining the volunteer stream, though numbers fluctuate depending on funding.

Kessler said the friendships formed often outlast the itinerary itself. “We can put the best itinerary together possible, but it’s the people that they meet which usually stay with them forever.”