The Sydney Jewish Report - July 2021 Edition

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Fostering a closer Jewish community

VOL. 77 Tuesday, 20 July, 2021 / 12 Av 5781

Education Feature Inside Photo: Emanuel Woollahra Preschool

NO MORE LONELY LOCKDOWNS p6

JEWISH LIFE AT MANDELBAUM p24

EVERYONE IS A JEM

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JEWISH LAUGHS

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A new direction for JewishCare going into a leadership position for the first time? I believe leadership is one of the most courageous journeys a person can undertake. It will challenge you, inspire you and occasionally knock you back. It’s never a straight line, but what’s important is ensuring you’re learning along the way.

JEWISHCARE The first six months in any job is always dynamic, but when it’s the top job of an established community organisation like JewishCare, operating in the middle of a pandemic, the challenges are tenfold and effective leadership is critical for agility, change and growth. We took a moment to chat to Gary Groves, CEO of JewishCare, to reflect upon his first six months in this pivotal role, gain insights for his plans ahead and hear his thoughts on what it takes to be an effective leader. We are inspired with his leadership and excited for the future direction of an integral part of our Jewish community. What has impressed you the most during your time at JewishCare? The sense of community support was overwhelming and the willingness of employees to go that extra mile to make a difference for our clients. They are our engine room at JewishCare. Their commitment to our culture, the family mentality and their expertise and knowledge has really inspired me. Being new to the Jewish community, I also feel privileged to have met with so many of our community partners and generous donors who are willing to collaborate for the greater benefit. I think we’re going to see some great traction over the next six months that we can all be excited for. What changes are ahead for JewishCare? JewishCare has built strong foundations since its inception in 1937, with various iterations along the way as its responded to changing needs. My vision for JewishCare is to build upon these initial building blocks to enhance our customer experience, contemporise our practices and ensure we’re positioned to not just meet the needs of our community today, but planning for how JewishCare ensures we’re supporting our community to thrive in the future. For example, we embarked on a very ambitious Mental Health Scoping Project which will identify what gaps there are in

From left to right: Gil Hergass (Moriah college), Gary Groves (CEO JewishCare), Ayelet Rev (Moriah College) and Suzi Parker (Disability Services Manager JewishCare). the community, address clinical needs and provide contemporary services for all age groups in partnership with other likeminded organisations. It sounds like you’ve got quite a transformation agenda, how will you see that come to fruition? Having a sound strategic plan is obviously important, but I am also fortunate to have an innovative and supportive Board who have endorsed my vision. However, it’s our people who help realise vision. A strong organisation enables its current leaders, but also nurtures its future leaders. Throughout my career, I’ve identified future leaders by their ability to generate new ideas and build an inspiring vision of the future for those around them. They tend to have a natural drive, are passionate about continuous improvement and have high levels of emotional intelligence, they can recognise their own strengths and weaknesses and lead by example. They have integrity, and are respected by others for their fairness. They are

"people-people,” my favourite quality for leaders who work in human services. They have a positive and motivational energy, and their enthusiasm is contagious. I like to call it the "star" quality. Difficult to define, but easy to recognise. How do you describe yourself as a leader? People often describe my leadership as transformational, balancing visionary concepts, with sound strategy and a pragmatic approach to getting the work done operationally. I like to challenge the status quo to deliver and design better products, systems and outcomes to stimulate innovation and continuous quality improvement to ensure our clients are receiving the best care possible. I pride myself on being authentic in what I do and my interactions with people. I think it’s important for any leader to regularly connect with their clients and employees at all levels to ensure the organisation remains relevant and responsive. What advice would you give someone

A leader will consistently invest in others by enabling them to achieve while intentionally challenging both themselves and others to pursue goals that stretch their skills. Their focus on the greater good, will see them collaborating and fostering interdependence. They demonstrate and invest in emotional intelligence, regularly expressing compassion and empathy which I believe are underrated qualities across all industries, not just care services. While many assume being a boss means having all the answers, courageous leaders engage employees to share their ideas and solutions before jumping in. These days, people demand authenticity and transparency within the workplace. What is the biggest challenge facing JewishCare? Our biggest challenge is to remain contemporary in an everchanging society. We must be vigilant and be prepared to embrace innovation and new ways of delivering services. Dealing with technological disruption is as much an issue for the not-for-profit sector as it is for mainstream organisations. There are opportunities for JewishCare to more effectively deliver on our strategic vision by being nimble and embracing technology. COVID has taught us to provide services very differently and align ourselves with the digital world. Another challenge will be to maintain and grow our workforce on the frontline. We need to diversify our skills and be prepared to provide new clinical models of care to our most vulnerable. The expectations of customers, clients and communities are set to change in a world of consumer-directed funding and choice.

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Enjoy your children SARA RAYVYCH A few years ago I was speaking to an occupational therapist and she made an interesting comment. Her observation was that while the parents she met always loved their children, she didn’t feel that all of them enjoyed their children. I found this statement to be very interesting. I can’t say whether or not it’s true but I can say it gave me a different way of looking at parentchild interactions. Too often we get caught up in the daily grind of life and don’t take the time to really enjoy our children. We love them, care for them and do all the necessary parenting tasks but we don’t as often take the time to enjoy the cute and funny things they do. Kids are fun people and add lots of enjoyment to the day. Kids see the world in ways adults no longer do. Additionally, as much as we love our children, it doesn’t mean our children always feel it. It can be hard to express our love for them and as much as we may feel it they may not always sense it. Making an effort to ensure our children feel our love for them is important, too. This does not mean we need to spend every waking minute with our children to show we love them. Everyone needs time to themselves and this, too, should be respected. Pushing yourself too far past your comfort level can easily lead to feelings of resentment. Feeling resentment and anger towards your children is unlikely to make you enjoy them more. Kids enjoy being enjoyed Kids want their parents to be happy with them and enjoy their company. Don’t you like to know someone enjoys spending time with you? Kids are no different. Children naturally have a connection to their parents and a desire to be close to them. You can see that even children in abusive situations, chas v’shalom, can still want the attention and love of an abusive parent. Even more so, children will want to feel the devotion of a loving parent. It’s innate for children to want to have the approval and attention of the adults in their life. This is not only natural but also important for their basic survival. By giving our children

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that extra connection we are fulfilling a basic, inborn need. Children thrive on parental love. It’s a boost to your child when they see how much you care. Enjoying their companionship only adds to this. Think of how hurtful it is for a child to not think their parents love them and how incredible they feel knowing their adults adore them. Again, even if we adore them more than they can imagine, they still need to know it. Bonus reward for parents Parenting is hard. I don’t need to cover up this basic fact. It’s hard, tiring and difficult but we love our children and (hopefully) recognize they’re a gift. For all our hard work we should

at camp- enjoy it! Someone tells you how well behaved your child is at the park- say “thank you” and smile big. Take the time to feel that pride- you can even let your child know. Feel good that this accomplished child is your child. Kids say the funniest things. Toddlers, in particular, can say such interesting things that you wish you wrote down all of those pearls of wisdom. As their minds mature and expand their understanding, they begin to learn more and more about the world around them. As much as they understand they often have so much more to go. They look at the world so differently that you can often think of your little one as a built in comedy

It’s so much easier to parent children when you can enjoy them, laugh with them ... and appreciate the natural insanity the comes with having kids.

get to enjoy them. When you take the time to sit back and just enjoy the little things they do it makes parenting that much more enjoyable and rewarding. It also makes parenting a little easier during those even harder moments. How many of us have taken a few minutes after an insanely crazy day just to see how peaceful and sweet our little ones look when they’re sleeping? No matter what they do during the day, they look innocent and calm when they sleep. These little moments help recharge our parental batteries so we can face the next day. Don’t wait till they do something big to feel that nachas; enjoy the little things they do throughout the day. There are so many small accomplishments our kids do that we should enjoy them. The new big brother shares something with his little sister- that’s a sweet accomplishment. Your child got the davening award

show. Even teenagers add humor as they begin to show more and more of their personality. Enjoy their comments and their humor. Laugh a bit and keep that smile there. Try to make some time to spend privately with each child. Even if it’s brief, quality time together is a relatively easy and meaningful way to not only show your child you value them but also to get a chance to see their unique self. Personally, I’ve often found that I get to appreciate my children in ways I don’t normally get to when I spend private time with them. They naturally open up differently when it’s one-on-one time. Add in your favourites Even when you enjoy spending time with your children it doesn’t mean you enjoy every activity they do. Don’t hesitate to suggest activities you do enjoy. You may prefer one park, trip,

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COMMUNITY game or activity over another one. As an example, I try to keep certain board games in the house that I can at least tolerate or even enjoy playing. My kids know which I prefer and will often suggest those over the ones I don’t like. This doesn’t mean I never play games I don’t like but it’s easier to get motivated to play a board game that I do enjoy, especially if I’m tired and really don’t want to play anything. It can be better to play the game you can get excited over and really get involved with your child than the one you dislike and can’t wait to end. Your child will pick up on your attitude. Often, the time spent with you is more important to them than the actual activity. Watch how you phrase things I’ve heard parents talk about their kids and sometimes it’s been rather negative. I don’t know if parents always realize how their comments or parent-to-parent schmoozing sounds to their child’s sensitive ears. Saying how you chose the camp with longer hours to keep your child out of the house can easily sound hurtful to a child. Another example, when people hear I homeschool a frequent response is “I could never spend all day with my kids''. Parents say this to me in front of their children. We know parents (hopefully) don’t mean it the way it sounds but how do you think it makes their child feel? Let’s make an effort that when kids overhear us speaking to others they feel good about our feelings for them and not like they’re a burden. There are times we may need to discuss things that aren’t positive about them, such as to their teacher. In these circumstances let’s make sure there aren’t any prying ears listening in. I will remind you that the walls have ears, as do the doors and kids hiding behind couches. Enjoying your children and the things they do makes parenting them sweeter. It’s so much easier to parent children when you can enjoy them, laugh with them (or at their antics) and appreciate the natural insanity that comes with having kids. Also, ensuring our children feel the intense love we have for them can only help them develop into the fantastic people they’re on the way to becoming.

2021 CENSUS 10 August You count to us. Let us count you. Write Jewish in next month's census and take the guess work out of the future.

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The 2021 Census – a vital tool for the Jewish community

JCA How many Jews live in the Outback? To find out, we’d need the Australian census, which is arriving in two weeks. It will seek a mass of data covering everything from health, age, poverty, education, culture and “yes”, the outcomes will highlight how many Outback Jews there are. In fact the data represented by completed census are chock-full of stories about the present and the past … and even the future. Let’s take the Outback then. Jews have been a part of the fabric of Australian society since the First Fleet landed. And contrary to what you may think, they don’t all live in Caulfield or the Eastern Suburbs. In Broken Hill, a frontier mining town deep in the Outback of western NSW, rises an imposing and beautifully preserved synagogue. And while this shul long ago ceased serving a Jewish community, we know from the last census there were still frontier Jews living in Broken Hill in 2016. Not only that, but the synagogue now forms part of our history in Australia and preserves these stories through the onsite museum. Meanwhile a very different story is told about Australia’s unique Holocaust

survivor heritage. The census data tell us that in the decade from 2006 to 2016 the number of Jews born in Poland, Hungary and Germany declined by more than a third, reflecting the inevitable passing of a defining chapter in the Jewish Australian experience. This emphasises the urgent need to ensure the memory of these survivors lives on, even after they have passed away. The census, due to take place on August 10th, is the most comprehensive

snapshot of the country we can get. It is a vital resource for the Jewish community and all the organisations that are tasked with providing services and facilities, as well as planning for the future. Dr David Graham, demographer working with JCA in NSW told us “the census takes away the guesswork. It allows planners to make informed decisions about what is best for the community. It even helps them to peer into the future to make the best and

most efficient use of scarce communal resources. The best choices can only be made through informed decision making and that has to be based on evidence.” “By reporting Jewish in the 2021 Census, Jewish people can help themselves by helping organisations such as JCA and its member organisations take the guesswork out of understanding the community. For example, it will provide information about the number of Jewish school children there are now and how many there are likely to be in the future. Similarly, for understanding aged care service provision, community security, synagogues and every conceivable aspect of Jewish community life. In each case, the data helps us answer key questions like, do we need to provide more, build more or consolidate what we already have?” Dr Graham said. This year Census Night falls on 10th August 2021, but the census form will be available online from 28th July, when login ID’s will start arriving in the post. We encourage all members of the community to fill it out as soon as possible and write Jewish as an answer to the religion question. “Ultimately the Census is about you, your family, and your community,” Dr Graham said.

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

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Visiting Israel Virtually the UIA Way UIA COVID-19 may have interfered with many of our plans to visit Israel this summer, but UIA provided an alternative with its Virtual Israel Missions held last month. Participants joined us for a Zoom journey across two evenings, like no other. Just like UIA’s usual Israel Missions, they received a taste of our homeland with unparalleled speakers and visits inaccessible to the public. UIA’s Missions provide a firsthand look at the land of Israel in an unprecedented way, unique insights into its complex political and security situation and the opportunity to visit historical and cultural sites. Highlights of the Missions included an exclusive tour of an IDF army base and Hezbollah tunnel, a visit to the revolutionary high tech company Future Meat and an immersive Dead Sea experience that delved into the unique salt formations, salt droplets, salt pearls and water springs streaming into the sea. Participants enjoyed a rare interview with Ilan Eizikson, Security Officer of the Eshkol region in the Gaza Strip and Lt.Col

(Ret) Eyal Dror, a 24-year veteran of the IDF who founded and commanded an IDF unit ‘Good Neighbour Directorate.’ This operated at a northern border crossing right under the watch of AlQaeda and Hezbollah, and provided

humanitarian aid to Syrian civilians during the Syrian Civil War. He explained how this was the largest humanitarian operation ever led by the IDF. Lt. Col Sarit Zehavi, CEO and Founder of Alma, a non-profit and

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COMMUNITY independent research and education centre specialising in Israel’s security challenges on its northern border led a geo-political tour of the region. She discussed the ongoing threats facing the area, as well as the recent threats experienced during Operation Guardian of the Walls. The Missions also included visits to Keren Hayesod-UIA supported projects Ben Yakir Youth Village and Amigour Sheltered Housing in Ashkelon, where participants gained a first-hand understanding from the People of Israel who benefit from our support and how we are changing lives daily. “Our virtual experience was as close to the real thing as can be provided on a computer screen. We are so appreciative of the incredible feedback we received and all of us who participated were extremely fortunate to hear, learn and feel from our various speakers, tours and KH-UIA project beneficiaries. All those who missed this Mission should make sure they don’t miss our next one later in the year,” UIA CEO Yair Miller OAM said. For more information about UIA’s upcoming Israel Missions, contact UIA NSW on 9361 4273 or missions@uiansw.org.au

UIA ‘My Israel’ Video Competition UIA UIA is excited to announce its video competition, ‘My Israel’, is returning for a third year to Jewish day schools across the country. For the second year, schools in Melbourne and Perth are joining Sydney in the competition, which is open to both primary and high school-aged students, as well as families.

We encourage students to use their skills and passions to tell us their Israel story.

The initiative challenges participants to express their personal connection to Israel in a way that talks to them, be it through dance, film, photography, poetry or other mediums such as cooking, rapping or research. There is no limit on how students can reflect and express their personal experiences, views and feelings towards our Homeland. “We encourage students to use their skills and passions to tell us their Israel

story, be it through a collage of photos from family holidays or a detailed account of the most remarkable companies and inventions that make up the ‘start-up nation’. Students can create the videos in groups or alone, enabling their creativity to soar to unimaginable heights,” UIA CEO Yair Miller OAM said.

The purpose of the competition is to engage the community through Israel education and UIA, generate more awareness about Israel and create a sense of unity within the Australian Jewish community. The top high school video from each school will be entered into the national competition, which will be judged by

a panel of experts from the film and entertainment industry, including Eddie Tamir (owner of Ritz Cinemas, Sydney and Classic, Lido and Cameo Cinemas, Melbourne and artistic director of the Jewish International Film Festival) and Jonathan Shteinman (film producer, best-known for productions including Rabbit Proof Fence, Angel Baby and Romper Stomper). The overall winning video will be determined by the expert judges’ combined average score plus points scored on Facebook by way of Likes. The winning high school team or individual will receive the ultimate prize of $5,000 towards Israel travel. “At UIA, we are for the People of Israel, so what could be better than school students educating and connecting the community through short videos covering topics related to Israel? We are proud to launch this project for the third year, and the second year in schools nationally across Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.” UIA NSW Executive Director and Shlicha Jasmine Malul said. Watch primary school video entries from 11th October and high school videos entries from 18th October on the UIA Australia Facebook page: facebook.com/uiaaus Vote for your favourite high school video on the UIA Australia Facebook page from 18th October.

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No More Lonely Lockdowns

SANDRA MATRAI COA SYDNEY COVID lockdown is a recurring nightmare, especially for COA members and friends who were just getting back into the routine of coming to the COA Centre for stimulating activities and social connection. Everyone knew it would be a hard long road back to our normal lives, but it is proving even more difficult than imagined. For seniors now back in lockdown, COA has loads of services to ensure food security and social connection to get you through these difficult times. COA’s Kosher Meals-on-Wheels are a great way to keep up good nutrition while remaining COVID safe. The service has a delicious variety of meals on offer, produced by some of Sydney’s top Kosher caterers. Delivered three times weekly to east and southeast suburbs and once weekly to north, inner city and far southern suburbs. Food is delivered to recipients’ homes by COA’s friendly volunteers who use COVID safe contactless delivery methods during lockdowns and are usually up for a chat. Remember that COA, with the generous support of JCA and many donors, subsidises the cost of every meal, so you can afford to eat food that is actually nutritious and balanced,

not like the gimmicky diet meals you see advertised on TV! With community support, you don’t need to settle for anything less than the very best, even during lockdown. COA Fresh was an innovation of the first COVID lockdown in 2020 which other organisations and councils have emulated using the COA model for delivery. This service provides a bag of fresh food ingredients, often including bagels or pita bread, as well as household goods such as hand sanitisers, cleaning products, toilet paper and wet wipes. This bag of goodies is delivered weekly

to recipients’ homes across Sydney by COA volunteers. It’s completely free of charge for those in financial stress, thanks to the generous support of Peter and Jenny Wohl and family. Shop 4 You is a way to get what you need form the supermarket without going out yourself. This service provides a volunteer to shop from a list you provide. They deliver the goods to you or arrange a delivery from the supermarket. Payment can be made several ways, depending on your needs; talk to COA’s social workers for the details and to set up the program.

Shalom Connect has been in effect as a service for COA members since the late 1990’s, but during COVID the number of people using Shalom Connect has skyrocketed. The service pairs a volunteer with COA members for a weekly or daily phone call. It’s a great way to connect and friendships have blossomed from these calls, as members and volunteers share their life stories and their daily trials. Tech Connect was another innovation of the first COVID lockdown in 2020. Those on the service receive a tablet on free three-month loan, with SIM card for internet connection paid for by COA if needed. Mt Sinai school has provided us several student-led tutorials on the basics of using the tablet, and these are loaded on to each tablet, so users have a database of information to choose from. COA also provides a onehour face to face tutorial with a skilled volunteer to get service users started on their tablets. COA Social Workers are the key to staying at home without missing out on services, food, or social connection. Speak to them anytime on 9389 0035 to find out more about the above COA programs, or to register for help at home from reliable home support workers.

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A Paradigm Shift RABBI MOSHE D. GUTNICK THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY As we explored in my most recent article, the spiritual cause necessitating The Three Weeks and our ongoing exile is baseless hatred between fellow Jews. The remedy? Practising Ahavat chinam, loving others freely without judgment. “You shall love your neighbour as yourself,” is a biblical commandment one of six hundred and thirteen. When our wise Talmudic sage Rabbi Hillel was challenged to teach the entire Torah while standing on one foot, he condensed it and said: “Do not do unto others that which you do not want done unto yourself. This is the essence of the Torah; the rest is just commentary”. Talk about a teachable moment yet it does not end there, in fact, our comprehension only begins. The great Chassidic masters brought about a paradigm shift in our understanding of the huge importance of this mitzvah. The Baal Shem Tov, an eighteenthcentury mystic and founder of the Chassidic movement, taught that when

each soul descends to this earthly realm, (for however long a lifetime it may ultimately be), its singular purpose is to consciously facilitate a particular favour for another person. In the merit of that one specific act of kindness, a person thereby lives up until that time to fulfil that mission, and then goes on to live beyond that, until the designated moment when their soul returns its maker.

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COMMUNITY covert difference between them. The Lubavitcher Rebbe taught all of the above, and then delved even further. Intriguingly, he conveyed that this mitzvah is unique, as the level of religious observance of each participant does not impact its fulfillment. A person’s current reality may encapsulate not yet keeping Shabbat, Kashrut or any of hundreds of other

The great Chassidic masters brought about a paradigm shift in our understanding. Therefore, it stands to reason that if one were to miss that opportunity, one would jeopardise the fulfillment of his or her purpose on earth. Granted, this is a lot to process. Rabbi Schneur Zalmen of Liadi, the first Chabad Rebbe and one of the spiritual and theological successors to the Baal Shem Tov, explored this teaching further. He examined not just the act of kindness itself, but the relationship between the recipient and the giver. Each, he deduced, is a child of the same G-d. Each at his or her core shares a spark of divinity that transcends any overt or

IT’S NO LAUGHING MATTER HELP JERUSALEM’S TEENAGERS IN A POST COVID WORLD WWW.CHARIDY.COM/SZ 1ST AUGUST 2021

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mitzvot. Yet, if said person embraces another in an act of genuine selfless love, the world is consequently illuminated with an infinite light – irrespective of religiosity. This light is so powerful it has the potential to extricate us from the darkness of exile and catapult us towards the brightness of redemption. We saw an example of this playing out in real-time earlier this month, when a specialised search-and rescue team from the Israeli Defense Force, Tzahal, flew from our Holy Land to the United States to assist with the rescue efforts of those tragically entombed within

the building collapse in Miami, Florida. We were privy to witnessing their heroic efforts in attempting to rescue, recover and then comfort the bereaved, via countless media outlets. Each reported with unabashed awe at the simultaneous skill and sensitivity. Their concentrated efforts were for both Jew and gentile alike, but there was a special feeling of Jewish Pride and emotion, witnessing their critical work carried out under our flag, the emotive blue and white, and watching the colonel in charge of the operation being called to our Holy Torah. As I heard the legendary Israeli military leader and politician, Moshe Dayan, articulate just after the miraculous and daring hostage rescue mission at Entebbe in 1976: wherever in the world Jews are in trouble, we will come and rescue them. Is there no greater source of inspiration than the bravery and selflessness of our Israeli soldiers and their commanders, ready to save their fellow Jew no matter where they reside on planet Earth? Surely this must generate enough light to dispel the darkness once and for all, when “Hashem will wipe the tears from all faces and your sun will no longer go down” – realising the ultimate paradigm shift from darkness to dawn, from exile to redemption.

THE FUTURE OF OUR PEOPLE IN ISRAEL IS PARAMOUNT!

Keep the torch alight ……… Join UIA’s local and global family of donors who, beyond their lifetime, have committed to ensure Israel’s future Your legacy gift will bolster UIA’s major projects and reward you with a wonderful feeling of achievement and immense pride

For information contact Michael Jackson Director, UIA Gifts and Bequests 02 9361 4273 michael.jackson@uiansw.org.au

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MDA aims to replace damaged ambulances Magen David Adom in Israel is responsible for blood services, first aid, emergency and pre-hospital care, and the ambulance service. With a fleet of more than 2,000 lifesaving vehicles, the majority of these are a variety of different kinds of ambulances, including basic life support, mobile intensive care, four-wheel-drives, armoured vehicles and bloodmobiles. Each of the ambulance types is tailored to MDA Israel’s specifications to maximise their effectiveness to save lives and reduce response times. The white, basic life support ambulance is fully equipped with an array of medical equipment and is staffed by a professional Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), who acts as a driver-medic, alongside volunteer medics. This ambulance is able to treat a range of patients, namely traffic accident victims, those suffering from different traumas, resuscitations, births, etc. The yellow and orange mobile intensive care ambulance, known as a MICU, has the capability to provide advanced life support treatment for pre-hospitalisation care. Since its addition to the MDA fleet, the MICU has become an indispensable part of the organisation's ability to cope with a wider, more complex range of medical emergencies. MDA treats in excess of 800,000 patients annually across Israel, some of these patients requiring advanced treatments.

This ambulance contains specialised equipment such as the Corpuls 3 Monitor Defibrillator, which administers electric shocks and has electrocardiography, the results of which are then relayed in real time to a standby physician at MDA's National Operations Centre. The MICU is stocked with medications and cutting-edge resuscitation equipment for the treatment of complicated, life-threatening ailments and injuries. Other ambulances have been

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specially modified to manoeuvre difficult terrains, along with narrow cobbled streets in Jerusalem. Still others offer armoured protection. Due to significant wear and tear, each year Magen David Adom needs to replenish its fleet of ambulances with some 120 new vehicles. MDA ambulances are in service on average for 7-10 years with a 10-year limit, as directed by the Ministry of Transportation. MDA ambulances are on call 24/7

and in certain major cities can treat as many as 11,000 patients per year for the life of their service. As an NGO and a non-profit organisation, MDA does not receive any funding from the State of Israel. All ts emergency vehicles, including its ambulances, are gifted by generous donors from around the world. Thanks to these acts of philanthropy, the organisation is able to continue its lifesaving work. Over the past two years, during COVID-19 and the recent Guardian of the Walls campaign, when 374 lifesaving vehicles were deployed (12 ambulances were damaged by stone throwing during the riots), MDA’s ambulances have been under extreme pressure. Our Sydney community lent their support to fund depleted stocks and sent positive messages to the various MDA teams. Australian Friends of Magen David Adom, NSW will be holding its annual fundraising campaign on Tuesday, August 3rd at 7.00pm with a “For One Night Only” virtual event. MDA Israel has asked for funds raised to replace four of the damaged ambulances, as a matter of urgency. Email invitations will be sent out soon. To attend the function or to donate, please go to www.magendavidadom. org.au or phone the office on 9358 2521.

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Kesser Torah students experience the Courage to Care COURAGE TO CARE Students at Kesser Torah College last month met with volunteers and Holocaust survivors from the Courage to Care NSW Classroom Program. The students met with survivors Mimi Wise and Ernie Friedlander OAM who shared their experiences during World War II to Boys’ Years 9 and 10 and Girls’ Years 10 and 11. Mimi’s shared her riveting account of her family’s travails in the French countryside, dodging the attempts by the Gestapo to round up and deport the local Jews. Mimi described how they were sheltered by a French farmer and were hidden in a chicken coop. This assistance was provided despite the great risk faced by farmer and his family who could have been killed if they were caught. The Kesser Torah students were especially rapt when Ernie told his story of survival. As a young child, Ernie had to endure the Allied bombardment of Budapest, his schoolmates mistreating him for being the only Jew in the class, and the forced incarceration of his father at an unknown location. Ernie and his mother were forced to endure one of the notorious death marches. However, on this occasion, a Nazi Arrow Cross officer signalled to Ernie’s mother that he would look away while she and Ernie rolled down the side of an embankment and escape. This small act meant the difference between life and death for them. Ernie’s

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lesson to the students is that even in terrible times, every person has the capacity to be decent. This experience has shaped Ernie’s personal philosophy that one should always try see the positive in life. Mimi and Ernie’s stories are the heart of the Courage to Care educational program, an initiative of B'nai B'rith, which offers the students in the Jewish community a unique experience to recognise the importance of standing up for others. The stories of the Righteous Among the Nations that Mimi and Ernie owe their lives to is a potent lesson for young people from all backgrounds to be kind to those who are suffering from bullying or discrimination. One student’s response afterwards was quite telling, that they would try harder to ensure their classmates got along and were more inclusive of those left out. After these stories were shared, the Courage to Care volunteers set up interactive workshops to help the students explore these issues further. The students considered and discussed the various forms of discrimination and prejudice that face different people today. The Courage to Care volunteers and survivors were proud to help empower students in our community with the essential message of empathy and hope, inspiring them to treat others fairly and help make the world a better place.

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

TO R AH

THOUGHT RABBI DAVID FREEDMAN This month, Rabbi David Freedman is delighted to contribute the second Judaica Quiz in this ongoing series. Each offers a unique and engaging deep dive into Jewish history, the Bible, our Holy Land, Jewish prayer and shines spotlight on famous Jews across religious affairs, politics, sciences, arts and more. With Sydney currently in a COVIDlockdown, now more than ever there is ample time to sit around your family table this Shabbat, replete with your printed edition and test the Jewish knowledge of your mishpachah! 1. What word from Middle High German meaning linen coat, originating from the Arabic qun (cotton), refers to a garment worn by Jewish men at certain religious services? 2. Who directed the movies, Munich, The Last Days and Schindler’s List? 3. Birkat Hachama, the Blessing of the Sun, was last recited in 2009. In which year will it next be recited? 4. True or false, Golda Mabovitch (Golda Meir) was born in Milwaukee,

Judaica Quiz #2 Wisconsin. 5. In the Tanakh (The Hebrew Bible) to whom were the elders speaking when they said, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”

objects that Sabbath observant Jews avoid touching or moving on Shabbat? 10. Where did Janusz Korczak live prior to his deportation to Treblinka? 11. Who said the following? “If you prick us do we not bleed? If you

Test your knowledge ... Good luck. Enjoy. Hopefully, learn something new about your Jewish heritage and tradition.

6. Which river flows from the mountains of Gilboa into the Mediterranean Sea near Haifa? 7. Born in 1698, Rabbi Israel Ben Eliezer the founder of Chasidic Judaism, is better known by what name? 8. Name the ship shelled by the IDF which led to the disbanding of the Irgun and Lehi. 9. What general name is given to those

tickle us do we not laugh? If you poison us do we not die? And if you wrong us shall we not revenge?” 12. Who are the current Chief Rabbis (Ashkenazi and Sephardi) of Israel? 13. Where was Theodore Herzl born? 14. Which is the northern most coastal city in Israel? 15. Gal Fridman is the only Israeli Olympic gold medal winner. In

which Games did he win gold? 16. Shlomo Alkabetz composed which famous Shabbat song? 17. How were Asher, Gad, Dan and Naftali related? 18. Which is the highest peak in Israel inside the ‘Green Line’? 19. Which Jewish actor appeared in The Producers, The Frisco Kid and The Woman in Red? 20. Moshe Dayan was born in 1915 in which kibbutz? 21. What is the name of the ‘Jewish’ golf club in Melbourne? 22. What do the following countries have in common? Finland, Greece, Honduras, Israel, Micronesia and Somalia. 23. The Aleinu prayer concludes every service of the year. It began life as part of the additional service (Musaf) on which Yom Tov (Jewish festival)? 24. Simon and Garfunkel were known by w hat name during the 1950s? 25. How much saltier than the ocean is the Dead Sea: 3 times, 9 times or 18 times?

ANSWERS PAGE 25

Eating Disorders, Body Image and our Youth AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF SHAARE ZEDEK INC A recent educational webinar for Australian Zionist youth group leaders highlighted the significant mental health challenges facing teenagers in a post COVID world. The webinar, titled Eating Disorders, Body Image and Youth Movements, was presented by Dr Toni Pikoos. She recently completed her PhD in clinical psychology, specialising in the treatment and research of body image disorders. As a former Bnei Akiva Merakezet, Toni highlighted the increased need for conversations around eating disorders and our youth. There are many myths relating to eating disorders. These include the perception that such disorders are a lifestyle choice, that dieting is a normal part of life, that families are to blame for eating disorders, that they only affect girls and women, and that you can tell by looking at someone if they have an eating disorder. Eating disorders have become increasingly prevalent and severe since COVID-19, with hospitals in Australia reporting a doubling of admissions. 16% of Australians will experience disordered eating of some kind and individuals with an eating disorder are 12 times more likely than the average person to die from medical complications or suicide. “During the pandemic, we've seen a huge increase in eating disorders

Teenage Health Issues are a serious concern at Jerusalem's Shaare Zedek Medical Center because there's so much uncertainty, so much stress, loss of jobs, fear of illness, not knowing when you might be able to see family or friends again. All of that uncertainty, coupled with a lack of healthy ways of coping with that stress can then lead to people trying to control their weight, shape and what they look like as a way of feeling they have some control over what’s going on in their lives,” Toni said.

It is therefore not surprising that eating disorders have emerged as a major concern for teenagers locked down at home, spending many hours on their electronic devices The causes and risk factors for developing an eating disorder include dieting, biological factors including genetics, psychological factors including perfectionism, obsessional thinking, control and lack of coping

strategies. Sociocultural factors, especially social media and the ‘thin ideal’ often portrayed online, and stress/family conflict are serious risk factors too. The earlier that eating disorders are identified and treated, the better the prognosis. Malnourishment can affect the heart, liver, organs and the immune system. Toni said strategies to cope with the condition, include clear communication, mealtime advice from youth group leaders, good role modelling and validation, not to forget that youth leaders need to also care for themselves. The webinar was the result of a collaboration between the Australian Friends of Shaare Zedek with the Australian Zionist Youth Council, with the support of the Australian Jewish Funders LaunchPad Leadership program. Shaare Zedek Medical Center is Jerusalem’s most central large hospital and is working to treat teenagers with significant medical and mental health needs. This year’s fundraising campaign by the AFSZ is titled “No Laughing Matter”. Your donation will support our crucial work in the field of adolescent health in both Jerusalem and Australia. August 1 is AFSZ’s Annual Giving Day. Please donate generously at charidy. com/SZ.

EDUCATION F

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Photo: BJE

REDEFINING TECHNOLOGY

EARLY LEARNING TRIUMPH

RETURN TO ONLINE LEARNING

PROUDLY JEWISH & GLOBALLY MINDED

education feature | july 2021

Redefining technology-enabled learning at Mount Sinai College MOUNT SINAI COLLEGE Mount Sinai College creates learners for life. Guided by the College’s strong vision, learning is relevant, personalised, inquisitive, and fun! As an Apple Distinguished School, technology is used to redefine the classroom learning experience. Mount Sinai College’s Gifted and Talented Coordinator Jesse Black says “Technology has changed the way

Technology has changed the way we teach, but also how we interact with the students.

we teach, but also how we interact with the students. We’re able to send a document and give feedback on a child’s work in real-time.” The success of the Mount Sinai technology program can be attributed to continual access to research, work samples, the SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification and

Redefinition) model and classroom observation. “We have an open dialogue with our parent body and regularly consult with our whole school community regarding our technology program,” says Director of IT and Innovation David Colville. Teachers at the College design learning activities that take children beyond the classroom. These experiences promote empathetic thinking, collaboration among students, inspiring them with realworld learning, as well as developing entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills. Apple Technology gives students access to their innate creativity, enabling them to find their own modes of expression, such as songs, movies, i-books, podcasts, games, 3D models, Augmented Reality experiences, animations and digital artworks. Colville says “we authentically integrate technology into our community celebrations and help our students understand their roles in the Jewish, Australian and global communities. Our goal is to redefine our use of technology and improve our students’ wellbeing and help them recognise their role as global citizens.” REGISTER NOW: OPEN DAY @ MSC, THURS AUG 26, 2021 www.mountsinai. nsw.edu.au/openday

Those who’ve experienced our Prep School Readiness Year know the difference … but do you? MOUNT SINAI COLLEGE As a parent, your two biggest drivers are to protect and prepare. Arguably, one of the biggest decisions you will need to make in preparing your child for their future is choosing the correct schooling for them. Statistics and experience have shown that when a child enters a school from a preparatory school readiness program (ages 4-5) they are not only well ahead of their peers in transitioning into the academic aspects of kindergarten and their formative school years, but they feel more secure and are more prepared to integrate socially. Mount Sinai College’s preparatory school readiness year has incorporated a PreLit program from Macquarie University. It is the only Jewish day school that has done so. It is a skills-based program that lays a sound foundation for children to learn to read. It provides early childhood teachers with the tools necessary to teach pre-literacy skills and concepts in a fun and engaging way, focusing on phonological awareness and oral language development through structured storybook reading. Principal Phil Roberts says “PreLit is the first program in the whole suite of

Macquarie’s MultiLit programs and flags

that, by their very nature, they provide

the College’s intent to prioritise literacy

a guaranteed value-add to a child’s

and the early acquisition of literacy in

education.

particular”. Schools such as Mount Sinai College that have a preparatory program argue

This

is

achieved

the consistency

of

through

teaching

staff

throughout the child’s school life, the

employment of specialist staff, extensive co-curricular programs and embedding the school’s core values and principles from the outset. Mount Sinai College Early Learning Centre (ELC) and Preparatory Director Jill Allison, says: “Often the transition from ELC straight into kindergarten can come as quite a shock for children. Prep schooling is the next step from an ELC, yet an alternative to the standard primary situation, with a similar structure and environment pervading the entire school experience.” The Mount Sinai preparatory school readiness year is a rarity amongst Sydney Jewish schools. Situated on their main campus, the College offers the preparatory year as a transition into primary education. The program is full-time, 5 days a week, with a structured numeracy and literacy program to promote school readiness. Further, the complementary informal and formal Jewish and Hebrew learning, along with specialised music and sport lessons, makes for a seamless transition into kindergarten and later years. For all enrolment enquiries, please email Director of Enrolments Rachel Schwartz at rschwartz@mountsinai.nsw.edu.au

Mount Sinai College kids don’t blend in. They stand out. LIMITED PLACES

ENROL NOW: ELC 2-4 YEAR OLDS PREP 4-5 YEAR OLDS K-YEAR 6 STABILITY IN LEADERSHIP retaining outstanding staff with up to 40 years’ experience

Embracing CHANGE whilst honouring the important TRADITIONS of Jewish culture

New STATE-OF-THE-ART learning facilities, fostering learning that is ACTIVE rather than passive

WINNER of the prestigious Learning Environments Australasian awards for renovations above $5 million

APPLE DISTINGUISHED SCHOOL for a 3rd designation 2018-2021

Child specialist learning team who identify, support and encourage your child to EXCEL

education feature | july 2021

Utopian Jewish Day School YERACHMIEL ISACOWITZ I have a dream that someone will ask me to create a Jewish Day school. Money is no issue and this is how it would look. The guiding principle of the school is the Hershian principle of Torah im derech eretz (Torah with worldly involvement.) This, in itself, was preceded by the Avos (forefathers and mothers,) who had intimate dealings with the world and universe and later the Sanhedrin (Supreme Court,) the members of whom needed to have some knowledge of everything. The idea is that nothing exists that does not relate to Torah and is not, in some way, founded in Torah. The expertise required is to translate or interpret the worldly phenomenon into Torah-speak. The campus will be circular. Jewish Studies will be its epicentre. It will have tentacles out to all other faculties, which will consult with Jewish Studies. Jewish Studies will have two major programs, namely: 1. To devise and facilitate general knowledge, Yahadut, covering levels of knowledge expected for each grade. Students will be required to pass this in order to pass the year. This could be done via e-learning.

2. Torah Perspective. Everything that the secular departments teach will become fuel to fire the Jewish program. Example 1: The English Department brainstorms its set work, Pankration, with Jewish Studies. Pankration is about the Roman gladiator days, starting with a citizen who has lost most of his family to plague. Torah Perspective of the set work: • L aws of Netilat yadayim (washing hands), kavod habriot (selfrespect), washing for Shabbat vehayu machaneichem kodesh (observing hygiene in living areas) etc. to explain why Jews were frequently spared from plague. •W ho lived in the Jewish world at the time? Rebbi Akiva, whose slogan was ve’ahavtah lere’acha kamocha (love your neighbour as yourself). • L essons from the vast tractates of nezikin (damages). •H ashkofa (outlook): What Jewish adults and children were learning and observing as the Romans threw people to the lions. Results: 1. Illustrate the massive divide between Jewish and non-Jewish life in those times. 2. E xposure to advanced Torah

JNF IS...

GROWING OUR FUTURE EDUCATION ISRAEL HISTORY LAND SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION CONTINUITY FUTURE TEACHERS CONNECTION WATER ENVIRONMENT PROJECTS COMMUNITY

learning and sources. 3. Inspire an appreciation of how sophisticated our Jewish legal, moral and ethical system is. 4. G reatly improve holistic understanding and resultant performance of the subject matter. Example 2: Jewish Studies want to teach Parshat Noach: • Internet research – engage science and IT departments to train students in biological practices and appropriate research ahead of a zoo expedition connected to the logistics of caring for animals and ask the mathematics department to teach calculation of areas and displacement etc. • Calculate approximate surface area required to house two of every animal and the resources required. • One group collects all the data another another devises a formula to calculate displacement. • At the conclusion of the exercise, compare results with dimensions of the teva (ark) and teach hashgocha (Divine providence) and the value of hishtadlus (human effort.) Result: • Learning is fun and engaging. • Students learn much about the parsha almost subliminally and obtain a good understanding of

the deeper lessons to be learned. • Apply principles learned in other departments to a practical exercise. Some Advantages to this Approach: 1. J ewish Studies becomes dynamic and exciting; 2. I t addresses the impossible situation of trying to provide two separate curricula in a regular school day; 3. I t makes Jewish learning automatically relevant, as it is part of other 4. I t is engaging, because it will afford an advantage in assessment knowledge for all subjects. Using this methodology, one can address every level of endeavour. The most advanced university-level maths can be afforded a Torah Perspective in, for example, the myriad Talmudic discourses handling numerous moving variables in one applied situation. Or learning the calculation of the lunar cycle and breakdown of the halachic hour into 1080 parts etc. Yerachmiel Isacowitz is an independent Jewish education specialist servicing the Sydney area. Email: risacowitz@optuset.net.au www.torahconcepts.com Facebook: The Mem Channel

JNF leads the way with Zionist education in Australia JNF NSW Despite not being able to travel there, JNF has kindled our connection to Israel through Zionist education in the community. Yigal Nisell, JNF NSW education Shaliach is a permanent feature in many local classrooms. On any given day, he can be found on his hands and knees playing Israeli Trivia Twister, exploring an interactive map of Israel, or teaching

Throughout the pandemic, JNF continues to extend its educational impact across the community.

www.jnf.org.au

1300 563 563

different aspects of the Start Up Nation. Asked about Yigal’s impact, Lynda Fischer, Head of Primary at Moriah College said he “really make[s] a difference to our students and our College as a whole. [Yigal’s] initiatives are well thought out, respectful of the pressure inside schools and impactful.” A world first, JNF’s ground-breaking ‘My Israel Passport’ collectable sticker book introduced kids as young as four to various aspects of Israeli history and modern-day society. Thousands competed to complete their

educational and recyclable passports. So meaningful and successful was the My Israel Passport program, that it is now due to appear in several other countries, including South Africa and New Zealand. Since 2018, 222 educators from all walks of life have visited Israel on JNF Educators’ Tours. Each life-changing tour has allowed participants to gain a deep understanding of, and passion for, Israel. It provided them with the tools to weave Israel into their secular and Jewish curricula. With the 2021 Educators’ Tour unable to proceed, more than 100 educators from 26 schools signed up to the Educators’ Summit – an immersive day offering insights into the sights, sounds, textures and flavours of Israel. Throughout the pandemic, JNF continues to extend its educational impact across the community by running virtual tours to Israel and interactive sessions on dealing with anti-Israel rhetoric. In addition, free JNF Connect webinars are regularly offered on topics ranging from business to political commentary to mental health. In response to the community’s palpable thirst for knowledge, JNF is committed to continuing to develop new and interesting educational pathways for people of all ages to learn about the multi-faceted country that is Eretz Yisrael.

education feature | july 2021

BJE celebrates its 112th birthday this year BJE BJE celebrates its 112th birthday this year. We remain committed to preserving the original vision of our founders, that all Jewish children who attend non-Jewish day schools have access to meaningful Jewish education. However, BJE is also committed to 21st Century learning practices, through the BJE Jewish Journey, which focuses on each child, student and family, connecting in a way that is significant to them. This includes formative experiential programs that will inspire and engage our students, build Jewish friendship networks and encourage and empower them to learn about their heritage and actively participate in the Jewish community. Experiential Jewish Education is the process of teaching Jewish life and Jewish values by building telling Jewish experiences that connect traditional methods of study with physical and emotional interactions. BJE has employed a team of dynamic young Madrichim (Youth Leaders), including many BJE alumni, from diverse backgrounds to breathe new life into Jewish education and engagement and personalise connection for each student. BJE’s madrichim also organise social events like “Milkshake Madness”, movie nights, lunch clubs, Shabbatons, holiday programs, camps and so much more. They bring a creative and vibrant

energy to BJE’s learning and social programs. BJE has listened to our community and is changing in a way never seen before. BJE wants students to start their Jewish journey from primary school, making connections that will last throughout high school. Whether this is through formal education, out of school programs, Bar/Bat Mitzvah classes, Year 10 Israel programs or involving their families through jwave, we want every Jewish student to feel connected. If you have a child attending a nonJewish School or want to find out more about the BJE Jewish Journey, head to www.bje.org.au, follow us @nswbje or call 9365 7900.

CONNECT YOUR WAY YOUR CONNECTION.YOUR JOURNEY. YOUR WAY

education feature | july 2021

Kesser Torah College – Early Learning Triumph KESSER TORAH COLLEGE At Kesser Torah College, we have been excited to see our Early Learning grow and expand this year. Our classrooms have been refurbished and state-of-the-art play areas have been installed. These include a bicycle track with pedestrian crossing, for the children to learn about road safety, along with a fleet of bicycles. Further, we have constructed an architecturally designed cubby house, new softfall pads and terrain, and a bespoke sandpit. Open-ended spaces allow for free play and optimum learning opportunities. A focus on sustainability has seen the establishment of a water-tank, worm farm, compost bin and vegetable patch. In addition, every two months, the children are visited by Adamama Farm for Yom Teva (Nature Day), which features an educational component and hands-on experience in the garden. To the delight of the children, a double mud kitchen has been installed with a water feature in the summer months. The educational journey at our Early Learning commences for babies from the age of nine months in our bespoke, warm and nurturing Nest, and takes them all the way through schoolreadiness programs to the start of their school life on our KTC campus. We understand that children learn best through play, which forms the basis of our Early Learning program. This offers children the ability to learn as they engage in imaginative play,

experimentation and improvisation, and through the exploration of their environment. Our Hebrew language lessons are taught by specialist teachers through the Chalav U’Dvash Ivrit program using song, conversation and the Hebrewspeaking puppet Bentzi.

And it is indeed our emphasis on Judaism that sets us apart. Our curriculum embraces our Jewish tradition which is intertwined within the daily life of our Early Learning, fostering a strong sense of identity and wellbeing. Through our daily practice, the children’s experience of their Jewish

tradition is taught and guided by dedicated educators who role model their love for Judaism and transmit that love to the children. Please contact our Enrolments and Development Officer Rachelle on 9301 1141 to organise a guided tour of our campus.

For your FREE electronic copy of the Sydney Jewish Report, register at www.thejewishreport.com.au

At Kesser Torah College we believe in teachers - who believe in children so they can believe in themselves. For a personal tour please call Rachelle Smith on (02) 9301 1141 or enrolments@ktc.nsw.edu.au

education feature | july 2021

Moriah’s seamless return to Online Learning MORIAH COLLEGE As soon as NSW was plunged back into lockdown during the recent school holidays, Moriah’s Leadership Team leapt into action. Anticipating a possible return to remote learning, the school immediately started preparing to jumpstart its highly acclaimed B’Yachad online platform. “We are extraordinarily proud of Moriah B’Yachad Online,” says College Principal Rabbi Yehoshua Smukler. “We’re living in a time that’s caused us to push the pause button on our frantic and frenetic world: to change pace and alter the way we go about our lives. And throughout it all, our priority is to keep our Moriah Family safe and supported, as well as to ensure that when COVID-19 prevents us from being at school faceto-face, our students don’t miss a beat in their educational journey.” The College’s exceptional educators, who consistently go the extra mile to deliver cutting-edge, blended learning programs, worked collaboratively with other essential teams and together they ensured that online lessons were delivered seamlessly from day one. “Our educators are supported by a reliable and efficient IT network, managed by a skilled team of incredibly dedicated technicians who are constantly discovering powerful new and meaningful ways to use the technology at our fingertips,” says Rabbi Smukler. “We also make sure that

we have targeted support for our HSC students, and wellbeing programs in place for all our students and staff.” Buoyed by its success in 2020, the College’s coordinators of co-curricular activities and experiential Jewish learning have offered new ways for students to engage with Jewish life, the arts, music, mindfulness, sport and many other pursuits, offering online challenges, practice sessions, challah baking, workshops and other hands-on activities. Chesed (kind) efforts to support the many families and community members in isolation have continued, with the school’s P&F finding ways to reach out to the elderly, sick, or homebound. “Everyone is working collaboratively and we’re all looking forward to celebrating all our successes,” says Rabbi Smukler. “Our educators have a mandate to be courageous and innovative – we ‘rocked' online learning in 2020 and we're going to ‘blow it out of the water’ this time!” Moriah College is currently enrolling students for 2022, with a limited number of places available across the College. To enquire about enrolment, please visit www.moriah.nsw.edu.au or email enrolments@moriah.nsw.edu.au. The College offers a range of affordability options and encourages families to explore these on the school’s website or via a confidential discussion with the Finance Team on 9375 1600.

education feature | july 2021

Education delivered differently EMANUEL WOOLLAHRA PRESCHOOL (EWP) is a hidden oasis in a new, stateof the-art premises on the campus of the Emanuel Synagogue. It is an independent, 60-place, progressive, pluralist centre that welcomes everyone. EWP is an advocate for social justice and equality, embedding these values into its curriculum through many programs and events. Children are given ongoing opportunities to learn about rights and respect. EWP calls its staff “the dream team” for good reason. They are a group of talented, creative and committed educators, who have worked together for many years, bringing joy and love to the children in their care and to each other. Under the directorship of Fiona Ozana, EWP has flourished and become a wellknown and in-demand preschool in Sydney. It is a centre with a big heart that exudes a warm sense of welcome. This year EWP introduced a few new educators, who have enriched the preschool with their ideas and enthusiasm. They have taken part in much staff development throughout the year and are committed to producing the ongoing high-quality education and care for which the preschool has become renowned. They are supportive of a culture of

investigative and explorative play. EWP is guided by the National Quality Framework and Early Years Learning Outcomes in delivery of its learning program. It offers an enriching and exciting curriculum, enhanced by the additional programs on offer. These include music, drama, yoga, meditation, Hebrew, funastics (a combination of movement and gymnastics) and a Playball sports foundation program. Bush Kinder Program is a much loved outdoor learning program, which connects preschoolers to nature. They regularly visit Centennial Park, where they are able to explore, climb trees and develop

skills such as independence, resilience, creativity, teamwork as well as taking care of the natural environment. This year EWP has introduced Beach Kinder, which involves taking the children to Clovelly beach. Celebration of Jewish culture is integrated throughout EWP’s weekly program, culminating with a beautiful Shabbat celebration. EWP also celebrates the wonderful Jewish festivals and non-Jewish festivals, when relevant. Every year, it embarks on its own community projects, offering opportunities to come together and participate in meaningful events. Recently the EWP family was honoured

to listen to guest speaker Eddie Jaku, one of its great-grandparents, a 100-year-old Holocaust survivor. In past years we have had an enriching program of “breaking bread” with other communities, for example Muslim mums and their children, sharing and learning about each other’s traditions, song, dance and history. Bringing community together is what EWP does best, starting with the preschool and forming strong links with the broader community. Join the EWP family and share in the vibrance and magic of its learning community, which nurtures the future thinkers, creators and doers of tomorrow.

EMANUEL WOOL LAHRA PRESCHOOL

THE COMMUNITY’S BEST KEPT SECRET ENROLLING 2 YEAR OLDS HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY 8 - 5.30 AND FRIDAY 8 - 4 EXCEPTIONAL BUSH SCHOOL PROGRAM WEEKLY MUSIC, SPORT AND HEBREW UNIQUE AFTERNOON PROGRAM: YOGA, DRAMA, GARDENING, NATURE AND MOVEMENT … ALL INCLUDED IN THE FEES

THE COMMUNITY’S BEST KEPT SECRE T ENROLLING 2 YEAR OLDS

HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY 8 - 5.30 AND FRIDAY 8 - 4 EXCEPTIONAL BUSH SCHOOL PROGRAM

CONTACTWEEKLY US ONMUSIC, 9363-1809 FOR A PRIVATE TOUR SPORT AND HEBREW UNIQUE AFTERNOON PROGRAM: YOGA, DRAMA,

education feature | july 2021

Masada College – Proudly Jewish and Globally Minded MASADA COLLEGE It’s an exciting time for Masada College as its new College Principal, Mrs Mira Hasofer, takes the helm. As Sydney schools returned to eLearning, Mrs Hasofer ‘hit the ground running’. “Mrs Hasofer is a dynamic educator and leader who has taken on the Masada leadership with passion and energy,” said Darryl Dorfan, President of the Masada College Board. “Our focus is on the Jewish community of the North Shore, on the Jewish traditions, mitzvot and values that have sustained us and on excellence in all areas of learning,” said Mrs Hasofer. Determined to ensure that every Jewish child in the North Shore, and beyond, has access to an outstanding Jewish education, Masada has announced a Junior School fee restructure for the 2022 academic year and future years. “We are restructuring our school fees for Years K to 6 to ensure Masada Junior School is affordable for as many families as possible,” said Mrs Hasofer. For a child that joins Masada Kindergarten and continues through to Year 6, there is an estimated saving of over $13,000 during their Junior

Masada College introduces a new fee restructure for Junior School from 2022.

School years. In addition, Masada is offering a Jewish Life Grant to Jewish kindergarten families for 2022, which has been made possible due to generous donors. The Jewish Life Grant, when combined with the fee restructure,

offers kindergarten 2022 families a saving of more than $5,000 for the year. “Our focus is on encouraging our students to be proudly Jewish, while being globally minded,” said Mrs Hasofer. “We are creating an environment in which we dedicate our minds to

inquiry, our hearts to compassion and our lives to contributing to every field of human endeavour.” Masada College invites families wishing to learn more about the Masada difference to meet directly with Mrs Hasofer and the Masada Executive team.

education feature | july 2021

The value of community and connection I learnt a lot of new things about

EMANUEL SCHOOL

them everyday”. In May this year, 20 Emanuel School children and their parents visited the Northern Territory for nine days of adventure, exploration and introspection. Since the first trip to the Red Centre in 2011, more than 750 Emanuel Primary and High School students, parents and staff have had the privilege and opportunity to learn first-hand about Aboriginal Australia. They have visited many of the Territory’s magnificent sites, including waterfalls, and connected with indigenous Australians and each other in a meaningful way through shared experiences. A highlight of the immersive trip is the opportunity to spend three days with the Jilkminggan community, in particular the students at the Jilkminggan School. When asked about their stand-out experiences, every student mentioned the visit to the School, along with the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Territory. Milla Goldberg, who joined the trip with her mum said: “I loved being with the kids from Jilkminggan and meeting so many new people.

One

of

Lila

Friedman’s

most

memorable experiences was “going to the hot springs at night and floating in the warm and quiet water”. For Emanuel parent Derek Manoy, the

trip

was

both

moving

and

memorable. “I was exceptionally fortunate to be able to go on this truly unique, exceptionally special and incredibly rewarding adventure. This was one of the most memorable times of my life – being able to be in a remote part of Australia with my daughter.” Emanuel School Principal, Andrew Watt, says that over the many years of visiting the Northern Territory, the children from both schools have had valuable opportunities to explore new cultures and learn about and from each other. From creating books together in English and Kriol, to learning how to make damper and challah together, this cross-cultural experience leaves an indelible mark at an important time in the children’s lives.

www.emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au

This is not just a tree

This is heritage This is growth

This is Emanuel

NSW’s only pluralist and egalitarian K-12 Jewish School Proudly a JCA member organisation

education feature | july 2021

The importance of religious education canvassed SUZANNE D. RUTLAND, OAM A new book on religious education has just been released by leading academic publisher Springer. Its authors are Professor Zehavit Gross of Bar-Ilan University in Israel and Professor Emerita Suzanne D. Rutland of the University of Sydney. Professor Rutland tells us more. The book follows on from research we conducted in relation to Jewish SRE (scripture) in Melbourne and Sydney. One key finding was that these classes provided a ‘safe place’ for Jewish children who are bullied by their peers– a problem highlighted recently with major incidences in Melbourne. We found that what we call ‘religious bullying in the playground’ was a

the current debate on the role of religious education within government schools. It addresses key concepts of values education, spirituality, health and wellbeing, and cultural and religious identity. It analyses why it is important to retain SRE, together with GRE, as government policy. It explores highly relevant, controversial and contested issues regarding SRE, including the 30% of Australia’s population who declare themselves as having “no religion”, bringing with it fresh insights. While secularisation has increased in both the national and international spheres, there has also been an increase in fundamentalism within religious beliefs. Events such as the September 11

The book explores the advantages of and challenges concerning Special Religious Education in multicural Australia.

problem that was ignored or denied and that not enough was being done to counter the issue. As a result of this research, published in prestigious academic journals, we were invited to broaden our work to include all the major faiths in Australia – Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and Baha’i – in addition to Judaism. The book explores the advantages of and challenges concerning Special Religious Education (SRE) in multicultural Australia and argues for the need for General Religious Education (GRE) as well. Through the lens of the most recent scholarship and drawing on an indepth qualitative study for these six main faith groups, the book examines

terror attacks and the more recent mass shootings by white supremacists and eco-fascists in Christchurch, New Zealand, and Pittsburgh and San Diego in the USA are reminders that religion is still a major player in the 21st century. This poses new challenges for the relationship between Church and State and demonstrates the need to revisit the role of religious education within government schools. While the importance of GRE is generally acknowledged, SRE has increasingly come under attack by some researchers and teacher and parent bodies as being inappropriate and contradictory to the values of the postmodern world. On the other hand, the key

stakeholders from all the faith traditions in Australia wish to retain the SRE classes in government schools. Special Religious Education in Australia and its value to Contemporary Society addresses this burning issue and is particularly relevant for our community, especially since the proportion of Jewish children attending government schools is increasing. That is partly due to the cost of Jewish day schools and also because of increasing assimilation and intermarriage. As such, the research findings are important for the UJEB (United Jewish

ONLINE SUBMISSION FOR CONTENT 4 Log onto thejewishreport.com.au 4 Click on 'Submit Article' in the top right hand corner 4 Follow the prompts and submit the article You will receive an email confirming your submission Any problems or queries, please contact Alex at prepress@sydneyjewishreport.com

Education Board) in Victoria and the NSW BJE (Board of Jewish Education). However, the chapters dealing with the general challenges and key issues facing religious education in contemporary Australia are just as relevant for Jewish educators in the day schools as they are for UJEB and BJE teachers, since all Hebrew and Jewish Studies teachers face the same trials today.

Suzanne D. Rutland, is Professor Emerita in the Department of Hebrew, Biblical & Jewish Studies at the University of Sydney

education feature | july 2021

Jewish Studies and Hebrew Lead the Way SUZANNE D. RUTLAND, OAM The Department of Hebrew, Biblical and Jewish Studies at the University of Sydney was established in 1945. At the time, it was named the ‘Department of Semitic Studies’, which covered Hebrew, Arabic and other Semitic languages and cultures. When the Faculty of Arts was restructured into four schools in 2000, one being the School of Languages and Cultures, Hebrew and Arabic separated and our department took on its current name. It is the only department in Australia to offer three full majors in Classical Hebrew and Biblical Studies (Tanach), Modern Hebrew (Ivrit), and Jewish Civilisation. These programs are generously supported by our benefactors, including the  Stefan and Felicia Einhorn Bequest, the Henroth Foundation and numerous sponsors of prizes and scholarships. Our faculty specialises in the Bible, Jewish and Christian exegesis, Jewish history and thought, Holocaust studies, Israel in the modern Middle East and the contemporary Jewish world. From the complexities of the Old

and the New Testament to the challenges of the breadth of Jewish History, our academic expertise explores the foundational texts and histories of Western civilisation. We have leading scholars, who have published widely and have gained international reputations, leading to us having the strongest postgraduate program in our School. Our newest addition is Dr Michael

The department’s current chair is Dr Avril Alba, Senior Lecturer, who is an expert on Holocaust memory and memorialisation. Dr Alba was Project Director/Curator for the recent renovation of the major permanent exhibition, The Holocaust, at the Sydney Jewish Museum. She has been consulted about developing Holocaust exhibitions both in Australia and overseas. Her

media, museums, science and the law. They

include

Rabbi

Yehoshua

Smukler, principal of Moriah College, who undertook his studies in Jewish education in our faculty as part of his teaching qualifications. Mrs

Mira

appointed

Hasofer, principal

the of

newly Masada

College, also undertook her Bachelor of

Education

at

our

university,

majoring in Modern Hebrew and

We have leading scholars, who have published widely and have gained international reputations, leading to us having the strongest postgraduate program in our School.

Jewish Civilisation and graduating with Honours. I strongly believe in the importance of

Jewish

university

studies

as

providing the guiding light for the Jewish education system. Hebrew

and

Jewish

Studies

programs at university level enable the development of locally educated teachers for our Jewish schools, UJEB Abrahams-Sprod who has just been appointed as Lecturer in Jewish Education. Two department members, Dr Avril Alba and I, are members of the Australian expert delegation to the IHRA (International Holocaust Remembrance Association).

current major research project, The Memory of the Holocaust in Australian Public Life, is supported by an ARC Discovery Grant. Our graduates have established careers in Australia and abroad in fields as varied as education, government, international relations,

and BJE. They are essential if we want to ensure

that

our

educators,

and

professionals in all walks of life, have a high level of knowledge of our religious beliefs and practices, our culture and Hebrew.

IF YOU’VE EVER CONSIDERED MORIAH COLLEGE FOR YOUR CHILD… NOW IS THE TIME.

Enrolling now for 2022 with limited places across Years K-6 Our Primary School program gives every child the opportunity to experience strengths-based, personalised learning and ensure a successful transition from Year 6 into High School.

Explore our range of affordability options at www.moriah.nsw.edu.au or please call Jarred Stein on (02) 9375 1600 for a confidential conversation

• Dynamic, contemporary, high-calibre educators • Integrated, immersive Jewish life programs • Targeted intervention, enrichment and extension, including an Academically Selective offering in Years 5 and 6 • Innovation, leadership, creativity and critical thinking as core focus areas • Agile learning spaces and access to specialist High School teachers and resources. • Wellbeing, mindfulness and co-curricular programs to build resilience, self-awareness, and the courage to explore Queens Park Road, Bondi Junction, Sydney, Australia Tel: (02) 9375 1600 | Fax: (02) 9387 3490 Email: info@moriah.nsw.edu.au | www.moriah.nsw.edu.au

For information about Enrolments please email enrolments@moriah.nsw.edu.au, call (02) 9375 1600 or visit www.moriah.nsw.edu.au

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

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Jewish Life thrives at Mandelbaum

MANDELBAUM HOUSE Jewish life is flourishing at Mandelbaum House this year with celebrations for Purim, Pesach, and Shavuot, as well as commemorating Yom HaShoah and Yom Ha’Atzma’ut, alongside a weekly observance of Shabbat. Our multicultural college community creates space for residents of all backgrounds to meaningfully be involved in an inclusive way. Our Jewish residents hail from Israel, Brisbane, Newcastle, Terrigal, Wagga Wagga and different parts of Sydney. Every Shabbat residents come together to welcome in the weekend. When there are no COVID-19 restrictions, Mandelbaum has instituted a new practice whereby everyone puts their hands on the challah (a Mandelbaum favourite) during the hamotzi. This creates a “hands in” environment of inclusivity and enables all to be active participants. Inclusivity is important for Mandelbaum at each celebration and observance. Purim was the first festival this year. Together, we packaged mishloach manot with hamantaschen and other lollies for all residents and staff. This was a fun bonding activity early in the semester as residents were still getting

to know each other. There was also an opportunity to attend Newtown Shul to hear the Megillah, which included a magic show. Next we celebrated Pesach. We held a Seder. Most residents attended and got involved. We developed a Haggadah from scratch with a transliteration pronunciation guide, as well as having various people sign up for various roles, including opening the door for Elijah, or being one of the four sons. Dayenu was definitely the highlight of the night,

with many residents continuing to sing it afterwards. For our final festival of the semester, Shavuot, we really went all out. The “Shavuot Crew” designed a brilliant program to cover the entirety of Shavuot, starting with cheesecake making. It was then onto Mandelbaum “Ted Talks” for Tikkun Leil Shavuot, with topics ranging from The Music of God to What is a Chad?: An Historical & Memetic Analysis to The Similarities & Differences between People in Pompeii & the Modern Man.

This enabled any resident who wanted to speak to educate us about something they were passionate or knowledgeable about. The evening was capped off with Israeli dancing. We also organised charity baskets and throughout Shavuot hung up posters with facts about the environment and how to improve it. For the Yamim, we lit a Yahrzeit candle for Yom HaShoah, and for Yom Ha’Atzma’ut we had an Israeli dinner feast, along with a huge cake for Israel’s birthday. Last semester, we also celebrated the diverse backgrounds of our other residents including a Greek Odyssey themed dinner, Tamil and Sinhalese New Year, and NAIDOC week activities. Mandelbaum has been a great facilitator for creating an inclusive Jewish life for all residents and we have learnt about different religions and cultures too. We look forward to more celebrations for semester two. About Mandelbaum House Mandelbaum is the Jewish residential college at the University of Sydney. It is a kosher “home away from home” for 34 Australian and international student residents. The mix of religious and cultural backgrounds and fields of study amongst the residents provide valuable inter-cultural connections.

Senior Living Feature

The Sydney Jewish Report will be publishing a Senior Living Feature in its next edition – deadline for submission, 3rd August. The supplement will cover important aspects related to aging, including how to make the most of life as our senior years beckon any opportunities availble to us. We are offering all businesses associated with senior living the opportunity to promote their services, which could include articles, adverts, photos and interviews. To register your interest in appearing in the supplement or for more information on rates please contact Alex on 0418 660 660 or advertising@thejewishreport.com.au

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

The Greek Jews of Australia, a friendship with Hellenic roots that carried on in the Antipodes NOMI KALTMANN When I drove over to 91-year-old Elayne Hoffman’s Caulfield house in June 2021, she had heard that I was seeking to interview Jewish Australians with Greek heritage. Alert, hospitable and very thoughtful, Hoffmann was generous with her time and was happy to tell me about her family history. “My parents were both born in Salonika in Greece,” she said, “but they left Greece and took me with as a 6-month-old baby to Paris in search of better opportunities in 1927.” When the Hoffmann family immigrated from Greece, they left behind a country that had been the ancestral home for hundreds of years. “My family had been in Greece since the time of the Spanish inquisition in 1492, when the Jews were expelled from Spain and Portugal,” she said. “My father’s family was involved in building the port in Salonika and many generations of her family had prospered in Greece.” For hundreds of years, Greece had vibrant Jewish communities in many of its cities, with well-established communities in Athens and Salonika; even today there is a small Jewish community numbering about 5,000 people. In Australia, where the Jewish community numbers around 100,000, there is a small but not insignificant number of Jews who link their family history back to Greece. Philip Dalidakis, the son of a Jewish Australian mother and a Greek Orthodox father is one of these Jews. A former minister in the Victorian Parliament, Mr Dalidakis was invited to speak at an Orthodox Jewish Synagogue in honour of the festival of Hannukah. Recalling the festival, which tells the story of the rededication of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem under the ruling Greeks, Mr Dalidakis opened his speech by quipping, “Hannukah is my favourite festival, because it doesn’t matter how the story ends, I’m going to be on the right side of history.” Identifying with multiple identities has been useful for Mr Dalidakis. “When I would speak about my background: I used to start by quoting Winston Churchill: no two civilisations have given more to the world than the Greeks

and the Jews,” he said. As a person who identifies strongly with his Greek and Jewish identities, Mr Dalidakis feels qualified to note the resemblances between both noting, “the similarities between the cultures are very strong; there is a shared culture around family, food and a desire to be there and support as you need, when you need,” he remarked. Echoing this sentiment is Maria Tovel, a Caulfield resident who grew up in a Greek Orthodox family in St Kilda. When she got married to an Israeli living in Australia, she decided to convert to Judaism. After a 7-year process, she joined the Jewish people in 2002. “I grew up in a typical Australian Greek family,” she said. “My father worked in building and construction and my mum

parents in Victoria, she was adopted by Australian Jewish parents when she was a few months old. “When parents are giving up their child for adoption, they are presented with 3 profiles,” said Hoffmann. “My birth parents were Greek Orthodox. They saw my adoptive parents were Orthodox Jews and thought it was a good match,” she said. While Hoffmann was raised Jewish, this does not negate her strong feelings that she feels towards her Greek heritage. “I look very Greek and sometimes I wonder if it’s something given from my birth parents, as Greek Orthodox Christians, that drew me to become an orthodox Jew,” she remarked thoughtfully. Hoffmann notes that she “definitely has an awareness of my Greek background, whenever there is something happening in Greece or I see Greek food, I hear a Greek name or a Greek song, I am drawn to it,” she said. While researching the many Greek and Jewish connections in Australia, I also spoke on the phone to Carol Freeman Gordon, a Jewish woman living in Melbourne who visited Greece for the first time 38 years ago. Although she does not personally have any Greek

heritage, the stories of Greek Jews intrigued her. “I was in the film industry and became fascinated with the fact that no one knew much about the history of Greek Jews; my inner filmmaker and storyteller told me there were stories to uncover,” she said. Her fascination with Greek Jews led her to create a documentary film, write a book and coordinate an exhibition at the Jewish Museum of Australia, all of which were dedicated to retelling the history and story of Greek Jews. “It was a really beautiful exhibition that went around Australia,” she said. Freeman Gordon is still fascinated by the history of Greek Jews and is continuing to use the information she gleaned from her years of research towards educating others about the remarkable pre-Holocaust community that lived there. “I am busy working on the remaining 40 hours of film and putting them into an educational package for schools and other institutions and communities,” she said. “I think it’s important to spread the word and include some of the really rare and valuable interviews with Holocaust survivors from Greece and let the world know about this amazing community.” In this vein, it is not surprising that a new organization has recently been founded to celebrate the rich Jewish and Greek cultures together. David Solomon, a Melbourne Jewish scholar, is on the board of the newly established Jewish-Hellenic Association of Victoria. As he recently told me, “The Greek and Jewish communities are two of Melbourne’s most established ethnicminority populations; both maintain strong identities, proud histories, rich traditions of civic contribution and established infrastructure.” The newly formed organisation is hoping to create further opportunities for collaboration between the communities. “Until now, there has been no formal conduit for the promotion and sharing of many mutual interests between two such vibrant and fascinating communities that have so much in common,” he said. Nomi Kaltmann is an Australian lawyer and freelance journalist. Her articles most often appear in Tablet Mag and other publications.

12. Chief Rabbi David Lau (Ashkenazi), Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef (Sephardi) 13. Budapest 14. Nahariya 15. Athens 2004 16. Lecha Dodi 17. They were brothers – they were four of Jacob’s twelve sons 18. Mount Meron 1208 metres/3963 feet 19. Gene Wilder 20. Degania 21. Cranbourne Golf Club was formed

in 1951, following discriminatory practices against minority groups by a significant number of Victorian Golf Clubs. 22. T hey all have flags that are blue and white. 23. R osh Hashanah. Its theme of God’s sovereignty over the entire universe is part of the theological backdrop to Rosh Hashanah – the Jewish New Year. 24. Tom and Jerry 25. 9 times

called “Mezes” on Rundle St. “All the prime ministers, celebrities and even U2 came to her restaurant,” Ms Benattar said. “She passed away this past February and Maggie Beer came to her funeral.” In Ms Benattar’s mind there is no doubt where her love of Mediterranean food came from “my yiayia [grandmother] won a lot of awards for her cooking,” she said. “From her I learnt to love to cook Greek food, I even wrote down some of her recipes and I love cooking yemista,” referring to the popular stuffed vegetable dish popular in Greek culture. For Ariella Hoffmann, who coincidentally married Elayne Hoffmann’s grandson, her Greek identity plays an important role in shaping her character. Born to Greek-Orthodox

In Australia, where the Jewish community numbers around 100,000, there is a small but not insignificant number of Jews who link their family history back to Greece. was a factory worker.” When she converted to Judaism, she found that many aspects of the culture were similar to her Greek upbringing and culture. “When I grew up, we had to be home for dinner each night at 6.30pm, we all had to eat together as a family,” she said. “In Jewish culture, there is the same family focus, except it is centered around the weekly Sabbath, everyone has to eat together on a Friday night each week.” Although Ms Tovel converted to Judaism about 20 years, her Greek background and upbringing are still close to her heart. She likes to cook Greek food (spanakopita, lemon Greek meat balls and baklava amongst others) and she still speaks Greek. “If I listen to a Greek song, something stirs inside me; I lived in Greece for a year and even now, I’ll put on Greek music and dance, and it just takes me away,” she said. Another Greek Jew is Ilia Benattar who grew up with a Jewish mother and Greek father. Ms Benattar’s Greek grandmother, Zeffie Kathreptis, was well known in the Adelaide Greek community for her famous restaurant

JUDAICA QUIZ #2 ANSWERS 1. Kittel 2. Steven Spielberg 3. 2 037 This blessing is recited on a 28year cycle. Jewish tradition says that when the sun completes this cycle, it has returned to its position when the world was created. 4. F alse, she was born in Kiev, Russia, she later lived in Milwaukee. 5. The prophet Samuel 6. Kishon 7. T he Besht or Baal Shem Tov – The

Master of the Good Name 8. The Altalena 9. Muktzeh 10. The Warsaw Ghetto. After spending many years working as director of an orphanage in Warsaw, he refused sanctuary repeatedly and stayed with his orphans when the entire population of the institution was sent from the Ghetto to Treblinka in 1942. 11. Shylock in the Merchant of Venice

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

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Jewish House responds to new COVID-19 restrictions

JEWISH HOUSE Jewish House has responded swiftly to the latest COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in the eastern suburbs. Through its innovative COVID-19 crisis portal, clients can access their muchneeded online support and resources to help them through the lockdown. Jewish House’s COVID-19 crisis portal was launched in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Its aim is to keep support and services to vulnerable people in the community ongoing 24/7, while simultaneously keeping people up to date with the most current information, fact sheets and resources to stay socially connected while in physical isolation. Rabbi Mendel Kastel, OAM, the CEO of Jewish House, said that the organisation was determined to continue providing its services regardless of the circumstances it or its community are facing. “The continuation of support for our clients is our primary focus here at Jewish House,” he said. “We need to ensure that we are providing the same level of service no matter what the restrictions that we face are.

“The COVID portal uses the power of

Thanks to the generosity of Jewish

technology to offer our clients a reliable

House supporters Good Food Kosher

and

Catering, Jewish House has provided its

up-to-date

resource

platform,

giving them comfort and reassurance that there will be a constant source of giving and nurturing made available.” Jewish House Covid Safe Food Parcels

Everyone is a JEM JEMS As COVID-19 cases keep climbing and the virus has spread, the city has slowed down and people are staying at home more. Jems is always looking to find ways to brighten up the community. It decided to tackle many ready-made projects to make individuals and families happier. As soon as lockdown began, Jems and Obk began a Grand Challah Bake via Zoom. Families could collect readymade dough and join in the fun. For Motzie Shabbat, Jems was responsible for a Grand Havdala. The following week, Jems offered those in isolation contactless delivery as part of a Grand Babka bake. More than 100 families participated. Then a Jems’ staff member came up with a great idea. As, at the moment, we cannot get together with friends to celebrate a birthday, Jems gave the community the opportunity to nominate someone to receive a special birthday pack. Within 48 hours of that idea going live, there were 100 requests – a fabulous result. A huge thank you to all those that helped with the packing and delivering. It means the world to so many in these trying times. Feel free to contact us for sponsorship or to help with more activities. Jems.org.au

clients with COVID-safe food packs. COVID-safe procedures and protocols play an essential part of Jewish Houses service delivery.

“Not only are the packs delicious, but they are an effective and a COVID-safe way of providing food to our clients,” said Rabbi Kastel. “It’s a brilliant concept by Good Food Kosher Catering and we are so grateful to have the support of people like Tracy Freinkel, who is always so generous.” Early in the pandemic, the World Health Organisation recognised the potential for COVID-19 to impact mental health and wellbeing. Studies have shown a drop in homelessness across Australia as the pandemic took hold has begun to reverse, as government income and housing support are wound back. Jewish House provides care to people in the Jewish community and all other communities irrespective of religion. It offers a safe place and support for people who have or are experiencing trauma and personal crisis by providing individuals and families with a range of services. These include access to temporary and crisis accommodation, day-to-day living support, children's services, addiction support, reemployment services, living-skills workshops, mental health clinicians, case managers and food and clothing.

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

My trip to Surfside: Angels who help YAKOV SAACKS THE TIMES OF ISRAEL A few days after the terrible news that a building had collapsed in Surfside, Florida, and learning that one of the founding members Brad Cohen together with his brother Gary were among the missing or unaccounted for, I decided that if I am the empath I feel myself to be, then I have to visit with the families – and the Cohen family in particular. I arrived at the reunification center at the Seaview Hotel where the families were gathered awaiting further news of the status of their loved ones. After going through much scrutiny and showing my chaplain badge every five feet, I finally entered the big hall. There were two observations that struck me immediately upon entering. My first thought was how quiet it was. While families were either sitting or standing together, they were, for the most part, just silently and painfully waiting for news. While some families would welcome any news at that stage, others would welcome only good news. I took on the role of offering a smile and a bottle of water to the waiting families and only engaged in conversation if the family engaged me first. The second thing I noticed was the incredible amount of support in the room. There were tables of “vendors” offering their services and help to those assembled. These were not your typical vendors selling their wares, but rather

vendors offering their help at no charge. The vendors Aside from the expected angels at the Red Cross who are always at the forefront, there were also so many good, kind and caring people who simply were there to help in any capacity. Examples would be a company like Verizon offering free international calls, or local organizations, religious and not religious, offering money, housing and other necessities. I was told by representatives of the Jewish Community Center that there is a whole network of snowbirds who are offering their Surfside homes to the displaced victims of this tragedy. There was food, snacks and drinks available 24/7 as well as fully catered meals including glatt kosher meals. I have no idea who paid for this huge outlay of catered food. I assume it was the local community banding together under the leadership of Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar, who directs the local Shul, where many of the victims belonged. The Shul itself has been transformed into a huge clothing and dry goods facility where families can pick up anything they want or need while they await. The Cohen family Now came the hard part, visiting intimately with the Cohen family. I met with mom and dad as well as some of the family, including a spouse and an adult child. There were a few reasons as to why

this was a difficult task. For one, this is a family whom I have known for over 25 years. This hit very close to home. Brad used to move into my house every Shabbat for years while he was studying to be an orthopedist. I used to study, eat, schmooze and pray with him. I am only a few years older than him, so he was my contemporary as well as my constituent. I was the officiant at his wedding as well as his confidant. Beyond that, even though I am a rabbi and have been for more than 30 years, I had nothing concrete to offer. I had no answers as to why this happened. No one does. Even greats like Moses, Solomon, the Baal Shem Tov, the Rebbe have no idea as to what, why or how God works. I felt impotent and weak. I heard many ask the same question. Why would God do this? I once heard an answer by the great Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of the U.K., which resonates with me. He opined, “There is no way to answer as to why the Holocaust happened.” He continued, “I believe that the reason there is no answer is because an answer is hurtful. Can you imagine if there were an answer, then people would go around and say that so and so died because of such and such. This would be degrading, and it is better that we do not know why.” Another reason I found myself in a very uncomfortable spot was that I was functioning in a very limited and narrow role. I would and could not give the

A makeshift memorial on the building site in Surfside, Florida – June 26 (Andrea Sarcos/AFP)

I SR AE L

NEWS

family false hope. I am not a prophet and there is no way I could know what the future holds. I could not be empathetic as I could barely wrap my mind around the magnitude of what happened. I did not want to be sympathetic, as who wants sympathy when they just want their loved one back. So, what did I do? For the most part, I shut up and just nodded my head and listened. Every so often, I said that I am sorry for what happened and for what you are going through. Once in a while, I clandestinely brushed away a tear so as not to cause more grief as this is not about me. Lastly, we sat and we prayed together. My particular prayers were that God should have compassion, and grant these families strength. Other tragedies I acutely remember 9/11 – how can we forget. While I also remember praying at the site where bodies were being brought to shore after TWA Flight 800 went down, I do not remember feeling so much raw pain. This does not mean that I was not feeling hurt, scared or lost. I was; I just do not remember the intensity that I felt during my visit at Surfside. I guess I matured. Humbled, raw, sick and lost. Rabbi Yakov Saacks is the founder and director of The Chai Center, Dix Hills, NY. The Chai Center has been nicknamed by some as New York's most Unorthodox Orthodox Center.

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

TO R AH

THOUGHT RABBI LEVI WOLFF CHIEF MINISTER, THE CENTRAL SYNAGOGUE Millions around the world tuned in for the UEFA European Football Championship (aka Euro 2020) earlier this month with its dramatic, almost operatic finale. Italy emerged victorious and almost immediately thereafter, soccer fans, including my nearest and dearest, began projecting hopes and aspirations for the World Cup which will be held next year. Given this, it seems like the ideal moment to pause and reflect upon some invaluable Jewish life lessons garnered from soccer, known throughout most of the world as ‘the beautiful game’ of football. Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, the wise eighteenth century founder of the Chasidic movement, famously taught, “from everything that a person sees or hears, he or she should derive a lesson in their service of the Creator.” So too, in addition to the game’s display of athleticism and entertainment value, there are some significant take-home messages to be gleaned from the hidden spirituality within soccer. In a powerful speech given in 1980, the Lubavitcher Rebbe cited the above teaching and proceeded to explain how the game of football can serve

FOO D IE S

CORNER REBECCA BALKIN SWEET CHICK Director and owner of KA-certified Sweet Chick, Rebecca Balkin, has kindly stepped into the Sydney Jewish Report's ‘recipe space’ for this July edition. Below, she generously shares a recipe of one of their most popular treats made on repeat. Enter: Zebra Cookies. As you’ll see, these pareve pictureperfect morsels are delicately double rolled in icing sugar before they are baked. Quick-as-a-flash, soft-centred cookies emerge from the oven with a zebra-like, cracked and crunchy exterior. Oh-so-morish!

These pareve picture-perfect morsels are delicately double rolled in icing sugar before they are baked. Sweet Chick offers artisanal baked goods and fine foods with an impressive range of sweet and savoury options including cakes, tarts, slices, confectionary, biscuit boxes, Spanakopita, spiced pumpkin and fetta ‘sausage’ rolls and so much more.

Euro 2020: soccer + spirituality as both a model and metaphor for our mission in life. He began by observing that the objective of the game is to move a ball in between two designated goal posts. Very doable, except for the reality of opposing team players whose raison d’etre is the prevention of goal scoring. Then again, if there was no opposing team, the full extent of the players’ dextrous skills and power would never be actualized. The Rebbe also explored how we are each tested and simultaneously confronted by our own negative traits and habits. These attempt to derail our advancement towards our real goals, and seek to move the proverbial ball in the opposite direction. Adversity and challenge ultimately bring out the best in us! Another key factor in achieving victory is speed. The most skilful player will be ineffective if his or her movements are slow, sluggish and unenthusiastic. Similarly, a person’s life must be woven with alacrity, enthusiasm and joy for deeds to translate into goals, thereby having a true impact upon our world. To advance the ball towards its goal, we make use of the full array of our faculties, from head to toe — incorporating our minds, our capacity for feeling, our talents and our physical energy. Our feet, whether dribbling a soccer ball or otherwise, represent our capability for both action and obedience. It is our unequivocal commitment to the

divine will, and the physical action of the mitzvot that has the greatest impact on our world and the most powerful force for its advancement and ultimate realisation. The beauty of soccer is that no one body type excels over another – from ectomorph to mesomorph to endomorph! Whereas, for example, with a sport like basketball, it is immediately clear that there is a significant advantage

The Rebbe explained the game of football can serve as both a model and metaphor for our mission in life.

to be gained by an impressive display of height. Having said that, the Italian Euro 2020 goalkeeper in the final, Gianluigi Donnarumma, is a cool six foot-five – go figure! All world-class soccer players have their own unique makeup when it comes to mental and physical attributes. This is one reason why two of football’s GOATS (greatest-of-all-time) Messi and Ronaldo, both thrive despite their vastly different body types. We need to each remain true to who we are, recognise our strengths and weaknesses and cultivate our own style. Note to self: that passion project close to your heart

helping others is waiting. Chemistry is one of the most underrated facets of a team’s composition, and yet it is the single most critical factor to determine success. Ultimately, it is not the team with sensational players, as much as it is the players with a sense of team spirit. As a Jewish people, Gemilut Chasadim, the giving of lovingkindness, coupled with our strong sense of community have been the glue that binds us. Even for those who don’t profess to be soccer aficionados, everyone knows it requires endurance and patience. As a low-scoring game, the value of each goal has tremendous implications for the result of a match. Players must expend their energies effectively to last the full ninety minutes, and often beyond that in extra time, or else risk burning out in the early stages. After all, as they say, life is a marathon, not a sprint. In the spirit of examining soccer and spirituality, as a Jewish people, our ‘team’ has been working towards a goal of redemption. It has now been close to two millennia; we are almost there. This is the ultimate collective test of endurance and we can’t give up. While we may feel like we are running on adrenalin in extra time, we continue to aim for that final goal! Nike signed English player Marcus Rashford, (who just played in the Euros), when he was just eleven years old, so as the longstanding slogan states: Just Do It!

Zebra cookies All is lovingly made using best-quality ingredients by talented pastry chefs and bakers. During Sydney’s lockdown, Sweet Chick has also compiled “ISO” meals and specials. You should also try the famous Honey Jumbles. Available daily as well as each Friday at the Sweet Chick's Pareve Pop Up located at Pita Mix, 502 Old South Head Road, Rose Bay, between 10am1pm. Back to these delectable Zebra Cookies, if they aren’t ‘wolfed’ down immediately, they will conveniently keep for up to one week stored at home in an airtight container. This is such an easy recipe to make for Shabbat or any day of the week – a true crowd-pleaser and loved by all ages. Try it during this Covid Lockdown – make for family and friends – they will absolutely go wild for them (couldn’t resist the jungle pun)! [Visit www.thesweetchick.com.au to order Zebra Cookies, ISO meals and so much more.] INGREDIENTS 300g plain flour 400g white sugar 100g cocoa powder 1 teaspoon salt 60ml vegetable oil 4 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Icing sugar, for coating METHOD Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (or 160 degrees using a fanforced oven) Combine flour, sugar, cocoa and salt. Add oil, vanilla & eggs; then mix well to

form a dough. Portion into tablespoon-sized balls and roll in icing sugar to coat. Re-coat with icing sugar before putting them in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Voilà! Sweet Chick’s Zebra Cookies.

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

I’ve Been Here Before: Holocaust and Reincarnation

BOOK

REPORT

SARA YOHEVED RIGLER AISH.COM Excerpts from Sara Yoheved Rigler’s new book, I’ve Been Here Before. The Secret Society is so recondite that most of its members are unaware that they belong. The qualifications for membership are Holocaust-related recurring dreams, panic attacks, fearsome flashbacks, or phobias of trains, showers, or uniformed men. Most of its members were born between 1945 and 1961, in North or South America, Europe, or Israel. Although members’ individual experiences are unique, the common denominator, the secret handshake of this society, is a childhood obsession with the Holocaust by youths unrelated to Holocaust survivors, who never heard it discussed, who never saw a Holocaust movie until after their dreams, flashbacks, or phobias were already haunting their young lives. In 2013, at the end of my Aish.com article on “Reincarnation and the Holocaust,” I appealed: “Readers who have stories alluding to a Holocaust incarnation are invited to send them to the author.” Among the hundreds of emails to my website, I read the frequent refrain. “After reading your article on reincarnation and the Holocaust, I felt ‘normal’ for the first time in my life.” The closet is crowded with people who fear exposing their haunting experiences to mockery and disdain. One purpose of this book is to open the closet door and allow these thousands of people to emerge into the daylight of respectability and acceptance. From Where These Dreams? A past life in the Holocaust appears in one’s dreams like an unexpected and unwelcome visitor. Upon waking, if the dreamer is an adult, or later in life if the dreamer is a child, one may want to decipher the identity of the visitor. Although the dreamer fully understands that “that was me,” she may seek to know more about who she was then or to corroborate her dream with historical facts. A woman born to a Christian family in Australia in 1966 had a dream of a concentration camp that she considered “stupid” until she accidently found corroboration many years later. I dreamed of a place that was being built. There was a lot of mud, and they seemed to be digging a lap pool. Myself and Joseph (I knew him in the dream, and we spoke a language that I understood in the dream but not awake) got out of a covered truck along with many others. I saw a woman and her two girls get out of a staff car, and one stumbled. I immediately went to help and ended up as a tutor/nanny but inevitably was gassed. I thought it was stupid. Whoever had heard of a lap pool in a concentration camp? Years later, when the Internet was born, I was on a website about Auschwitz and, scrolling through, there was a picture of the lap pool! NORE – No Other Rational Explanation Since very young children do not read graphic Holocaust books nor see Holocaust movies, their dreams of Holocaust images would seem to corroborate that their dreams issue

from a past life, or what I call NORE (No Other Rational Explanation). One of my subjects related that when she was a child, she walked into the living room while her mother was watching a Holocaust film, and her mother made her leave the room. Thus, the dream of a young Jewish, Los Angeles–born girl is particularly chilling: When I was about nine or ten, I was sick with a fever. I had a dream in which I was tossed into a pile of bodies and was too weak to move. More bodies were put on top of me, and, after being unable to move from under them, my soul left my body. Feverish prisoners being tossed onto piles of bodies when they were not yet dead was a common occurrence in the concentration camps. NORE. Lauren Green, born to a Jewish family in Illinois in 1991, had to have six silver crowns put on her back teeth when she was just three years old. When her mother Karen was driving her home, suddenly little Lauren piped up, “I don’t like having silver teeth, because remember when we died together and those bad guys took our silver teeth?” “I don’t like having silver teeth, because remember when we died together and those bad guys took our silver teeth?” Karen was so shaken that she had to pull over to the side of the road. “Since we are Jewish,” she told author Carol Bowman, “I knew immediately that she was talking about the Holocaust… I knew that she was not playing a game. I could feel the truth of what she was saying…. The chances that Lauren could have known this detail are absolutely zero.” NORE Sometimes the person having a dream is torn between the conviction that the dream must be a past-life experience and the taboo of believing in reincarnation. I Know This Story Mirelle Jane Millar, growing up in a small town in the cane farming country of North Queensland, Australia, did not know a single Jew. Born in Whangārei, New Zealand, in 1980 to Pentecostal Christian parents who were both

pastors, the only thing Mirelle knew about Judaism was that Jesus was Jewish. She learned nothing about the Holocaust in school. As a child of four or five, Mirelle would say peculiar things, such as, “I don’t eat ham,” and “I don’t eat bacon,” and “Saturday is the day of rest, not Sunday.” The child had a single phobia: German shepherd dogs. At the age of nine, Mirelle was in a video store with her mother and older brothers. Normally she would pick Mary Poppins, but that day she noticed a video called Escape from Sobibor. She wanted to get it. Her brothers told her that it wasn’t for children, but Mirelle insisted she must watch it. Her mum, unaware of the horrific content of the television movie portraying the death camp where 250,000 people were exterminated, was curious, and rented the movie. Sitting in their living room that night watching the video, nine-year-old Mirelle announced, “I know this story.” Her mother assured her that she didn’t, but young Mirelle was adamant that she recognized everything. In the scene where a German shepherd attacks a woman, Mirelle cried out, “That’s why I hate German shepherds!” In the last scene of the film, where most of the prisoners are killed during their desperate escape, Mirelle began to cry. “I had this sense,” she remembered three decades later, “that I need to find the people who survived. I knew they were my people.” I came to the conclusion that I have a Jewish soul and reincarnated into a non-Jewish family, and that my past life most likely had been in the Holocaust. For Mirelle, watching Escape from Sobibor was like opening a door to a dark tunnel. She started having recurring nightmares about the Holocaust that plagued her for the rest of her childhood and throughout her teenage years. She became obsessed with Jews (of whom she still had not met a single one) and with Israel. While none of her friends had even heard of the Holocaust, she voraciously read Holocaust books and saw films. At the age of seventeen, she left

school and went to spend a year in Israel. Eventually, she converted to Judaism. I went through my conversion a few years ago, after years of trying to search for why I was so connected to Jewish culture, Judaism, the Holocaust, and Israel. I came to the conclusion that I have a Jewish soul and reincarnated into a non-Jewish family, and that my past life most likely had been in the Holocaust. As a child I knew things and had memories of things that were not told to me. During my interview with the rabbis prior to my conversion, they acknowledged my belief that I had a Jewish soul. Following conversion, it has been like my soul is at peace. Tikkun – Rectification Reincarnation assumes the existence of a spiritual entity, the soul, that continues to exist after the death of the physical body, and can enter a new body later in time. The purpose of the soul’s descent to the physical world is, according to Kabbalah, tikkun or rectification of past mistakes. Just as every soul is unique, so every tikkun is unique, as illustrated by the stories in Part Two. For some, a failure of action can be rectified through a single, glorious choice. For others, tikkun is a rectification of a character flaw; fear must be replaced by courage, selfishness by generosity. For still others, the disposition of anger – at God and at human beings – must be rectified by faith and love. Reincarnation replaces the fear of mortality with the assurance of immortality. This immortality has nothing to do with the youthfulness or fitness of the body. The body and all its accoutrements will indeed perish. Reincarnation, however, guarantees the eternal longevity of one’s core identity – the soul. Like a child who gets off a roller coaster ride and runs to get in line to do the ride again, our souls crave “another ride,” another chance to redress wrongs with clearer consciousness and more benevolent actions. Death comes with a ticket for another ride – although usually the line is very long.

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

IS RAE L

NEWS

President Rivlin: the Jewish world’s greatest educator

MICHAEL RAINSBURY THE TIMES OF ISRAEL As a Jewish educator, the last place I imagined myself educating is the President’s Residence. Yet thanks to President Rivlin, that is where I can often be found. Here is my story. In my role as director of two World Bnei Akiva gap year programs in Israel, I was looking for new paradigms to teach about the challenges and opportunities within Israeli society. At the same time, in a speech given exactly six years ago today, July 7, 2015, at the Herzliya Conference, President Rivlin formulated his vision for Israeli society, which he termed “Israeli Hope.” Recognizing the existence of four distinct tribes — secular Jews, Haredim, religious Zionists, and Arabs — he highlighted changing demographic trends, whereby each tribe will soon make up roughly a quarter of Israel’s population. Rather than being doomed to live together, President Rivlin viewed each tribe as being destined to live together, and he created frameworks and programs to build grassroots partnerships in education, academia, sports, and the workplace, with the aim of forming a more cohesive Israeli society. In 2017, I made a hopeful phone call to the Office of the President with a proposal: to take the Israeli Hope framework and include the global Jewish community within it. President Rivlin had the most compelling vision for Israeli society, but it was not built to impact the Jewish world. To my surprise, this piqued their interest, and I was invited to present my plans in person. Two years later, after many meetings and pilot programs, a fanciful idea had become a plan of action. I was tasked with developing English language tours of the President’s Residence, and workshops on Israeli Hope in conjunction with the nascent Visitors’ Center. Thanks to a unique partnership with Makom: The Jewish Agency for Israel Education Lab, specialists in the field of Israel education, Jews from around the world can now tour the President’s Residence and learn about this unique vision. In the past year, Jewish federations, synagogues, schools, youth movements,

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and his wife host children who are entering first grade – August 31, 2017 (Mark Neyman/GPO)

and gap year programs from many Jewish communities in North America, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere have participated in these tours and workshops, either in person or online. My story fits into a greater paradigm shift that to some extent has defined the Rivlin presidency. While at the start, President Rivlin’s focus was on Israeli citizens rather than the Jewish world, this changed with time, partly through visits and partly as a culmination of his natural tendency to seek dialogue and harmony where it is most needed. In a speech to the Jewish Federations in 2017 — notably his first major speech to the North American Jewish community outside of Israel — he said: “In order to meet this challenge [of the Four Tribes] we need the partnership with you, the fifth tribe, the Jews of the Diaspora.” Global Jewry was now an integral part of his flagship mission. In recent barely noted remarks, President Rivlin described himself as

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES Friday, Jul 16, 2021 Shabbat ends , Jul 17, 2021 Friday, Jul 23, 2021 Shabbat ends, Jul 24, 2021 Friday, Jul 30, 2021 Shabbat ends, Jul 31, 2021 Friday, Aug 6, 2021 Shabbat ends, Aug 7, 2021 Friday, Aug 13, 2021 Shabbat ends, Aug 14, 2021 Friday, Aug 20, 2021 Shabbat ends, Aug 21, 2021 Friday, Aug 27, 2021 Shabbat ends, Aug 28, 2021

4:47 pm 5:46 pm 4:51 pm 5:50 pm 4:56 pm 5:54 pm 5:01 pm 5:58 pm 5:06 pm 6:03 pm 5:11 pm 6:07 pm 5:16 pm 6:12 pm

the “president of the Jewish people.” Whether one agrees or not, this statement reveals the personal journey President Rivlin undertook throughout his presidency. Given the fraught nature of the Israel-Diaspora relationship in recent years, the optics of an Israeli “sabra” president, not blessed with fluent English, pivoting his perspective to look towards the Jewish world is highly significant. And this desire for engagement was borne out with every tour and workshop that took place. Many will describe President Rivlin as a visionary. However, I prefer to see him as the Jewish world’s greatest educator, who turned the President’s Residence into a place of education for Israelis and Jews around the world alike. Rather than dictate an answer, an educator’s job is to challenge, encourage, and empower. President Rivlin has done exactly this for Israeli society and global Jewry. He has laid out the challenges and opportunities, created the framework to

achieve partnership and empowered people like me to take a role in making it happen. As we reflect on a successful term of office, it is time for us, his students, Israelis and Jews around the world alike, to pick up the baton and rise to President Rivlin’s challenge. Michael Rainsbury is an Associate Director at Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, a modern Orthodox Anglo yeshiva in Jerusalem. Originally from London, he made Aliyah in 2013. Michael has held many roles in Bnei Akiva, serving as Educational Director and National Director in the UK and running the movement's gap year programmes in Israel. A teacher by profession, Michael has a Masters in Jewish Education and also runs Poland trips for JRoots, a leading provider of Jewish educational heritage tours. All articles are written in a personal capacity.

Sydney Jewish Report Disclaimer: Except where expressly stated otherwise, content in The Sydney Jewish Report is provided as general informations only. The articles in this paper have been contributed by a third party. The opinions, facts and any media content here are presented solely by the author, and The Jewish Report assumes no responsibility for them. It is not intended as advice and must not be relied upon as such. You should make your own inquiries and take independent advice tailored to your specific circumstances prior to making any decisions. We do not make any representation or warranty that any material in the papers will be reliable, accurate or complete, nor do we accept any responsibility arising in any way from errors or omissions. We will not be liable for loss resulting from any action or decision by you in reliance on the material in the papers. By reading the papers, you acknowledge that we are not responsible for, and accept no liability in relation to, any reader’s use of, access to or conduct in connection with the papers in any circumstance. Photographs submitted by individuals or organisations are assumed to be their property and are therefore not otherwise credited. All articles in this paper have received the expressed consent of the author to publish in this paper. The Jewish Report; ISSN 2204-4639 Publisher: The Jewish Report Pty Ltd (ACN 167302981) Distributor: TJR Distribution Pty Ltd ACN 165158029 Comments or suggestions to: editor@thejewishreport.com.au Article submissions to: www.thejewishreport.com.au/article-submission-guidelines Advertising: advertising@thejewishreport.com.au Website: www.thejewishreport.com.au Printer: Spotpress Pty Ltd

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

Kosher KApers RAMONA FREEDMAN THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY This month, a new KAcertified boutique-sized bakery opened in our midst and it is an instant treasure. The Friendship Bakery is now officially welcoming customers, and it is a wonderful extension of The Friendship Circle. This kosher bakery is a unique social enterprise aiming to empower young people in our community living with a disability. Each participant is challenged to embrace the responsibility to bake and then sell their own products. Currently, each Friday, customers can pre-order and/or pick up on the day freshly baked challah and other shabbat treats. Given that the majority of items within are Dairy (Chalav Yisrael) including brownie fudge and raspberry custard brioche, staff are on hand to helpfully highlight exactly which products are Pareve if needed. You can also find delicate shortbread available in five varieties: tahini; chai; pistachio and lime; pecan; coca espresso, as well as choc chip cookie dough – the list goes on. Quantities are limited but every purchase is so supportive in so many ways and a true mitzvah. Also new on the kosher scene, Mama Chen’s is an innovative KA licensee instantly adding some spice to our kosher landscape here in Kosher Sydney, with a selection of Pop Up Take Away authentic Asian dishes. Each is aromatic and flavourful including honey chicken; sweet and sour crispy beef; vegetarian Pad Thai; Chinese BBQ Chicken buns; vegan spring rolls and so much more. Offering baked goods and catering, Perfect Pita is now KA-certified. Three baked products are on offer including the instantly popular Jerusalem Bagels; Regular Pita and Mini Pita. In addition, the catering arm is here to assist with any simcha (post lockdown) or even supplying families currently at home. The authentic Israeli fare on offer includes falafel; hummus; Israeli Salad; laffa; pickles; red cabbage; salsa; tabouli and tahini. In addition, wholemeal pita in both sizes can be pre-ordered too at any designated quantity. For delivery details, see below. Whether we are in lockdown or not,

milestone moments mercifully still occur, and stay-at-home celebrations are enjoyed as well as large noisy wonderful simchas when we are permitted. Fress, a KA-certified company that commenced specialising in exquisite Gourmet Gift Platters, in addition to fresh food platters and grazing tables – always adds a degree of elegance and sophistication. In this edition, The KA introduces a new vibrant dimension to allthings-Fress: kosher consumers will now be able to purchase kosher cakes; biscuits; cupcakes; frozen ‘cakesicles’; baked doughnuts; cake-pops, edible icing and more for the whole community to enjoy. Both Pareve and Dairy (not Chalav Yisrael) options can be chosen, and they are perfect for a Bar Mitzvah; Bat Mitzvah; wedding; birthday; anniversary; or any festival. You could even have treats specially made to wish an HSC student good luck in upcoming exams. If a kind soul has helped you recently, say thank you with these beautiful biscuits and more. New kosher certified products are revealed constantly, and in this edition, we share that ‘Where The Wild Things Grow’ superfood smoothies are now KA-Certified. There are one dozen kosher products within the range, all handcrafted to nourish and energise. Each contains a rainbow of market fresh, locally sourced, plant-based whole produce - all clean, nutrient dense and full of fibre. And they taste great too! Each is cold-pressurised with no hidden additives – all you need to do is shake to activate. In one Super Green Smoothie for example, it impressively packs in ten ingredients: kale; spinach; pear; cucumber; celery; avocado; coconut water; lemon/lime juice; cinnamon and spirulina. In addition, there are also products such as almond, cashew and hemp milks. In the last edition, we shone a spotlight on the newly certified Kura Sushi ginger in both Pink and Natural varieties. The feedback has been so positive, and we now add a new kosher Kura product: Certified Organic Sushi Nori. This is perfect for sushi, handrolls, as a topping or snack. This is classified as Grade A Gold, which is the highest quality available. Its deep colour reflects a smooth and rich taste, the true flavour of Japanese Nori. Based in the heart of Darlinghurst, Simply Hummus Bar, now known as Simply Hummus, is a beloved KA-certified vegan, Middle

Eastern restaurant with a huge range of gluten free dishes located close to the Sydney Jewish Museum. It has just launched a new take away and delivery menu and in addition, kosher consumers are able to utilise the recently launched Winter Catering offer which gives ten per cent off your first order. With a menu featuring delectable vegan dishes such as Smoky Cauliflower; Hummus plates; Sabich Salad; Baladi Eggplant; 8 Bowl falafel and more, whether you are eating in with your family or planning an event later in the year – their Falafel and Chips station might be the go-to for you. Simply Hummus will enhance your in-home dining experience along with your special event. For the first time in Australia, you can now purchase the Amstelvelder range of naturally ripened traditional Dutch cheese. All are Chalav Yisrael (and also Kosher for Passover). All are produced in Holland and include sliced Dutch Gouda Classic; Gouda with Chives; Pepperjack; Muenster and Edam In addition, there are shelf-stable Dutch Gouda sprinkles – a great topping for popcorn, veggies, pasta and sauces. These premium cheeses are available at four Sydney Woolworths stores including Westfield Bondi Junction; St. Ives; Eastgardens and Double Bay. These Dutch dairy delights are a must to try next time to duck out to go shopping. Finally, here in Sydney we truly have the most wonderful, supportive community. This was personified recently by KA-certified The Bagel Co. which went above and beyond when it recently ran a generous Covid-relief chessed initiative to assist communal members in isolation. Many in need were aided in a quiet, yet dignified way, offered free mid-week bagels, a loaf of bread of choice and a complimentary Shabbat package including two challot, a six-pack of fish balls and one cinnamon or chocolate babka. Volunteer drivers also stepped up to assist with delivery all over town. A collective Toda Raba to The Bagel Co. for this and so much more. This genuinely made The Kashrut Authority … #kaproud. The KA is here to support Kosher Sydney – our bakeries, eateries, caterers and shops are working hard to help you – let’s continue to support them. We look forward to sharing more exciting kosher news with you in the next edition.

Here’s a snapshot of kosher news around town: • The KA-certified Friendship Circle Bakery is currently open on Fridays 9am-1pm, visit 2a Laguna Road, Vaucluse. For more information, email: senderkavka@sydneyfc.org.au or SMS 0430 093 670. • Dave’s Food Co. is offering free delivery of premium gravlax boards and gravlax tubs every Thursday and Friday to the Eastern Suburbs. This will continue for the duration of Sydney’s COVID-19 lockdown for all orders over $25. To order, email: david@davesfoodco.com or call Dovid Nussbaum on 0411 843 437. • The popular products on offer from KA-certified ‘7 Fat Cows’ include Point End Pastrami, Chilli Chuck Burnt Ends and Spicy Brown Mustard, delivery to the Eastern Suburbs will be complimentary for the duration of Sydney’s lockdown. Visit 7fatcows.com.au to place your order or call Shimon Yisrael Abraham on 0414 922 736 for more information. • OMG! Decadent Donuts East Sydney is now offering home

delivery on designated days each week for kosher gluten free and dairy free donuts – typically Wednesdays and Fridays. To place an order, call Margaret on 0437272073 for latest up-to-date delivery dates - $10 for anywhere in the Eastern Suburbs, minimum 12 donuts. • Ordering @ Jesse's Bakery: If you would like to place an order for baked goods, it is best for you to SMS 0407371828. FYI: The gluten free sliced bread & bagels sell out so fast. • For the remainder of Sydney’s Covid lockdown, The Bagel Co. will be offering free delivery for all orders over $50 every Friday for the following suburbs: Bondi; Dover Heights; Vaucluse; Rose Bay and Bellevue Hill. To place an order visit www.thebagelco.com.au . With any further queries, call 02 93717557. • To contact Perfect Pita, call Avi on 0418423545 or visit https://perfect-pita.square.site/ to place an order. For the duration of the Covid lockdown, delivery is free for all orders over $25 every Sunday-Thursday.

• To see the latest offering from Mama Chen’s, visit The Kashrut Authority’s Facebook Group “Kashrut Authority of Australia & NZ”. Orders are placed at mamachen. com.au and pick up for pre-ordered food is located at 1 Francis Street, Bondi Beach. • Contact Jodi Lyons at Fress to discuss your personalised creative cake, biscuit, cake-pop or cakesicle on 0422093211. • Where The Wild Things Grow products are available at Harris Farm stores and other locations around town, visit: wherethewildthingsgrow.com.au for more stockist information. • For online purchasing or stockist information re: Kura’s organic Sushi Nori, visit premiumgourmetfood.com.au or call HBC trading on 02 9417 5525 for your local stockists. • Visit simplyhummusbar to see full menu and to access the 10% off your first Winter Catering order, enter the promo code “Simply0621”.

KOSHE R

KApers KA PRODUCT UPDATES • Mendy’s Frozen Margherita Pizzas are now available at Jesse’s Bakery – the size is 13-inch which is equivalent to a Mendy’s Mediumsized pizza. • Two new flavours of Chalav Yisrael Serendipity ice cream have been produced and are available at Krinskys: Cookies & Cream & Cinnamon Babka. The same CY special production also currently include three additional flavours: Salted Caramel, Madagascan Vanilla Bean & Double Chocolate. • New ‘Where The Wild Things Grow’ products include: • Superfood Smoothies Liquid Night 370ml • Superfood Smoothies Midsummer Mango 370ml • Superfood Smoothies Nuts for Cocao 370ml • Superfood Smoothies Rose-Berry 370ml • Superfood Smoothies The Super Green Smoothie 370ml • Superfood Smoothies Tropical Green 370ml • Almond Milk Sweet • Cashew Milk Unsweetened • Cocotini 370ml • Hemp Milk Sweetened • Hemp Milk Unsweetened • Raw Activated Almond Milk Unsweetened 750g

CLARIFICATIONS * T yrrell’s Sea Salt & Cider Vinegar chips KA Directory listing has changed from No Longer Produced to not acceptable. Please note you can still purchase the Tyrrell’s Crinkly Crisps Sea Salt & Vinegar, certified by The Kashrut Authority. *P roducts found locally within the Knorr’s range incorporating instant cup-of-soups, seasonings and more are only kosher if they are produced in a separate kosher supervised batch and feature kosher certification on the packaging. Some of these kosher Knorr’s products can be sourced at Krinsky’s.

Left to right: New Amstelvelder Chalav Yisrael Cheese range @ 4 Woolworths stores, Custom-made creative cake by KA-certified Fress, Chinese Fried Honey Chicken by new KA licensee Mama Chen and New 'Where The Wild Things Grow' Superfood Smoothies.

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the sydney jewish report | july 2021

MOV IE

REVIEWS

Squirm in your seat Jewish laughs

ALEX FIRST SHIVA BABY (M) A sexually charged comedy, Shiva Baby is an awkward delight. Daniella (Rachel Sennott) is a 20-something year old sugar baby, part of a close-knit Jewish community. Her highly opinionated mother Debbie (Polly Draper) who is constantly bickering with her father, Joel (Fred Melamed), loves her dearly, but is controlling and smothering. Debbie invites Dani to attend the Shiva Minyan (memorial service) for a member of the community who has passed away. Dani does so, mind you she struggles not to appear disingenuous because she really doesn’t know who the Shiva Minyan is for. As soon as Dani arrives, she spots a friend she grew up with, but someone she is desperately trying to avoid. It soon becomes clear that something went down with that friend, Maya (Molly Gordon), a law student. Meanwhile, soon thereafter Dani does a double take when she spots the gentleman who she has just “serviced”. He – Max (Danny Defferari) – is equally taken by surprise. Both appear to genuinely like one another, but things are about to get decidedly more uncomfortable. That happens when Dani discovers Max is married to a beautiful, non-Jewish blonde entrepreneur, Kim (Dianna

Agron), and the pair has an 18-monthold daughter, both of whom join Max. Further, the history of Dani’s relationship with Maya is also revealed as the cattiness between that pair continues. Shiva Baby becomes an hilarious free for all with a crackerjack final act. The movie works magnificently with Jewish cliches – think stereotypes, food, weight, career and relationships. Characterisations are deliberately inflated, but relatable and in the main plausible, notwithstanding a few instances where I felt the exaggeration went too far. Writer and director Emma Seligman

has done a fine job capturing the claustrophobic nature of Dani’s increasingly harried mind. The vast majority of the action takes place at the home where the Shiva Minyan is taking place. The camera often focuses on Dani’s body language, actions and interactions with lightning impact. The stringed score by composer Ariel Marx adds to the tension. Much credit goes to actors Rachel Sennott and Molly Gordon for the work they’ve put into crafting their characters. Sennott brilliantly captures the embarrassment and fear involved in

the predicament Dani – who hasn’t determined what she will make of her life – finds herself in. Gordon appears to effortlessly turn up the heat at will. There is also much in the “looks” between Sennott and Danny Deferrari. Shiva Baby has been designed to put a smile on your dial and it succeeds in doing so. If this isn’t the most uncomfortable memorial service to which you have been privy, I would have to say your life is a whole lot more “out there” than mine. Rated M, Shiva Baby scores a 7½ out of 10.

There is also a focus on a youngster who is bullied mercilessly. Will spends countless hours monitoring (and video recording) them, and others he has chosen, on a bank of television screens, without the prospect of intervening in their earthly lives. He subsequently starts a new phase of interviews, with an initial batch of adult contenders whittled down to five. Among them is the pragmatic Kane (Bill Skarsgård) and the empathetic Emma (Zazie Beetz), who clearly has special attributes.

Will does all his work from an isolated home, within walking distance of a tip, rubbish from which he salvages and turns into memories. Nine Days is big on retaining the mystery of what is going down. Our minds are working overtime to try to figure it all out. It is hardly a conventional narrative, far more of a brain teaser, which calls into question the meaning and purpose of life. The sensitive score adds to the mood and tone of the piece. The characterisations ring true throughout. Duke is excellent as the movie’s centrepiece, who clearly has his struggles. Wong, too, impresses as his more exuberant sidekick, whose character recognises his own limitations. Beetz brings a joie de vivre and sense of promise to her representation of Emma. She is the light in an ever-increasing sense of inevitability and despair. Nine Days is a poetic, lyrical and thought-provoking fantasy. Written and directed by Edson Oda, in what is his stunning debut feature, it is a well-crafted, cerebral film with a decided point of difference. Rated M, it scores a 7½ out of 10.

Life’s Challenges ALEX FIRST NINE DAYS (M) Life, with all its pleasures and heartbreak, is the stock in trade for an intermediary who is no longer an earthly entity. He now determines who will and won’t get the chance to enter the world and thereafter have all their experiences – warts and all – monitored. His name is Will (Winston Duke) and he used to exist, although his inherent decency didn’t hold him in good stead. Now he interviews “prospects” for possible earthly appearance and although he doesn’t tell them what he is looking for, it soon becomes clear that resilience is high on that list. Aiding him is Kyo (Benedict Wong), who has never “lived” in the conventional sense of that word. He is well aware of the bumps along the way that Will has experienced and recognises that the ultimate choice or choices are Will’s domain and Will’s alone. The title, Nine Days, refers to the time period for decision making, with either a thumbs up or a thumbs down given within that time frame. Some don’t make it beyond their initial calling, others might seem to be heading in the right direction, but will still

be caught short. In the process, they are presented with a series of moral dilemmas that Will maintains don’t have a right or wrong answer. Still, their responses serve to inform Will regarding his impending decisions about their respective trajectory. When the movie starts, the concentration is on an active and curious young girl, a child prodigy and brilliant violinist named Amanda who, as time progresses, is about to perform her first concerto.