www.jca.org.au/donate Support our local Jewish community Fostering a closer Jewish communityFREE VOL. 89 Tuesday, 23 Aug, 2022 / 26 Av 5782 SUPPORTJNF p5 COA HAUS OF SCHMATTES p9PHILANTHROPYJCA p7 TZEDAKATELESCOPIC p10 Maccabiah Games Gold p4 Seniors’ Living feature middle pages
12. The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra was originally called the Palestine Symphony Orchestra. Its first concert (26 December 1936) was conducted by which one of the following famous musicians of the twentieth century: a) Igor Stravinsky b) Arturo Toscanini c) Arnold Schoenberg?
6. Which American singer-songwriter is commonly nicknamed the "Piano Man"?7.ANU – The Museum of the Jewish People situated in Tel Aviv was known formerly by what name?
24. Zalman Shazar, president of the State of Israel (1963-1973), represented the State of Israel at the funerals of two Presidents of the United States, in addition to one British Prime Minister. Who were these three individuals?
23. What is the astrological sign for the month of Tishrei?
8. Who is the first musician mentioned in the Bible? 9. Who succeeded Moses as the leader of the Children of Israel? 10. Which Jewish family owns a ten per cent stake in the Premier League club, Newcastle United? 11. The Mishna is: a) The Oral Law b) The Code of Jewish Law
c) One of the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered in 1947?
5. The word Mezuzah is said to be connected to the Hebrew verb zuz. What is the meaning of this verb?
21. Which one of these is the odd one out and why: a) The New Year for Kings b) The New Year for Festivals c) The New Year for Trees? 22. To whom did Lord Arthur Balfour write to on November 2nd, 1917?
25. Which artist released the album Tapestry, which topped the U.S. album chart for 15 consecutive weeks in 1971 and remained on the charts for more than six years?
ANNE-MARIE ELIAS AROUND THE COMMUNITY
So many readers have their interest piqued each month in below.comprehensiveDavidthanksall-things-JudaicatoRabbiFreedman’squizItiswonderful to hear that this is now a must-have at so many Shabbat tables around town. This quiz is unique in its breadth of topics, and each month you may find a question drawing on biblical knowledge, artistic endeavours, cultural landmarks, Israeli geography, our lunar calendar, prolific Jewish authors and more. When explored and answered with others, we draw on shared cumulative knowledge - the best way to learn! So pay attention and let’s build that knowledge base b’yachad – together!
15. Who said to whom: “Your dwelling will be away from the earth’s richness, away from the dew of heaven above. You will live by the sword and you will serve your brother.” a) Noah to Ham b) Abraham to Ishmael c) Isaac to Esau 16. Herman Wouk wrote which Pulitzer Prize winner?
1. ‘Bul’ is the Biblical name for which month on our contemporary Jewish calendar:a)Tishreib)Marcheshvanc)Kislev?2.InaJewish
RABBI DAVID FREEDMAN JUDAICA QUIZ
3. True or False: Due to the lack of technical and scientific terms in Hebrew, did the Technion (Israel’s Institute of Technology in Haifa) initially use German as the language of instruction?4.Made famous by the movie Chariots of Fire, in which city did Harold Abrahams win the 100 metres Olympic gold medal in 1924?
2 the sydney jewish report | August 2022 “What – a functional family?”, I hear you shouting. For years The Simpsons has been touted as the reverse. Remember that this popular cartoon television show graced our screens for 33 seasons. Let’s test our hypothesis that The Simpsons is a functional family. In order to do so, we start with our definition of a family system. That is a group of related, interacting and connected people that form a complex whole, which responds as one unit.Ina family system one family member’s behaviour has effects on other family members.Thegoal of a family system is to create a safe, nurturing environment for all members to mature with ageappropriate capabilities. So far so good. The Simpsons meet thatWithindefinition.anunhealthy family system, the following concepts are enacted. Communication is closed, indirect and there are secrets. Emotions are frozen. There are either no boundaries or rigid rules. Members of a dysfunctional family system don’t take responsibility and apportion blame. Punishment is a shaming experience and love or approval need to be earned. In this type of family there is judgment, control and no fun. Roles in the unhealthy family are assigned. In a healthy family system communication is open and direct. Members are encouraged to express how they feel and what they think. Individual differences are not only allowed but encouraged. In The Simpsons, each character is, indeed, encouraged to pursue their own interests and use their talents. They are allowed to have spontaneous fun, choose their roles to match their abilities and skills, and experience unconditional love. While there is discipline in a healthy family, it is used as a learning experience. There is forgiveness, tolerance and care. More broadly, in each episode of The Simpsons conflicts are resolved. Family members are supported when pursuing their individual goals and interests. The family is community-minded, interacts with neighbours and extended family, and genuinely cares about them. Further functions of a healthy family system include the determination of who will hold the power and authority, how that will be used and how members are expected to respond. Is there a partnership (for example, the two parents hold equal power) or is there a captain of the ship? Take a moment to consider your own family system. Does your family fit the healthy model? Are the family rules made for the benefit of the whole family, rather than just the rule maker? Is each person accepted for who he or she or they are – a human with feelings … wellmeaning, but sometimes fallible? Is the worth of each member validated? Are the rules applied with an appreciation for the inevitable differences in circumstances and capabilities? Are the members of the family encouraged to grow and develop independence while staying interconnected?Ibelievethat The Simpsons also live by the five precepts of freedom from American author and psychotherapist Virginia Satir, who is recognised for her approach to family therapy. They are: To see and hear. To feel. To say. To ask. To take risks. Anne-Marie Elias is a psychologist in clinical practice for 25 years.
17. What occupations do the following Jewish surnames suggest: a) Edelstein b) Eckstein c) Zuckerman d) 18.Tabachnik?TheTelDan inscription (found on a ninth century BCE stone slab) discovered in 1993, is the first reference outside of the Bible to which biblical personality?19.Which American conservative radio talk show host and writer wrote a number of books of Jewish interest with Rabbi Joseph Telushkin? 20. Which Israeli city is 30km north of Tel Aviv, and 56km south of Haifa?
ANSWERS PAGE 21
Good luck. Enjoy. Hopefully, learn something new about your Jewish heritage and tradition.
Test your knowledge
14. The word Ushpizin means ‘guests’ in Aramaic. On which festival do seven ushpizin visit us?
The Simpsons – a model for a functional family
wedding ceremony does the Kallah (bride) stand with the Chatan (groom) on her left or right?
13. Who was Haj Amin al-Husseini?
MACCABIAH GAMES AROUND THE COMMUNITY 4 the sydney jewish report | August 2022
Photos courtesy Maccabi Australia
Maccabi Australia has already started planning for The Pan American Games at the end of 2023 and the 22nd Maccabiah Games in 2025.
Aussies strike Gold at Maccabiah Games
Australia had a most successful Maccabiah Games in Israel last month, ranking fourth overall in the medal tally behind Israel, USA and Argentina. We competed in 21 sports and picked up 104 medals – 24 gold, 33 silver and 47 bronze.The Aussies sent a 567-member delegation, 428 of which were athletes aged from their teens to their 70s. It was the 19th time Australia had competed at the Games. The team has come a long way since 1950, the first time it sent a delegation, which at the time numbered one. This year more than 10,000 Jewish athletes from upwards of 60 countries participated in the 21st Maccabiah Games.That made it the second largest sporting event in the world, after the Summer Olympic Games. For the first time, the Australian delegation included a Maccabi Life VIP Supporters’ Mission, led by Maccabi Australia President Jeff Sher. He described the experience as “memorable, meaningful and worthwhile”. “We have experienced tours, dinners and sporting events, and bonded as part of the Maccabi team – becoming part of the Maccabi Life family,” he said. More than 50,000 followers shared Team Australia’s journey online with upwards of a million views on Maccabi’s socialAmongchannels.theplaudits, there was also a time for reflection of a tragedy that happened in 1997 at the Maccabiah Games. The entire Australian delegation attended a ceremony in Ramat Gan to mark the 25-year anniversary of the Maccabiah bridge collapse. Every year, Maccabi Australia holds a memorial service to commemorate bridge victims Greg Small Z’L, Yetty Bennett Z’L, Elizabeth Sawicki Z’L and Warren Zines Z’L. Each four years, a memorial service is held at the Maccabiah Games. This year, the Australian delegation, together with Games officials and dignitaries marched across the “bridge of remembrance” wearing uniforms displaying the 1997 Maccabiah Games logo.They laid wreaths at the stone memorial.“Ourteam showed support, kindness and care for one another, as we remembered the victims with dignity, decorum and deep-felt solemnity.” said Maccabi Australia board member Sam Strunin.Family of the victims, as well as Maccabi families and friends back home watched the ceremony online. Adam Zines, son of Warren Zines Z’L, was one of those. He sent a message from Australia to the team which read: “Know that through the Australian delegation competing, they are, indeed, paying tribute to my father and the other victims. Know that the best way they can honour them is to complete the journey they could not.”
Ten seconds. That is how long kindergarten children have to find safety in a bomb shelter in Sha’ar HaNegev. Of course, an attack can occur at any time, on any day … without warning. When JNF launched its campaign last month to raise fund for 14 protective kindergartens near the Gaza border, it was with the view of safeguarding 400 vulnerable children from future rocket attacks. Little did they know how immediate the need would be. Since the start of August, more than 1,000 rockets have been fired into Israel’s South, directly targeting the Sha’ar HaNegev region. They represent yet another assault in a series of routine and relentless attacks over the past 16 years. The children of Sha’ar HaNegev have lived a life under fire. In May 2021, the violence escalated, culminating in the worst attack yet … when a sophisticated Hamas missile struck a kindergarten. Thankfully, the onslaught occurred when the school was closed and no children were harmed … at that time. Recently, Alon Schuster, Deputy Minister of Defence was visiting the area to inspect the progress of the protective kindergartens. He was scheduled to film a promotional video with the children playing, but due to the rocket strikes the playgrounds were empty and the kids were in bomb shelters. The next attack could come any day. At any moment. But next time, the children – and their families who love them – may not be quite so fortunate. Kindergarten is a place for children to learn, laugh form friendships and nurture their curiosity. Above all, it’s a place where young ones should be safe. However, for the children and families in the Sha’ar HaNegev region, safety is not a certainty. JNF Australia, in partnership with the Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council, is building green and protected environments for 14 kindergartens in six communities. When these kids have safe, open spaces to play at school, we’ll see smiles wash over their faces in a matter of moments. These safe outdoor play areas will help protect the lives of young children –while also promoting their wellbeing. The children in Sha’ar HaNegev spend much of their time outside, so it’s crucial that we make these playgrounds inviting and stimulating. Above all, they must provide a sense of normality – an emotional escape from the constant threats the children endure. We are relying upon your generosity to give with open hearts. Please join JNF for its annual event, featuring two inspiring, world renowned Speakers. Jonathan Greenblatt is CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and leads the fight against antisemitism. Professor Rivka Carmi, former Chairperson of Ben Gurion University, plays a major role in developing the Negev. Entertainment on the night –Tuesday, 6th September – will also be provided by Sydney-born, Broadway star, Alexis Fishman. To book for the JNF NSW annual event in support of the children of Israel’s South, go to of-play/esdayhttps://www.jnf.org.au/nsw-night-
CEO of theLeagueAnti-Defamation Alexis
FishmanProfessorRivkaCarmi
Former Chairperson of Ben-Gurion University with guest speakers and entertainer
5the sydney jewish report | August 2022 JNF’s Annual Event Tuesday 6 September, 2022 In Solidarity with Israel’s Gaza Border Communities jnf.org.au/events 1300 563 563
Protect the children of Israel’s South HELP US BUILD PROTECTIVE KINDERGARTENS
As Israel faces renewed attacks from Gaza, your support is needed now.
Support for the children of Israel’s southJNF AROUND THE
GreenblattJonathan
Kindergarten children from Sha’ar HaNegev
COMMUNITY
The North Sydney Symphony Orchestra will be performing a special, one-off concert at 7.30pm on Saturday 24th September at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Titled “A Hebrew Celebration”, it will focus on Jewish and Hebrew-themed orchestral and choral music. The orchestra will be joined by the exceptional Bel a Cappella choir. The program will extend beyond the music of well-known composers, including Mendelssohn and Prokofiev. The conductor and artistic director of the North Sydney Symphony, Dr Steven Hillinger, also wants to introduce the audience to the music of lesser-known composers.Discovering the music of Jewish composers suppressed by the Nazis is one of Dr Hillinger’s passions. Following research into the area, he uncovered some hidden gems, which will be on show.
Among the works debuting at the concert is that by Erich Zeisl. He was an Austrian Jewish composer who escaped from Austria and fled to the US, before working on Hollywood movies. In memory of his father, who was murdered in the Treblinka concentration camp, Zeisl composed the inspirational Requiem Ebraico (Hebrew Requiem). Hebrew Poem, by the Bulgarian Jewish composer Pancho Vladigerov, will also make its first appearance in Australia. The piece stands out as one of his most dramatic and emotionally impactful works. Its main melody emanates from the Kaddish prayer. The timing of the concert, the day before Erev Rosh Hashanah, gives it even more significance as we look ahead after such a challenging time for all.
The $140 million complex is being built with significant support from the State of Israel and additional funding from the Gandel Family and the Gandel Foundation.Itwilladdress a gap in health delivery in Jerusalem and the surrounding area.
To find out more about “A Hebrew Celebration” and to purchase tickets, go to https://nsso.org.au/24september-2022
AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF SHAARE ZEDEK
Friends of Shaare Zedek is focusing its efforts on adolescent health and wellbeing
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The Australian Jewish community’s relationship with Israel is evolving and developing.Thisisreflected in the Australian Friends of Shaare Zedek (AFSZ) and its commitment to Jerusalem’s Hospital with a ShaareHeart.Zedek Medical Centre is both a critical part of Israel’s history and a modern-day success story. With 1,000 beds across two campuses, treating almost a million people each year, it plays a crucial role in Jerusalem life. It is also a centre of excellence in research. The Centre does all of this within a framework of applying Jewish ethics to modern medical innovation, in a spirit of compassion and excellence in medical care.This year, the AFSZ campaign is shining a spotlight on adolescent health. It’s no secret that recent years have taken their toll on teenagers. They have spent far too many hours on their screens, isolated from social and educational networks.Emerging studies are confirming what is obvious to those of us with young people in our lives: life has altered significantly and carries with it far reaching ramifications. In Israel, teenagers contend with the additional stressors of political unrest. One of the key medical challenges that Shaare Zedek addresses is eating disorders. There has been a serious increase in the incidence and severity of such disorders in teenagers since the pandemic.
A meaningful relationship with Israel
Arguably the largest sole-purpose rehabilitation facility in the Middle East was dedicated earlier this month. When completed in 2024, the 20,000 square metre, eight storey, Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Hospital, Mount Scopus, in Jerusalem will be a state of the art 132-bed facility.
NORTH SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HADASSAH
The Adolescent Medicine Service runs outpatient clinics, a day hospital and admits patients to the hospital in the case of severe illness. Demand for these services has soared over the past two years, placing huge pressure on the department.Despiteits commitment to education and prevention, Shaare Zedek’s staff has minimal resources to offer parents and caregivers, some of whom have limited access to the internet. Yet knowledge of what to do and what to say can make a significant difference to medical outcomes, especially when there is a severe shortage of resources. This year, AFSZ wants to help Shaare Zedek save the lives of teenagers. In the case of eating disorders, it also wants to assist the hospital to provide parents and caregivers with the tools to prevent their children from getting sicker. It’s eBook, The Language of Seeking Help by Jaimee Krawitz is now being translated into Hebrew and Arabic. It will be available at Shaare Zedek as a gift from the Australian community and will empower parents, teachers and caregivers with the knowledge to say and do the right thing while waiting for and receiving medical support. The Australian edition with resources specific to Australia is also nearing completion.Yourgenerosity on 11th September will enable AFSZ to engage with the best of Israeli knowledge, compassion and innovation in a meaningful and significant way. To donate, go to www.shaarezedek. org.au
Hadassah Australia President Ron Finkel AM was effusive in his praise for the“Withdevelopment.thistransformative and legacy gift to Israel, the Gandel family is delivering on its vision and commitment to the people of Israel. “Their gift – the largest single gift from the Australian Jewish community to Israel – is providing a 21st century expression of the spirit and values of Henrietta Szold. Szold was the Founder of the Hadassah movement and it was she who said: “dream and when you dream, dream big”.“We are incredibly proud to be actively helping to deliver Australia’s gift to Jerusalem – the Gandel Rehabilitation Center”.
From left: Pauline Gandel AC, John Gandel AC and their daughter Lisa Thurin
A Jewish musical celebration Gandel supreme legacy AUSTRALIA
John Gandel AC said with more than 1.2 million living in the Israeli capital today “it definitely deserves to have a first-class, dedicated rehabilitation centre”.Jerusalem is the fastest growing urban area in Israel and has the highest proportion of elderly residents in the country.MrGandel said the centre “will materially improve the quality of life for many people and their families”.
Lorraine and Mervyn Basserabie
7the sydney jewish report | August 2022
• Supporting cultural and outreach programs that enrich our Jewish life. If you would like more information about leaving a legacy to JCA, please phone Debbie Edinburg on 9360-2344 or email debbie@jca.org.au
• Making Jewish education available for more children.
JCA close to their hearts
• Preserving Holocaust memory and Jewish history for future generations.
Mervyn and Lorraine Basserabie have long been synonymous with philanthropy in the Jewish community. Through their generosity, the lives of many have been enriched and the good deeds of others honoured.Overthe years, JCA and its member organisations have been grateful beneficiaries of the Basserabies' goodwill. "JCA cares for its community," said Mervyn recently. "It gives us much pleasure seeing how JCA cares and plans for the wellbeing of future generations and Jewish identity." To help ensure the long-term continuity of the community, Mervyn and Lorraine have embraced JCA Generations. This community-wide initiative encourages everyone to consider leaving a modest percentage of their estate to JCA in theirMervynwills. said: "We have decided to include JCA in our wills because it will be part of our legacy and we would be happy knowing that we have continued to help JCA do its good work." The Basserabies hope their example will encourage others to join those who have already committed to the program. "We believe that if many feel the way we do and if they provide for JCA in their wills, Jewish wellbeing and continuity will be assured,” Mervyn said. In 2015, he kick-started JCA's campaign with a $1 million donation. At the time, he said that much of his motivation when giving was the sheer joy of doing so. He considered it an honour and privilege to help fellow Jewish families. Mervyn said that his benchmark for giving is that if a substantial donation can change other people's lives whilst not impacting his wealth and lifestyle, there is no reason not to give. He also said that people should consider their financial situations and posed the following question, "will I rather be remembered by what I made or by what I gave? I know one thing for sure … everyone in this room would rather be a giver than a receiver." He has always urged fellow givers to consider what they can give to the community with an open heart. Bequests to JCA can make a lasting difference in various sectors and can include:•Providing aged and community care for disadvantaged, disabled and vulnerable members of our community.
• Advocating for our community, combatting antisemitism and ensuring our safety and security.
JCA AROUND THE COMMUNITY Generations
Olivia Newton-John is being mourned across the globe as a charismatic singer and the star of the 1978 hit movie Grease. Starting out in a teen band that she created when she was still a schoolgirl in Melbourne, Newton-John wowed audiences the world over, in a career that spanned decades.
Yet the girl next door image that Newton-John cultivated in her long performing career hid the fact that she was a highly idealistic woman who hailed from a distinguished, intellectual family.Newton-John was the granddaughter of one of the 20th century’s greatest scientists, the German Jewish physicist Max Born, who worked with Albert Einstein and won the Nobel Prize (along with Walter Bothe) in 1954. Her family tree included professors and at least one rabbi. Max Born and Newton-John’s Jewish heritage Max Born was born in 1882 in the Polish city of Breslau, into a highly cultured, academic Jewish home. His professor father hired tutors to teach Max privately and Max soon distinguished himself in math and physics, gaining a PhD at the University of Gottingen in Germany in 1908.His friends and colleagues read like a list of some of the greatest scientific minds of the modern age. Born was good friends with Albert Einstein and is credited with developing modern quantum mechanics, along with Erwin Schrodinger and Werner Heisenberg. Max married a brilliant mathematical student named Hedwig Ehrenberg, who had some Jewish heritage. Though she wasn’t Jewish herself, Hedwig was a descendent of Rabbi Philipp Ehrenberg, a German jurist and spiritual leader. Max and Hedwig had three children – two girls and a boy – though their marriage was a troubled one and they later divorced. Their daughter, Irene, was Olivia Newton-John’s mother. The family originally lived in Gottingen, where Max completed his PhD and received a job as professor. He taught Hitler became leader of Germany. That month, all Jewish academics in Germany were summarily fired from their jobs. Born accepted a temporary lectureship at the University of Cambridge, a position that saved his life and the lives of his family. While he taught, Hedwig became active in trying to find jobs for the Jewish refugees who were streaming into Britain throughout the 1930s.
Olivia Newton-John was born in Cambridge Olivia Newton-John’s mother Irene married Brinley Newton-John, a quickwitted intellect who worked as a codebreaker during World War II, helping Britain’s MI5 break the Enigma Code in Bletchley Park. After the war, he became a linguist and professor of German. Their daughter Olivia was born in Cambridge in 1948. When Brinley accepted a job teaching German at the University of Melbourne in 1954, their family relocated there. Olivia left behind her Jewish grandfather and built a new life in Australia.
Spokesperson for idealistic causes As Olivia Newton-John became a superstar, she used her fame to speak out on environmental issues. After she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987, she worked tireless to support cancer charities. In 2012, she endowed the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in Melbourne to help other cancer patients. Olivia Newton-John’s idealism has much in common with her grandfather Max Born, who also used his renown to speak out about the crucial importance of working towards global peace. Max Born is credited with saying that “those who say the study of science make a man an atheist, must be rather silly people”. In his later life, Born wrote a great deal, urging people to work to make the world a better place. His talented granddaughter Olivia similarly used her platform to help make the world a little sweeter as well.
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DR. YVETTE ALT MILLER COURTESY: AISH.COM JEWISH HISTORY
Olivia Newton-John’s grandfather was a Nobel Prize-winning Jewish physicist
9the sydney jewish report | August 2022
Join the Haus of Schmattes
For the first time in three years (covering both Limmud Oz and Yom Limmud), organisers of the Jewish learning festival will welcome overseas guests. The event will take place from 10am to 9pm on Sunday, 11th September at the Roundhouse at the University of NSW. Each hour, there will be between six and eight interactive sessions from which to choose.Subjects include Israel, the modern Jewish world, Jewish history, text-based learning, the arts and spirituality. There will also be live music and interactive workshops. Among the international guest speakers will be educator and thought leader Abi Dauber Sterne, who will be exploring the value of robust discussion in making our community healthier and more thoughtful.
tickets
COA is embarking on a new project. As Jews living in Sydney, we all know someone, or someone who knows someone, in the “rag trade”. For years Jews and their friends have been gracing the world with the best schmattes (an affectionate term for clothing/textiles but translated as “rags”), particularly in Sydney’s fashion centre of Surry Hills.
COA SYDNEY AROUND THE COMMUNITY
International guests back Yom Limmud chair Britt Foetschl YOM LIMMUD
Noah Efron, who teaches and writes about science, technology, religion and politics, will take a parent’s approach to the topic of Israel’s promising future. Author and educator Liza Wiemer will be sharing her story on stopping antisemitism in schools.Australian/Israeli educator and journalist Ittay Flescher will talk about cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian youth. Artist, social entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ advocate Ruben Shimonov will be exploring the representation of queer Sephardic/ Mizrahi Jews. Yom Kippur and the art of forgiveness will be the focus for spiritual educator Elliot Malamet. His wife, clinical psychologist Leah, will challenge the stereotypes around mental illness and wellness. Yom Limmud organisers are looking for volunteers to help on the day. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to https://www.limmudoz.org.au/
COA’s Centre coordinator Mordechai Aryeh Levin took this term, paired with its history, and coined the label “Haus of Schmattes” to pay homage to the original rag traders who settled in Sydney post-WW2. One of the reasons so many Jewish immigrants went into the business was that there was no special education or training needed. So, a new immigrant could easily start making money in schmattes with little more than a sewing machine and some raw talent. Mordechai founded the “Haus of Schmattes” project alongside his role as diversional therapist at COA. He also recently participated in the Iordanis Spyridon Gogos show that was held at the Powerhouse Museum as part of Australian Fashion Week 2022. By participating in the latter, Mordechai knew there was much untapped potential out there. Once the event ended and was showcased in Vogue, Marie Claire and Harper’s Bazaar, Mordechai realised the Gogos collaboration only comprised younger creatives. It left him feeling there was a need for change in the creative space. Being a psychology student and working with over 65s at COA, Mordechai envisaged a world of good, mimicking the collaborative framework of Gogos, but applied to retirees and seniors in the local Jewish community. The Haus of Schmattes will create a collection that is influenced and guided by the personal and cultural storytelling of older people. The unique project hopes to promote healthy aging in a way that involves creative expression, growth, community and socialisation. The dream is to exhibit the collection in galleries and on the fashion runway to ensure it garners attention. In that way COA would like to support, inspire and guide other organisations to follow suit. The aim is to improve people’s quality of life and wellbeing as they age. The Haus of Schmattes is now seeking expressions of interest from seniors. It is wanting many hands to cover operations, artistic direction, grant writing and secretarial duties, as well as skilled artisans. The latter would incorporate dressmakers, embroiderers, milliners, knitters, seamstresses, designers and stylists. It would also include shoemakers, sculptors, set designers, jewellery makers, photographers, videographers and models.TheHaus of Schmattes is also on the lookout for donations of quality fabrics or used clothes, sewing machines, mannequins, sewing accessories and an overlocker machine. If you have any of these sitting around unused at home, COA would be happy to come and pick them up from you. All enquiries should be directed to Mordechai Levin. Email m.levin@ coasydney.org and remember to keep up with the project as it develops through the Instagram account @Haus.o.s.
From left: COA development officer Sandy Matrai, COA diversional therapist Mordechai Levin and COA chief executive officer Sabina Kovadlo Kosher Meals-on-Wheel s. Available to anyone who is finding it difficult to prepare a meal on their own due to age, injury, ongoing illness, or on return from hospitalisation. Club COA Every Monday and Wednesday we offer a full day of activities and a lunch in company at the COA Centre. Booking is essential and transport is available COA Fresh A unique and award winning program supported by Jenny & Peter Wohl and family, offering a weekly bag of fruit and vegetables to those in financial hardship. Eat well with Meal Services delivered at home or at the COA Centre COA Krygier Centre, 25 Rowe St, Woollahra Ph: 9389 0035 Em: coa@coasydney.org www.coasydney.org
[1] Deuteronomy 15:7-8. [2] Rashi ad loc., based on Sifrei 116. [3] Rema, Yoreh De’ah 251:3; Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 34:6. [4] This term was coined by Charles Dickens in Bleak House, 1852, to criticise Victorian support for far-off charitable projects, whilst nearer to home millions of people were living in poverty. [5] See Leviticus 25:3538; Deuteronomy 15:7-11; Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De’ah 247:1. [6] Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De’ah 249:1.
The creation of the Internet has changed the notion of interconnectedness for eternity. Today, every global issue has the potential to be transformed into a local one. There are, of course, many positive offshoots of these developments. Examples include networking prospects, crowdfunding sources and crowdsourcing avenues for an unparalleled flow of ideas While these extraordinary opportunities should be celebrated, the inherent dangers are easily overlooked. In large western cities we are seeing that small stores are rapidly being forced to fold and close. They are neither able to compete with the digital retail market, nor with the megastore chains. While usually overlooked, this trend actually extends beyond the marketplace and into the world of charity. Instagram and Facebook feeds are flooded with competing needs that require “heroic” attention. Who doesn’t want to end widespread hunger, disease and war. These are all noble causes that deserve urgent help, but often our priorities are confused such that the global replaces the local. The more public, exciting and popular replaces the more anonymous, smaller-scale issues, which is where we are actually more likely to be able to make a real and lasting difference. Take a typical example of a teenager who reads of a disease affecting an African tribe in a social media post. The boy follows link after link to understand the problem and feels terrible about those lives being severely affected. He shares a photo and caption on his Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. His charitable feelings have been successfully broadcast to his sphere of influence and he has therefore shown that he cares. As a result of his altruism, he can now enjoy the satisfaction of having done something to help save the world. What has been achieved is, indeed, positive and must not be belittled. But, unfortunately, his thirst to do good has, at this point, been somewhat and sometimes entirely quenched. And when his mother now asks him to do any act of kindness, he might not feel as compelled to do so. He may feel he has already done his bit for society, so toThisspeak. phenomenon may be compounded by the fact that often those suffering in our closest circles do not appear to be as desperate for help as the sensationalised tragedies on the other side of the planet. The fact that time is spent on the latter is not negative, however the fact that this supersedes taking responsibility for the former is. The Torah states, “if there shall be a destitute person with you, from your brethren, in one of your cities, in the land that the Lord your God has given you, do not harden your heart and do not close your hand from your destitute brother. For you shall surely open your hand to him.”[1] The Midrash deduces from this that one should prioritise one’s charity, beginning with the destitute among you – your family, your own city, Israel and then the rest of the world.[2] This prioritisation of charitable endeavours has been codified in Jewish law. One starts with one’s immediate sphere and moves outward.[3] That is not to say that one should not worry about what happens on the other side of the world – we should! However, if one has limited resources, one’s duty is first to those who are within one’s immediate range and only subsequently to those in the other wider spheres. To respond to any cause, near or far, is a noble endeavour. Yet, we must ensure that this telescopic charity[4] does not come at the expense of the tangible difference we can make to those who areRabbinearby.Yisrael Salanter, ethicist and founder of the Musar movement, is often attributed with the following declaration: “When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn’t change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn’t change the town and, as an older man, I tried to change my family. Now, as an old man, I realise the only thing I can change is myself and suddenly I realise that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.” We have a biblical command to give charity.[5] Jewish law requires between ten and twenty percent of one’s income to be distributed, such that the more we have, the more we give.[6] This idea can be extended beyond the financial to time and talents. For the average person, the opportunity cost of pursuing the exciting global “mega causes” involves compromising the simple for the sassy. Rather than looking through the telescope of the digitally charitable, we should take out a microscope to focus on the needs of those nearest to us.
Wisdom of the ages
Jewish mystics Leonard Cohen, Eric Fromm and Shakespeare all find a place in Rabbi Ralph Genende’s debut novel Living in an Upside-Down World. Drawn from Jewish thought and compiled from more than 20 years of writing and public speaking, the wideranging anthology examines many crises of the 21st Century. From polarisation to loneliness, climate change to asylum seekers and the pandemic, Rabbi Genende reflects on the moral and ethical challenges these issuesDividedraise. into seven sections, he combines his understanding of psychology with rabbinical thoughts and a deep love of literature.
RABBINIC THOUGHT
10 the sydney jewish report | August 2022
TelescopicBeach).
The book opens with a story about the impact of Eric Fromm’s writings on 18-year-old Ralph Genende. The South African-raised rabbi led congregations in Auckland and Melbourne for more than three decades, including 14 years at the helm of Caulfield Synagogue. He then joined the executive team of Jewish Care in Victoria and has worked as an advisor to governments. He is still engaged in extensive interfaith work. In Living in an Upside-Down World, Rabbi Genende offers practical wisdom for all, regardless of religious (or nonreligious) affiliation. It is available online at https://shop. retrospect.agency or from Golds (9-11 O'Brien Street, Bondi
Rabbi Dr Benji Levy Rabbi Ralph Genende
BY RABBI DR BENJI LEVY BOOK LAUNCH
tzedaka
SENIORS’ LIVING FEATURE HELPINGMONTEFIOREHAND p12 INDEPENDENCEJEWISHCARE p15 WOLPER MENTAL CARE HEALTH p14 BURGER CONNECTIONCENTRE p16 Montefiore residents in the art room p12
MONTEFIORE Breakfast in the club lounge at M by Montefiore Ben, Mina and their Help at Home carer, James M by Montefiore
When everyday tasks became too difficult for retired couple Mina and Ben, the decision to enlist the services of Help at Home by Montefiore was a straightforward one. It was a choice motivated by their desire to stay in the secure and familiar environment of their own home for as long as possible (a factor especially important to Ben).
Sanctuary in the east Two years after opening the doors to the luxury residences at M by Montefiore, this vibrant, boutique senior’s living community is now home to more than 100Withresidents.astate-of the-art fitness centre, heated pool, private cinema, club lounge and 24/7 concierge, M by Montefiore is the ultimate in luxurious retirement living. All apartments at M by Montefiore are now fully sold. The waitlist for prospective buyers is now open and those interested are encouraged to register their interest to be the first notified when apartments become available.
A helping hand
To join the waitlist, mbymontefiore.com.au.visitmbymontefiore@montefiore.org.auemailortheMbyMontefiorewebsite:https://
Mina was aware of Montefiore’s excellent reputation ever since she and Ben moved to Sydney from South Africa 18 years ago. She took solace in knowing that if their care needs changed, Montefiore would be able to support them with respite or residential care. From their first meeting, Mina felt confident that Help at Home by Montefiore was the right fit for them. She immediately felt comfortable with the support team that came to her home. Originally Ben’s biggest need was exercise and physiotherapy support. Six years ago, Ben started having difficulty with everyday walking. James, Ben’s exercise specialist, recognised while performing his initial assessment that Ben might need more intense physiotherapy. An individual program was developed for him, with the aim of getting him back to walking independently.ForMina,the support from Help at Home by Montefiore has been equally impactful on her quality of life. It has allowed her to have greater independence and to pursue her interests and activities, knowing that Ben is being looked after by a kind and compassionate carer. Ben continues to receive care three to four times a week. However, what started in a clinical capacity (focused on Ben’s mobility) has evolved into lighter domestic assistance around the house for Mina and companionship for Ben.
Montefiore’s dedicated creative therapy department works across all its sites and consists of art, music, dance movement, yoga and aromatherapy. Each of these offerings plays a vital role in the wellbeing of its residents and is essential to Montefiore’s philosophy of care. That philosophy is about creative and enriching experiences within a supportive and inclusive community. Participation in creative therapy classes and activities reduces social isolation, improves mood, fosters a sense of community and can support or enhance cognitive function. The diversity is impressive. Painting classes, music quizzes, gentle dancing and spending time in Montefiore’s serene space are all readily available at Montefiore’s welcoming residential campuses.
Aged Care feature | August 2022
Creative therapies enhance lives Ensuring residents live with choice, dignity and wellbeing is the cornerstone of the Montefiore experience. That has everything to do with tailored care that meets each person’s individual needs. Montefiore’s residential facilities feature beautiful grounds, silver service dining, low-level through to specialised dementia care and 24/7 nursing, with access to award-winning clinical and allied health services.
To find out more about Help at Home by Montefiore, phone 1800 251 537 or go to care-services/.https://montefiore.org.au/home-
RESIDENTIAL CARE Living with choice, dignity, & wellbeing Our Residential Care campuses across Sydney embody the idea of living with real care, providing residents with: 24-hour nursing cover Quality accommodation & dining Varied allied health & leisure programs Care in the comfort of home Help at Home by Montefiore provides a wide range of social, emotional, domestic and clinical health services, so you can receive care your way with: Flexible home care, enabling you to continue living independently Highly experienced & professional staff who provide tailored care Affordable CDC subsidized, NDIS & private financial aid Your sanctuary in the East Don’t miss out on the chance to join our now sold out seniors living community in Randwick. Join the waitlist today for updates on vacancies! Upscale facilities and amenities include: Hotel style concierge (as well as 24 hr support) Spacious heated pool & gym Plush club lounge & luxurious private cinema As one of Australia’s leading aged care specialists, Montefiore provides care through all stages of ageing, supplying a range of services to help you or your loved ones enjoy personalised and superior care. 1800 978 711 MONTEFIORE.ORG.AU Care asasindividualyou
Aged Care feature | August 2022
at Wolper Jewish Hospital
Wolper Jewish Hospital offers restorative care for seniors with complex medical needs. The service is run by highly regarded geriatricians who specialise in Theyrehabilitation.are supported by a full multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nursing staff, exercise physiologists, speech pathologists, dietitians and a discharge planner. While in the Hospital, patients also benefit from a medications’ review by Wolper’s clinical pharmacist Dr Ben Basger. New to Wolper’s multidisciplinary team is Dr Louisa Norrie, a psychiatrist with a particular interest in the management of mental and cognitive disorders affecting older people. Dr Norrie previously worked at St Vincent’s Older People’s Mental Health Service, alongside three of Wolper’s consulting geriatricians who have long seen a need for psycho geriatric services atWhenWolper.geriatricians or rehabilitation physicians identify a patient that is experiencing anxiety, depression, cognitive impairment, distress, psychosis or other mental health issues, they refer that person to Dr Norrie. She, in turn, will carry out an assessment and arrange cognitive testing, if appropriate. While admission to Wolper is relatively short, she can provide treatment while in the hospital and provide recommendations and referrals for ongoing treatment and support, if required after discharge. “Having Louisa Norrie consulting at Wolper has been a great addition to the team,” said Dr Nicholas Mills, one of the hospital’s referring geriatricians. “Focussing on a patient’s mental health, alongside the physical aspects of their rehabilitation, enables us to provide a more holistic service for older people,” he said. Social worker Elizabeth (Libby) Love has also recently joined the Wolper team. Social workers provide counselling, information and referrals to other services. At Wolper, Libby is responsible for providing information and care to medical, rehabilitation and palliative care patients and their families. She is a passionate advocate for seniors and people living with disabilities. Libby ensures that all patients have equal access to holistic care and the support they need in order to return home safely following discharge from hospital. When someone is unable to return to their home and needs to go to residential care, she will provide the necessary support to adjust to this major change in circumstances. Patient history and, in some cases, past trauma, can impact their mental health and therefore their recovery and needs in terms of their care. In these cases, Libby works closely with Dr Norrie or the patient’s referring physician to identify ongoing requirements and support. Libby also works closely with Joan Washer, Wolper’s discharge planner who co-ordinates ongoing care for patients needing further medical or other support post-discharge. Carefully planning the transition of care from hospital to home or other residential care facility can reduce the length of hospital stay or unplannedAdmissionreadmission.toWolper Jewish Hospital requires a referral from a specialist physician or referring hospital. For more information, go to www. wolper.com.au
WOLPER JEWISH HOSPITAL
Our goal is to enable patients to return to a safe and independent lifestyle within the community. Our holistic approach focusses on our patient’s physical and mental wellbeing.
Wolper’s discharge planner and/or social worker will arrange post discharge services as required to ensure patients are well supported on discharge. For further information, contact Wolper Jewish Hospital on 8324 2221 or see www.wolper.com.au/services/
forRehabilitationOlderPeople
Wolper Jewish Hospital provides restorative rehabilitation for patients with complex medical needs. The service is run by specialist geriatricians supported by our multidisciplinary team. Patients are admitted to Wolper from an acute hospital once medically ready for Patientsrehabilitation.areadmitted under the care of a geriatrician and consulting physicians provide services as required. These include cardiology, haematology, respiratory and psycho-geriatrics.
Mental health care for older people
Aged Care feature | August 2022
JewishCare home care is designed to enable and support people to remain as active and comfortable living independently at home for as long as possible. It incorporates everything from domestic help to transport, grocery shopping, meals, home modifications, safety devices, personal care and pats for pets. For a confidential discussion, contact the JewishCare team on 1300 133 660 or email hello@jewishcare.com.au
As we age, the challenge to stay living independently at home is a reality faced not only by the individual, but also by those caring for them. JewishCare is contacted daily by people in our community seeking solutions and options when it comes to home care. The team, some of whom have been working with the organisation for more than 20 years, are most experienced in navigating the aged care system, ensuring personalised care with the best outcomes.ZimraSegall, program manager and social worker/financial counsellor who specialises in aged case work, has helped many in times of crisis. “We prefer to work with people before a crisis arises”, she said. “We know how hard it is to reach out for help and sometimes even to know where that help is available. At JewishCare, we not only help you to navigate the system but thereafter we are able to provide the services, including free social work and occupational therapy.” JewishCare CEO Gary Groves is passionate about ensuring that our seniors are well taken care of. That includes the large group of Holocaust survivors in our community. “Anna and her late husband, Bela, have been part of our JewishCare family for more than 20 years, after Bela suffered a stroke at the age of 85. As Holocaust survivors, Anna and Bela also received services from our Tikvah Claims Conference funds, which enabled them to continue living independently and together at home for over 12 years.” Gary goes on to talk about Lily. “My favourite was when I first spoke to Lilly about home care. She mentioned she had to give up her small dog because she was no longer driving. She was so happy to find out that home care included taking her dog to the vet and that she would be able to keep him.”
The independent option JEWISHCARE You’re in good hands
education feature | August 2022
Clients such as Myrna sing the The Burger Centre’s praises. “Finally, I am starting to feel alive again. Burger Centre brings such life to me,” she said. Last year The Burger Centre celebrated 30 years of community service and continues to go from strength to strength. Access to the Burger Centre for clients with aged care packages is 100 per cent tax deductible. With the help of colleagues at JewishCare, the team can assist with navigating the process. For more information about the Burger Centre and to find out how you can benefit from its subsidised programs or arrange a trial visit, email info@ burgercentre.com.au or call 8345-9147.
Seniors’
connection BURGER CENTRE
“It is said that Burger Centre is one of our community’s best kept secrets,” said Christina Caddy-Gold, Executive Manager of Sydney’s Burger Centre. But that secret is fast becoming a wellknown fact, as the Centre fills with seniors who are seeking to socialise, connect and embrace their wellness. With inclusive, interactive and accessible programs, Burger Centre – operating in Randwick and Hunters Hill is making a marked difference to the lives of seniors and their carers. “We find that socialising improves mental health, moods and cognition through cultural programs. That includes our Armchair Travel series, excursions to concerts, art therapy classes, special guest speakers and a range of different and exciting excursions. In addition, we help foster relationships between seniors living independently in the community to enhance their quality of life, increase physical activity and help them feel happier and more supported. There is also a delicious, three course kosher lunch on offer,” Caddy-Gold said. A diverse range of programs run weekly. Wednesdays and Fridays cater specifically to Russian clients. In addition to creating connection, Burger Centre is committed to overall wellness. That incorporates a range of physical activities, including a dance class, hydrocise in the purpose-built, therapeutic pool in Randwick and group movement. Tai Chi, art therapy and mobility and balance classes conducted by qualified instructors are also“Oneavailable.ofthe most important services we offer is respite care. A day of respite care gives carers and family members the opportunity to recharge, take a short break and attend to daily life, knowing that their loved one is safe in our care. Special needs group programs include hearing impairment, those living with Parkinson’s, vision impairment, mental health concerns, limited mobility and dementia,” said Caddy-Gold.
17the sydney jewish report | August 2022
Today Tomorrow Forever RYAN
For more than 100 years, KH-UIA has focused on supporting the national priorities of the People of Israel. One of the ways you can assist the organisation continue its vital work and secure the future for Israel is by leaving a bequest to UIA in your will. UIA will ensure it is used to support these national priorities, including Israel’s senior citizens enjoying their twilight years. An example of the immense impact such a gift can have is that received from the late Hanilore (Hanni) Tittman last year. It is being used to help fund a new $94 million Amigour development of 471 units in Ashkelon. The result will be the largest facility for the elderly in Israel. For more information about how you can help, please contact Michael Jackson on 9361-4273, email michael. jackson@uiansw.org.au or visit www. uiaaustralia.org.au
Giving help to those that need it most UIA
Keren Hayesod-UIA (KH-UIA) provides affordable sheltered housing for seniors in need across Israel through “Amigour” – a national priority project. Amigour sheltered housing provides a quality of life that enhances a sense of dignity and personal worth. The 7,500 Amigour residents, most of whom are Holocaust survivors or elderly olim from the former Soviet Union, live in 57 wellmaintained facilities for singles and couples.Unlike public housing in Australia, Amigour facilities have dedicated on-site staff including social workers, diversional therapists and caregivers. To encourage social interaction, residents have access to a wide range of activities. These include handicraft, exercise and singing, as well as learning about health and nutrition, and picking up computer skills. For intellectual and cultural stimulation, residents are taken to museums, places of historic interest and movies. They can see and hear a choir and join in chagim celebrations.Despitethe immense support provided by the Israeli government and KH-UIA donors, the need for housing is increasing. From some 90,000 low-income seniors living below the poverty line in Israel, the waitlist for Amigour is in the thousands. Amigour presents a unique opportunity for KH-UIA donors to provide dignified and secure living for many remaining Holocaust survivors.
THE FUTURE OF OUR PEOPLE IN ISRAEL IS PARAMOUNT!
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 Keep the torch alight ……… For information contact Michael Jackson Director, UIA Gifts and Bequests 02 9361 michael.jackson@uiansw.org.au4273
Over the past seven years, artist and visual storyteller Ryan Abramowitz has painted more than 170 Ketubot through his business “Today Tomorrow Forever”.Ryan’s artistic offerings include wedding stationary (to harmonise with the Ketubot), blessings, prayers and other texts, which can be paired withNoartwork.simcha – a birth, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, wedding or anniversary – is beyond being painted. It is all about honouring the special moments in people’s lives. The photographs reflect the high calibre of Ryan’s work. The first photo is Lattice of Love, featuring hand gilded gold leaf filigree and watercolour on linen. Through art deco-inspired adornment and multiples of Chai (18), the design celebrates botanical and architectural of Australia and Israel. These relate to the heritage of the bride and groom. In the middle is Leaves and Linen, a Ketubah which frames the text with a composition of natural elements in watercolour. Buds and leaves unfurl as a metaphor for life, love and light. At right is The Oceanic Chamsa. The Ketubah heralds a golden Chamsa, which floats on an ocean of water colour aquas, turquoises, emeralds and sea greens.
The bride and groom are symbolised through two metallic gold painted doves, flying through the skies united. For enquiries, please contact Ryan on: Email: ttfcreationsInstagram:Web:Mobile:ttfcreations@gmail.com0432343974todaytomorrowforever.com.auwww.instagram.com/ ABRAMOWITZ AROUND THE
COMMUNITY
18 the sydney jewish report | August 2022
Following this first trip, Spigler continued his passion for finding Jews living in the Australian outback and periodically sent emissaries into some of the least inhabited places on Earth to keep in touch with them. After a few decades of this, he decided to formally establish Chabad of Rural and Regional Australia, known as Chabad of RARA. “I established Chabad of RARA to provide some consistent Jewish presence for people living in remote areas. One-off visits are nice, but people really respond well to regular visits and it helps to keep them connected to their Judaism.”
This story originally appeared in Tablet Magazine (tabletmag.com) and is reprinted with permission.
Outreach in the outback
While this could have been a typical rite-of-passage trip by young people looking for adventure, Spigler had heeded a call from the Lubavitcher rebbe in New York City to seek out Jewish people living in isolated areas. His mission was to unite them with their faith. With their RV operating as one of the first Australian Chabad Mitzvah Tanks, Spigler and his mates were pleasantly surprised by what they found. “During this trip we encountered many Jewish people living in outback Australia and I really saw how many were wanting to connect to their Judaism,” said Spigler. “Every house welcomed us with open arms and we could really see the positive effects our visits had.”
Rabbi Ari Rubin’s mobile sukkah in Cairns (photo courtesy Rabbi Rubin) Laying tefillin (photo courtesy Rabbi Rubin)
For 20 years, Chabad of Rural and Regional Australia has been connecting with Jews in unexpected places – far from Melbourne and Sydney In the 1970s, Melbourne businessman Sauli Spigler, then in his early 20s, rented a mobile home and travelled for a month across the outback with a few friends.
NOMI KALTMANN COURTESY: TABLET MAGAZINE AROUND THE COMMUNITY
This year, Chabad of RARA is celebrating its 21st birthday and employs four rabbinic couples full time who permanently live in some of the most remote communities across Australia. Chabad of RARA emissaries are responsible for providing all the Jewish needs of some 10,000 Jews living in places far from any centralised Jewish communities.Afterspending six years on the road as travelling emissaries, Rebbetzin Malki Rodal and her husband Rabbi Yossi Rodal settled in Newcastle at the start of 2020. When the Rodals moved there just before the global pandemic, they found a synagogue that had not had a permanent rabbi in many years. Its total membership was 40. Little more than a year later, the pair had connected with more than 200 Jews and helped create a vibrant Jewish community with weekly programs, Shabbat meals, and events. When asked how she and her husband discover and meet Jews living in regional and remote places in Australia, Rodal was“Wheneffusive.we arrive in a place where we do not know of any other Jewish people, we often go to a central location in the town, like a post office or pharmacy. In these places there is always an elder resident who knows all the inhabitants,” she said. “When we ask them if they know any Jewish people, they will often recall something that they heard, even many decades back, about a person who may have Jewish ancestry. And so, like good Jewish detectives, we follow the leads and contact the Jewish residents and ask them what we can do to help connect them to their Jewish heritage.” Chabad of RARA’s work was the subject of a 2017 documentary focusing on the day-to-day lives of outback rabbinic couples. Screened on Australian TV and at film festivals around the world, it has also contributed to the pair’s reputation as Jewish sleuths. Another Chabad of RARA couple, Rabbi Ari and Mushkie Rubin, live in Cairns. When they arrived in 2016, they had a big job ahead of them. “There was no Jewish infrastructure there … absolutely nothing – not a single Jewish organisation, synagogue or mikvah. The only thing we knew for certain was that there were approximately 100 Jewish people living there, as we had a list of email addresses that had been collected from the periodic visits different Chabad of RARA emissaries had made over the years,” Rubin said. These days, the hard work that Rabbi Rubin and his wife have invested in creating a Jewish community has paid off, with in excess of 500 people now part of the Cairns Jewish community. They’ve also opened the first synagogue in Cairns … that runs weekly services, a Hebrew school and Bar and Bat Mitzvah classes.ForShira Stern, an Israeli living in Cairns with her husband and children, the presence of Rabbi Rubin and his wife has been game changing. “I don’t know where Rabbi Ari finds all these Jewish people in Cairns,” Stern said with a laugh. Her children attend the Hebrew school and Stern says she is grateful for the strong Jewish identity they feel as a result. “Having Rabbi Ari and Rebbetzin Mushkie here opens a lot of Jewish opportunities for my kids.” In 2021 Chabad of RARA Cairns likely had the biggest communal Seder in Australia, with more than 130 people attending the in-person celebrations. “Cairns was largely spared from the havoc the global pandemic wreaked in other Australian cities that were subject to in-person gathering restrictions and lockdowns,” Rabbi Rubin said. He remains optimistic about the future and was keen to share a particularly meaningful text message he received from one of his congregants. “A community member messaged me saying that one Friday he had an inspirational moment and decided he wanted his daughter to light Shabbat candles,” said Rubin. “He took his daughter’s hand, lit the candles with her and was about to help her recite the blessing, but she already knew it. Afterwards, he sent me a thank you text message saying he was sure she only knew this blessing because she attends our Hebrew school. The last line of his text read: ‘thank you for not forgetting about this forgotten Jew in Cairns.’”
Wednesday, Oct 5, 2022 7:38 pm Friday, Oct 7, 2022 6:44 pm Shabbat ends, Oct 8, 2022 7:40 pm Sunday, Oct 9, 2022 6:45 pm Monday, Oct 10, 2022 7:42 pm Tuesday, Oct 11, 2022 7:43 pm Friday, Oct 14, 2022 6:49 pm Shabbat ends, Oct 15, 2022 7:46 pm Sunday, Oct 16, 2022 6:51 pm Monday, Oct 17, 2022 7:48 pm
CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES Friday, Sep 23, 2022 5:34 pm Shabbat ends, Sep 24, 2022 6:30 pm Sunday, Sep 25, 2022 5:35 pm Monday, Sep 26, 2022 6:31 pm Tuesday, Sep 27, 2022 6:32 pm Friday, Sep 30, 2022 5:39 pm
Shabbat ends, Oct 1, 2022 6:35 pm Tuesday, Oct 4, 2022 6:42 pm
19the sydney jewish report | August 2022
Proper names and hyphenated words are not allowed. Score 1 point for each answer and 3 points for a Jewish related word that uses all 7 letters.
How many common words of five or more letters can you spell using the letters in the hive? Every answer must use the centre letter at least once. Letters may be reused in a word. At least one Jewish word will use all seven letters.
Here is a list of some common words (Yes, we know there are more words in the dictionary that can work, but these words are the most common): Jewish Answers- TRADITION, ORDINATION. Other words: ADORATION, RADIATION, ADDITION, RADIATOR, DONATION, DONATOR, RADIANT, ANDROID, TORNADO, ORDAIN, INDOOR, INROAD, DOODAD, TORRID, INDIAN, ADROIT, RADAR, TRIAD, RONDO, RADII, RADIO, DONOR, DRAIN, ANSWERS PAGE 21
Rating: 6=Good; 8=Excellent; 10=Genius Yoni Glatt has published more than 1,000 crossword puzzles worldwide, from the LA Times and Boston Globe to The Jerusalem Post. He has also published two Jewish puzzle books: "Kosher Crosswords" and the sequel "More Kosher Crosswords and Word Games".
I, Hashem, will comfort you
The remaining Haftarot rejoice in the good tidings that Hashem himself has redeemed us. This message of redemption speaks to us today more directly than at any other time in our history. Immediately post-Holocaust, we would have been justified if we had declared, “And Zion says Hashem has abandoned me”. After all, where was He in Auschwitz or Mauthausen or Bergen Belsen? Indeed, He was more deeply hidden than ever before. And when the murderous Nazi rampage finally ceased we were akin to a “storm which has not been comforted.”Howeverfor the first time in nearly 2000 years Hashem began to reveal His outstretched arm with our miraculous rebirth in the Land of Israel. It was simultaneously wondrous and astonishing to behold a nation so tragically downtrodden return home and rebuild, in line with so many prophecies, to become as powerful and extraordinary as Israel is today. No longer hidden, the proverbial Hand of Hashem is visible within the Land of Israel and amongst His People and through the Israel Defense Forces. All manifestations combined, show we are His chosen people and we have returned home like no other nation on Earth. And so, with G-d’s providence, the miracles will continue until the building of the Third Temple and all will comprehend the heartfelt declaration: “It is I, yes, I who comforts you”. Yes, it is G-d and G-d alone.
RABBI MOSHE D. GUTNICK RABBINIC ADMINISTRATOR THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, of blessed memory, intuitively described us as a nation of storytellers: “By making the Israelites a nation of storytellers, Moses helped turn them into a people bound by collective responsibility – to one another, to the past and future, and to G-d.”We are blessed with so many powerful, interconnected narratives. Recently, my youngest brother, Sruli, shared a story that had tremendous depth. Back in the shtetl, there was a woodchopper named Mottel. He diligently chopped wood daily to sell at the market to townsfolk, so they could cook their food and warm their homes. One day, a passer-by saw Mottel hard at work felling a tree and noticed he was struggling - the bark was not breaking off with ease, the process was laborious yet wasn’t yielding results. The passerby approached Mottel and asked if he could examine his axe. He assessed it and without hesitation exclaimed, “This blade is completely blunt and desperately needs to be sharpenedthat’s why it’s taking so much effort to chop this tree!” Mottel replied, “I have no time to waste on sharpening blades, I desperately need to get this wood to market!”Twoperspectives: macro versus micro. This story reminds us that sometimes we can be inflexible in our respective worlds like Mottel the Woodchopper, caught up in the minutiae and demands of everyday life. In this singular space, we can be guilty of fixating only on what is immediately in front of us – our blinkered To Do list – resisting the need to pause and focus on behind-the-scenes tasks which, when enacted, can enable us to be more efficient, resourceful and effectual. I ruminated about this, and it reminded me that prior to embarking on war, the tribes of Reuven and Gad turned to Moses and conveyed that they wished to attend to their herds and children left behind: "We will build enclosures for our livestock and cities for our children." The order of their priorities was striking: first their animal herds, then cities for their children. Business first, familyMosessecond.responded swiftly reversing the order: "First build for yourselves cities for your children and then enclosures for your livestock." Family first, business second. This was not an instruction based on sentiment alone, rather a rearrangement of values, a lesson in what is truly significant. Rashi distils this directive: "Moshe said to them: Make what is essential - essential; and what is secondary - secondary." We are fast approaching the month of Elul – a time of introspection and reflection. It is an opportune time to consider: What is the best way to balance work and family? What are my overarching priorities? How much time do I waste? How much time do I utilise in a meaningful way? Do I have an innate sense of Intrinsically,purpose?am I confused between what is of essential importance versus what is secondary in life? Or can I succeed by consciously ensuring the essential is prioritised as imperative, with the secondary rendered not as prevalent. In the course of “chopping through” life’s ambitions and goals, let’s pause and take the time to sharpen our proverbial blades (or even search for different environmental energy solutions altogether)! With this clarity, embracing what is essential at the core, will permit our spiritual progress to soar. As always, we are blessed that the Torah guides the way and I am grateful to have an insightful youngest brother who took the time to tell this deceptively simple story, revealing such an important lifeIndeed,lesson. we are a nation of storytellers.
RABBI LEVI WOLFF CHIEF MINISTER THE CENTRAL SYNAGOGUE RABBINIC THOUGHT
20 the sydney jewish report | August 2022
The seven weeks following the fast of Tisha B’Av are called the Shiva d’nechemta – the seven weeks of consolation. They follow the commemoration of the destruction of our holy Temples and subsequent exile. On each Shabbat during this period, we read about the prophecies of Isaiah filled with the promise and hope of our salvation and futureEachredemption.isastandalone demonstration of Hashem’s love for us and a promise to rebuild Jerusalem. However they encompass far more than individual declarations, as there is a profound message within the sum total of these seven teachings. The inaugural Haftorah begins with the famous words Nachamu Nachamu Ami: “Comfort, comfort my people.” Hashem commands the prophet Isaiah to tell the Jewish People to be comforted because our collective sin has been forgiven. The second commences with the plaintive cry, “And Zion says Hashem has abandoned me, Hashem has forgotten me.” While it elaborates that G-d will never forget us, it can be contextualised by the opening refrain highlighting perceived desertion. The third continues in this vein: “(O Jerusalem), afflicted, storm-tossed and one who has not been comforted.”Hashemsends the prophet to comfort us, but we are not comforted. Reflecting back, when Hashem took us out of Egypt and we sinned with the Golden Calf, Moses sought forgiveness on behalf of the People, and this initially resulted in a partial clemency. In a tangible sense, the Jewish People would not be wiped out, and would still be taken to the Promised Land. G-d stated, however, that an angel would be designated to lead the way. Moses was dissatisfied. He further cried out to G-d that we had been made a promise that our relationship with Him would be unique and thereby known as the Chosen People, led by G-d alone. He advocated on behalf of the Children of Israel that if G-d opted not to lead, he wanted to be left out of the Torah altogether. As they said at the foot of Mount Sinai, “We wish to see our King!’ Nothing else would suffice. Yes, their sins had been grievous and had ultimately led to the destruction of both Temples. The people feared that once again they had jeopardised their unique status. As long as it was only the prophet Isaiah sent to comfort them, they declared Hashem had abandoned them and that their fears had not been allayed.Hashem responded in the fourth Haftorah, one of the most beautiful and dramatic: “It is I, yes, I who comforts you ... for I am your G-d ... the G-d of Hosts.” Hashem reaffirms that He alone will take us out of exile and all the nations will see, “You are my People”.
Embracing the essential
- Since 1817 Funeral Enquiries & Arrangements C all 9363 2248 Cremations are strictly prohibited under Jewish law. The Sydney Chevra Kadisha alone provides services according to Jewish tradition and Halacha. Cnr. Oxford & Wallis Streets, Woollahra Email: Website:info@sck.org.auwww.sck.org.au Judaica quiz answers Jewish answer
Vegetarian curry
3. False. Originally, the Board of the Technion announced that the language of instruction would be German, but following opposition to this idea, Hebrew was chosen instead 4. Paris 5. ‘Zuz’ means ‘to move’ and is said to be related to a door which, when attached with hinges to the doorpost, has continual movement as it opens and closes 6. Billy Joel 7. The Museum of the Diaspora or Beit 8.HatfutsotInGenesis (4:21) Yuval is described as the father of all those who played the harp and flute 9. 10.JoshuaTheReuben brothers 11. a) The Oral Law 12. Arturo Toscanini 13. He was the former Grand Mufti of Jerusalem before and during World War II. He violently opposed the formation of a Jewish state and worked closely with the Nazis to block all Zionist 14.aspirationsThefestival of Sukkot 15. c) Isaac to Esau 16. The Caine Mutiny 17. a) Edelstein - jeweller b) Eckstein - stonemason or bricklayer c) Zuckerman - sugar merchant d) Tabachnik - tobacconist or snuff 18.dealerKing David 19. Dennis Prager 20. Netanya 21. The New Year for Trees (it falls in the month of Shevat, the other two fall in the month of Nissan) Lord Lionel Walter Rothschild Moznaim – The scales corresponding to 24.LibraJohn F. Kennedy; Dwight D. Eisenhower and Winston Churchill Carole King NSW –
7. Remove the lid, add chopped tomatoes and cook on a low heat for another 10 minutes with the lid on. At this stage, vegetables should be cooked and your Rimon Vegetarian Curry is complete! Enjoy! To contact Rimon Catering call Ze’ev Aronstam on 0403 258 921 and visit www.rimoncatering.com.au to see the plethora of Rimon Catering options on offer. Rimon Catering HQ is located at 279 Bronte Road, Waverley.
INGREDIENTS: 2 onions, cut into small cubes 3 medium potatoes, cut into large cubes2red capsicums, cubed 1 cauliflower, cut into pieces 1 broccoli, cut into pieces 2 carrots, cut into pieces 2 zucchinis, cut into pieces 100g soaked chickpeas 3 Tbsp canola oil 1 tsp fenugreek seeds 3 Tbsp curry leaves 1 Tbsp turmeric 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 Tbsp ground cumin 1 Tbsp ground coriander 1 Tbsp paprika 1 tsp Garam Masala 1 Tbsp fresh, chopped ginger 1 Tbsp fresh, minced garlic 2 tomatoes, chopped 1 bunch fresh coriander leaves ½ cup water METHOD: 1. Heat canola oil in a pot and add fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, mustard seeds and curry leaves. 2. Add onions after the oil is hot, fry for 5 minutes till the onion is translucent and cooked.3.Add turmeric and cook for 2 minutes.
This month we shine a kosher recipe spotlight on the remarkable Rimon Catering, which is proudly KA-certified and first burst onto Sydney’s kosher scene back in 2015. With the dedicated Ze’ev Aronstam at the helm, Rimon Catering is a local family-run business drawing on a wealth of culinary experience, helpfully providing full kosher catering services to ourThecommunity.Rimonmenu offers a variety of flavoursome sweet and savoury options such as appetizers, mains and desserts, as well as finger food, dips and salads. All dishes are made from wholesome, fresh ingredients and are prepared daily - fresh to order. Year round, customer favourites include Rimon’s legendary vegetarian spring rolls; chicken schnitzel; smoky eggplant dip; rice paper rolls and so much more. You can also order platters bursting with fabulous fresh fruit, vegetables or assorted sushi varieties. With a huge array of vegetarian, pescatarian and meat options, there truly is something for everyone – and as an added bonus, seasonal delights marvellously mark Jewish festivals too. Rimon can seamlessly tailor its catering to suit your upcoming simcha size and budget. The result is sensational each time. So whether it is a quiet Shabbat dinner, a birthday party, large corporate event, engagement, wedding or anything in between - the Rimon team will ensure it is a creative culinary success. Savour the flavour of Rimon’s Vegetable Curry!
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21the sydney jewish report | August 2022
4. Add garlic and ginger and fry for another 2 minutes.
The only Jewish Burial Society in
1. b) Marcheshvan 2. To her left. This is based on Psalm 45:10 which states ‘A queen shall stand at your right side’ - hence the custom that the Kallah (bride) stands to the right of the Chatan (groom)
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RIMON CATERING
5. Add potatoes and chickpeas and cook for another 3 minutes, then add all the remaining vegetables and cook covered with a lid for another 5 minutes approximately.6.Takethecover off and add all the remaining ingredients (except chopped tomatoes) and adjust to your taste. Mix it well, add half a cup of water, cover and cook for a further 15 minutes.
BROIGUS. Here is a list of some common words (“yes”, we know there are more words in the dictionary that can work, but these words are common to today’s vernacular) –BOORS, BRIGS, GROSS, GRUBS, GURUS, RIGOR, RIGOROUS, RIGORS, SOURS, SUBURB, Questions/commentsSUBURBS – email Yoni at koshercroswords@gmail.com Spelling bee answers FOODIES' CORNER
• Loving Hemp Spreads Hemp Butter and Hemptella are both available at Upper Heights, 155 Military Road, Dover Heights.
Here’s a snapshot of kosher news around town:
• A reminder that Weis Half & Half Mango + Vanilla & Pineapple, Lime + Vanilla are both KA-certified Dairy, yet the tubs in the marketplace still feature an incorrect KA-DE logo. Corrective measures have been taken and a new rollout is underway. The third variety Raspberry & Dark Chocolate Frozen Dessert is correctly labelled as KA-Dairy Equipment.
• Kosher bread improver is stocked at Krinsky’s Kosher Supermarket KA CLARIFICATIONS
• Jesse’s breads are now available at five QE Food Stores, you can purchase varieties of sourdough, bagels and mini challahs (& on Thursdays and Fridays you can purchase large challahs) at: o Balmain – 355 Darling St o Crows Nest – F53, H9 Willoughby Rd o Milsons Point – 88 Alfred St o Randwick – 62 Frenchmans Rd o Waverley – Shop 1, 235 Bronte Rd • Oakberry Acai West End, located in an inner southern suburb of Brisbane, Queensland is KA-certified, visit 2/124 Boundary Street, West End (the only other KAcertified Oakberry Acai is located at Shop 1, 82-92 Gould Street, Bondi Beach).
RAMONA FREEDMAN THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY FOODIES' CORNER
22 the sydney jewish report | August 2022
• Mutti Polpa finely chopped tomatoes is acceptable (Pareve)
KGAC Korean Red Ginseng Extract now KA-certified
• Village Finest – the Sydney-based KAcertified butcher, can be contacted via phone: call 02 8520 4157 or email: info@ villagefinest.com.au. Additionally the order form can be found at the new website: www. •villagefinest.com.au.Millee’sDelinowoffers freshly baked gluten free challah each Friday morning, a new addition to the Shabbat Shuk, doors open at 8am – 525 Old South Head Road, Rose Bay.
• The four flavours within the White Claw Hard Seltzer range: watermelon, ruby grapefruit, natural lime and mango are all acceptable • Cadbury’s 100 Years Celebration box featuring Classic Milk, Hazelnut and Caramello are acceptable
• To purchase KGAC red ginseng products, visit www.redginseng.com.au with orders over $100 receiving free delivery. You can also find Australia-wide stockist details here too.
• 7 Fat Cows KA-certified Point End Pastrami is back in production and available for purchase. Visit: www.7fatcows.com.au.
• Grandma Moses Cinnamon Log Babkas (Pareve) are available daily and are always baked on site @ the Grandma Moses HQ –105-109 Anzac Parade, Kensington.
• Village Finest now offers two new smallgoods products: Cooked Corned Beef & Smoked Beef (both in a 200g pack), visit www.villagefinest.com.au.
• As this edition of Kosher KApers goes to print, there is a KA employment opportunity for a full-time mashgiach (kosher on-site inspector who is shomer mitzvot) at Pita Mix. Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm & Friday 10am-3pm. Contact The KA office for more information on 02 9365 2933 – training provided for suitable candidate (Mon-Thu 11am-5pm optional too).
Kosher KApersKAPRODUCT UPDATES
Members of our KA team have been busy criss-crossing Australia, companiesandmanufacturingauditingplantsliaisingwith–always with many simultaneous KA kosher projects on the go. This month we shine a kosher spotlight on KA-certified kosher wellness! Let’s begin with KGAC – a company considered the world’s number one ginseng brand with a long and time-honoured legacy over one century as a true industry leader, specialising in red Korean ginseng. This is an Asian plant revered for centuries, known to possess many positive benefits. The KA certifies four pareve products that don’t require a KA logo, these include: Korean Red Ginseng Everytime; Korean Red Ginseng Extract – all sizes; Korean Red Ginseng Powder, and Korean Red Ginseng Roots. The extract contains the concentrated essence from the red ginseng roots (grown for a minimum of six years) replete with the authentic flavour native to red ginseng. It has been described as having a naturally bitter, yet smooth taste with a mellow aroma. Health claims for this range are aplenty including the improvement of fatigue; increased immunity; memory; blood circulation; aiding balance, and is also high in antioxidants. It is important to note, however, that technically this is a nonmedical product and is not to be used to prevent or treat illness (see company detailsAnotherbelow).new health-focussed company has proudly joined our KA Family, introducing: Loving Hemp Spreads. Lately, The KA has received many requests for Pareve and healthy vegan, gluten free kosher options and these two new products tick all the boxes and more! First, we have Hemp Butter which is incredibly versatile and is a dairy free, nut free butter or peanut butter replacement. Or perhaps incorporate this as a novel way to increase plant protein in your daily diet. It has a rich nutrition profile, and you can now happily schmear this on toast, or blend into your next protein shake. And all this is safe with the knowledge that it is sugar free, low carb with an impressive consistency of being rich, smooth and creamy!Thesecond Loving Hemp Spreads product is Hemptella which is also nut-free and therefore school friendly, featuring organic cacao and offering an infusion of protein in the most fabulous guise. Spread on toast, crumpets, waffles or make a hot hemp-chocolate beverage. You can even use as a key ingredient in a babka – both products available for the first time this month exclusively at Upper Heights! Here’s a new name to also remember in the spirit of KA wellness: Mrs Toddy’s Tonics. With a mission to help you shine from the inside, we’re talking about tonics that are vegan, preservative-free, and proudly Australian-made with the freshest ingredients. Four tonics are on offer and all are KA-certified, these include: Recovery Tonic, which is turmeric-powered, immune boosting, liver cleansing and anti-inflammatory; Immunity Tonic, which is energising and rehydrating; Chill Out Tonic, nourishing blend of botanicals to restore harmony in body, mind and spirit and Glow Tonic, packed with ‘gut-happy goodies’. Oh and the taste of each is impressive too (details below)! Next month we will lean towards allthings-sweet for our New Year edition – we can’t wait!
• Two new additions to the Upper Heights range: the coffee-flavoured Italian treat, Tiramisu (Dairy, not CY) and also the KAcertified range of Paesanella cheeses. Visit 155 Military Road, Dover Heights TuesdayFriday 7:30am-2pm & 7:30am-12pm on •Sundays.TheSerendipity ice cream factory in Marrickville has closed and is relocating to Kingsgrove. The KA will update the community when tubs of kosher flavours and ice cream cakes are available once again.
• Snappy Mixed Nibbles (crispy and savoury rice crackers with seaweed) are no longer acceptable • Yoconut frozen desserts and ice creams found in Aldi stores are no longer acceptable (you can still purchase the Organic Natural Coconut Yoghurt 500g and the Organic Vanilla Coconut Yoghurt 500g with the code 4086-7001, both
From left: Grandma Moses Pareve Cinnamon Babka log; Loving Hemp Brands 'Hemptella'; Mrs. Toddy's tonic range; and Tiramisu at Upper Heights
• For more information about Mrs Toddy’s Tonic products visit www.mrstoddystonic.com and shop online too. Purchase from selected stores nationally including Coles Local; Harris Farm Markets; IGA & Woolworths.
•Pareve)7-Eleven Slurpee flavour Low Sugar Lemon, Lime & Bitters is not •acceptableTheBubsOrganic range will have one more production run before it ceases to have KA kosher certification, due to challenges with sourcing kosher ingredients. Many are still in the marketplace with a long shelf life purchase at Coles, Woolworths, Big W, Baby Bunting and online: www.bubsaustralia.com. (Please note: Kosher pouches are only acceptable when bearing our KA •logo)Pringles are only acceptable when bearing the OU logo or the Rabbinate Yerushalayim logo
• Mini bagels at The Bagel Co. are now all ‘mezonot’ and include the following varieties: plain, poppy, sesame, onion, garlic, allseed and za’atar.
Good Luck to You, Leo Grande has a stage play feel to it. I should add that once Nancy and Leo’s personas are established, it takes a while for the film to lift another gear. Until that point, all is built around her hang ups and reticence. Writer Katy Brand and director Sophie Hyde have crafted a movie that – due to its treatment of a sensitive subject – is empathetic and largely engaging. Rated M, Good Luck to You, Leo Grande scores a 7½ out of 10.
Hot encounters
If truth be told, I felt those components were overdone. I point to the adage –true in this case – that less in more. While the dream sequences are integral to Blaze’s childhood, the all too frequent appearance of the dragon et al, was unnecessary … overdone. Ten minutes could readily have been culled from the running time. Blaze marks Julia Savage’s entrée to features and what a debut it is. There is an authenticity about her. She exhibits vulnerability, sensitivity and strength. Simon Baker is excellent too as a father who cares deeply for his daughter, but doesn’t have all the right answers. Bernie Van Tiel has a small, but memorable role as a therapist who can break through the barrier that Blaze has putTheup. close-up cinematography by Jeremy Rouse serves to highlight the pain Blaze is experiencing. It is difficult to watch, as is the rape scene, which is particularlyNotwithstandingdistressing.my earlier remarks, Blaze makes quite the statement about the legal system and what it requires of victims and witnesses. The coming of age tale shocks and saddens, but also focuses on resilience. Rated MA, it scores a 7 out of 10.
Dealing with trauma
An uptight, prim and proper middleaged woman who has had a beige sex life hires a young, fit, handsome sex worker.That is the starting point for Good Luck To You, Leo Grande, a movie that showcases Emma Thompson as we have never seen her before. Thompson plays Nancy Stokes (not the character’s real name) who enlists the services of hot Irishman Leo Grande (again, not the character’s actual name).She does so two years after her husband passed away. As the former secondary school religious instruction teacher describes it, through 31 years of marriage her sex life was mundane, at best. Further, she has never had an orgasm. Nancy has paid for a hotel room and taken to the mini bar by way of Dutch courage, but she is a bundle of nerves, having never done anything like what she is about to. Leo (Daryl McCormack) is quite the antithesis of Nancy – calm, confident and taking the lead. It is his job to ensure that she loses herself in the moment, but she has questions a plenty.
GOOD LUCK TO YOU, LEO GRANDE (M) BY ALEX FIRST
Twelve-year-old Blaze (Julia Savage) has always had a vivid imagination. She is particularly fond of her imaginary colourful dragon. She lives with her father. Her mum is no longer on the scene. One afternoon she witnesses something truly shocking, namely the rape and murder of a woman, who she later finds out is named Hannah (Yael Stone).Therape is committed by Jake (Josh Lawson), a man Hannah once had sex with.She makes it clear she is not interested in a repeat performance, but he won’t take “no” for an answer. Blaze is witness to it all and doesn’t try toTheintervene.consequences for her and her father are devastating. She is traumatised. She withdraws. She is angry, aggressive and violent. She is hospitalised.Sheisalso called upon to testify in court, while facing the perpetrator. The question is can she find a way back and, if so, how? Blaze is a striking feature directorial debut for the co-writer (with Huna Amweero), Del Kathryn Barton. It is an alarming and dramatic fantasy, in which animation and puppetry play key parts.
Even though Nancy says she is looking for adventure, it takes a lot to get her to relax and give herself over to Leo. Good Luck To You, Leo Grande takes us through a series of encounters between the pair … that hits a sizeable road block when Nancy presses too hard. Suffice to say, the movie is heavy on talk, rather than action. Still, it is a big deal that an actor of Thompson’s standing has “exposed” herself in a film like this. She magnificently captures the awkwardness that is the hallmark of her character, someone used to control who is way outside her comfort zone. It requires another performer with serious acting chops to go toe to toe with her and Daryl McCormack makes a good fist of it. For the lion’s share of the film, he displays an easy-going charm, providing his yin to her yang. Most of the scenes occur in a hotel room and the coffee shop of the establishment, so the drama (and comedy) is derived from the interplay.
BLAZE (MA) BY ALEX FIRST MOVIE REVIEWS 23the sydney jewish report | August 2022
