The Lemish and Poslinsky families recently helped celebrate Mount Sinai College’s annual Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day (see page 10)
Ameer Jhingoor • Brad Sewitz • Craig Haycock • John Cohen • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh
Ameer Jhingoor • Brad Sewitz • Craig Haycock • John Cohen • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh OAM
Jhingoor • Haycock • John • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh
Ameer Jhingoor • Brad Sewitz • Craig Haycock • John Cohen • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh
Ameer Jhingoor • Brad Sewitz • Craig Haycock • John Cohen • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh OAM
MAUREEN BARTEN PRESIDENT PROGRESSIVE JUDAISM VICTORIA AROUND THE COMMUNITY
This article is based on a recent conversation with Lesley Sachs, incoming chair of the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism (IMPJ).
What happens in Israel doesn’t stay in Israel. It influences global Jewish policy, funding and leadership.
In recent years, Israel has found itself at a crossroads. The country’s democratic foundations, once considered unshakable, are now under increasing strain. For many Australians, especially those who care deeply about Jewish values, this may feel distant. But what’s happening in Israel today has profound implications for the future of Judaism, both there and here.
The Reform movement in Israel, a beacon of liberal, egalitarian Judaism, is facing unprecedented challenges:
• Legal battles over land rights for synagogues and schools;
• Online harassment of girls celebrating their bat mitzvahs; and Physical attacks on congregations
World Zionist Congress elections – your voice matters
has resumed efforts to weaken judicial oversight by:
• Bypassing Supreme Court rulings;
• Delaying key judicial appointments; and
• Undermining the institutions that protect civil rights and religious freedom.
about people. Reform rabbis and congregants across Israel continue to serve with resilience and compassion. For example:
• Many are still displaced from their homes in the north and south, yet remain deeply committed to their communities;
• Weekly Havdalah services calling for the return of hostages still in captivity are held in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv;
• Victims of racism receive legal support through the movement’s Racism Crisis Center; and
• Shared society initiatives bring together Jews and Arabs in acts of solidarity and cooperation. These are not just programs. They are expressions of Jewish values in action.
Looking ahead, the Reform movement has a bold and inclusive five-year vision, namely to:
• Broaden its influence by developing lay, rabbinical and young leadership; Strengthen congregations; and
directly impacting how millions are allocated. For Australian Jews, this shapes Progressive Jewish life especially across education and shlichim. This isn’t just about Israel; it’s a global partnership, including our community here.
A growing campaign is working to reverse the progress made by Liberal Jewish movements. These efforts challenge gender equality, inclusive education and access to essential services. If successful, they could divert critical funding away from communities that promote a pluralistic and democratic vision for Israel.
This is not just about Israel. It’s about the soul of Judaism and standing together, across oceans, to ensure that our shared values endure.
Progressive Judaism needs your vote to help shape a Jewish future that reflects our shared values and vision. Every Progressive Jew in Australia over 18 can vote. Every synagogue member, every parent of a child in a Progressive Jewish
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
MATT CARUANA SAJE
At first, finding God wasn’t a comforting idea. It actually scared me, because I knew that once I acknowledged Him –truly acknowledged Him – there’d be no turning back. It would mean surrender, change and responsibility.
But time after time, I asked God to reveal Himself … and He did. Through clarity, through people and through moments that I couldn’t ignore. He showed me everything good. And even when I doubted or resisted, deep down I knew that giving over my own power to something higher than me was what I needed.
The more I learned about what He had already done in my life, the more I wanted to serve Him. I reached out to a close friend, Sasha, and asked if I could come with him to synagogue one Friday night.
I didn’t understand the words. I didn’t know the structure of the service, but somehow I felt more whole than I ever had before. My head and my heart felt “complete” – aligned in a way that I’d never experienced. And it didn’t feel foreign. It felt like returning.
I started showing up regularly on Friday nights and Saturday mornings. I began learning on my own and keeping some mitzvot. Quietly, I began living more and
My truth
more aligned with Jewish life … until I knew I wanted to convert.
I was introduced to SAJE manager Candice. From our first conversation, she and the SAJE team offered their support. The Beth Din was very helpful answering my questions, while the broader Jewish community welcomed me with warmth and respect. I threw myself into Jewish life – not out of obligation, but because I wanted to.
While I share this, it wasn’t all easy. I had moments of doubt. I wondered whether people in my life would understand my decision. I wondered if I even fully understood it myself. I had fights with people about it. But the SAJE classroom became a place where I could be real. I wasn’t alone. Others were also searching, wrestling and learning in their journey. That was encouraging.
Ultimately, my desire to be close to Hashem kept pulling me forward. I wanted to know Him, serve Him and walk with Him. Over time, those closest to me saw how sincere my journey was and they backed me.
From that very first phone call to the moment I emerged from the mikvah, SAJE stood by me. And now, as a Jew, I’m proud to say this: I didn’t convert because I was looking for a label. I converted because this is who I am. And this is the life I want to live – with clarity, purpose and connection.
Beth Din Senior Dayan Rabbi Yehoram Ulman putting tefillin on Matt Caruana after his conversion mikvah
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
This week, our community came together in a heartfelt evening of solidarity and hope at a Magen David Adom event in Sydney. The gathering was an opportunity to welcome MDA paramedic Yarin Shitrit, who joined us in person, and to hear from tech guru Hillel Fuld, who addressed the audience live via video from Israel, after his visa to Australia was unexpectedly cancelled. The event remained a fully in-person experience, bringing together more than a thousand community members, deeply committed to supporting Israel’s lifesaving efforts.
It was heartwarming to witness the unity and generosity on display as the community rallied around MDA’s vital mission. Attendees were moved by Yarin’s personal story and the extraordinary courage of the Ofakim Station team, who bravely saved countless lives during the harrowing events of October 7. Their resilience and dedication embodied the spirit of lifesaving that MDA represents. It made us all proud to know that our community has adopted the Ofakim Station this year.
Partnering with the Ofakim Station is a profound honour. It connects us directly with the frontline heroes who
Community united in support of MDA at inspiring June 16 event
work tirelessly to protect and heal, often at great personal risk. By supporting this station, we become part of their journey, ensuring that they have the resources and strength needed to continue their lifesaving work.
The evening also showcased an exciting, fresh initiative from Australian Friends of MDA, namely the plan to build a brand-new MDA station in Lehavim. This growing town in the northern Negev, home to about 8,000 residents, urgently
requires a modern, well-equipped medical facility to meet increasing emergency care demands. Currently, the Lehavim station is little more than a single ambulance, operated by one volunteer – far from adequate for the community’s needs.
The proposed new station will be a state-of-the-art hub featuring 24/7 emergency medical care, a mobile intensive care unit, a bomb shelter for staff safety, training rooms, a girls-only
space to support female volunteers, and secure, sheltered ambulance parking. This facility will not only enhance emergency response times, but also provide peace of mind to the residents of Lehavim during times of conflict and natural disaster.
Lehavim is a remarkable community, known for its high enlistment rates in the Israel Defense Forces and strong commitment to education, leadership and volunteerism. Building this station is an investment not only in healthcare infrastructure, but also in the future resilience and wellbeing of the Negev region.
Supporting this initiative means we help save lives, strengthen community security and empower youth volunteerism. It is a chance for our community to continue making a tangible difference to Israel’s safety and health.
We thank all those who attended the event, donated and continue to support MDA’s lifesaving mission. Together, we are a vital lifeline, ensuring that help is always at hand – whenever and wherever it is needed most.
To donate to MDA, go to https://www. magendavidadom.org.au/donate/
TAMARA PORAT
AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF MAGEN DAVID ADOM
Magen David Adom volunteers
AROUND
THE COMMUNITY
DAVID SCHULBERG
I interviewed three international presenters from Israel who attended the festival of Jewish ideas, Limmud Oz 2025, in Melbourne. Below are summaries of these interviews, which can be listened to in full by downloading ‘The Israel Connexion’ podcasts from the J-AIR (88 FM) website or from OmnyStudio (https://omny.fm/shows/ israel-connexion).
Alex Sinclair is an expert in Israel education and Israel-diaspora relations. Sinclair focuses on exploring the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and how to engage with Israel in an honest and open-minded way. He emphasises the importance of Israel education over advocacy and creating spaces for diverse perspectives and opinions within the Jewish community.
Sinclair's sessions at Limmud Oz covered topics related to the Israel-Palestinian conflict, trauma in Israeli society, and how to discuss Israel in the context of more extremist political elements. His goal is to provide honest, open and cleareyed education about Israel, rather than advocacy for a particular political position.
Sinclair strongly distinguishes between Israel education and Israel advocacy, arguing that education should be a broad spectrum that allows for the expression of diverse opinions and critiques. He believes that narrowing Israel education to advocacy can exclude people who want to learn and engage with Israel, but don't want to be "all in" with a particular political stance.
Sinclair acknowledges that there are often multiple, sometimes contradictory "truths" when it comes to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict. He argues that it's important to be able to hold different truths simultaneously, rather than trying to fit everything into a binary "all okay" or "none of it's okay" perspective.
Sinclair affirms the strong historical, biblical and archaeological connection of the Jewish people to the land of Israel, which he sees as a compelling and legitimate basis for Zionism and Jewish self-determination. However, he also recognises that the Palestinians have a legitimate claim to the land and that both peoples have a right to self-determination in the region, even if their claims are not equal in historical depth. He believes the only feasible solution is for both peoples to find a way to live with each other, despite the challenges and hatreds that have built up over decades.
Linda Gradstein is a journalist with more than 30 years’ experience. My discussion with her covered various topics related to the ongoing war in Gaza, including:
• Gradstein's views on the current situation in Gaza and her criticism of Israel's military strategy;
• The potential for a political solution to the conflict and the challenges involved;
• The impact of the conflict on Israel's international reputation and diplomatic standing; and
• The role of the media in reporting on the conflict and the issue of bias in coverage.
Gradstein believes that Israel's goal of eliminating Hamas is a mistake and unlikely to succeed. She suggests that Israel had a chance to reach a deal in March that could have ended the war and led to an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, but instead chose to renew the conflict.
Gradstein questions what Israel is trying to achieve in Gaza, as Hamas is now significantly weakened and no longer has the ability to attack Israel as it did before. She argues that Israel should have as little involvement in Gaza as possible,
Diverse voices from Limmud Oz 2025
as the area is now largely destroyed and reconstruction will take years, if not decades.
Gradstein believes that the lack of a clear political solution or endgame for Gaza is a major problem, as chaos in the region is not desirable. She suggests that there were opportunities for a deal before the latest round of fighting in March, but Israel has refused to discuss any political solution. Gradstein sees the current situation as an opportunity to "completely redo the Middle East" if the war in Gaza can be resolved, with the potential for a moderate Arab-Sunni coalition to emerge with Israel.
Gradstein expresses concern that Israel is becoming an "international pariah" due to the diplomatic damage caused by the conflict, with Israeli academics and others facing difficulties in the international arena. She believes that Israel needs to do more in terms of "Hasbara" (public diplomacy) to explain its position and provide context for its actions, rather than simply complaining about biased media coverage. She disagrees with Israel's decision to ban Al Jazeera, as she believes it is important for Israeli voices to be heard on the network. Gradstein acknowledges the challenges in reporting on the conflict due to the restrictions on foreign journalists in Gaza, but she does not agree with the notion that media coverage is inherently biased against Israel. She argues that journalists should strive for balance and context in their reporting, rather than objectivity and that Israel should be more proactive in engaging with the media, to provide information and explanations. She is wary of the use of AI in journalism, as she believes it can be unreliable and prone to errors, and that human judgment and expertise are still essential.
Israel correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor, Dina Kraft discussed the issues facing the Arab community in Israel, particularly the rise in violence and organised crime. She provided insights into the factors contributing to this crisis, including systemic discrimination, lack of government investment and the influence of far-right political figures. She also touched on the perspectives of Arab citizens towards the ongoing conflict with Gaza and their representation in the Israeli government.
Kraft says Arab community in Israel has seen a significant increase in violence and gang-related murders in recent years, with 244 Arab community members killed in 2023, more than double the previous year. The breakdown of law and order
accused of neglecting the needs of the Arab community and having an anti-Arab bias.
Formally, Arab citizens have the same legal rights as Jewish Israelis, but they face structural discrimination in areas such as education, economic opportunities and access to public services. Arab citizens are often viewed as a "fifth column" or potential threat to the State, leading to increased scrutiny and crackdowns on dissent, especially in the aftermath of October 7. However, there have been efforts to promote a "shared society" and greater integration of Arab citizens, such as the inclusion of the Islamist Ra'am Party in the previous government coalition.
in Arab society is attributed to systemic discrimination, lack of government funding and resources, and the influence of crime families and black markets.
She says policing in Arab communities has been inadequate, with less investment and a lack of cooperation from the community due to fear of retaliation from crime organisations. The appointment of far-right politician Itamar Ben Gvir as the national security minister has further exacerbated the issue, as he has been
According to Kraft, Arab citizens in Israel have been less vocal in their criticism of the war in Gaza, partly due to fear of repercussions and the lack of coverage of the situation in Gaza in the Israeli media. There has been an increase in support for Hamas among some Arab citizens, driven by the emotional impact of the violence and destruction in Gaza, though the majority still do not support Hamas. The different narratives and information sources available to Arab and Jewish Israelis contribute to the divergent perspectives on the conflict.
David Schulberg is a presenter on J-AIR 88FM. ‘The Israel Connexion’ is broadcast live on Wednesdays between 4 and 5pm, and repeated each Friday between 1 and 2pm.
In Sydney, his program can be heard on 2TripleO at 10am on Mondays.
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.
There is a Jewish phrase that will use all seven letters.
Proper names and hyphenated words are not allowed. Score one point for each answer and three points for a Jewish related word that uses all seven letters.
Rating: 4 = Good; 6 = Excellent; 8 = 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".
ANSWERS PAGE 19
One of the Limmud Oz sessions, with Josh Burns MP front and centre
The United Israel Appeal is proud to be raising vital funds to enable more therapeutic sessions for children and their families in need of healing post October 7 at the Keren Hayesod-UIA-supported ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran Rehabilitation Centre. Located 20 kilometres from the Gaza Strip, the centre was established in 2005 by Didi and Major General (res.) Doron Almog – Chairman of the Executive of The Jewish Agency for Israel, in response to the need for a quality rehabilitative solution for their son, Eran, who was born with complex intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Following October 7, hundreds of children and families living in the Western Negev are in serious need of support to help overcome their unimaginable trauma. ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran is committed to meeting this need by utilising its existing resources, framework, professional staff and operational expertise. Funds raised through our end of financial year campaign will be used to expand the scope of services and ultimately support more children and their families through this resilience program.
Help more children and their families heal through specialised therapy this EOFY
The program offers an emotional and therapeutic framework designed to help overcome post-trauma issues, including anxiety, behavioural challenges, feelings of isolation, loss of control and more. Each patient is supported by
Ingredients: 4-5 Granny Smith apples
5 eggs
their parents, educational staff and educational psychology services.
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup plain flour
1 cup white sugar (which can be adjusted, if you want less sweetness)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup orange juice
Cinnamon sugar
The needs to access this program have increased significantly since October 7. We are inviting you to partner with us to expand the specialised services to include more therapies and support more families through puppet therapy/ theatre, equine therapy, music therapy, bibliotherapy and phototherapy. Oshrit Kurs, mother of two children in the Resilience Program said: “Two of my children started canine therapy sessions at ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran’s emotional therapy resilience program due to trauma they experienced from the events of the Swords of Iron War in the city of Ofakim and the general security situation in the south.
Since they started, the improvement in their behaviour and sense of personal security is so clear. My daughter has begun to open up more and share her feelings.
She feels a bit more secure and less afraid. My young son’s behaviour has begun to improve. He is displaying a bit more maturity and sharing some of his feelings.
Method:
Peel and slice thinly the granny smith apples.
Place them in two 9 x 9 inch baking dishes, or one 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Mix all other ingredients in a bowl. When combined, pour over apples in the baking dish.
And as a bonus, they are less afraid of dogs now!”
UIA Federal CEO Yair Miller OAM said:
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
“This program, run by an established institution with an incredible history of care, love and support, gives those most affected by the past 20 months a tangible path to healing.
Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 50-55 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
The support of our Australian community has already been so crucial for those across Israel who have needed it and now is the time to double down and ensure we carry them as their journey continues.”
For every wounded heart, there is a healing hand.
This EOFY, we implore you to give that hand, to ensure that every child in Israel’s south can overcome trauma following October 7 with the support they need.
This program has been established in conjunction with the Israel Trauma Coalition and in coordination with the Merhavim Regional Council and other government authorities in the region.
Donate now at https://uiaaustralia. org.au, contact UIA on (02) 9361 4273 or email info@uiansw.org.au
JENNA UNGAR & TRACY ESSERS
Tali and her bunny, Thumper, who provides emotional support as she recovers from trauma
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
JDC (THE JOINT) AUSTRALIA
When Eva Fischl OAM took a late night call from New York last month, she assumed it was simply another update from colleagues at the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) – the organisation she brought to Australia in 2012 and has championed ever since. Instead, JDC International president Annie Sandler was ringing with exciting news: the board had voted to present Fischl with its Ma’asim Tovim (Good Deeds) Award, a distinction bestowed only once before in the organisation’s 110 year history.
Fischl’s life story sits at the heart of her connection to the JDC. Born in a Nazi holding camp in Hungary in 1944, she survived the war in hiding, thanks to a courageous gentile woman who posed as her aunt.
In 1950, the JDC arranged safe passage for Eva to Australia. She became one of 35,000 Holocaust survivors the organisation resettled here. That experience has impacted her life’s work. She was the former president of Jewish Care NSW (now its life patron), a long time governor of the Jewish Communal Appeal and has also served on the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, National WIZO and the Executive
Recognition for a lifetime of selfless work
Council of Australian Jewry. A decade ago, Fischl noticed that despite JDC’s historic role in Australia, the organisation itself had vanished from local memory. Securing tax deductible status took five years of lobbying, including meetings with two prime ministers. Today, The Joint Australia is an established presence in Sydney and Melbourne. Its annual functions attract leading philanthropists,
raising millions for global Jewish welfare, elderly care and crisis relief.
It has organised missions to countries around the world – most recently to Georgia and Azerbaijan – for Australians to witness The Joint’s work in vulnerable Jewish communities.
For Fischl, the Ma’asim Tovim Award is not a finale, but a fresh calling card for action, fuelling her determination
Israel’s pre-emptive strike
When true danger knocks, it does not shout. It comes quietly, like a shadow across the sun, and only those who have tasted fire know when to reach for water. There are moments in history when hesitation becomes surrender and silence a grave. When danger is real, wisdom is measured by the courage to act before the storm has spoken. In recent days, global attention has turned once more to the Middle East as an Israeli strike targeted Iranian nuclear facilities. To grasp the significance of this event, one must understand the nature of the Iranian regime, which has long imposed harsh restrictions on women, minorities and political dissent. While Persians form a majority, Iran is a diverse nation and the regime’s use of Shiite religious authority has long served to consolidate power and silence potential challenges from within.
From the earliest days of the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Ayatollah Khomeini declared: “We shall export our revolution to the whole world. Until the cry ‘There is no god but Allah resounds over the whole world, there will be struggle.”
This vision shaped Iran’s strategy across the region, especially in Iraq, where the Shiite majority posed a threat to Saddam Hussein’s Sunni rule. The result was the Iran-Iraq War, a brutal eight-year conflict, driven by the fear of revolutionary spread. This same impulse, exporting the revolution, remains central to Iran’s
foreign policy. To expand its reach, Iran aligned itself with the Palestinian cause and opposition to Israel. Through ideological and material support for groups in Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq and Syria, Iran positioned itself as a regional power. This approach helped build a web of alliances, often rooted in religious or political grievance, that aimed to project Iranian influence while isolating Israel.
Iran’s backing of the Assad regime in Syria, the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon further advanced this vision Each alliance was not merely tactical but ideological, reinforcing
Iran’s aim to reshape the region in its own image. These relationships have left lasting scars across the Middle East, including civil wars, state collapse and entrenched militias.
For decades, Israel remained largely observant, relying on intelligence and strategic patience. From 1979 onward, it monitored Iran’s expansion but refrained from direct action, even as hostile forces encircled it.
In 1981, Israel broke that silence with Operation Opera, targeting Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor. Though widely condemned at the time, the strike was later vindicated, when Saddam Hussein
to deepen The Joint Australia’s partnership with the global JDC network and safeguard vulnerable Jewish communities wherever they are. Guided by a lifelong belief in collective responsibility, she remains committed to building a future where care knows no borders and every Jew feels the strength of a united people.
invaded Kuwait. The move, rooted in pre-emptive defence, demonstrated Israel’s readiness to act decisively when faced with existential threats.
The pattern repeated in recent years, as Iran armed Hezbollah and Hamas, both stationed on Israel’s borders. These groups, funded and trained by Tehran, launched coordinated rocket attacks and suicide bombings. Iran’s influence extended beyond Shiite groups, showing its strategic flexibility and determination to encircle Israel.
Today, with the Houthis joining Hamas and Hezbollah in striking Israel, the strategy is clear. Tehran’s aim is pressure through entrapment, strategic suffocation by proxy. But the danger now grows larger. An emerging alliance between Iran, Russia, China and North Korea threatens to create a bloc that could offer political and military guarantees to regimes under pressure. If allowed to crystallise, such an alliance risks igniting a broader global conflict. Israel’s recent strike must therefore be seen not as a mere retaliation, but as a calculated step to disrupt a path that could otherwise lead the world into a far darker era.
When true danger knocks, it does not shout. It comes quietly, like a shadow across the sun, and only those who have tasted fire know when to reach for water. That is what the Jewish state did.
Ab Boskany is an Australian poet and writer from a Kurdish/Jewish background.
Eva Fischl OAM (left) being presented with The JDC Ma'Asim Tovim Award by Annie Sandler (International President of JDC)
Ab Boskany
From left: Hadassah and US Senator Joe Lieberman (international patron of JDC (The Joint) Australia) with Eva Fischl in September 2017
AB BOSKANY
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
ALAIN HASSON CEO JCA
In recent months, many of us have asked a simple but urgent question: how do we ensure the strength, safety and continuity of our Jewish community here in Australia in an increasingly uncertain world?
The last 20 months have been among the most complex and consequential in modern Jewish history. We’ve experienced a shift that feels seismic: where antisemitism is no longer whispered or subtle, but loud, brazen and – tragically – violent. The recent murders of Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky outside Washington DC’s Jewish Museum and the attack on the rally advocating for the release of the hostages in Boulder, Colorado are stark reminders that the boundaries of acceptable discourse have been eroded and that hatred and violence against the Jewish community are escalating unchecked.
And yet, despite this, we must – and do – remain hopeful. This is the fundamental belief that drives JCA. We are not only here to respond to the challenges of today, but to proactively build a Jewish future that is secure, vibrant and filled with purpose – for tomorrow and for generations to come.
As we reflect on our role within the broader tapestry of Australian Jewish life,
Meeting this moment: strengthening our Jewish future together
one message rings clear: community is everything. Whether it’s a child attending a Jewish school, a senior participating in a wellbeing program, or a young adult navigating antisemitism on campus, the strength of our communal infrastructure is what supports, protects and uplifts Jewish life in this country. It’s what
enables Jewish identity to flourish and it’s what ensures that the 24 organisations JCA funds – across education, welfare, security, advocacy and more – can continue their vital work.
Antisemitism, as Dan Senor recently reflected in a powerful podcast, is a cancer that has mutated and reappeared across the centuries. Here in Australia, we have long felt sheltered from its worst forms, but no longer. Our response, though, cannot be limited to security and advocacy. These are essential, but not sufficient.
We must build a community grounded in pride, knowledge and resilience. We must invest in Jewish identity … in Jewish education … in the kind of leadership that ensures our children and grandchildren grow up with confidence in who they are and where they come from.
We must empower our youth to stand tall with the tools to respond, to lead and to live openly and proudly as Jews. At JCA, this is our mission.
We are building locally because we believe the future of global Jewry depends in large part on the health and vitality of its local communities.
We are building meaningfully by supporting programs and services that
are responsive, effective and rooted in Jewish values. And we are building permanently because Jewish continuity must never be left to chance.
None of this happens without our donors.
heir support is what transforms ideas into action. It’s what allows us to stand firm against hate, while promoting pride and resilience. It fuels hope, not as a passive feeling, but as an active force.
As Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks (z”l) once said: “Optimism is the belief that things will get better. Hope is the belief that we can make things better.”
Our community, bound together by our shared history, values and future, is the greatest source of that hope. If you haven’t already donated to JCA Campaign 2025, I ask that you join us in building and investing in our shared future. Partner with JCA.
Help us strengthen the foundation of Jewish life – not just for today, but for the next generation. Together, with courage, conviction, unity and hope, we will meet this moment.
Donations to JCA Campaign 2025 can be made by visiting www.jca.org.au
Alain Hasson: CEO, JCA
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
Mount Sinai College recently played host to a heartwarming celebration of family, tradition and learning at its annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day.
The event, held at the school’s Maroubra campus, brought together generations for a shared appreciation of education and community.
The day started with an uplifting vocal performance by the College’s youngest students – those from kindergarten to Year 2. That set the tone for what followed, filling the school hall with pride and emotion. The audience, made up of grandparents, great-grandparents and other special guests, responded with broad smiles and warm applause.
Following morning tea, guests were invited to visit classrooms across the school. For many, it was a rare and cherished opportunity to step back into the daily learning environment. While admiring creative displays and written work, the experience offered meaningful insights into the students’ educational journey.
Generations unite
MOUNT SINAI COLLEGE
Symonds and Schwartz families (photos by www.OferLevy.com.au)
Orchansky family
Rabinowitz family
Houseman and Saretzki families
Liat Archie and Sam Podjarski
The Australian Friends of the Hebrew University will celebrate a historic milestone this August: 100 years since the opening of the Hebrew University’s first campus on Mount Scopus. The centenary event will honour the university’s global contributions to knowledge, innovation and Jewish life.
The guest of honour will be Professor Menahem Ben-Sasson, Chancellor and former President of the Hebrew University. A respected academic and public figure, Professor Ben-Sasson has led in both higher education and Israeli public life, including serving in the Knesset and as Chairperson of its Constitutional Committee.
The evening will also feature a panel discussion, moderated by Leon Kempler AM, a long-time advocate for Australian/Israeli relations and Chairman of the Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce, titled “The Start-Up Nation and the Hebrew University”. Joining the panel will be Professor Ben-Sasson, Ohad Blumberg and Noam Pilpel, who will explore how the university has helped drive Israel’s innovation ecosystem.
A special highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Scopus Award to journalist and author Sharri Markson. Markson will be the first Australian
Celebrating a century of excellence and innovation
recipient of this prestigious honour, which recognises individuals who demonstrate outstanding support for education, Israel and the Jewish community. The idea for a Hebrew University was first proposed
by Hermann Zvi Shapira at the First World Zionist Congress in 1897. The cornerstone was laid in 1918 and the university officially opened in 1925. Its founders included some of the most influential Jewish thinkers of the 20th century –Albert Einstein, Sigmund Freud, Martin Buber and Chaim Weizmann.
Today, the Hebrew University is Israel’s premier academic and research institution, ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide. With six campuses and achievements across fields such as medicine, agriculture, computer science and the humanities, the university has made an enduring global impact. Its alumni include Nobel Laureates, Supreme Court Justices and world-renowned scientists.
The university is also home to the Einstein Archives, the centrepiece of its intellectual heritage, and continues to pioneer research that benefits society everywhere.
The Hebrew University is raising funds to establish a world-leading Centre for Computational Medicine, aiming to transform healthcare through datadriven, personalised treatment.
By combining artificial intelligence with vast patient datasets, the Centre will enable earlier disease detection and
more effective therapies for conditions such as cancer, metabolic disorders and neurodegeneration.
Building on successes such as a breakthrough blood test to detect cancer by analysing DNA fragments, developed by Professors Yuval Dor and Ruth Shemer, the new facility will house advanced research labs, smart teaching spaces and the Tzameret Military Medicine Program.
CEO of the Australian Friends, Rob Schneider, said the centenary is “a celebration not only of the Hebrew University’s extraordinary past, but of its enduring importance to Israel, the Jewish people and the world. It’s an opportunity to honour a century of achievement and recommit to its next hundred years.”
Bringing together academics, alumni, supporters and community leaders, the event promises to be a meaningful tribute to one of the Jewish world’s greatest institutions and to the enduring values of education, excellence, and progress that the Hebrew University represents.
The event will take place in Sydney on Sunday 3rd August. For booking details, go to https://austfhu.org.au
Professor Menahem Ben-Sasson (photo by Bruno Charbit)
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
DAVID SOLOMON, CEO AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF TEL AVIV UNIVERSITY
A groundbreaking study from Tel Aviv University has revealed an alarming new chapter in the global plastic pollution crisis, one that’s happening out of sight, deep within the marine food web. According to the research, marine animals aren’t just ingesting microplastics, they’re transforming them into stealth pollutants that silently disrupt entire ecosystems.
Led by PhD candidate Eden Harel, alongside Professors Noa Shenkar and Ines Zucker, the Tel Aviv University team has shown that microplastics pass through the digestive systems of filterfeeding marine animals and emerge cloaked in faecal matter. This coating masks the plastic’s identity, making it virtually undetectable by scientists and other marine organisms.
“Many marine animals feed on faeces,” explains Harel. “If plastic particles are disguised as organic material, they may be consumed again and again, spreading further through the food web. What’s worse, the plastic can act as a magnet for bacteria, heavy metals and drug residues, turning it into a toxic delivery system.”
How invisible plastic is quietly wrecking our oceans
The study focused on ascidians –small, filter-feeding animals found throughout the world’s oceans – and their interaction with two common types of plastic: conventional polystyrene
and a so-called “green” alternative, polylactic acid (PLA). After just two hours of filtration, the ascidians had removed 90 per cent of the microplastics from the water. But within 48 hours, those same particles re-entered the water, this time inside faeces.
Professor Shenkar, a marine biologist at TAU’s Steinhardt Museum of Natural History, says this finding changes the conversation around plastic pollution.
“We’ve long focused on where microplastics go. Now, we’re learning how plastic changes as it travels through marine life and how those changes make it even more dangerous.”
Perhaps most concerning is that plastics marketed as biodegradable may not live up to their promise in realworld marine conditions. “Unless these bioplastics fully degrade, they become just another form of particle pollution,” says Professor Zucker of the Porter School of the Environment and Earth Sciences at TAU. “And like traditional plastics, they too can change form and function as they move through the food chain.”
The study also found that faeces containing microplastics sink much faster
Tel Aviv University Optimism at work
A healing solution
Countless TAU students have lost loved ones or endured unimaginable trauma, and many now suffer from PTSD. To address this crisis TAU established Israel’s most advanced post-trauma clinic, providing cutting-edge, evidence-based treatments developed by our globally-renowned researchers over the last 30 years. The clinic has become a critical resource for Israel, treating many TAU students struggling to rebuild their futures.
than normal faeces, denying mid-water marine creatures a key food source and leading to harmful accumulations of waste and plastic on the seafloor. This build-up may boost levels of carbon and nitrogen, fuelling algal blooms that further upset marine balance.
Published in the journal Chemosphere, the Tel Aviv University research exposes how microplastic pollution isn’t just widespread – it’s also shape-shifting and increasingly invisible.
“Our work shows this problem is more complex and insidious than we thought,” says Professor Harel. “We can’t afford to treat plastic pollution as a surface issue anymore. It's happening in ways we can’t always see, but marine life feels the impact every day.”
However, the study also shines a light on what is ahead. By understanding how plastic behaves in the real marine world – not just in lab settings – scientists are laying the groundwork for smarter solutions. “To solve a problem, we first have to see it clearly,” says Harel. “With each new discovery, we’re getting closer to outsmarting plastic and giving the ocean a fighting chance.”
A researcher analysing the secretions of marine animals
The Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
YOASH DVIR CEO TECHNION AUSTRALIA
What does it mean to leave a mark? For some, it’s about recognition. For others, it’s about creating something that outlives them – an idea, a discovery, a ripple of change in the world. At the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, leaving a mark is not just a slogan. It’s a daily reality.
For more than a century, the Technion has been shaping Israel – and the world –through groundbreaking science, visionary engineering and a culture of fearless innovation. The alumni of and researchers at Technion have left an indelible imprint on medicine, energy, defence, agriculture, cybersecurity, space tech and AI. This impact isn’t just historical. It’s happening now.
When Technion graduate Professor Shulamit Levenberg helped pioneer tissue engineering that could one day allow us to grow organs from a patient’s own cells, she didn’t just publish a paper. She left a mark on the future of human health.
When another alumnus, Dov Moran, invented the USB flash drive, he didn’t just solve a problem. He transformed the way the world stores and shares data.
Leave a mark: the power of innovation, legacy and giving
Across the globe, Technion alumni have founded or led in excess of 1,600 companies, contributing significantly to Israel’s reputation as the “Startup Nation”. These are not just success stories.
its bold mission, to keep nurturing the next generation of trailblazers, it needs more than vision. It needs support.
Every support of the Technion is not just a contribution.
It’s an investment in the future. It’s a declaration that science matters, that education transforms lives and that the next big breakthrough should have every chance to happen.
In a world full of uncertainty, we all have a chance to leave a mark that truly matters by supporting the excellence research being conducted at the Technion.
Whether you’re supporting cancer research, sustainable energy, quantum computing or student scholarships, your gift helps light the way forward. It becomes part of the Technion’s story … and part of your legacy.
So, as we reflect on what it means to leave a mark, ask yourself: What do I want my impact to be?
Yet even the most powerful engine needs fuel. For the Technion to continue
They are stories of impact. From Nobel Prize winners to startup founders, from deep-tech pioneers to AI leaders, Technion graduates embody the spirit of leaving a mark. But this mark isn’t limited to labs and lecture halls. Technion’s influence extends to every corner of society, through ethical leadership, academic excellence and a profound sense of responsibility to improve life on this planet.
Please support the Technion today because science needs champions, because breakthroughs need believers and because the future needs you.
Researchers at Technion – Israel Institute of Technology
ELIYAHU FREEDMAN COURTESY: AISH.COM CONSIDERED OPINION
A thousand years of daily life, debate and devotion, preserved in a forgotten storeroom in Cairo is reshaping Jewish history.
In 1896, in a forgotten storeroom above the ancient Ben Ezra Synagogue in Cairo, Jewish history changed forever.
The room was dark, dry, and filled with dust … and also with nearly 400,000 fragments made of paper and parchment that had remained untouched for centuries, preserved by Egypt's arid climate. When scholars, notably Solomon Schechter of Cambridge University, first began sorting through this treasure, they unearthed something profound – a time capsule preserving nearly a thousand years of continuous Jewish life and rare texts previously thought to be extinct.
What is a geniza and why is this one so special?
A geniza comes from the Hebrew word meaning "to store away" or "to hide." In Jewish tradition, texts containing God's name cannot be casually discarded. Instead, such holy items are temporarily stored in a dedicated space – a geniza – until they can receive a proper burial in a cemetery, similar to how a human body is treated with the utmost respect. What makes the Cairo Geniza uniquely valuable for historians is that the community not only allowed centuries of traditional geniza materials – prayer books, worn-out Torah scrolls and religious texts – to accumulate without burial, but also included more mundane materials (grocery shopping lists, personal letters, bills of sale, tax documents and, even, children's practice sheets learning to write the Hebrew alphabet) that Jewish law doesn't require to be ceremonially discarded.
The result is one of history's most comprehensive archives of the medieval world, providing a window into a sophisticated Mediterranean society where Jewish merchants negotiated trade contracts across vast distances, from Andalusia to Yemen, scholars debated the finer points of philosophy in Arabic and Hebrew, women engaged in business and legal matters, and much more.
A window into medieval Jewish life
The Cairo Geniza paints a vibrant portrait of what scholar S.D. Goitein, in his monumental six-volume work, aptly named "A Mediterranean Society". Far from depicting Jews as an isolated, persecuted minority, the Geniza documents reveal them as integral participants in a sophisticated medieval world.
Through business correspondence and legal documents, we see Jewish merchants establishing trade networks spanning from Spain to India, dealing in everything from spices and textiles to books and precious metals. These papers show Jews, Muslims and Christians regularly forming business partnerships, sharing knowledge and participating in
The Cairo Geniza: how a dusty attic changed Jewish history forever
a complex economic ecosystem that transcended religious boundaries.
The Geniza reveals a medieval Mediterranean world characterised by mobility and cultural exchange. Jewish traders spoke multiple languages, adapted to local customs in different ports and maintained connections across vast distances through sophisticated networks of communication and credit.
These documents challenge our modern assumptions about medieval society, showing instead a cosmopolitan civilisation where diverse communities lived and worked together, creating a multicultural tapestry that rivals the richness and complexity of our globalised world today.
Personal stories
Some of the most invaluable treasures from the Geniza are the dozens of personal letters of medieval Jews who describe their joys, sorrows and daily concerns in their own handwriting.
One such poignant fragment is a heartbreaking letter written by the towering figure of Medieval Judaism, Maimonides, who mourned his brother David, who drowned while on a trading voyage to India. "The greatest misfortune that befell me during my entire life," Maimonides wrote, describing how he remained "bedridden with fever and despair" for a year following the tragedy.
Other documents written in Maimonides' own hand include the first editions of his works, complete with personal edits, revisions and margin notes, providing unprecedented insights into how the brilliant thinker developed his ideas. Some of these precious documents can be viewed today at the National Library of Israel in Jerusalem.
The Geniza also illuminates the lives of women, preserving evidence of their active roles in medieval society. Letters show women conducting independent
business transactions, managing property and advocating for their rights in religious courts. One fascinating document records a woman authorising her representative to arrange her divorce and negotiate the financial settlement – evidence that women exercised significant legal agency in matters affecting their lives.
Rediscovering lost texts
What makes the Cairo Geniza unparalleled is how it preserved texts once thought lost forever. Among its most significant discoveries is the Damascus Document, an ancient Jewish sectarian manuscript previously known only through medieval copies, but later found among the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Geniza's fragment predates the Dead Sea Scroll version by centuries. Similarly, it contained the original Hebrew text of Ben Sira (Ecclesiasticus), a wisdom book composed around 180 BCE that had vanished from Jewish tradition for nearly a millennium.
The Geniza also revealed unexpected cultural connections that challenge our assumptions about medieval religious boundaries. Researchers uncovered fragments of Arabic translations of Jewish texts owned by Muslims and Jewishowned copies of Islamic philosophical works. Perhaps most surprisingly, some documents show Jews studying and engaging with the Qur'an for academic purposes.
Other fragments include Jewish adaptations of popular Arabic poetry and literature, showing how Jews participated in broader cultural currents while maintaining their distinct identity. One fragment even contains a Jewish merchant's notes on Buddhist customs he encountered while traveling to India, demonstrating how the medieval Mediterranean world was connected to civilisations far beyond its shores.
Why the Cairo Geniza matters today Over a century after its discovery, the Cairo Geniza continues to transform our understanding of Jewish history. Digital projects at Princeton and Cambridge are making high-resolution images of these fragments accessible worldwide, allowing both scholars and casual history enthusiasts to examine documents that were once accessible only to specialised academics.
Thanks to these initiatives and online databases where anyone can browse thousands of digitised fragments, the Geniza is becoming less the domain of ivory tower scholars and increasingly a resource for anyone with a passion for Jewish history.
Perhaps most importantly, as these ancient fragments become more accessible in our digital age, the Geniza reminds us that everyday matters –shopping lists and love letters – can reveal as much about humanity as grand historical narratives. It offers a profound lesson: every word has weight and even the smallest scrap of Jewish life, preserved with care, can illuminate entire worlds.
The Jews of medieval Cairo never imagined their dusty attic would one day inspire generations, but in preserving even mundane aspects of Jewish life, they performed a sacred act of memory that continues to enlighten us today.
Eliyahu Freedman is an Iraqi/Jewish educator living in Jaffa. Passionate in the fields of Jewish history, spirituality and ethics, Eliyahu most recently completed a Master's degree in Talmud from Tel Aviv University and was working on a PhD dissertation on medieval Judeo-Arabic history in the 10th century from Hebrew University.
ADVENTURES CONSIDERED OPINION
RAMONA FREEDMAN
ALIYAH
When you think of Israel, many iconic images come to mind. Yet I would bet more than a few shekels that your Israeli reverie doesn’t include skipping through a vision of violet flowers above your head and below your feet. Over the last few weeks this has been a delight in my wistful world.
I would say it is akin to being transported into the midst of a lavish period drama, except all too frequently alerts blare from our maddening modern phones and we are catapulted back to the meta reality of the here and now. War. And there’s nothing floral and fragrant about that.
And yet, there are lavender lanes here in Ra’anana. How did this come to be?
Many years ago, at some unchronicled point post-World War II, there was a botanist or horticulturalist who planted sweet seedlings around Ra’anana and well beyond – each of which has grown into a gigantic jacaranda tree. These trees are not native to Israel, like the national olive tree, yet they thrive within this middle eastern ecosystem and environment – as seamlessly as pairing fresh falafel and hummus with perfect pita.
South Africans in Ra’anana claim the jacaranda as their own. Australians do the same. Both admire these jacaranda blooms and know that spring has sprung when they see these first flowers. Here in Ra’anana they are abundant right now and remind me of balmy spring days in my beloved Great Southern Land.
Apparently, jacaranda trees are originally native to South America. I can’t help thinking that those seedlings once upon a time brought to Ra’anana and Rose Bay alike were immigrants in a foreign land. In a way, aren’t we all? When I have my own little garden, I can’t wait to add to the lavender landscape all around me.
Well, from lanes to cranes, the transition couldn’t be starker. Let me introduce you to a bloom of a different variety. I am not referring to the tall wading birds of the same name, rather about construction cranes. In some areas of Ra’anana, without exaggeration, there is so much development of new buildings and the refurbishment of older structures that one genuinely wonders if Israel’s supply has the capacity to keep up with the rising demand.
Just how many cranes can Israel sustain? Turns out … an impressive number. This is a young and growing country on ancient land and Ra’anana development is but one example of what is witnessed across the length and breadth of it.
We are all indebted to the brilliant minds behind the creation and implementation of Israel’s Iron Dome, the miraculous mobile all-weather air defence system. It feels like it has been around for such a long time, but it was only first utilised in 2011. The gratitude for this protection is indescribable. It has meant that all these building projects,
Lavender lanes
one by one, have been completed and secured … as much as humanly possible, despite the best efforts of our enemies to destroy them. In between the jacarandas, at ‘crane central’, what else do we find? Blue and white Israeli flags. Almost every second property displays one year round in various sizes, each with the strength of our Star of David emanating from its core. There is a patriotism and nationalism that unites all, despite the presenters’ gesticulating histrionics on Israeli news channels featuring evening panel ‘discussions’ about the current state of our state.
Many days and nights far above the jacarandas, far above the construction sites, there is often a rolling rumble heard in the sky. Each time I can’t help but look up. Military aeroplanes that usually can’t be seen fly by. They are headed … elsewhere, once again with a clear-cut mission, part of which is to help defend our right to just live.
One morning recently, as I was sitting in my ulpan class, all around me were a little bleary-eyed as there had been a rocket launched from Yemen the night before at a rather ungodly hour. We were learning new Hebrew vocabulary and verbs. Nouns and phrases were deemed necessary.
These included: to launch a missile, to escape, unprecedented security, bodyguard, bullet proof, allies and sniper. And that was all before morning tea.
Just to add a little levity to the mix, if your name is Alan and you come to visit Israel, you may find it fascinating and more than slightly disconcerting that everywhere you go you hear your moniker. And that would be more than a
little surprising, given that the name Alan peaked in popularity back in 1951!
Dear Alan, turns out you aren’t losing your mind, you do hear something similar to your name readily bandied about around town. The word pronounced at every street corner in Israel is actually ‘ah-lan’ and was borrowed from Arabic. It is not a name per se, but rather a common greeting that is informal and friendly. So, Alan, when you hear ‘Ahlan’, you will now know precisely what is going on.
Navigating a new country is a marathon, not a sprint. We belong to a health insurance company called Maccabi. One day, after Hebrew classes, I decided I needed a break and wanted to speak in my mother tongue. I wanted to clarify a couple of medical things in English and didn’t think that was too much to ask.
So, I called the designated number and when language choice was an option, I knew if any language was selected other than Hebrew the wait would be several times longer. I didn’t care.
English please, thank you very much. I was surprised that English was the fourth language offered by the system. First came Hebrew (naturally), then Arabic (fair enough) and then Russian. Only then English, marginally ahead of French, as the fifth and final option. The French would be furious. Without doubt. I persevered, spoke English and booked what I needed. Eventually. By default, Israelis are loud. To verify this, you need not go any further than your local supermarket. There are so many comedic characters within. There is a funny mockumentary-style sitcom
here that is based on supermarket experiences and is widely loved. It is called Cash Register (this title sounds better in Hebrew). It is a mad meshuga microcosm of life here.
There are no English subtitles, but we pause this show every so often and get the gist of most of the humour. Of course, it is even funnier having shopped here over the past few months, all-the-while being made to feel like employees within are doing you a massive favour when all you are valiantly trying to do is give them money.
One mustn’t generalise, but cashiers here have this extraordinary ability to offer zero eye contact with customers while swiping items and chatting on their phones with their friends, like there is no tomorrow. Israel. Somehow it continues to defy the odds. But for all the fancy flowers, all the development and all the kosher Cornetto ice creams, sometimes it all just sits a little too heavily on my chest.
After all, everyone here knows that the price for this freedom. Th price for living in our homeland comes at such a high cost. At times it is hideously and heartbreakingly high. Our brave soldiers have my infinite respect. I pray fervently for our remaining hostages to be released. I pray for all working so hard across the entire Jewish world. I pray for all in the IDF and, whether or not these lovely local lavender flowers are in season, I pray at my shul, Kehillat Lev Ra’anana. I continue to pray daily. Right now, there is just so much and so many to pray for.
For now, it is over and out from Ramona in Ra'anana.
RABBI DR BENJI LEVY RABBINIC THOUGHT
In today’s world, wellness is often reduced to a trend – measured by steps, calories or gym memberships. But Judaism offers a deeper, more integrated perspective. We are called to care for our entire being: body, mind and soul. This isn’t about chasing perfection – it’s about showing up with presence. Each part of ourselves is a divine gift and when we nurture them in harmony, we unlock the potential not just to live, but to live meaningfully.
Our bodies are vessels for purpose. In the Talmud, we’re reminded that our bodies are loaned to us, entrusted by God. We honour them through movement, rest and nourishment – not as obligations, but as sacred opportunities. A short walk, a few mindful stretches, or even dancing in the kitchen with your children can be acts of gratitude. Judaism encourages mindful eating, elevating food through blessings and intention. On Shabbat, we especially see how physical enjoyment and spiritual connection can merge.
Mental health is equally important. When we founded Keshev, a mental health initiative for young Jewish adults, we saw how common emotional challenges were, especially for students far from home. Strong, capable
Nurturing true wellness: integrating body, mind and soul
individuals can still struggle when life shifts. Mental wellness begins with small acts: checking in with yourself, reaching out when needed and listening deeply to others. These are forms of chesed (kindness), not just to others, but to ourselves. You can learn more about this work at www.keshev.org.il.
And then there’s the soul. Spiritual wellness doesn’t require a mountaintop or a synagogue pew. It requires
attention. A breath. A verse. A moment of stillness. As we grow, our spiritual lives can deepen. A child might say Shema before bed out of habit; an adult might whisper it in longing. Even a few minutes of reflection, prayer or Torah study can realign us with our purpose and quiet the noise of the world.
Jewish life is rooted in integration. Pirkei Avot teaches: “Don’t say, ‘when I have time I’ll study,’ for you may never have
time.” The same is true for wellness. You don’t need to wait until things slow down or fall into place. You just need to begin – with a walk, a blessing, a check-in or a conversation. Wholeness and holiness are not found in any one area. They are discovered in the integration of body, mind and soul. May we each take small, intentional steps to nurture ourselves and those around us. In doing so, we don’t just survive – we thrive.
A day of remembrance and renewal
RABBI MOSHE GUTNICK
RABBINIC ADMINISTRATOR
THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY
As the upcoming yahrtzeit of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, draws near, I find myself reflecting on a legacy that has provided staggering inspiration and guidance throughout my journey in the rabbinate and not just for me, but for my entire family. This day of remembrance is not simply a solemn pause – it is a celebration of a life that continues to illuminate my spirit, as well as that of many others, every day.
The Rebbe was more than a leader or teacher; he was a transformative force, whose compassion and vision transcended conventional boundaries. His teachings broke down barriers, embracing every Jew with a love that knew no bounds, setting an example for service that created ripples far beyond his immediate community. The Rebbe’s revolutionary approach to Judaism encouraged not only the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through Torah study and mitzvot, but also the active cultivation of kindness and empathy. To love a fellow Jew was not just one command, but the central theme of all the commandments.
On this sacred yahrtzeit, I pause to relive the moments of insight and encouragement that have lit my
way. His teachings and personal encouragement, as well specific direction have provided me with clarity and a renewed determination to serve. His vision – that every act of goodness and kindness contributes to a greater tapestry of unity and holiness, a vision that also includes gentiles being created in the image of G-d – has been the bedrock upon which I have sought to build my rabbinic service and family life.
This day is deeply personal because it represents a dialogue between my present and the enduring spirit of the Rebbe’s message. His lessons remind me that leadership is not about authority or position, but about tireless devotion to serving others. Every sermon I deliver, every communal gathering I lead or attend, every Beth Din sitting I participate in, is imbued with the values he so passionately taught: compassion,
courage, the pursuit of justice in general and defence of Am Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael, in particular. His inspirational presence is felt with every life-changing conversation and every transformative moment in service of our people.
As I light the customary yahrtzeit candle and immerse myself in the study of his writings, I embrace the call to action that he so fervently championed. It is a call to reach out to the downtrodden, to kindle the spark of hope in those that have lost their way and to build a community where every soul feels seen and cherished. I had the enormous benefit to study in the Rebbe’s court for four years and to have a private audience with him twice. He gave me direction verbally and in written form. On each occasion, the communication was literally life changing and, in hindsight, the best advice I could have gotten.
In reflecting on the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s yahrtzeit, my heart swells with gratitude. This is a day not only to remember, but also to recommit. His legacy is a flame that continues to inspire me and countless others in our daily pursuits of truth, kindness and spiritual depth. As I move forward, I honour his memory by striving to embody those timeless values and by ensuring that the Rebbe’s enduring light continues to shine brightly, in every act of service I perform and in the hearts of my family and friends.
Rabbi Dr Benji Levy (in the light blue shirt), taking part in a Hitbodedut session (Jewish meditation or prayer) at the National Library of Israel
THOUGHT
RABBI ARON MOSS RABBINIC
It was 1996. Bill Clinton, the sitting President of the United States, was coming to Sydney on an official state visit. He was to stay at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, one of the fanciest in town, located in the beautiful suburb of Double Bay.
This was big news. In the days and weeks leading up to the President’s arrival, the local media reported widely on every detail of the visit. One story claimed that CIA agents had made a sweep of the entire hotel in advance of the President’s stay, not only checking the Presidential Suite, but every room in the building, looking for explosives or any suspicious objects.
For most, this was no more than a curious piece of news trivia, but for one person reading the story, alarm bells started ringing. Rabbi Aron Amzalak knew there was something wrong and he needed to take action.
The Ritz-Carlton had a dedicated kosher kitchen and, as far as he knew, the only person in the world who possessed a key to that kitchen was Rabbi Amzalak. He was the kosher supervisor of the kitchen and to maintain its integrity no one could gain access without him.
The news story reported that every room in the hotel was security checked, without exception. Was this in fact true? Did that include the kosher kitchen? How did Bill Clinton’s security get in
When President Bill Clinton was locked out of the kitchen
there without the rabbi knowing? Did the hotel hold a second key? This could compromise the kosher status of the kitchen. This is serious.
The rabbi did some urgent investigating and soon uncovered the truth. The Presidential security guards did, indeed, check every room in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, except for one. The kosher kitchen remained locked. Their request to open it was denied. There no man could go without the rabbi’s permission. Not even the President.
When Clinton finally arrived at the hotel, every room had a CIA-approved sticker on its door handle, but that kitchen had a different sticker, a kosherapproved seal.
This true story serves as a little reminder that no matter who you are, there is a Power above you. There is security provided by guards, but a deeper security comes from safeguarding the mitzvot.
The Secret Service can only go so far. The service of G-d can open any door.
Rabbi Aron Amzalak passed away last month, after serving the Sydney community for more than 50 years. May his memory be a blessing.
First time novelist wins major Jewish literature prize
weave the personal and historical into a narrative that speaks across generations,” said Debra Goldberg, Director of the Sami Rohr Prize.
Sasha Vasilyuk’s debut novel Your Presence Is Mandatory (Bloomsbury Publishing) has been awarded Israel’s 2025 Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature.
Inspired by her own family history, Vasilyuk’s book explores the hidden costs of war, the legacy of silence and the complex moral terrain of Jewish life in the Soviet Union and post-Soviet Ukraine.
The $100,000 premier annual award honors the exceptional work of emerging writers in the examination and transmission of Jewish life, culture and identity.
"I wrote this novel to honor voices nearly lost to silence and am immensely grateful and humbled that the Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature is paying tribute to this complicated history and the people who lived it," said Sasha Vasilyuk.
"As Jewish communities worldwide face renewed threats and dangerous distortions, it is especially meaningful to recognise writers who confront these challenges with honesty, depth and imagination," said George Rohr. "Our family is proud to honour Sasha Vasiyluk, together with this year's outstanding finalists, whose work demonstrates how literature can illuminate the Jewish experience and expand the conversation around it."
“Sasha Vasilyuk’s remarkable achievement lies in her ability to
“The diverse voices of this year’s winner and finalists celebrate the vibrant future of Jewish literature, deepening our engagement with the past while charting new directions for expression.”
The 2025 finalists also included:
• Toby Lloyd, Fervor (Avid Reader Press) for a haunting, genre-blending portrait of a British Jewish family grappling with mysticism, belief and unraveling generational bonds.
• Benjamin Resnick, Next Stop (Avid Reader Press) for a speculative novel that imagines a world unmoored after Israel disappears into a black hole, triggering global upheaval and a reckoning with Jewish identity and memory.
• Janice Weizman, Our Little Histories (Toby Press) for a sweeping, reversechronological journey through one family’s Jewish story from 19thcentury Belarus to the present day.
Established in 2006, the Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature honors the late Sami Rohr’s lifelong love of Jewish writing and his commitment to supporting emerging talent. The $100,000 Prize, which alternates annually between fiction and nonfiction, is awarded by a prestigious panel of literary critics and scholars.
For more information, go to www. samirohrprize.org
From left: Rabbi Aron Moss with Rabbi Aron Amzalak, at the celebration of the latter’s 50 years of service to the community in 2023
SAMI ROHR PRIZE
Sasha Vasilyuk (photo by Christopher Michel)
SARAH PACHTER COURTESY: AISH.COM
Haunted by history and driven by faith, Victor Mooney is choosing action over apathy as he bikes across Europe to speak out against antisemitism and honour Jewish suffering.
Victor Mooney, 59, is no stranger to extreme challenges.
Years ago, he set out to row across the Atlantic in honour of his brother. After three failed attempts, he begged his wife for one last chance. She reluctantly agreed – with a warning: “Don’t ask me again.”
Midway through the Caribbean, a shark rammed his boat. His first thought? His wife’s words. But Victor lives by a mantra: When G-d says no – keep praying. So, he did.
As the shark circled and slammed the hull, Victor naively thought maybe he’s being friendly. Later, in Miami, a Cuban fisherman told him the chilling truth: the shark – a predator known for devouring wooden vessels – had been testing the boat before going in for the kill.
“It took a bite, then left,” Victor said. “And I had to deal with the aftermath.”
With water pouring in and 80 pounds lost to the journey, he somehow managed to patch the boat and press on.
Victor made it. He crossed the Atlantic.
When he finally walked through his front door, his wife greeted him with a mop. “The washing machine’s broken,” she said. So much for rest.
His next adventure
Victor has now embarked on his next adventure, a bike-ride across Europe in solidarity with Jews around the world on the “We Remember Pilgrimage.”
Victor, a devout Roman Catholic, grew up learning from his parents that Jews were good people. “They told me that if ever I was in trouble, I could always reach out to a Jew and they would help me. They told me a Jew would have compassion.”
Mooney appreciates the strong solidarity and similar struggles that his African American community and Jewish people have had for years.
“Blacks had to hide in swamps from plantation owners and Jews have had to live in forests, hide in snow, and even under other dead bodies to escape from Nazis.”
It is for this reason that Victor planned to sleep in the wilderness and live in nature during his bike tour.
“It will be hard, but no journey worth traveling is ever easy. If my ancestors were able to go through what they went through and the Jewish people had to run and hide the way they did, then I certainly can, too. While peddling, I will be thinking about my ancestors and about the Jewish people. Every pedal will be a stroke of solidarity.”
Victor will be carrying two large stones on his bike ride.
He has placed one stone on the burial ground of Auschwitz and said a prayer for Jews worldwide.
Biking through Europe in solidarity with the Jewish people
The second stone will be placed at Majdanek, where his bike ride will end.
“I know the tears will come and crying is healthy. I don’t know what the prayer will be yet, but I will just allow my thoughts to take me where they are supposed to go.
“Right now, more than ever, we have to stand strong, raise our voices, and wear white and blue to counteract the antisemitism taking place,” Victor says, proud of his support.
Victor remembers a time when if a policeman was standing outside a church or synagogue, it was because there was a VIP inside. “Now, it’s because we have to protect those who worship from those who hate.”
Victor, who has been training for months, has prepared to ride 16 hours a day and begins his rides each morning at 2:00 a.m.
In order to complete his itinerary, he plans to ride 130 to 160 kilometres a day. He has brought along two holy Christian books, as well as Night, the memoir written by Holocaust survivor Eli Wiesel. He reads from it at the concentration camps.
“This is my small way of bringing awareness of the horrific antisemitism that is taking place worldwide. It must stop. When everyone else chooses silence, I want to speak out. It’s the right thing to do!”
While Victor has been getting positive feedback for his goal to stand with Israel and Jews worldwide, he has also received a lot of hate. “At a certain point, I have to ignore the negativity. Not everyone is going to be on your side, but I am doing this because this is what’s in my heart and it’s the right thing to do. I’m honoured that at my age, I can do it. I think, though, this will be my last bike ride.”
Victor Mooney is a man who fulfills his commitments, no matter the personal cost. This journey, he hopes, will inspire action against antisemitism, encourage religious tolerance, and foster more interfaith dialogue. #WeRememberNow.
To learn more visit http:// werememberchallenge.com/
Sarah Pachter is an award-winning, sought-after speaker and author who commands large audiences and draws a vibrant following with her dynamic and personal approach. She has lectured internationally for the past 18 years and is a keynote speaker for several Passover
programs around the world. She has authored two books: Is it Ever Enough? and Small Choices Big Changes. She has been featured on podcasts, on radio and has multiple standing columns. Her articles are featured in numerous publications including the LA Times. Many of her articles have have been translated into several languages. Sarah Pachter is also the host of Starstruck with Sarah Pachter, a new Aish podcast, and a premier speaker for Torah Anytime. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and five children.
Victor Mooney getting ready to set sail
CORNER
ALAN BENDER SOUL GOURMET FOODIE
This an iconic South African dish that has its roots in Cape Malay culture. When I was working for a company called The House of Bonne Cuisine, we often used to serve it to the visiting cricket teams at the Wanderers and Centurian grounds. The Australian teams enjoyed it.
Ingredients:
1kg lean beef mince
2 medium onions, peeled and coarsely grated
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tub Leggo's tomato paste
4 tsp (20ml) medium curry powder
1 tsp Garam masala
½ tsp (2.5ml) turmeric
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp mixed dried herbs
a pinch of cayenne pepper or chilli powder
½ red or green capsicum, finely diced
2 large Granny Smith unpeeled green apples, finely diced or coarsely grated
2 slices white or brown bread, crusts
removed
½ cup (125ml) coconut milk
1 tsp (5ml) salt
1 tsp (5ml) baking powder
2 tbsp (30ml) Mrs Balls Chutney
1 tbsp (15ml) double strength white vinegar
1 tsp beef stock powder
1/2 cup cashew nuts (optional)
Topping:
2 eggs
½ cup (125ml) coconut milk
¼ tsp (1ml) salt bay leaves for garnish
Bobotie
Instructions:
1. Place the meat, onion, garlic and spices into a larger non-stock frying pan and stir-fry over moderate heat for about 10 minutes or until the meat is loose and crumbly.
2. Add the capsicum and apple and cook for five minutes more, until the meat is lightly browned.
3. Pour the coconut milk over the bread to moisten it, and add this to the meat, together with all remaining ingredients. Mix to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste, then spoon the contents into an ovenproof dish. Smooth the top.
Topping:
1. Beat together the ingredients and pour over the meat. Scatter the bay leaves decoratively onto the meat.
2. Bake at 170ºC for about 30 minutes or until the topping has set.
A traditional South African bobotie recipe must be served with fragrant yellow rice.
Ingredients:
2 cups "Tastic" or any long grain rice
½ tsp (2.5ml) salt
1 tsp (5ml) turmeric
15ml olive oil
¼ cup (60ml) raisins
1 small cinnamon stick
Instructions:
Rinse the rice and then place it with all the ingredients into a pot with a snugly fitting lid. Add the recommended water as per the packs’ instructions and cook gently until just dry. Enjoy.
Alan Bender is head chef at Soul Gourmet. To find out more, go to https:// soulgourmet.com.au
CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES
Friday, Jun 27, 2025 4:38 PM
Shabbat ends, Jun 28, 2025 5:37 PM
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Shabbat ends, Jul 5, 2025 5:39 PM
Friday, Jul 11, 2025 4:44 PM
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Friday, Jul 18, 2025 4:48 PM
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Spelling bee answers
Jewish Phrase: KOL HAKAVOD. 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): ALOHA, HAKOL, HALAL, HALVA, HAVDALAH, HOODOO, HOOKAH and KAHAL.
Questions/comments/compliments: email Yoni at koshercrosswords@gmail.com
