The Melbourne Jewish Report | June 2024

Antisemitism the focus of an important new documentary

SKY NEWS AUSTRALIA

Presented by former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, Sky News Australia’s documentary Never Again: The Fight Against Antisemitism is now available to stream or download.

The hour-long doco examines the alarming rise of antisemitism in Australia and its impact on our country and our democracy.

For Mr Frydenberg, this issue goes beyond politics to the kind of country Australia should be.

Following the devastating October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists, the documentary looks at the increasing hostility towards Jews globally.

From the Sydney Opera House steps to the heartland of Melbourne's Jewish community, the escalation of antisemitism has been widespread.

The incitement has not only been seen through violent demonstrations, but in the desecration of national monuments.

It has resulted in the interruption of major events, the boycott of Jewish-owned businesses, the doxing of Jewish artists and community harassment.

So it is that the documentary takes a close look at the radicalisation on our streets and how antisemitism has been allowed to take hold.

Critically, is also focuses on what needs to be done to stop it. Through a reflective and, at times, emotional lens, Frydenberg speaks with prominent Australians.

Among them is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, along with former Prime Ministers John Howard and Julia Gillard.

QUIZ

Rabbi David Freedman’s popular Judaica quiz is back once again with a spotlight on all-things-Shavuot. Seamlessly covering so many aspects of this chag, test family and friends at your Yom Tov table while you’re eating that cheesecake – good luck!

1. The festival of Shavuot is also known as Chag Habikkurim. How would one translate these words?

2. In the 1956 film The Ten Commandments which Russian born actor played Rameses II?

3. Mt Sinai is where the Torah was given, but what was the first mountain or mountain range mentioned in the Bible?

4. Shavuot takes place in the month of Sivan. How many days make up the month of Sivan?

5. The Book of Ruth is read on Shavuot. She is said to be a Moabite woman. Was Moab close to the Mediterranean Sea, the Sea of Galilee or the Dead Sea?

6. The Moabite Stone is a stele dated around 840 BCE. It is displayed in which European museum?

Josh Frydenberg in the Sky News Australia documentary “Never Again: The Fight Against Antisemitism”

He also talks with former Senator Nova Peris, former Governor-General Peter Cosgrove, musician Deborah Conway and Holocaust survivors.

“Since the attack on October 7, antisemitism in Australia has reached an unprecedented and dangerous level. Red lines have been crossed and a green light given to what clearly is unacceptable conduct,” Mr Frydenberg said.

“This is a time our leaders need to show courage and moral clarity, taking stronger and more decisive action to call out and stamp out antisemitism in Australia.”

To stream the full documentary and extended interviews, visit https://www.skynews.com.au/stream or download the Sky News Australia app.

How many common words of 5 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 word will use all 7 letters and have a direct Jewish connection.

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.

Rating: 9 = Good; 14 = Excellent; 18 = Genius

ANSWERS PAGE 18

Test your knowledge

7. According to the Ten Commandments, what should we not envy? (There are five answers to this question.)

8. The Decalogue is another name for the Ten Commandments –what is the meaning of this term?

9. Cheese blintzes are a popular dessert on Shavuot. The word blintzes is from which language?

10. Sephardic communities have a tradition on Shavuot of eating dishes made with rosewater. With this custom in mind, what name is given to this festival?

11. Of the 613 commandments given to the Jewish people on Shavuot – how many were positive and how many were negative?

12. Tradition has it that King David was born and died on Shavuot. Which company produces King David Sacramental (Kiddush) wine?

13. a) Where would one find Michelangelo's statue of David?

b) What did Michelangelo place in David’s left hand?

14. i) The King David Hotel was bought by which hotel group in 1958?

ii) Multiple scenes from which 1960 epic movie starring Paul Newman and Eva Marie Saint were shot inside the hotel?

15. Jewish Law is compiled in a number of codes of Jewish Law – one of which is known as the Shulchan Aruch composed by

Spanish scholar, Rabbi Joseph Karo. What is the literal meaning of the words, Shulchan Aruch?

16. Maimonides codified all of Jewish Law in the Mishneh Torah. This work is also known by what other name?

17. Shavuot is also known as Pentecost. Christians also celebrate a Pentecost. What is the difference between the two festivals?

18. According to the Book of Jubilees, which early biblical personality made his covenant with God on the same day that we nowadays celebrate Shavuot?

19. The Book of Ruth is read on Shavuot. Which town is the first and last place that is mentioned in the Book of Ruth?

20. Besides Ruth in the Bible – it is possible that the most famous Ruth was in fact a man, who played professional sport in the United States. What was his name?

21. The founder of Chasidism, the Baal Shem Tov, died on Shavuot in1760. The word ‘Chasid’ means ‘saintly’. Which Biblical personality, according to the Talmud, was the first person to be described as a ‘Chasid’?

22. How many times per annum are the Ten Commandments read publicly in synagogue?

23. i) What was the name of the Mel Brooks's 1981 movie which satirised Moses receiving the Ten Commandments? ii) In the movie, how did the Israelites end up with Ten Commandments?

24. The Counting of the Omer links the two festivals of Pesach and Shavuot. What was the Omer?

25. On the island of Rhodes, a Velada ceremony took place on the first night of Shavuot. In which two languages were the prayers and songs recited?

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 18

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Yoni Glatt

RABBI DAVID FREEDMAN JUDAICA

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Living a life of luxury

From a psychological perspective, living a life of luxury does not mean surrounding oneself with elegance or great comfort, nor does it involve great expense.

Consider psychological luxury as the things we need to build resilience and achieve a better quality of life. It requires starting each day with intent.

Alexandra Eidens, the founder of The Big Life, identified these 12 real luxuries.

1. Getting a good night’s sleep. Busy lives, past and current trauma, dayto-day stress, worry, babies and children, illness and grief are some of the things that get in the way. If sleep is elusive, consider what you can do to rest mind and body. If required, seek medical help.

2. Slow mornings. Do you feel rushed even before the day has started? It is time to change your routine and plan your day. Ensure that you rise earlier, so that you can eat and savour breakfast and enjoy your morning shower. Include brief exercise or meditation.

3. Freedom to choose. Some of you may feel that your day is dictated by

others. If that is the case, what are some things that you can choose to do at your own behest? Could it be the route you drive to work, what you wear, what you eat, the music you listen to etc?

4. Time for fun and play. Life as an adult is serious, but we need to time to offload. This may include banter with people you meet, reading something funny on social media, taking the time to play with your children or grandchildren, or the family dog. Laughing and having fun even for a few minutes a day can make the world of difference to your outlook.

5. Listening to the birds singing. This is a variation of the concept of taking the time to “smell the roses”. If we live life mindfully, we will be able to hear the birds at dawn and dusk.

6. Taking a walk. This is another way to be completely present in the “now”. It is beneficial for our physical and mental well-being. Owning a dog that needs exercise is one way to ensure that we get out and walk.

7. Reading a good book or engaging in arts and crafts. Take the time to learn, create or relax. A solo activity or a collective pursuit, this gives life more meaning.

8. Enjoying a nutritious, home cooked meal. We Jews consider chicken soup to be good not just for nutrition but for the soul. Take the time to discover what is your soul food.

9. Winding down with the sunset. Build awareness of the sunset and the colours as the sky changes from day to night. Relax into the evening.

10. The ability to freely express yourself. Today, it can be increasingly difficult to feel that you have freedom of speech. Find your safe space. To be silent and not have a voice is detrimental to your psychological health.

11. Day naps. This may be possible on a day off. In his book “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten”, Robert Fulghum writes about this. It is a great form of time out and serves as a reenergiser.

12. A good conversation. Social connection is vital, meaningful and enriching. It adds appreciably to our lives.

Let me end with a quote from an unknown source: “Happiness is the new rich; inner peace is the new success; health is the new wealth; kindness is the new cool.”

Anne-Marie Elias is a psychologist in clinical practice for 25 years.

Shavuot: a time of reflection and optimism

Consecrated through the suffering in Egypt and the trials of our exodus, Shavuot is not only the moment we became a people, but when we became “the Jewish people”.

One of the few silver linings in the dark cloud post October 7 has been our community's unity.

Jews, whether observant or secular, progressive or conservative, outspoken or reserved, have found our fates intertwined by the rise in antisemitism. We might not all be in the same boat, but we're all weathering the same storm. Disagreements that were once academic are now existential. While many discuss the conflict abstractly, we don’t have that luxury.

It's exhausting to continually explain that the lives and safety of our families and friends should not be reduced to political variables. It's exhausting to reassure ourselves of our safety in Australia and to contend with a society more tolerant of racial hatred than our stomachs are of lactose. It's exhausting trying to reclaim the sense of belonging we had last September and it's exhausting that it feels like it's all on us.

But we've been exhausted before.

In times like this, I look to the past for hope. We are a resilient people. We have generations of testimonies showing that we stood up and made it through. We define our history not by

what happened to us, but by how we persevered, survived and thrived.

This is our turn.

The situation on campus is dire. It's unfathomable that Jewish students have lost confidence in their universities' ability to guarantee their safety. It's unfathomable that instead of empathy and compassion, some universities treat voiced concerns as ploys to silence opposing views.

But make no mistake – it will get better.

To paraphrase Hemingway on bankruptcy – the rise in antisemitism happens gradually, then suddenly. We’ve found ourselves in crisis gradually, then suddenly.

Despite how it feels, we are not alone. There are more decent people out there than you'd expect, horrified by current events, galvanised by sudden changes and working to ensure this spike in

antisemitism becomes a historical anomaly.

To Jewish university students: you are safe, you are welcome and you do belong. Times are tough, but we will get through this.

To Jewish academics and staff: your kindness, empathy and compassion towards students are invaluable, especially as you navigate hostile workplaces. Thank you.

To the community: we owe you a debt of gratitude. Your countless time, energy and resources supporting students make a significant difference.

Each act of kindness and each gesture of support builds a stronger, more cohesive community. It's in these moments of solidarity that we find the courage to face our challenges and the hope to believe in a brighter future.

Our history is filled with instances where we've faced adversity and emerged stronger. From the ashes of destruction, we've rebuilt our lives, our communities and our spirit. This period of hardship will be no different. Together, we will navigate through these turbulent times, drawing strength from our shared history and our unwavering faith in a better tomorrow.

While you dine on your lactose-free cheesecake this Shavuot, remember that brighter days lie ahead. This too will pass. And if we play our cards right, we might even get a new holiday out of it.

Posters used and handed out at the solidarity rally (photo by AUJS shaliach Tobias Siegal)

ZAC MORRIS AUJS

ANNE-MARIE ELIAS

DR PHILIP BLISS OAM PROGRESSIVE JUDAISM VICTORIA AROUND THE COMMUNITY

The feeling of being largely abandoned by the broad community, media and politicians since the horrors of October 7 has left many Jews feeling isolated and fearful.

Many Jewish organisations have been advocating to explain Israel’s case. Soon after October 7, all Progressive congregations opened their doors to the wider Jewish community and invited many Israelis to participate in “get togethers” to share our concerns and express empathy for the victims in Israel.

Nothing prepared us for the onslaught of anti-Jewish propaganda and the distortion of events that portrayed Israel and, by association, the Jewish community in the worst possible light. In schools, university campuses, workplaces and even in interfaith organisations Jew hatred was unleashed as never before.

Progressive Judaism Victoria (PJV) organised a special event at Parliament House in Melbourne, drawing parallels between the Exodus from Egypt and the present-day situation. A pre-Pesach kosher Seder lunch was provided to 60 guests, 40 MPs and 20 Jewish leaders. Rabbi Allison Conyer gave a 30-minute presentation that explained the various periods of anti-Jewish violence and connected that deep embedded antisemitism to the here and now. Rabbi Conyer illustrated the Jewish case for

Advocating for our community and Israel

the tragedy of October 7 massacre and Israel’s response. Parliamentarians understood the significance of the event, while PJV president Maureen Barten explained how badly Jews were hurting, many cancelling themselves from community activities.

By way of follow up, PJV invited the federal member for Higgins, Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah MP, to be the guest speaker at the recent PJV annual general meeting. Dr Ananda-Rajah

visited Israel twice last year, once on a parliamentary exchange in mid-July and again in December, when she saw many of the sites of the Hamas massacres. Even before October 7, she was a strong advocate for an ethical and moral stance in fighting terrorism. “This is a war between Western democracy and Islamic extremism,” Dr AnandaRajah said. She sees the only way of promoting peace is by advocating for a two-state solution, through improving

the economic wellbeing and political stability for all people in the region.

Opening the meeting, Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, was also able to hear extreme prejudiced reactions experienced by the Jewish community from some in multicultural organisations in this state.

Addressing the AGM, PJV president Maureen Barten spoke about how satisfying it was to see PJV affiliates working closely together and involving Jewish and non- Jewish organisations to create greater harmony. The safety of individual Jews faced with hate speech and violence is paramount and something we could never have imagined in today’s Australia. Collaborating with other organisations to generate greater understanding of current events is one of PJV’s main aims. Several initiatives are being worked on, especially ones to support Jewish students on campus and to provide the space for them to express how they are feeling through various art forms.

Dr Philip Bliss OAM is past president of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, the Union for Progressive Judaism, Progressive Judaism Victoria and the Council of Christians and Jews (Victoria). He is an honourary life member of the World Union for Progressive Judaism and current chair of Bet Olam Jewish Funerals.

From left, Philip Zajac, President JCCV, Maureen Barten, President PJV, Vivienne Nguyen, Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah MP, Federal Member for Higgins, Rabbi Dr Allison Conyer, Chair of the Assembly of Rabbis and Cantors of the UPJ Australia, New Zealand and Asia and Senior Rabbi at TBI, Dr Philip Bliss OAM, Chair of Bet Olam Jewish Funerals

COLONEL RICHARD KEMP AUSTRALIAN JEWISH ASSOCIATION AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Australians can take immense pride from the critical role their country played in the re-creation of the State of Israel. Without the fighting prowess and blood sacrifice of the ANZACs, who defeated the Ottoman Empire, alongside the British and other armies in the First World War, the Jewish State could not have emerged 30 years later. In the face of British opposition, Australia was also the first country to vote in favour of the UN Partition Plan, which led directly to Israel’s Declaration of Independence. In the intervening years, Australia has been one of Israel’s staunchest friends. But visiting Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra over the last few weeks I have seen a somewhat different story, with Hamas supporting mobs in the streets and on university campuses. Like many others around the world, the Australian government has rounded on Israel as it is fighting a war on many fronts that so far has lasted only about a month less than the 1948 Independence War. I spoke to a rabbi in Sydney who recounted how the Prime Minister told him that Israel is fighting the war all wrong. Mr Albanese did not, apparently, offer a view on how it should be done differently. That’s not surprising: I’ve met many politicians, military experts and academics who

Australia needs to do better

make the same complaint, but not one has any solution to offer beyond platitudes about “negotiated solutions” and “world peace”.

In any case, it’s not about how the war is fought. All this anti-Israel noise is about the country’s very legitimacy. Decades of political warfare against Israel, the most successful slur campaign in history, has created an almost unshakeable narrative that the Jews stole Arab land, illegally occupy Palestinian territory, practice apartheid and are trying to perpetrate a genocide. This is, of course, all lies – every single part of it. But it is widely believed, even among some politicians who should know better. Under this narrative, whatever happens to Israel, even October 7, it has it coming. Whatever Israel does in self-defence is wrong.

Therefore, the IDF is repeatedly accused in the media, on campuses, by the UN and so-called human rights bodies, of indiscriminately killing civilians and depriving them of humanitarian aid. Both are lies. I have been inside Gaza several times since the war began and I can say unequivocally that the IDF is taking immense care to minimise civilian casualties, while fighting an enemy whose strategy is based entirely on trying to lure them to kill as many of their own population as possible. Casualty statistics available to us now show a lower ratio

of civilian to combatant casualties than in any comparable conflict anywhere, confirming my firsthand observations. I have visited humanitarian crossing points and have seen the almost superhuman efforts of the IDF to get aid into Gaza. The result is that the amount of aid entering the Strip since the war began has been more than double the quantities that went in during equivalent periods before October 7.

Despite the efforts of so many around the world to prevent an Israeli victory in this war, the IDF has been astonishingly effective at destroying Hamas on the most complex of any battlefield I have known. The last formed terrorist units are currently being dealt with in Rafah. Once that is done, the IDF will face the task of destroying the remaining Hamas infrastructure, dealing with the surviving terrorists and suppressing any reemergence of a threat to Israeli civilians. That will take a very long time and require the IDF to maintain security control over Gaza indefinitely, irrespective of who ends up running and reconstructing the place. Then there is Hizballah to deal with in Lebanon.

It would be easy to become depressed as this long war proceeds and world condemnation grows, but I am optimistic. Once the dust settles, Israel will emerge with its honour fully intact, even though the haters will deny

it. It will also emerge stronger than when the war began. Recognising now that it can rely on nobody, not even the US, it will become more self-sufficient and militarily powerful. With so many young and older Israelis having fought and sacrificed so much for their country, it will also regain an even stronger sense of national identity, purpose and cohesion. Much as Australia’s own terrible baptism of fire in two world wars played a major role in forging a strong, proud and independent nation. It should not be seen as a burden to stand up for Israel, but an honour. Australians Jews and non-Jews who do so now can take as much pride as their forebears who played their part in the re-creation of the Jewish State. I am reminded of the words of Winston Churchill to the boys of his old school in 1941 as the Second World War raged: “We must all thank God that we have been allowed, each of us according to our stations, to play a part in making these days memorable in the history of our race”.

Colonel Richard Kemp has been touring Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra with the Australian Jewish Association, speaking at numerous schools, synagogues and other gatherings and having dozens of meetings with politicians and communal leaders.

Colonel Richard Kemp speaking at North Shore Synagogue in Sydney

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

ETHAN SAMUELS TECHNION AUSTRALIA

To celebrate Israel’s 76th Independence Day, I had the privilege of participating in the hackathon at the ZCNSW’s Yom Ha’atzmaut Festival, organised by Technion Australia and the Australian Friends of the Hebrew University. As a mechatronics and computer science student, I have always been passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems. This hackathon offered a perfect platform to tackle a pressing issue affecting Jewish students today – antisemitism on university campuses.

Life on campus today presents challenges beyond academics for Jewish students. Protests, posters and encampments have created an environment where many feel unsafe and unsettled. The hackathon felt like a golden opportunity to voice our concerns and create meaningful change within our community. We were tasked with developing a start-up that could serve a purpose and generate profit.

Thus, “Beyachad: Fighting Antisemitism on Campus, Together” was born. Using the “Five whys technique”, I delved into the root causes of Jewish students feeling unsafe and anxious. The analysis revealed that the core issue was a lack of accountability for protestors who engage in hate speech and slander. With this understanding, I aimed to develop a solution that would ensure answerability and improve campus safety.

Embracing innovation to combat antisemitism on campus

Considering the relevant stakeholders, I focused on university campuses. Universities have a responsibility to ensure the safety of all students and suffer significant reputational and financial damage if they fail. Therefore, a solution that benefits both students and universities was imperative. Beyachad leverages AI technology to create a sophisticated, communitydriven reporting system. Students can use their smartphones to capture incidents of hate speech, violence and inappropriate

posters. The AI analyses these inputs in real-time, identifying key details, such as faces, speech and actions. The system then documents each event with timestamped evidence and GPS coordinates, generating detailed reports. These reports are cross-examined against relevant student policies and Australian law, and the system notifies the appropriate

security body for an immediate response. Beyachad empowers students to hold protestors accountable, ensuring a safer and more inclusive campus environment. This collective effort enables students to focus on their studies with confidence and peace of mind.

Reflecting on my journey, I must acknowledge a significant experience that shaped my approach to this hackathon. A few years ago, I participated in a youth summer camp in Israel called SciTech. This program, hosted by the Technion –Israel Institute of Technology, offered three weeks of hands-on experience in science and technology. The SciTech camp not only enriched my technical skills, but also immersed me in a collaborative and innovative atmosphere. The hackathon allowed me to relive a bit of that SciTech spirit, driving me to create a solution with real-world impact.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to Technion Australia and the Australian Friends of the Hebrew University for organising the event. I am grateful to the mentors who supported me throughout the day and to the judges for their invaluable feedback and suggestions. As I continue to develop Beyachad, I remain committed to the primary objective of keeping our community safe.

By leveraging technology and collective action, we can confront antisemitism on campus and create a safer, more inclusive environment for all students.

years,

2024 Hackathon winner Ethan Samuels

DAVID SOLOMON AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF TEL AVIV UNIVERSITY AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Tel Aviv University (TAU), Israel's largest institution of higher learning, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability amidst the turmoil of the Hamas-Israel conflict that erupted on October 7. Despite the challenges posed by the war, the university has continued to support its students, many of whom were called up for military service.

Raz Elkayam, a 25-year-old biology and neuroscience student at TAU, grew up in the southern city of Sderot and his family still lives there. In one of the previous rounds of conflict in Gaza, his parents’ house was damaged by a direct missile strike. Before his university studies, Raz served for four and half years as an officer in the IDF.

At TAU, Raz belongs to the Periphery Scholars Program. He dreams of becoming a brain researcher. “I was drawn into the world of science from a young age and my dream is to make a change – not a small change, but a meaningful one, with lasting impact,”

Raz says.

On October 7, Raz was in Rome with his grandmother. His peaceful holiday was shattered early in the morning when his grandmother's Red Alert app began incessantly notifying them of incoming

Educating during wartime: Tel Aviv University thrives amidst conflict

Raz Elkayam

missiles in Israel. Raz's parents and two sisters confirmed the missile attacks, but assured him they were safe. Raz received a call-up message from his IDF reserve unit commander and his concern grew as he watched real-time videos of terrorists in Sderot, including areas near his family's home. He lost contact with his family, only later receiving a message indicating they were hiding from Hamas terrorists in their safe room.

Stranded in Italy due to cancelled flights, Raz and his grandmother

returned to Israel on October 11. After a brief reunion with his family, Raz joined his army unit in the north, serving until the end of February. Throughout this period, TAU officials maintained regular contact with Raz, expressing concern for his welfare – a gesture he greatly appreciated.

The war significantly impacted TAU, with 6,600 of its 30,000 students called up for military service. The university quickly implemented measures to support these students upon their return. For instance, exams were replaced with assignments and projects, or shifted to a pass/fail format to ensure grades would not adversely affect academic records. Additionally, students were given opportunities to retake exams, with the highest grade counting as the final mark. TAU also provided psychological support and financial assistance to those affected by the conflict.

Students like Raz faced immense challenges balancing their military duties and academic responsibilities. After enduring combat, Raz found it difficult to transition back to university life, but TAU's flexible policies and academic support helped him succeed.

TAU's response was spearheaded by Professor Drorit Neumann, Dean

of Students, who managed the psychological and logistical support systems for students. The university established hotlines, provided emergency financial aid and created tailored academic support systems, including study buddies and additional tutoring.

University President Professor Ariel Porat played a crucial role in maintaining the institution's operations and supporting the TAU community. Porat emphasised the importance of continuing the academic year despite the conflict, recognising that stopping education would be detrimental not only to students, but to Israel's resilience as a nation. He highlighted the dual roles of TAU students, who balance their military service with academic pursuits, embodying the spirit of Israeli resilience and intellectual advancement.

The war's long-term effects are inevitable, but TAU remains committed to supporting its students through these challenging times. The institution's proactive and compassionate approach ensures that its students can continue their education and contribute to Israel's future, even amidst conflict.

Duty called and they came - now help fulfill their calling.

aftau.asn.au

When duty called, they came! Now, it’s up to us to help them return to classworry-free - and become the bright future of Israel. The moment the war broke out Israel re-enlisted its reservists and over 6,600 of them are Tel Aviv University students. They already completed their regular IDF duty and are now in a different chapter in their lives: the one where they study to make their dreams and goals a reality. It’s up to us to ensure that our returning students, our heroes, have the academic and financial assistance they need to succeed in their studies. Help our students follow their true calling.

Support TAU’s Uniform to University Scholarship Fund.

“When I received the call to serve I was happy at the opportunity to contribute to my country during these challenging times. I hope to resume my studies and fulfil my dream of becoming an engineer.” – Yarin

Since the tragic attacks of October 7, the global Jewish community has been confronted by a disturbing resurgence of antisemitism. In the face of adversity, Jewish individuals and communities have come together, reaffirming their common heritage, values and resilience. Across continents, from synagogues to social media platforms, there has been a groundswell of solidarity, with Jews standing together to condemn hatred and discrimination in all its forms. Amidst our shared trauma, this unity and reawakening of Jewish pride and identity is a positive outcome. It speaks to a recent study by PhD student Tamar Gur and her team, under the guidance of Professor Eran Halperin from the Psychology Department at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. It delves into the profound impact of memorial days on societal cohesion, as we see rising polarisation. The study reveals significant insights into the unifying effects of Holocaust Memorial Day on Israeli society.

The association between memorial days and national unity has long been acknowledged. In poignant speeches, delivered during these commemorations, there is a resounding call for unity,

Grief, unity and resilience: the impact of memorial days

underscoring a common identity and shared commitment to the memory of a collective history. Against the backdrop of contemporary polarisation, characterised by growing divides among groups with identical national identities, the need to strengthen these bonds of common identity is paramount.

The study examined the effects of memorial days on emotional responses and their potential role in mitigating affective polarisation. Affective polarisation, defined as the tendency to harbour negative attitudes and hostility towards supporters of opposing political ideologies, poses a grave threat to societal cohesion and functionality.

The research included extensive surveys gauging feelings and attitudes before, during and after the day of remembrance. The results showed that the prevalent sadness associated with the day significantly decreases polarisation, which often manifests as distrust or hostility towards those with differing political or ideological views.

“Memorial days serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and collective responsibility towards preserving the memory of our past,” said Tamar Gur.

“Our findings underscore the pivotal role of sadness in temporarily reducing affective polarisation and safeguarding societal cohesion.”

This research holds far-reaching implications for how we deal with grief. Sadness, though often deemed an unpleasant emotion, offers substantial personal and group advantages

in specific contexts. Memorial days exemplify how national groups can harness the power of sadness to bolster cohesion and preserve group integrity.

The profound impact on societal cohesion underscores the importance of collective memory in healing national wounds and building a resilient community. It highlights how remembrance and shared grief can serve as powerful catalysts for social solidarity, promoting a more harmonious coexistence among social groups.

This year, Yom Hazikaron and Yom Hashoah have assumed profound new significance and have evoked a shared sense of grief, resilience and unity among Jewish communities around the world.

As we honour the memories of those lost to terrorism and the Holocaust, we are reminded of the fragility of peace and the urgent need to confront antisemitism in all its forms. In this communal remembrance, Jews from diverse backgrounds came together, drawing strength from our unity. Through the solemn rituals of mourning and reflection, Yom Hazikaron and Yom Hashoah serve not only as tributes to the past, but also as calls to action to ensure “never again”.

Students at a Yom Hazikaron ceremony at the Hebrew University (photo by Yossi Zamir)

UIA’s commitment to and support for the People of Israel has no boundaries. Despite the ongoing, turbulent and stressful situation that Israel is facing, UIA and its supporters felt compelled, more than ever, to show their unwavering support for our brothers and sisters in Israel at this time of greatest need.

From May 7th to 16th, 34 participants from Sydney, Melbourne and Perth embarked on a UIA Yom Ha’atzmaut Mission to strengthen the People of Israel. What they took away from the experience will remain in their hearts and minds for many years.

Between sightseeing and revelling in the tastes and textures of the Holy Land, participants heard from high-calibre speakers who gave insights into the fields of politics, security and culture.

These included Sarit Zehavi from the Alma Centre, which specialises in Israel’s security challenges, who ran a simulation of the complex situation in the North, and Yuval Rotem, the former Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Michal Uziyahu (guest speaker at UIA’s 2024 Gala events) from the Eshkol Regional Council, which forms part of the Gaza Envelope, accompanied the group through the ruins of Kibbutz Nir Oz to witness the devastation left behind.

Maayan Dee, a survivor of the Nova Festival massacre on October 7, joined participants at the Festival Memorial, providing a heart-wrenching but informative understanding of the atrocities that occurred there.

Other prominent guests and speakers that Mission attendees heard from and met included Nimrod Palmach, CEO of ISRAEL-is, as well as Iris Haim, whose son Yotam was abducted by Hamas from Kibbutz Kfar Aza and then fatally shot in error by the IDF.

Yom Hazikaron was equally poignant, as participants joined in a moving memorial ceremony with 6,000 participants from Masa Israel Journey. This was the largest English-speaking ceremony in Israel and paid tribute to the brave IDF soldiers and victims of terror who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of our people.

Highlights of the experience included a special Erev Yom Ha’atzmaut event, celebrating inspirational Israeli heroes with other Keren Hayesod-UIA Missions from around the world, at Attura Mini Israel in Latrun. Alongside Keren Hayesod-UIA Missions from Brazil, Mexico and Panamal, the group was also given the opportunity to pack care packages for soldiers in the North, before meeting with evacuees in Kiryat Shmona.

Those on the UIA Mission saw and felt the impact that UIA-supported projects are making on Israeli lives and society. That included visits to Net@ Kfar Saba, which provides technological training to disadvantaged high school youth and to Hadassah Neurim Youth Village, which helps students with integration difficulties to become contributing members of Israeli society. There was another to Amigour in Tel Aviv, which provides subsidised housing for Holocaust survivors and senior citizens. Participants received an in-depth understanding of how their

UIA Yom Ha’atzmaut Mission strengthens participants and the People of Israel

philanthropy is supporting those who need it most.

Other places that Mission participants were taken included Hostage Square, a plaza located in Tel Aviv where exhibitions calling for hostages to be brought back from Gaza are held. There was the ‘cemetery’ of the burned cars from the Nova Festival and a graffiti tour in Tel Aviv, including the Walls of Hope murals, dedicated to the children kidnapped by Hamas. The Mission visited the Hostage Forum, to meet families of those currently held in Gaza by Hamas. There was also an exclusive and oncein-a-lifetime trip to an IDF Navy base in Haifa.

Reflecting upon the experience, Mission participant Brenda Taback said: “I had no idea what to expect, but this trip surpassed all expectations. From the education to the inspiring talks and the ability to see Israel so thoroughly from the inside, it has been a life-changing experience.”

Geoff Midalia, who was another on the Mission, said: “I’ve learned so much about this wonderful country these past two weeks and even more about its beautiful people, especially the resilient young who will have the responsibility of rebuilding it. I’ve also gained more knowledge of how much UIA does for the country and I give thanks for taking us on such a brilliant, heart-rendering, joyful and tearful journey.”

For more information about UIA Missions, visit http://uiaaustralia.org.au/ missions or contact Estelle on (03) 92725533 or info@uiavic.org

UIA Yom Ha’atzmaut Mission participants visit the Nova Festival Memorial

UIA VICTORIA

KOSHER FEATURE

Pictured, from left, Eli Grosberg, owner of Danieli’s and Yankel Wajsbort, General Manager of Kosher Australia

Behind the kosher seal

RABBI MENACHEM SABBACH

In the bustling realm of a restaurant, a food service mashgiach navigates a constantly changing terrain. Ingredients, products and even the menu and food preparation processes are constantly evolving, each bearing unique potential kosher implications. This dynamic, everevolving environment stands in stark contrast to an industrial factory setting, which typically operates with predictable and systematic routines.

Restaurants, with their rotating roster of suppliers and brands, often pose unique, intricate challenges to the mashgiach. For instance, a common issue arises when a preferred kosher-certified brand is temporarily unavailable and the vendor supplies a visually identical, yet nonkosher-certified product, as a substitute. In these instances, the mashgiach's discernment and alertness become crucial in maintaining stringent kosher standards. A food service mashgiach must also master time management, overseeing numerous concurrent activities – from lighting fires and checking vegetables, to handling logistical concerns, such as managing incoming and outgoing deliveries. Each task significantly contributes to the seamless operation of the kitchen, while upholding kosher standards.

Maintaining strong relationships with kitchen staff and customers also falls within the mashgiach's purview, ensuring adherence to kosher guidelines at all

times. Given the frequent staff turnover in restaurants, the task of educating new staff members about kosher standards remains an ongoing necessity.

The considerable responsibility of upholding these standards does not rest solely with the mashgiach. A dedicated force of full-time mashgichim work tirelessly in meat restaurants, supplemented by Kosher Australia’s team of roving rabbis.

These roving rabbis play pivotal roles in ensuring compliance, making unannounced visits to all kosher-certified establishments, cafes and bakeries, and performing daily audits. Depending on the complexity of operations or the number of critical kosher items at a specific establishment, these visits can occur multiple times a day. This level of constant vigilance is a team effort, involving committed mashgichim, the team of roving rabbis and the supportive staff of Kosher Australia.

In essence, from the moment a dry ingredient is delivered to a restaurant to the point a meal is served at a customer's table, or delivered – sealed with kosher tape – to a consumer's home, every element of the food's journey undergoes rigorous checking and control.

To an outsider, this process might seem laborious, but it guarantees that the consumer receives more than just a meal. They receive an experience that seamlessly combines the pleasure of fine dining with the reassurance of adherence to the highest level of kosher standards.

The dairy equipment enigma

YANKEL WAJSBORT

How is it possible that a company claims a product to be vegan or ‘dairy free’ while the kosher status is dairy equipment (‘DE’)?

Examples include sorbets, plant-based milks, like oat, soy, rice and almond, liquid eggs, vegan yoghurts, baked goods, dark chocolate and, even, juices. Vegan and dairy free imply that there is no dairy in the product, which seems to be contradicted by the kosher designation of DE. To understand this, let’s look at the concept of shared equipment and how DE occurs.

From a kosher perspective DE can occur when:

1. Products with kosher pareve ingredients are cooked in the same vessel that has been used to heat up products with dairy ingredients.

2. Liquid pareve products are held in the same storage container as dairy products for more than 24 hours.

3. Pareve foods are baked or dried in an oven or dryer where products containing dairy are also processed.

4. Products with pareve ingredients are cooked in a kettle or vessel heated with shared steam or boiling water, which is also used to heat dairy production.

In each of these scenarios, some action needs to be taken to ensure that before kosher pareve production, the equipment or shared water/steam are returned to a state to enable pareve kosher production to take place. Otherwise, the kosher status of the

product becomes DE. In the first two cases, this is usually achieved by a kosher sterilisation – a caustic wash followed by a near boiling water flush (usually around 90C as a minimum). Due to concerns about equipment damage or OH&S (occupational health and safety) for those workers cleaning equipment, many manufacturers cannot achieve the high temperature flush.

Where shared baking or drying takes place, typically dedicated trays are required, as the kosherisation of the same trays would be destructive for trays.

In the final case, the concern is that the shared water or steam is ‘tainted’ with dairy. This can be alleviated in two ways – either by replacing all the water in the boiler after dairy or by adding chemicals to the water that make the water non-potable or off tasting.

While residue testing may not require the products made to be labelled containing dairy, from a kosher perspective lacking the remedial sterilisation, they would be classed as DE. It is interesting to note that the parts per million threshold for dairy is 30. Under that amount, the manufacturer need not list the dairy allergen.

What is the ramification of DE for Kosher consumers? As the product is otherwise pareve, the main restriction for most consumers is that it cannot be consumed together with foods containing meat. Eating your DE oat yoghurt together with your beef burger would not be allowed. However, you could eat your DE coconut ice cream immediately after your cholent.

KOSHER AUSTRALIA

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COUNTRIES VISITED: AUSTRALIA, NZ, INDIA, MALAYSIA, TAIWAN, THAILAND, CHINA, SINGAPORE, INDONESIA, DENMARK, POLAND, NORWAY, GERMANY, FIJI, PNG, SOLOMON ISLANDS, JAPAN, VIETNAM, ITALY

Kosher buffalo milk … in Australia?

YANKEL WAJSBORT KOSHER AUSTRALIA

Jewish festivals are associated with specific foods – Pesach with matzah, Rosh Hashana with honey, Chanukah with doughnuts and latkes, and Purim with hamantashen. The custom on Shavuot is to consume dairy products, such as cheese cake and blintzes.

Let’s briefly cover the issues behind the kosher status of milk.

The permissibility for milk is derived from the fact that the Land of Israel is referred to in the Torah as a ‘land flowing with milk and honey’ (see Exodus 3:8 and elsewhere).

Normally milk would be prohibited, as it is technically part of a living animal, but the Torah explicitly permits it. However, as milk is something that all mammals excrete, only milk from kosher animals is permissible (Code of Jewish Law, Yoreh Deah 81).

More than fifteen centuries ago, our rabbis restricted the use of milk that was not supervised by a Jew, due to concerns that the milk would be tainted by the milks of non kosher animals, such as pigs, horses or camels, which had higher fat content than cow’s milk (Cat milk has three times the fat content.)

The supervised milk was called ‘Chalav Yisrael’, meaning milk overseen by a Jew from the start of milking. This requirement, once it was enacted, applies even when all the dairies in a given area only use kosher animal milk. After WWII, the availaibility of properly supervised kosher milk was limited in the US. So, the leading American rabbi of the time, Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, permitted the use of milk provided that

there were governmental requirements that ensured it came from a nominated source, such as cows, goats or sheep, and the requirements were backed up with a penalty system for compliance by farmers.

The logic is that the government regulation is in place of Jewish supervision.

Rabbi Feinstein referred to this milk as ‘Chalav HaCompanies’, or ‘company milk’, which could be used if there were challenges with the availability of Chalav Yisrael. A number of years ago, Kosher Australia took on the certification of a dairy producer that made yoghurt from buffalo milk, not something one sees in your supermarket aisle. At the time, I was tasked with researching the buffalo milk indutry in Australia, so we could determine if the product was, indeed, acceptable.

First question – is buffalo a kosher animal? Yes. Second – is the buffalo milk under Jewish supervision? No. What about government supervision? As buffalo is a niche part of the dairy industry, it may not come under the same regulations as cow’s milk or goat milk. In the absence of such regulation, buffalo milk would not be permissible for use, even relying on the ruling of Rabbi Feinstein. I reached out to a number of buffalo dairies, which are mostly located in Far North Queensland and the Northern Territory. All assured me (and in writing) that their milk was subject to the same regulatory requirements that cow’s milk is. In fact, all milk – cow, goat, sheep and buffalo – are all governed by the same rules.

Consequently, Kosher Australia was comfortable in concluding that buffalo milk produced in Australia could be permitted under the ruling of Rabbi Feinstein.

Gifting with sugar and spice and all things nice

The Kosher Hub is a retailer that celebrates the richness of Jewish culture, delivering gourmet delights to your doorstep.

It offers a diverse range of kosher hampers, lovingly organised for every occasion – the joyful and the profound, in both personal and business settings.

That includes Passover, Rosh Hashanah and Tu Bishvat, even for sitting Shivah, as well as corporate gifting.

The Kosher Hub prides itself on employing the utmost care and its onus is on fine detail.

Those behind the venture understand the significance of tradition and the importance of ensuring that every aspect of its offerings aligns with kashrut.

They source the finest kosher-certified products, primarily from Australian businesses, thereby supporting our community.

You can indulge in the rich flavours of Hunter Valley wine and savour the decadence of Zokoko chocolate from the Blue Mountains.

Salivate in produce from the Nut Shop, delight in dried fruits from Queensland and relish crispbread from Trentham Tucker in Victoria.

The Kosher Hub is a showcase of our nation’s diverse culinary landscape.

Every product bears the seal of approval from reputable kosher certification authorities.

These include the Australian Kashrut Authority, Kosher Australia, Orthodox Union and the South African Bet Din.

The Kosher Hub’s commitment to the cause doesn't stop with the products themselves.

Each hamper is curated to include a blessing over the food, tailored to the occasion or food type, adding a touch of tradition and spirituality to your culinary experience. Further, every offering

comes with an optional personalised message, enabling you to convey your sentiments with warmth and sincerity.

Founded in 2017 by Jane Rosenberg, The Kosher Hub has been on a mission to redefine kosher gifting in Australia.

The business now announces a new chapter, having formed a strategic partnership with Barry Rubinstein from Optoco, who imports superior giftware. That serves to strengthen its

commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and nationwide service. So, whether you're marking a milestone, extending gratitude, or simply indulging in life's pleasures, you can put your trust in The Kosher Hub to elevate your experience.

For more information and to order, go to https://thekosherhub.com

The Kosher Hub’s Deluxe Hamper

THE KOSHER HUB

COMMUNITY

SIMONNE WINECIER JDC (THE JOINT) AROUND THE

Israel is a country transformed by the October 7 Hamas attacks and the war it ignited. Hundreds of thousands of Israelis who never needed social assistance before are now relying upon it to survive and to build their future in the aftermath of these devastating events. Among Israelis who are suddenly out of work – and the most profoundly at risk of not working again – are thousands of evacuees and people injured or disabled on October 7, or in combat.

Eight per cent of newly unemployed evacuees are from lower-income backgrounds. Many lack postsecondary education, have fewer skills and worked in low-paying jobs before October 7. Their work prospects are grim. Thousands of Israeli civilians and soldiers injured in the October 7 attacks and during military service face physical and psychological disabilities that are forcing them to withdraw from the workforce. The longer these Israelis remain unemployed, the greater the likelihood they won’t return to work. After six months, they are 50 per cent less likely to return, after a year 75 per cent and after two years, the chances are close to zero. Torn from their homes or injured making the profound sacrifice of defending their communities and country, these brave Israelis face formidable challenges and need our help now.

Helping the unemployed in the wake of October 7

JDC (The Joint) has deployed mobile employment units in more than 130 evacuee hotels in 14 locations. These units continue to operate and, to date, have helped 2,500 evacuees re-enter the workforce at a higher level than before. One person JDC helped is Rona, a 44-year-old mother of three from a moshav near the northern border. She was a teacher’s aid in a local kindergarten, earning little and lacking

MDA 2024 Appeal launch features noteworthy names

any potential for career growth. After working with a JDC career counsellor from one of the mobile units, Rona enrolled in an accounting course and is on her way to earning a higher income, with prospects for development and opportunities for herself and her family when she returns home. Evacuees need specialised employment training, adapted to their unique needs, especially for displaced people with

no academic degree or vocational education. Participants will gain tools for quality employment and job placement when they return home.

JDC has already launched eight courses, serving 300 of the most vulnerable evacuees. Newly disabled civilians and soldiers require specially tailored medical rehabilitation and employment services. JDC has started a groundbreaking program that builds links between the two and creates a path for newly injured Israelis, their families, medical teams, and employers to get back to work.

The program stages this process, including building readiness to return to work, occupational and medical rehabilitation, and workplace reintegration. JDC has begun recruiting newly disabled Israelis – the direst of cases – for seven pilot locations.

Time is running out and we cannot allow jobless Israelis who were evacuated or disabled in combat to languish in poverty and despair. For their future, and the long-term strength of the country, they must re-join the workforce and restart their lives.

To make your end of year donation now, go to: https://www.jdc.org

French-born IDF paratrooper and civil rights activist Rudy Rochman will be a keynote speaker at Magen David Adom (MDA) Australia’s 2024 Appeal launch on Thursday, 20th June.

Rochman will share the stage with MDA paramedic Hadas Ehrlich, one of the first paramedics on the frontline in Israel on October 7.

Driving an armoured ambulance, Ehrlich saved lives by ferrying the injured to an impromptu MDA field hospital.

An incident in London, when sevenyear-old Rudy and his mother were thrown off a bus, in an antisemitic attack, roused in Rochman a desire to defend his community. He joined an IDF paratroop brigade aged just 17.

He later studied at Columbia University in the US, where he started a chapter of Students Supporting Israel to confront the many Pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel and antisemitic groups on campus.

Rochman has developed a series of documentaries exploring stories of disconnected Jewish communities throughout Africa and India.

He has more than 400,000 social media followers, while his videos have been viewed upwards of a million times.

His focus is on shifting the global ideological and political conversations

Rudy Rochman

regarding Jews and Israel, uniting Israeli society and generating innovative ways to combat antisemitism.

Rochman believes Jews are indigenous to the land, giving Israel the right to exist. Neither Jews nor Palestinians “can be liberated without liberation of the other. Both groups should build a just civilisation as one that works for all,” he said.

For more information about the MDA 2024 Appeal, go to https://magendavidadom.com.au

MAGEN DAVID ADOM

RABBINIC THOUGHT

RABBI YAAKOV GLASMAN AM

In the immediate aftermath of the horrific October 7 attack on Israel, Melbourne’s Catholic Archbishop, Peter Comensoli, phoned me to express his deep concern about the welfare of the Jewish community. He joined me at a commemorative gathering that week in Caulfield Park, where he lit a candle in memory of Hamas' victims. He subsequently attended my shule in St Kilda and imparted words of support and solidarity with our community. He wrote a powerful letter, published in the Herald Sun, decrying antisemitism. He instructed it be read from the pulpits of all 200 Victorian Catholic churches under his jurisdiction.

It is commonly said you don't know who your real friends are until the chips are down. Over the past few months, the Jewish community has been in a difficult and dangerous position, and the Archbishop has been an incredible friend, both to me personally and to our community.

When he indicated that he wanted to travel to Jerusalem with me on a solidarity pilgrimage, it was a no brainer for me. Whilst there, we prayed together at the Western Wall and we visited some of the holy sites in the holy city.

Finding friends in times of need

As representatives of the Jewish and Christian faiths, we walked side by side in friendship and brotherhood. It was a moment in my life that I will never forget and one I feel has significantly enhanced Jewish/Christian relationships in Melbourne.

Of the many observations we made during our time in Jerusalem, one that stands out is the disgraceful and dishonest mischaracterisation of Israel as an “apartheid” state. Together, the Archbishop and I witnessed the vibrant coexistence of Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths. In the Israeli capital, open prayers from these communities occur in close proximity. At the Western Wall, a sacred site for Jews, the Muslim call to prayer from the nearby Al-Aqsa Mosque can be heard. I accompanied the Archbishop to some of the holy sites in the Christian faith.

It beggars belief how so many people that have never set foot inside Israel could be gullible enough to consume the hateful and libellous rhetoric Israel haters spew.

On a much more positive note, our joint “pilgrimage” to Jerusalem will forever be etched in my mind as one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I am truly grateful to the Archbishop for the friendship he has shown to our community and for visiting Israel with me on this important solidarity mission.

Advocating for Jews and Israel

When the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council’s (AIJAC) Joel Burnie invited me, along with Natasha Hausdorff – our Caulfield Shule Yom Ha’atzmaut guest of honour – to visit Canberra, I anticipated a day of serious discussions and a chance to advocate for our community. What I didn't expect was that my first visit to Parliament House would also involve a strict diet of apples and bananas. With an early start, I packed my bag, ensuring I had everything needed for the long day ahead. However, I had forgotten my carefully prepared kosher lunch, which was in a separate bag back at the hotel. With no time to return, I decided to make do with the fruit for sale in the Parliament café.

Arriving at Parliament House, I was immediately struck by the grandeur and historical significance of the building. The impressive architecture and the buzz of activity set the tone for a day of important conversations. Being the day after the Budget was brought down, the hustle and bustle was even more intense than usual. Politicians and media personalities were everywhere, giving interviews, discussing policies and navigating the packed hallways. It was fascinating to witness this hub of political activity firsthand.

Natasha Hausdorff, a passionate barrister from the UK and a strong

advocate for Israel and the Jewish community, eloquently outlined to numerous senators we met the rise of anti-Israel sentiments, false accusations levelled against Israel and the rise of antisemitism on university campuses. She detailed the distressing experiences of Jewish students, highlighting the lack of support and the need for stronger measures to combat hate speech.

I shared my personal encounters with antisemitism and the impact it has on our community. It was heartening to see the politicians' genuine concern and commitment to addressing these issues.

They asked insightful questions, showing a real interest in understanding the complexities of the situation.

As the day progressed, we moved from one meeting to the next. Our dialogues were productive and encouraging. However, as lunchtime approached, my stomach reminded me of the forgotten kosher meal. I embraced my “fruity” fate with another apple. It became a running joke throughout the day, with Joel and Natasha teasingly asking if I needed a banana boost before our next meeting. The camaraderie lightened the mood and kept our spirits high.

One of the most memorable moments was hearing from politicians that had recently returned from Israel. They spoke passionately about their admiration for Israel's resilience and innovation. This provided a perfect segue for us to discuss the importance of solidarity between Australia and Israel, especially in the face of rising global antisemitism. We emphasised the need for educational programs that foster understanding and tolerance, ensuring future generations learn from the past. Their support was palpable. It was inspiring to see our messages resonate so deeply.

As our time at Parliament House came to an end, we gathered for a quick debrief. Despite the challenges and the unexpected diet, the day had been incredibly fulfilling. We had met influential politicians, shared our stories and advocated for the Jewish community with conviction. On the drive back to the hotel, I reflected on the significance of our visit. It wasn't just about the meetings or the policies discussed; it was about the unity and resilience of our community. In the face of adversity, we had come together to make our voices heard.

My first visit to Canberra and Parliament, with all its quirks and challenges, had been a powerful reminder of the importance of advocacy and the strength of our collective voice. Here’s to more fruitful (pun intended) days of making a difference and ensuring our community’s future is bright and secure.

From left: St Kilda Shule's Rabbi Yaakov Glasman AM and Melboune's Catholic Archbishop Peter Comensolli at the Western Wall in Jerusalem

RABBI DANIEL RABIN

From left, Josh Burns MP, Rabbi Daniel Rabin Natasha Hausdorff at Parliament House in Canberra

RABBINIC THOUGHT

In the final stage of converting to Judaism one confirms their commitment, echoing the Jewish people’s pledge at Mt Sinai. We are a nation of converts. And since the revelation, the door has remained open. Throughout our history, there are converts to Judaism who have made an indelible mark on the Jewish people –and, indeed, the world. As we approach Shavuot, I am sharing four short snippets of incredible converts and a teaching they shared among thousands of others.

Sometimes when we learn about others, we learn more about ourselves. There is something about the active choice of converts that I find inspiring. It invites us to consider what we choose and how intentional we are about our choices, so that we can live up to our calling as a “people of choice”.

One of the most famous converts to Judaism is Ruth. Born into the Moabite royal family, she turned away from palace life, with all its luxury and comfort. Ruth paid the price of temporary hardship because of her incredible dedication to the nation, something that, to her, was worth so much more. Ruth went on to marry the leader of the Jewish people, Boaz. Their descendants would found the eternal monarchy: the Davidic Dynasty. She was the ancestor of King David and, according to

Shavuot insights

tradition, the future Messiah will come from the line of David, resulting in he too being a descendant of hers. Many greats, including David, would not have existed without her fateful choice. Her story is chronicled in the Bible and read every Shavuot, sending the message that true leaders are always guided by the ultimate truth.

To hide from the Roman authorities (who forbade conversion), two famous scholars picked up interesting nicknames – Ben (son of) Bag Bag and Ben Hey Hey. Their names have the numerical value

of the letter hey. This letter represents Hashem (God), a consciousness they deepened in their lives. It is the same letter that was added to the first converts (and, indeed, the first Jews), Sarah and Abraham. These two legendary converts lived their true selves, despite the difficulties and their messages are complementary. According to the effort is the reward. What you put in is what you get out. But to truly see this, one needs to peer below the surface. Everything lies within the world of Torah and the Torah can

Embrace the genuine convert

Welcoming the stranger is one of Judaism’s central tenants. Our tradition requires us to open our hearts and minds to those that are outsiders. The commandment to be kind to the stranger appears more times in the Torah than any other. Jewish people have firsthand experience with being outsiders. In Egypt we were slaves and at the Exodus we became a free people.

The importance of being open and welcoming to foreigners cannot be overstated. Every time we have the opportunity to interact with people that are different or are new, we have the obligation to extend kindness. Our lives are filled with chances to do so. For those that are new, a kind face who introduces themselves or a welcoming word to someone in need leaves a lasting impression. It is hard to forget someone that has been thoughtful. Despite our tradition imploring us to welcome the stranger and convert, there is still work to be done. Leviticus 19:34 says “… the stranger that dwells with you shall be to you as the homeborn among you, and you shall love him as yourself …”

This verse provides a commandment on how we are to treat converts and strangers. We are commanded to show consideration and compassion to them. As a rabbi who works closely with multifaith and multicultural communities and runs a conversion program out of the Ark Centre, I try to live by this tenet. While joining the Jewish people

is a serious commitment and requires genuine consideration, that should not preclude those within our faith from welcoming the convert.

Some rabbis believe that conversion should be a difficult process because the requirements of living a Jewish life are difficult. I do not accept this premise. While Jewish law requires that we must turn the prospective convert away three times to ensure their sincerity, every interaction during this process should be courteous. That does not mean that anyone should be allowed in, but it also does not mean ignoring, ‘othering’ or having rude social interactions with prospective converts under the guise of ‘conversion requirements’. Genuine converts, people who really want to

be found in every facet of the world, as long as we look deeply enough.

Born into an upper-class family in southern Italy during the late 11th century, Johannes had a twin brother, Roger, who went on to become a knight. It was as if two paths lay before the two boys, but Johannes took the path less travelled. Instead of accepting the aristocratic cards he was dealt, he chose Judaism in a time of crusades against Jews (and was the target of antisemitism as a result). Johannes was inspired to follow the Archbishop of Bari who’d become so enamoured with Jewish learning that he moved to Constantinople and converted. He chose the name Obadia, lived all over the Middle East, including in the Land of Israel, and became a noted scholar. The oldest surviving piece of Jewish sheet music is a Shavuot prayer penned by a noted scholar and convert to Judaism – Johannes, son of Dreux, aka Obadia. Teach me, he says, so I may know. Learning is a lifelong journey and it is a major theme of Shavuot as many have the custom to stay up all night learning. These four personalities represent just a fraction of the stories and influence that thousands of other converts to Judaism have had. How will they impact you? How will you impact others? The choice is yours.

join the Jewish people, encounter many internal, challenging obstacles. They question their own motivations. They feel crippling doubts about their choices and religion. They feel that they are inadequate and need to do more to prove themselves. Adding to their burden, often their families may feel like they are losing them.

As a rabbi, my job is to guide converts through this enormous life choice and support them. I need to be unequivocable: converts that are sincere and want to be Jewish belong with us. Our Jewish community wants these people to succeed. We should encourage them and confirm that we accept them. Sometimes disparaging words are used against converts,

accusing them of only wanting to convert to marry into our community. I think it is an incredible outcome that in our modern world there are non-Jews that sincerely want to join our community and convert. This was not the case for hundreds of years, in fact for most of Jewish history. I am greatly saddened by stories (which I hear weekly) about the dismissal, embarrassment, coldness and discouragement that converts experience. For what purpose do we subject converts to such treatment?

As we approach Shavout it is important to recall the most famous convert to Judaism, Ruth, who declared, “your people shall be my people, your God, my God”.

Was Naomi, her mother-in-law, condescending or discouraging? Absolutely not. Anyone who subjects converts to bullying, disregard or cold indifference has no place in our community. We need to include those that want to join our people. Anyone who has married into a new family knows that there is anxiety and stress when meeting your partner’s family. Will they like you? Will they be welcoming? Will they help to support your relationship to ensure that there is goodwill and nurturing?

Our tradition commands us to be welcoming. Shavout is our reminder. The rabbis tell us to be kind to strangers because we were strangers and we have been in need of such kindness. As a people, we have experienced otherness. Being welcoming is not an exclusively Jewish value, but as Jews we have the extra requirement to welcome those that need it most, because we were once strangers.

RABBI GABI KALTMANN

Rabbi Gabi Kaltmann

RABBI DR BENJI LEVY

Rabbi Dr Benji Levy teaching a class

THE KING DAVID SCHOOL AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Year 1 students at The King David School recently had an experiential learning opportunity at Como House, where they journeyed into the past.

The day was filled with engaging activities that brought history to life.

Students played ‘olden days’ games. On the menu was croquet, skipping, hot potato, an egg and spoon race, and a sack race.

The children also learnt about the daily lives of servants, as they washed clothes, responded to different bells in the house and examining historic artifacts.

The home tour was a highlight, allowing students to explore various rooms and learn about their past uses. They participated in a scavenger hunt, following clues to solve the mystery of who broke Laura's porcelain doll.

It was a memorable day of handson learning and fun for everyone.

Quiz answers

1. The Festival of the First Fruits

2. Yul Brynner

3. The mountains of Ararat are mentioned in the story of Noah and the Flood

4. Jewish months are either 29 or 30 days in length. The month of Sivan is always 30 days in length

5. Moab is on the eastern side of the Dead Sea

6. The Louvre in Paris

7. There are five answers to this question: 1) Our neighbour’s house 2) Our neighbour’s wife 3) Our neighbour’s male or female servant 4) Our neighbour’s ox or donkey 5) Anything that belongs to your neighbour

8. The Ten Words

9. Yiddish

Back to the future

10. The Festival of Roses 11. 248 Positive commandments and 365 negative commandments 12. Carmel

13. a) Florence, Italy b) A sling 14. i) Dan ii) Exodus

15. The Prepared (or Set) Table

16. It is also known as the Yad Chazakah (The Strong Hand) or simply as the Yad. The numerical value of the Hebrew word Yad is 14 and this corresponds to the 14 volumes of the Mishneh Torah

17. The Jewish festival is 50 days after Pesach, the Christian festival is 50 days after Easter

18. Noah

19. Bethlehem

20. George Herman Ruth (1895-1948) was an American professional baseball

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES

Jun 29, 2024 5:54 pm

player. He was best known as “Babe” Ruth

21. In the Talmudic tractate Eruvin 18b, Rabbi Meir states that "Adam was a great chasid, having fasted for 130 years."

22. Three times – the first occasion on Shabbat Parashat Yitro (Exodus 20); the second occasion on Shavuot; the third occasion on Shabbat Parashat Va’etchanan when we read a second version of the Ten Commandments found in Deuteronomy 4.

23. i) History of the World Part I, ii) Moses, played by Mel Brooks, is given three tablets of stone (five commandments on each) and as he is about to reveal the ‘15’ commandments, he accidentally drops one of the tablets and announces to the Israelites

instead that they must live by the ’10’ commandments.

24. The Omer was an ancient Israelite unit of dry measure used in biblical days and in this context refers to a special measure of newly-harvested barley that was brought to the Temple between Pesach and Shavuot.

25. Ladino and Hebrew

Spelling bee answers

Jewish answer: MISHKAN. 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): KISHKAS, SHIKSAS, KASHAS, KHAKIS, SHANKS, SKINKS, KINKS, KISHKA, KNISH, KHAKI, MASKS, MINKS, SHANK, SINKS, SKIMS, SKINK and SKIMS.

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Noa Seidner

Daphne Lewis

CONSIDERED OPINION

BY DR YVETTE ALT MILLER COURTESY: AISH.COM

Equating Israel with Hamas, the ICC’s actions are morally outrageous.

Karim Khan, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), announced he’s seeking warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and for three senior Hamas leaders, effectively creating a false equivalency between Israel and Hamas.

Placing Israel’s democratically elected leaders on the same level as some of the worst human rights abusers and mass killers on the planet is outrageous. It’s as if Khan issued warrants for the arrest of both Osama bin Laden and President George W. Bush immediately after the September 11 attacks. It’s like calling for the arrest of Adolf Hitler along with Winston Churchill.

The ICC’s stunt is a brazen inversion of the truth. It isolates Israel on the world stage and emboldens its enemies. Khan has charged Israel’s leaders with “starvation of civilians, a method of warfare as a war crime”, “extermination and/or murder”, “persecution”, “other inhumane acts,” “willful killing”, and “intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population”. Huh?

Let’s start with the charge of using starvation as a method of war, which features so centrally in Khan’s malicious accusations. According to The Wall Street Journal, since October 7, 2023, Israel has overseen the supply of 542,570 tons of aid into Gaza, in 28,255 trucks, in a massive, unprecedented effort to supply food to Gaza civilians. Israel has also appealed to Egypt to open the Rafah crossing, which links Egypt to Gaza, for use by aid trucks; Egypt has refused. The WSJ asks: Is this the behaviour of an Israeli government bent on starving Gazans?

The major factor in the rise in hunger in Gaza is due to the wide scale theft and

Mutterings

The International Criminal Court’s obscene accusations against Israel

looting by Hamas. An April report by The New York Times revealed that hunger in Gaza isn’t caused by a lack of food, but by exorbitant prices charged by Hamas and other criminals who steal food aid.

In fact, the very day that Khan announced he’s seeking the arrest of Israeli leaders, the US State Department announced that none of the food aid it has delivered via the $320 million pier the US built in Gaza has been distributed to actual Gazans. Instead, food has been looted and stolen, presumably by Hamas, whose members continue to control much of Gaza with an iron fist.

Khan’s outrageous charges of “extermination” and “wilful killing” and “intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population” are patently false.

Major John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute (MWI) at West Point, notes, “In their criticism, Israel’s opponents are erasing a remarkable, historic new standard Israel has set. In my long career

studying and advising on urban warfare for the US military, I’ve never known an army to take such measures to attend to the enemy’s civilian population, especially while simultaneously combating the enemy in the very same building.”

“In fact,” Major Spencer continues, “by my analysis, Israel has implemented more precautions to prevent civilian harm than any military in history – above and beyond what international law requires and more than the US did in its wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.” (I urge you to read Major Spencer’s comments in Newsweek from which these quotes are taken, in full.)

Moreover, Israel is battling Hamas, an entity that deliberately embeds its fighters in civilian centres, uses hospitals as army depots, puts weapons inside mosques and views the people of Gaza as so many human shields. A major NATO report issued in 2014 described this strategy, providing eyewitness proof

of Hamas “firing rockets, artillery, and mortars from or in proximity to heavily populated civilian areas … (e.g. Schools, hospitals, or mosques).” NATO also described Hamas’ cynical attempt to maximise human death tolls in the case of any Israeli attack in order to bring criticism down on Israel and to increase sympathy for Hamas.

“Hamas relies on the Israeli government’s aim to minimise collateral damage and is also aware of the West’s sensitivity towards civilian casualties. Hamas’ use of human shields is therefore … aimed at gaining diplomatic and public opinion-related leverage, by presenting Israel and the IDF as an aggressor that indiscriminately strikes civilians.” A February 2024 letter by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to Hamas members abroad stated this goal plainly, describing increasing civilian casualties in Gaza as a win-win situation for Hamas, fomenting ever more criticism of Israel. Khan is blaming Israel for a humanitarian crisis in Gaza that is entirely Hamas’ own making. In fact, it seems that Khan did no fact-checking on the ground at all. Though he visited Israel and interviewed Israeli survivors of Hamas’ October 7 massacre as part of the case he’s building against (only) three of Hamas’ leaders, Khan has said that he hasn’t visited Gaza since October 7.

The ICC ought to be lauding Israel’s attempts to fight a vicious enemy while sparing a civilian population that Hamas is deliberately putting in harm’s way. The ICC ought to be seeking arrest warrants for the entire leadership of Hamas around the world. By charging Israel and equating them with a savage terrorist organization, the ICC is ultimately tarnishing its own standing in the world and revealing its antisemitic bias.

From left, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant

CONSIDERED OPINION

NOMI KALTMANN COURTESY: TABLET MAGAZINE

My grandfather kept a picture from his childhood school in pre-war Bratislava. Most of his classmates were murdered by the Nazis, but those who survived the Holocaust remained connected for the rest of their lives.

My grandfather, Yossi Kaltmann, always kept a picture of his classmates on his living room mantlepiece. The black-andwhite photograph of him and more than 30 of his peers was always given a place of prominence. For most people, looking at a photo of their school friends is a form of nostalgia. For my zayde, it was a form of remembrance, because most of his classmates were murdered by the Nazis.

Captured during the 1936-37 school year at Bratislava’s Yesodei HaTorah School in Czechoslovakia, the image portrays young Jewish boys aged eight to nine, many of whom would only live a few years more before being killed.

The class photo that my zayde displayed was a duplicate of the only known surviving original. His lifelong friend Ernst Neugroschl, who had grown up with him in Bratislava (formerly known as Pressburg), also survived the war. During the war, Ernst had managed to hide some personal artifacts and photos in the thatching of a roof in Nitra, Slovakia, which he retrieved after the war. The class photo was one of these retrieved items.

My grandfather is pictured third from right in the top row, with Ernst in the same row, sixth from right.

After the war, Ernst, who was an only child and whose parents miraculously also survived, moved to Washington, D.C. My zayde, who was the sole survivor of his family, chose Melbourne. Despite the geographic distance, the two of them always kept in touch.

My zayde and Ernst had the same accent, had both spent time living in Israel after the war, and knew what it was like to survive the destruction of European Jewry. Due to the close bond between the two of them, the Neugroschl family have always felt like my cousins, even though we are not officially related.

Remarkably, the photo that Ernst hid in Nitra had the signatures of many of the boys in their class on the back of it. I love seeing my zayde’s signature, in his childlike scrawl, spelling his name as Jozef Kaltmann, using the German spelling – Joseph – for his first name. Ernst’s name is also found on the back. While most boys seemed to have put their first initial and last name, Ernst and Jozef, always best of friends and always as thick as thieves, wrote their full names. For me, the photo serves as a window into a vibrant Jewish world that has since faded into history. It is also a rare opportunity to see my zayde pictured as a child. He only managed to salvage a few photos of himself after the war, which survived thanks to neighbours who had hidden artifacts for his family. After his parents, sister, and brother were killed, my zayde was the only one left to retrieve the items.

A survivor’s class photo

As far as my zayde and Ernst knew, there were only a few survivors from their school photo and they made sure to send any other known survivors a copy. Zayde kept in touch with Anton Fisher, pictured fifth from left, in the middle of the bottom row. Like Zayde, Fisher also chose to live in Melbourne after the war.

When I spoke to Fisher’s widow, Masha, she was familiar with the photo, as it is the only one that exists of Anton as a child.

Zayde and Ernst also sent a copy to Benny Grunhut, who, at 97 years old, is still alive and lives in Tel Aviv. The photo was very important to the boys who survived.

In an email from 2010, Ernst suggested that my grandfather, who had a legendary memory, sit down with my dad and write down the names of everyone he remembered. Ernst added, “The teacher is Mr. Seidl: He is in the middle of the picture, if you can enlarge that picture and ask your father to write down the names of the boys that he remembers.”

My father recalls sitting with my zayde and doing just that, but regrettably, despite our diligent efforts to find the labelled photo, we were not able to locate it because it has been misplaced. With the passing of my grandfather in 2016 and Ernst’s in 2021, the task of identifying the other boys in this photo raises more questions: How many of them survived? What happened to those who didn’t survive?

As I looked at this photo on the eve of International Holocaust Memorial Day earlier this year, I decided to trace some of them, using their signatures on the back. I know not everyone signed it (for example, Anton’s name is not on the back), but despite knowing that I could not identify everyone, I wanted to see if I could honour the memories of those who had been murdered.

Using the Yad Vashem archives, I began sleuthing.

My first search was for the signature of V. Pessl. Almost immediately, I found him: Valter Pessl. A record of testimony lodged in 1957 records that a child by the same name from Bratislava was murdered in Auschwitz in 1942. As I stared at the record, the weight of history pressed upon me and I couldn’t help but wonder about the untold stories, the stolen potential, and the profound impact that the events of 1942 had on his young life.

My next search for A. Gutnik, another signatory, brought a similarly tragic result. It matched up with a record from Yad Vashem for Alfred Gutnik, also from Bratislava, who was born in 1930 and who died at 12 years of age, after he was deported to Auschwitz in 1942.

As I entered O. Malmed into the Yad Vashem archive, the digital veil lifted to reveal Otto Malmed who, like his classmates, was deported to Auschwitz in 1942 and killed in the concentration camp. He, too, was 12. J. Horovitz seemed to match up to a record of Jakov Horovitz, also from Bratislava and recorded by a family member as not surviving the war.

How does one process the trauma of the tragedy of Jewish history? These are not random people. These were my zayde’s and Ernst’s friends and classmates from the Yesodei HaTorah. They were someone’s children, siblings, relatives and playmates.

More than 80 years on from the Holocaust, how can one comprehend the murder of innocent children?

And yet, there is a certain honour in finding their names and tracing what happened to them. In the almost 90 years since the photo was taken and more than 80 years since so many of these boys were killed, on Earth we say: We remember you. We don’t forget. We bear witness.

From the stories my zayde told me about Yesodei HaTorah in Bratislava, all the boys received a stellar Jewish education. The boys would learn everything by heart; until the day he died, my zayde could recite verses of Torah he learned there.

When I spoke to Ernst’s widow, Joan, she confirmed that Ernst had received the same education: “Before he got ill, Ernst remembered so much baal peh. He knew it offhand. They learned Torah very well. I don’t know, maybe it was the way it was learned, the love they had,” she reflected.

Clearly the bonds between the boys from the Yesodei HaTorah also ran deep. In 2016, when my zayde was in the hospice, dying of cancer at 87, Ernst called him. Despite Zayde being hours from death and delirious, when we told him it was Ernst on the phone, he knew exactly who it was and had one of his last lucid conversation.

While Zayde and Ernst have now both passed, our families remain friends, a testament to friendship between our families that has endured almost 100 years.

Several weeks ago, my sister got married in Jerusalem. We extended invites to our nearest and dearest family members, including the Neugroschl family. To our delight, Ernst’s son Jeff, along with his wife, CB, and four of their five children, would be in Jerusalem on holidays from New York. We were thrilled.

As the photographer took a group photo of all of us, it reminded me of the original group photo that has bonded our families so closely for so many years. There was only one thing to shout out; instead of “cheese”, we said: “Bratislava! Yesodei HaTorah 1937!”

This story originally appeared in Tablet Magazine (https://www.tabletmag.com) and is reprinted with permission.

The author’s grandfather’s class photo (courtesy Melbourne Holocaust Museum)

ALEX FIRST THEATRE REVIEWS

SUNSET BOULEVARD

To bastardise a popular expression, those flying closest to the sun shine brightest before they burn up.

That set of words could be the starting point for the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical (with book and lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton) Sunset Boulevard.

Set in Los Angeles in 1949 and 1950, the villain is Norma Desmond, the biggest star in the days of silent movies and now a recluse.

She has all that money can buy, but little else.

She loved the adulation that was afforded her, but that was a long time ago and now for many neither her name nor her face rings a bell.

Friendless, her butler Max Von Mayerling is the only one who maintains the illusion of fame.

Into that environment steps a down on his luck screenwriter, Joe Gillis, who can’t even pay his debts.

After his car – which is about to be repossessed – breaks down, he lands up at Desmond’s mansion on Sunset Boulevard.

When she discovers he is a writer, she asks him to read a long script she has written.

She hopes it will be the vehicle to catapult her back to stardom, with her –of course – playing the lead role.

Hope springs eternal, but ends in tragedy

She prevails upon Gillis to give the screenplay a spit and polish.

In short, she inveigles him into her life and becomes more and more possessive of him. The consequences are catastrophic.

It is hard to believe that it was almost 30 years ago (1996, in fact) that we saw Debra Byrne playing Norma Desmond, opposite Hugh Jackman, at the Regent Theatre. Now the pivotal part has gone to Sarah Brightman in her first theatrical role in almost three decades.

She made her West End debut in Cats and originated the lead in The Phantom of the Opera on both the West End and

Broadway. This new production about faded glory and unfulfilled ambition – at the Princess Theatre – retains the strong impact it had when I first saw it all those years ago.

The staging, beginning with multiple lace curtaining, is spectacular.

An opulent dark mansion interior set, complete with winding staircase, is a compelling centrepiece for much of the action. The setting is enhanced by the evocative lighting and sound design, along with elegant gowns worn by Sarah Brightman in her role as Desmond.

Black and white projections of Gillis driving his car to Desmond’s home and

her servant driving her to Paramount Pictures works a treat.

Slick choreography from Ashley Wallen and tight direction by Paul Warwick Griffin are other hallmarks of the piece.

With a powerful and enduring stage presence, soprano Brightman, who is noted for her wide vocal range, is suitably melodramatic.

With perfect diction, her vocalisation is often operatic, a sharp contrast to other cast members who adopt a conventional musical theatre tone.

Tim Draxl impresses in his representation of Joe Gillis, a rousing rendition of the title track immediately after interval being among his many highlights. Ashleigh Rubenach has a delightful lightness of touch as the enthusiastic, pretty, young script editor Betty Schaeffer.

She is dating a friend of Gillis’ and is keen to collaborate with Gillis on a redo of one of his earlier screenplays.

Robert Grubb adds gravitas as Desmond’s undyingly loyal attendant.

The company numbers woven into the work are lyrical, colourful and skillfully executed.

Based on the 1950 Billy Wilder film of the same name, Sunset Boulevard, the musical, at Princess Theatre until 11th August, 2024, is potent and polished.

* Please note that Silvie Paladino fills the role of Norma Desmond on Tuesday evening and Wednesday matinee performances.

Neil Simon continues to tickle the funny bone

In New York, two separated guys – best mates – move in together.

They are like chalk and cheese … polar opposites in terms of their approach to life.

One – news writer Felix Ungar – is uptight, angst riddled, awkward and “anal” about cleanliness and cooking.

The other – sportswriter Oscar Madison – is laid back and a slob.

In no time, they drive each other “nuts”. Oscar is frustrated as hell – all but at wit’s end.

That is the straightforward, hilarious contention behind Neil Simon’s play, aptly named The Odd Couple.

It premiered on Broadway in 1965 and was parlayed into an Oscar-nominated film, starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, three years later.

Thereafter followed a well-received television series with Tony Randall and Jack Klugman (1970-1975).

In turn, it was revived in the past decade (2015-2017) with Matthew Perry and Thomas Lennon.

Popular stars Shane Jacobson (Oscar) and Todd McKenny (Felix) assume the key roles in this new Australian production and do a terrific job.

The play starts out with Felix unusually late for a boys’ regular, weekly poker game. It turns out that he has been turfed out of home by his wife and his

five buddies are concerned he could be suicidal.

Distraught and disoriented, Oscar invites Felix to move in to his large, eight room, 12th storey apartment.

Little could he have envisaged just how fraught the relationship between the pair could get.

The straw that breaks the camel’s back is when Oscar invites a couple of English ladies that live in the same building to dinner.

Mayhem ensues.

The Odd Couple is a most enjoyable hoot, although it took me the best part

of the first half to warm to it. Initially, I felt the jokes were dated, but for me the play started to take off after Felix moved in with Oscar.

Jacobson and McKenny capitalised upon the mismatch, as their comedic prowess found full voice (they are such outstanding and natural performers).

It reached a crescendo in Act II, with the introduction of “ditzy blondes” (one plays a brunette, but I am sure you get my meaning), Cecily and Gwendolyn Pigeon.

It is then that the laughs come thick and fast, as Lucy Durack (Cecily) and

Penny McNamee (Gwen) exploit the discomfort involved in their first date with the fellas.

The interactions are a sheer delight. I just kept chuckling and chuckling. I was also acutely aware of the glee all around me.

What a deliciously amusing turn from the ladies.

The physical nature of the comedy gives it an added dimension that elevates the spectacle.

That was also the domain of the lads’ four fellow card players, Laurence Coy (Speed), Anthony Taufa (Murray), John Bachelor (Roy) and Jamie Oxenbould (Vinnie).

I thought the sprawling apartment set, with a fine attention to detail (designed by Justin Nardella), was fabulous.

I also greatly appreciated the evocative costuming. Billy Roache was responsible for that.

The sound and lighting design from Michael Waters and Trudy Dalgleish respectively also hit the mark.

I walked out with a warm smile on my face, feeling good. Surely that is a sign that The Odd Couple has weaved its magic.

Directed by Mark Kilmurry, it is playing at Comedy Theatre until 23rd June, 2024. Incidentally, like the show, the theatre program is rich and colourful.

For more of Alex First’s reviews, go to https://www.itellyouwhatithink.com

Sarah Brightman as Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard (photo by Daniel Boud)

THE ODD COUPLE ALEX FIRST

From left, Todd McKenny and Shane Jacobson, as Felix and Oscar, in The Odd Couple (photo by Pia Johnson)