The Sydney Jewish Report - February edition 2024

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Fostering a closer Jewish community

Education Feature Kosher page 7 Feature

Gil and Mia from Masada KING CHARLES III CollegePROTECTING CORONATION JEWS

BEEN AROUND THE WORLD

UIA MISSIONS

Ameer Jhingoor • Brad Sewitz • Craig Haycock • John Cohen • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh Ameer Jhingoor • Brad Sewitz • Craig Haycock • John Cohen • Justine Cameron • Peter Hersh OAM

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

COMMUNITY New year, new start AROUND

T H E

ANNE-MARIE ELIAS “What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.” – Vern McLellan (author of Wise Words and Quotes) This quote stands out for me because often people wait for something to happen rather than be active participants in bringing about change.

Take time to consider what you want your year to look like and then actively participate to ensure that it can happen.

Here are seven practical tips to not only help you gain traction, but to maintain momentum.

1. Have a daily attitude of gratitude.

In troubling times, we can easily fall into pessimism and critical thinking, so it is imperative to focus on what we are grateful for, no matter how small.

University of California researchers Robert A. Emmons and Michael E. McCullough have found that being grateful is good for our psychological and physiological health.

Living a life with gratitude reduces depression and stress levels, lowers blood pressure and can slow down some of the effects of aging.

JUD AI C A

QUIZ

RABBI DAVID FREEDMAN Thank you to our loyal readers for such positive feedback about Rabbi David Freedman’s original Judaica quiz. We are so pleased this was a feature last year at so many Shabbat and Yom Tov tables, sparking soulful debate with keen minds of all ages and stages.

We are now back with a brand new quiz exclusive to each edition. Rabbi Freedman has a unique ability to weave in and amongst so many Jewish topics and themes, from the bible to Hollywood to Israeli geography to history to culture and more.

Make sure you have a printed copy near and … ready, set, go!

1. Which American Jewish playwright wrote Rosemary's Baby (1967), The Stepford Wives (1972) and The Boys from Brazil (1976)?

2. Which popular Hebrew song, the melody of which is based on a Hassidic Nigun, was composed in 1918 to celebrate the Balfour Declaration and the British victory over the Turks in 1917?

3. When the Israelites arrived at Elim (Exodus 15) name one of the two natural features they found there.

4. Who embarked on a journey to Tarshish but never arrived at his destination?

5. What did Israeli politician Moshe Dwek steal from the Israeli army and then throw at David Ben Gurion while

2. Live a life with intention. This means taking actions and making decisions that are important to you and are true to who you are. Intentional living needs to become an everyday practice because an intentional life brings joy.

3. Energise by getting enough rest and sleep so that your batteries are recharged. We cannot feel our best when we are exhausted. Reducing the risk factors of some chronic illnesses, reenergising can also aid clear thinking.

4. Strengthen and maintain social interactions.

Effective interpersonal relationships ensure that people have better quality of life, are happier and have increased longevity. Scientists have found that that regular socialising can relieve harmful levels of stress, which can adversely affect our heart, gut function, insulin regulation and immune system.

5. Be of service. By helping others, we can feel more fulfilled, as humans

are biologically hardwired to share.

Neuroscientist Jorge Moll found that in helping and giving to others we get a ‘helper’s high’ as a result of releasing feel good hormones, such as endorphins.

These neurotransmitters are addictive, ensuing that we continue this behaviour.

6. The saying, ‘we learn something new every day’ isn’t just a truism. To ensure that we continue to learn, make this a lifelong habit. Learning is particularly important as we get older. Keeping our brains fit and active is vital in helping to stave off memory loss and maintain cognitive function.

Learning should therefore be based on skills requiring active engagement and high-level cognitive processes. This could be learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, engaging in crafts or dancing.

7. Place a priority on maintaining your health by getting a regular health screen, eating well and exercising. Don’t put off that appointment to the doctor, nutritionist or exercise physiologist.

Please do not let being busy get in the way of leading a balanced life. Learn to prioritise, so that well-being can be the foundation of everything you want to do in life.

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

Test your knowledge the Knesset was in session on October 29, 1957?

6. The first El Al flight took place in September 1948 and flew to Tel Aviv. Which European city was the point of origin: a) Athens b) Milan c) Geneva, or d) Amsterdam?

7. Which Israeli, born on 6 December 1981 in Haifa, is an Israeli mentalist and

11. Which Romance language is also called Judeo-Spanish or Judesmo?

12. Who wrote the 1994 novel entitled The Chamber, in which the office of Jewish lawyer Marvin Kramer is bombed, injuring Kramer and killing his two young sons?

13. Who was cursed with the following words: “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your

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

self-described ‘mystifier’ who performs ‘supernatural entertainment’?

8. Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin was the outstanding disciple of which famous 18th century Lithuanian rabbi?

9. In which countries would one have found the Jews of: a) Kaifeng b) Cochin c) Yangon (formerly Rangoon)?

10. The Talmud contains three tractates that begin with the word Bava (Bava Kamma, Bava Metziah & Bava Bathra). What does the Aramaic word Bava mean?

head, and you will strike his heel.”

14. Which is the largest cultural institution in the State of Israel?

15. Which American actor descended from an Ashkenazi Jewish family from Kyiv, Ukraine, and Lai, Romania featured in The Graduate, Midnight Cowboy and Papillon?

16. What is the more popular name for Shir Hakavod (the Song of Glory) which is normally sung towards the end of the Shabbat and Yom Tov services?

17. Name one Hebrew letter that can act as an inseparable preposition.

18. In 1538 Rabbi Jacob Berab (from Safed) attempted to restore the

traditional form of Semichah, rabbinical ordination. What was the name of the most famous student he ordained, a rabbi who compiled the Code of Jewish Law? 19. After three Irgun fighters had been sentenced to death by the British in 1947, the Irgun retaliated by abducting two British sergeants off the streets of which Israeli city?

20. The biblical book Lamentations (in Hebrew – Eichah) was an eyewitness account of which historical event?

21. Which of the five Megillot is read on the festival of Shavuot and why?

22. What was the name of the Swedish diplomat whose actions in German-occupied Hungary saved tens of thousands of Jews during the Shoah?

23. Frederick Austerlitz was born on May 10, 1899. His father’s family were Austrian Jews who converted to Christianity. Austerlitz is widely considered the most influential dancer in the history of film. By what name was he known to the general public?

24. Rabbi Dr. Israel Porush was the senior rabbi of The Great Synagogue, Sydney from 1940 until 1972. In which city was he born?

25. Born in New York in 1935 to Jewish parents, Nettie and Martin Konigsberg, by what name is their son, Allan Stewart Konigsberg better known?

ANSWERS PAGE 24

Honest views on the issues that matter to you

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

AROUND

T H E

COMMUNITY

A big year of Jewish activities planned facets of Israeli society post October 7.

The seminar will examine the relationships

AUJS

between the secular and religious, the

Given recent events in Israel and the subsequent rise of antisemitism in Australia, it is evident that the need for Jewish engagement opportunities is at an all-time high. As students return to campus, there is a growing need for spaces for Jewish students to freely express themselves, discuss difficult issues and openly engage with their Jewish identity.

Being a pluralistic organisation, the Australasian Union of Jewish Students (AUJS) caters to a wide variety of Jewish students from a multitude of backgrounds.

As such, AUJS has curated activities to run throughout the year in order to both engage and satisfy its diverse membership, on campus, regionally and at a federal level.

A popular initiative at The University of Melbourne is AUJS’ weekly kosher lunches.

They are about encouraging Jewish students to meet one another, while also enjoying some free food. The lunches have been well received and are a great way for students – especially those that didn’t grow up in the “Jewish bubble” and those that are new to university – to meet other Jews that also mightn’t know anyone on campus.

right-wing and left-wing and various ethnic groups within Israel.

It will allow participants to critically reflect on their own relationships with Israel and learn how to both advocate for it and be able to criticise it in a constructive manner.

The Jewish Engagement Coordinator and shaliach are also collaborating on the long-awaited revival of the AUJS journal, The Kosher Oyster. It will encourage students to contribute pieces related to their experiences on campus, connection to Israel and Jewish identity.

The Jewish Engagement Coordinator will also be working with AUJS’ Leadership and Development Coordinator to start a semi-frequent video interview series. To AUJS Jewish Engagement Coordinator Miriam Itzkowitz at Accelerate 2023 (photo courtesy Sam Babus)

be called The Tuesday Schmooze, it will allow students to engage with interesting Jews (or Jewish allies) from around the

Regionally, AUJS is aiming to run more

to providing students with a clearer

inter-campus events, especially those

understanding of Israel and Zionism.

Another prospective initiative by AUJS

pertaining to the chaggim. It could be

This year, the AUJS Jewish Engagement

is a debate series, in which students

the annual Purim party, a mock seder

Coordinator

and

would be able to listen to a panel of

for Pesach or “Ted Talks” for Tikkun Leil

shaliach

been

Jews discussing controversial topics.

Shavuot.

working to reimagine the program. As

So, AUJS members have a lot to look

a result, it will provide a comprehensive

forward to in 2024 in terms of Jewish

political and Jewish overview of several

engagement opportunities.

Federally, in 2021 AUJS launched Accelerate,

a

seminar

ONE PEOPLE

SHOULDER TO SHOULDER UNITING HEARTS REHABILITATING ISRAEL

Always there for the People of Israel

uiaaustralia.org.au

dedicated

Miriam

Tobias

Itzkowitz

Siegel

have

world.

the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

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COMMUNITY Rebuilding the dream A RO UND

T H E

UIA UIA Australia will host Major General (retired) Doron Almog and Michal Uziyahu as the guests of honour for its 2024 Campaign Gala Events in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth in March. The guest speakers for the 2024 Campaign Gala represent the essence of Israel and bring with them stories of inspiration, pain, heroism and resilience.

Major General Almog is one of Israel’s greatest military heroes. As Chairman of the Executive of The Jewish Agency for Israel, he heads one of the most critical national institutions in the country. He is tasked with not only rebuilding the South, but with its continued mandate of supporting critical national projects across Israel and the Jewish world.

Almog has been directly affected by the October 7 massacre, having lost close relatives, enduring the pain of some who were held captive by Hamas and then released and having to deal with the uncertainty of those still held in Gaza.

Uziyahu works with the Eshkol Regional Council, which consists of 32 communities along the Israeli border of Israel and Gaza. She is working directly with the regional Mayor to develop the region’s response to the trauma endured. Only a couple of weeks after the October 7 slaughter, Uziyahu joined UIA for one of the most powerful webinars ever conducted. Amidst her intense personal

Major General (retired) Doron Almog

Michal Uziyahu

and communal pain, she left us with these enduring words: “we are grieving, but we will rebuild.” She is also a former shlicha of The Jewish Agency for Israel in Colorado.

This year’s Campaign Gala Events will provide a unique opportunity for the community to come together, express support, mourn, provide tangible assistance and show solidarity in a manner that has not been needed in more than 50 years. It is a chance to stand up and be counted as part of the local community, and to continue to stand with our brothers and sisters in Israel and around the world as we face one of the greatest challenges of this generation.

As Uziyahu said in that emotional webinar: “How can we do this from

the crisis and devastation? Together, Yachad.” Now is our chance to come together as one community, with one goal of rebuilding and rehabilitating Israel.

“This year’s UIA events will be unlike any held in the Jewish community for decades. The intense feelings and emotions that have been displayed by our community for the past four months will be channelled into an inspiring, powerful and uplifting experience that can only be achieved by coming together, standing united and joining in solidarity. The annual UIA events are always one of our community’s most powerful communal experiences and this year will be no different. I genuinely hope that every member of our community will use this opportunity to

connect and reflect in a most meaningful way,” said UIA Australia CEO Yair Miller.

Attendance at the events will send a strong and clear message through Major General Almog and Uziyahu that our community, as part of the global Keren Hayesod-UIA family, stands firmly with them and all those impacted by the atrocities of October 7, the subsequent war and the rise in global antisemitism.

“The community’s presence at our Campaign Gala Events is crucial in enabling us to embrace the power of unity and compassion. Stand with us, attend our events and show the extraordinary strength within our community. This year, more than ever, Israel needs our unwavering support,” said UIA Australia President Esther Frenkiel OAM. Bookings are now open for the Sydney and Melbourne events at uiaaustralia. org.au/upcoming-events. Bookings for Perth will open soon.

Further announcements regarding event details will be made in due course.

NSW General Division – Sunday 3 March Women’s Division – Sunday 17 March VIC General Division – Wednesday 6 March Women’s Division – Tuesday 19 March WA General Division – Thursday 7 March Women’s Division – Thursday 21 March Follow UIA on Facebook and Instagram (@uiaaus) to stay up to date on its 2024 Campaign events.

STAND SHOULDER TO SHOULDER: UNITING HEARTS REHABILITATING ISRAEL

2024 UIA GALA EVENT

CHAIRMAN JEWISH AGENCY FOR ISRAEL

MICHAL UZIYAHU ESHKOL REGIONAL COUNCIL

SUNDAY 3 MARCH

5.30pm for 6pm | $36 Book at www.uiaaustralia.org.au

TH RE BO E B O DRUIL K E D N A O M W

DORON ALMOG

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

COMMUNITY Antisemitism in the firing line AROUND

T H E

AJA In a significant move aimed at bolstering community engagement and fostering dialogue, Teneille Murray, former Executive Director of the Zionist Council of NSW, has been appointed as the new Community Engagement Director of the Australian Jewish Association (AJA). With a wealth of experience in community leadership and a strong commitment to promoting unity and understanding, Murray is set to make significant strides in enhancing community connections and combating antisemitism.

As Community Engagement Director at AJA, Murray aims to build upon the organisation's mission by organising a series of talks and events. These gatherings will serve as platforms for community members, synagogues and other organisations to engage in meaningful discussions on various topics, fostering greater understanding and unity.

AJA President Dr David Adler and CEO Robert Gregory have already addressed numerous synagogues and groups across Australia.

Gregory said Murray’s appointment heralds an exciting chapter for the AJA. "Her expertise and commitment to community engagement make her the ideal leader to spearhead our efforts in

AJA’s new Community Engagement Director, Teneille Murray

combating antisemitism and promoting dialogue."

Indeed, the fight against antisemitism remains paramount. AJA Tzedakah, which is focused on combatting antiJewish sentiment, recently conducted a successful Charidy campaign, in which it greatly exceeded its $150,000 goal.

The campaign's success highlights the community's solidarity and determination to fight hate. "The

overwhelming support for our Charidy campaign underscores our community's solidarity and support," said Murray. "It demonstrates our collective resolve to combat hatred in all forms."

As Community Engagement Director, Murray will leverage this momentum to develop strategies and initiatives in collaboration with community leaders, organisations and individuals. Her aim is to promote dialogue, understanding and

unity while addressing hate. In the months ahead, Murray will work to inspire others to join the fight against antisemitism. Her leadership, combined with her passion and advocacy experience, positions her well to support the AJA’s already successful endeavours in community engagement and activism.

AJA has had strong growth in membership recently from younger members of the Jewish community.

Murray will specifically be organising events for Jewish youth.

“In the face of the tragic events in Israel on October 7th, it is more crucial than ever to stand united against antisemitism. We must not only condemn such acts of hatred, but also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to combating such hatred in all its forms.

I am committed to representing our community with strength and resilience. I am determined to ensure that the voices of the Australian Jewish community are heard and respected,” Murray said.

With her on board, the future of the AJA looks even brighter and with it comes the promise of continued progress and impact in the years to come.

If you would like to arrange for a speaker from AJA to address your congregation or group, please contact Teneille Murray at office@jewishassociation.org.au

EDUCATION FEATURE

Reece Abbott (front) and Jack Green from Year 1 at Moriah College

education feature

Moriah welcomes new principal MORIAH COLLEGE The start of the 2024 academic year heralds a new era for Moriah College with Mira Hasofer assuming the role of College principal. Her appointment as the first Moriah graduate and the first woman to hold this esteemed position marks an exciting chapter as the College solidifies its position as a cornerstone of Jewish education in Sydney.

Mrs Hasofer is an exceptional leader that embodies the essence of Moriah’s values and ethos. Her dedication to education, her ability to inspire and her knack for bringing people together are special. As a proud Moriah alumna, she deeply understands the institution's core principles.

Introducing herself to the Moriah community, Mira shared her "28 thoughts", which have been her guiding light since graduating from high school.

“Returning to Moriah 28 years after graduating holds deep significance for me. The number 28, made up of the letters Kaf and Chet, form the word Koach – strength. Over the years, I have clung to the foundations – lilmod, lishmor, velaasot (to learn, to heed and to act) – that I have held close since my College days. There has not been a day that these have not featured in my life. I come home to Moriah energised with strength and anticipation for the

Moriah College’s new principal Mira Hasofer future,” she said. Her insights range from the importance of hard work and selfimprovement to the values of simplicity, humility and collective action.

“I try to be kind to myself, slow to judge others, to practice the pause and to map out the future, but always with a pencil,” she said.

“Following in the footsteps of the inspirational leaders of Moriah College during my time as a student, I am passionate about fostering within students a desire to achieve their personal best, a commitment to act with kindness, to celebrate learning and to take responsibility for shaping a Jewish

future that we can all be proud of,” Mira said.

“In this new role for 2024, my priorities will include a focus on academic excellence through exceptional secular and Jewish education, and attracting and retaining the most outstanding educators and support staff.

The role aligns itself with my personal values of chesed, tzedek and derech eretz and an education that draws on the potential of every student and speaks to their core being. Let us seize the moment and unite with Koach as a community. Together, may we build upon the incredible 80-year history of dedication, commitment and love for Jewish education in Sydney, ensuring a bright future for our children and generations to come.”

With Mira Hasofer at the helm, Moriah College is poised for a future filled with growth and promise.

Moriah's Open Week, from 25 February to 1 March, is an opportunity to meet Mira Hasofer, along with members of the College leadership team and dedicated educators.

You can explore Moriah’s Early Learning Centres, Primary School and High School and experience the vibrant educational journey, Jewish life and strong sense of community.

For more information and to register, go to www.moriah.nsw.edu.au

‘Just say hello’ – fostering a culture of kindness and respect MORIAH COLLEGE In a busy school community, it's easy to get caught up in daily routines and overlook the people around you.

However, a simple act can go a long way in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

That's

why

Moriah

is

launching its ‘Just say hello’ campaign, which encourages students and staff members to take a moment to connect with one another.

The idea behind the campaign is simple yet powerful. It is about making a conscious effort to acknowledge the presence of others, offering a friendly greeting and creating a school culture that prioritises kindness, respect, and inclusivity.

“As we move from class-to-class being preoccupied with our own thoughts is a daily occurrence, so taking a moment to say ‘hello’ can make someone's day brighter and foster a sense of belonging,” said College principal Mira Hasofer. “When we greet each other, we show that we care, that we see each other as individuals, that we value our school community and that we have a sense of belonging.”

For students, this campaign is an opportunity

to

build

meaningful

connections

with

peers

and

staff

“Connection” is the key to Moriah College’s new ‘Just say hello’ campaign members. It can be as simple as smiling and saying ‘hello’ in the classroom or taking a moment to chat during lunch.

These small gestures can lead to lasting friendships and a more positive school experience.

For staff members, ‘Just say hello’ is a reminder of the impact they have on students' lives. By modelling kindness and respect through their interactions, they set the tone for a school environment where everyone feels valued.

Building a friendly and respectful culture doesn't just happen overnight.

It requires the collective effort of every member of the school community. ‘Just say hello’ is a step in that direction, encouraging everyone to be more aware of each other, to notice one another and to be genuinely friendly and kind.

“As we embark on this campaign, the message is to remember that ‘hello’ is more than just a word – it's a bridge

that connects us, a reminder of our shared humanity, and a symbol of the community we strive to create,” said Mrs Hasofer. “So we’re encouraging our whole school community, parents, grandparents, everyone, to ‘just say hello’.

Together we can help build a school where every voice is heard and every person is valued. Let’s create a welcoming and inclusive environment that we can all be proud of.”

Mazaltov

CLASS OF 2023

We are so proud of your achievements and contribution to the life of the College, and the community.

11 NSW Top All-Rounders Above 90 (Band 6) in at least 10 units of study

Omri Weininger

ATAR 99.9

Orli Lechem, David Miller, Lexi Wunsh

ATAR 99+

(top 1% of the state)

7%

ATAR 95+

(top 5% of the state)

29%

ATAR 90+

ATAR 80+

(top 10% of the state)

(top 20% of the state)

51%

77%

81 TOP 2 BANDS 95 TOP 3 BANDS % OF RESULTS IN THE

% OF RESULTS IN THE

66% of students placed on the Distinguished Achievers List

Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our amazing teachers. The support provided to our students surpasses all expectations, reflecting a commitment that goes above and beyond.

12 STATE RANKINGS

BIOLOGY - 7th & 11th in State BUSINESS SERVICES - 2nd in State CLASSICAL HEBREW CONTINUERS - 2nd, 4th & 5th in State CLASSICAL HEBREW EXTENSION - 2nd, 3rd & 4th in State

DUX - based on academic performance during 2023

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EARLY OFFERS FOR UNIVERSITY

19 overall nominations for Visual Arts, D&T, Music, Drama and Dance Showcases of exemplary HSC Major Works, and 2 selections: ART EXPRESS and Music ENCORE

MODERN HEBREW CONTINUERS - 2nd in State PDHPE - 8th in State STUDIES OF RELIGION II - 2nd in State

MORIAH IS ONCE AGAIN RANKED ONE OF THE TOP 4 ACADEMICALLY NON-SELECTIVE, INDEPENDENT, CO-EDUCATIONAL SCHOOLS IN NSW Booklet of Achievements of the Class of 2023 >

OnShow digitial exhibition of Major Works >

education feature

A positive future

This gives us opportunities to hear differing viewpoints and perspectives and to learn from others. It allows us to practice true friendship, acceptance, kindness and what is so important at Masada College – menschlichkeit – the qualities of kindness, decency and humaneness.

As the new principal, what can we look forward to in 2024?

As the North Shore community is evolving, Masada College is privileged

to increasingly act as a central hub for North Shore Jewish community events.

We feel that it is our purpose to enable the North Shore Jewish community to come together with pride in our shared Jewish identity and traditions.

Deeply embedded in the College is the ‘Cultures of Thinking’ educational philosophy, from Harvard’s ‘Project Zero’.

Jewish culture prizes intellectual depth and rigour and at Masada, this is at the heart of what we do, and we do this using our special educational method – ‘Cultures of Thinking’.

It is based on the idea that learning is a consequence of thinking and it is through intellectual curiosity … questioning, that we think. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel said: “We are closer to God when we question than when we think we have the answers.”

At Masada, we purposefully raise young people who are intellectually curious, questioning, creative, confident, entrepreneurial thinkers. In my short time at the College, this has been clearly evident.

Ultimately, Masada College is changing as it grows, with shifting demographics. And as we morph into the Masada of the future, we will continue to honour our history and traditions, and raise intellectually resilient, hardworking, kind, entrepreneurial young people … future leaders in their communities.

has been instrumental in guiding our graduates toward success,” said principal Raquel Charet. The year proved to be exceptionally challenging as the onset of the HSC exams coincided with the devastating massacre of Jewish people in Israel on October 7th.

“Despite these overwhelming circumstances, our students demonstrated remarkable resilience, drawing upon their inner strength to not only sit for their exams, but also excel, achieving top performances in the

state,” said Mrs Charet. “This resilience exemplifies the essence of a Masada graduate,” she said.

“We are incredibly proud of the graduating class of 2023, who have transformed into outstanding young adults, leaving an indelible mark on our College. As they embark on the next chapter of their lives, may they carry their achievements with pride and face the future with anticipation. We extend our best wishes to each graduate.”

MASADA COLLEGE Raquel Charet took over as principal of Masada College in Term 4 last year.

She arrived at Masada with a strong educational background, having been principal at other independent schools for over a decade.

With an eye on the upcoming year and future developments at Masada, The Jewish Report spoke with Mrs Charet.

You have now had a term to settle into Masada College. How have you found it? Has anything surprised you?

Stepping into the role of Masada College principal on the 9th October 2023 was certainly challenging. However, I was deeply touched by the immediate sense of familiarity, connectivity and safety that I felt in returning to work in the Jewish community, especially at such a sensitive and complex time in our history. The solidarity of community that I immediately felt at Masada was palpable and the commitment to acts of goodness and kindness to generate light in times of darkness was truly uplifting.

What makes Masada different to any other Jewish school? What is it that you offer students and parents?

I know that I am walking in the footsteps of giants who came before me and I am learning about the unique history and rich foundations on which the school

Masada College principal Raquel Charet speaking with Year 2 students Ariella Miller (left) and Ross Greenberg was founded. Without a doubt, Masada College has the most diverse student body of any Jewish school in Australia.

I am enjoying seeing Jewish families of different denominations and differing levels of observance coming together with a shared sense of identity and tradition.

In addition to our diverse Jewish community, Masada College welcomes non-Jewish students from across the globe.

Strong HSC results MASADA COLLEGE Masada College is extremely proud of what its students achieved in the HSC in 2023, with their dedication and hard work having borne fruit. The school particularly excelled in Modern Hebrew, Mathematics, Music, Visual Arts, Business Studies, PDHPE and the Sciences.

With an ATAR of 99.15, the dux of the year was Jonty Bornstein. His strategy for maintaining motivation during Year 12 involved breaking down tasks, celebrating small victories and seeking help.

“The Masada mentoring program was incredibly beneficial to me. Our regular discussions gave me a safe space to address concerns and strategise for success,” he said. “Working with my mentor helped me stay focused, reduce anxiety and feel more confident.” Jonty is planning to study actuarial studies at university this year.

Thirty-nine per cent of Masada students had an ATAR of more than 90 and 60 per cent of pupils on the Distinguished Achievers List achieved a Band 6 in one or more of their subjects.

All their accelerated Modern Hebrew Continuers secured a Band 6. Year 11 student Asher Hasofer placed third in the state and fellow year pupil Rebecca Roozendaal fourth. Kris Yang was another top achiever, placing fifth in Chinese and Literature.

Masada College’s 2023 Year 12 cohort Visual Arts’ student Leah Reinhardt was nominated for consideration in ArtExpress, as part of the HSC Showcase in 2024 for her outstanding body of work titled "Rights of Passage".

In a testament to the collective efforts of the students and educators, Masada College ranked 66th in NSW out of over 550 schools in the Sydney Morning Herald Rankings.

“I extend a heartfelt thanks to our dedicated teaching and administrative staff, whose unwavering support

education feature

Nurturing the next generation MOUNT SINAI COLLEGE At Mount Sinai College (MSC), each child is recognised as unique. The school’s early childhood educators are dedicated to nurturing autonomy, resilience and the ability to make choices and decisions. Through thoughtful and creative interactions, they empower children to become imaginative and confident learners.

As an Early Learning Centre, MSC’s mission is to lay a strong foundation for future success. The College strives to instill a love for learning, a sense of community and a deep appreciation for Jewish traditions in each child.

There are many facets of social and emotional learning that the school takes into consideration. These include: • Self-awareness (recognising one’s emotions and values as well as one’s strengths and challenges); • Self-management (managing emotions and behaviours to achieve one’s goals); • Social awareness (showing understanding and empathy for others); • Relationship skills (forming positive relationships, working in teams and dealing effectively with conflict); and • Responsible decision-making (making ethical and constructive choices about personal and social behaviour).

Mount Sinai’s recently refurbished ELC Kingsford Campus (ages 2-3) and ELC Maroubra Campus (ages 3-5) are seamlessly integrated into the College’s practices and ethos. Weekly visits from the school’s rabbi results in valuable insights, while the Jewish Studies and Hebrew teacher provides engaging lessons, enhancing the children's connection to their heritage.

The inclusion of weekly music and PE lessons contributes to a comprehensive educational experience, ensuring a seamless transition for young learners as they enter kindergarten.

The Preparatory program, located on the main campus, is designed to familiarise students with daily school life, ensuring a seamless transition to Year K. Fostering a strong sense of community, the 'Big Friend Small Friend' program pairs each Year 5 student with a prep student, allowing them to build meaningful relationships through engaging activities. The school readiness program helps children to formally prepare for school. It is the little things, like being part of the College Community, using the College facilities and a buddy program that makes students feel immediately at ease.

You can book a personalised tour at www.mountsinai.nsw.edu.au. For more information, email enrol@mountsinai. nsw.edu.au.

Natan Kaiserblueth and Elle Philips enjoying their time at Mount Sinai College’s Early Learning Centre

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

Mount Sinai College strives to build a community of transformative learning with integrity embedded in modern Orthodox Jewish values. Blending the best of our Australian and Jewish heritage and fostering a love of Israel, Mount Sinai College’s nurturing family environment seeks to instill social and ethical values in each child, and to develop a respect for self and others.

ELC Kingsford Campus (ages 2–3), ELC Maroubra Campus (ages 3–5), Primary School Year K–6.

BOOK A TOUR TODAY: enrol@mountsinai.nsw.edu.au

education feature

A passion for social change TESS ENDREY (CLASS OF 2023) EMANUEL SCHOOL I believe social change is not something that happens; it’s a reaction to a disturbance to one’s core. Everyone can be a changemaker because there will always be a cause someone can be drawn to. I connect deeply with Autism Awareness, as my sister has autism. I have seen firsthand the lack of understanding that exists and how that leads to so many misconceptions.

I think it’s important for young people to find the causes they are passionate about, helping to create understanding and support in the community. I believe my generation is particularly passionate, driven and energetic. All these values, linked with learning the ability to speak up, can create the next generation of fearless leaders.

Through the Social Action Va’ad (committee), as well as establishing my own space in the School to talk about Autism Awareness, I have learnt the importance of how one small thought can make a bigger difference than many realise. Establishing this mentality and values in today’s youth can lead to even bigger change that can shape us and help others for the rest of our lives.

Within this context, the Social Action Va’ad has been such an important space for change-making. Our group’s

Emanuel School class of 2023 graduation assembly focus grew as we brainstormed the conversations we could start with our peers. We recognised the importance of raising awareness and teaching others about the profound effects that proactive social action can have.

We supported White Ribbon Day over a week, focusing on encouraging discussion and action around violence against women. We raised money with a plain clothes day and a sausage

sizzle, and held the screening of a short film around the topic of incel-related gendered violence. We also created a pop-up second-hand clothing store, with community-donated pre-loved clothes, which was a resounding success. All the proceeds were donated to the White Ribbon Foundation.

On the last day, to show our support, we distributed white ribbons to all students and staff.

We supported Wear it Purple Day and World Pride. During Reconciliation Week, we discussed the importance of the Uluru Statement of the Heart with younger students, while older students learnt about the importance of the referendum and how they could make an educated vote. This was done through tutor group lessons and a lunchtime screening of a short film, which revealed the extent of Indigenous incarceration in our country.

Our final and largest event of the year was our Night of Dangerous Discourse, establishing a much-needed conversation on Australia’s relationship with Youth Justice. We had an amazing group of panellists whose areas of expertise covered a wide range of perspectives on the justice system. One of the key take away messages was the importance of collaborating with communities affected by these issues, especially Indigenous communities, in order for our government and society to create systems that adequately address the root causes of juvenile crime. An important aspect of this is to provide resources to support the mental health and familial circumstances of many of these young people.

Being a part of the Social Action Va’ad was an incredible opportunity to help further develop my passion for social change and the knowledge to help me make informed decisions.

SCAN TO HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS

CLASS OF 2023 OUR TOP RESULTS AT A GLANCE ALL-ROUND ACHIEVERS ACHIEVED BAND 6/E4 FOR 10 OR MORE UNITS

HSC SHOWCASES The best of the best OnSTAGE

Arielle Melamed ATAR 99.65

Joshua Leslie ATAR 99.55

Dan Blecher ATAR 99.10

Jake Newfield ATAR 98.65

Jesse Carpenter ATAR 98.30

“Emanuel School is a place where I have never stopped growing.”

TESS ENDREY, CLASS OF 2023

MENSCHES OF THE YEAR

RUBY GRYNBERG AND ADAM ROTHSCHILD

Well-rounded graduates:

100%

Non-selective Co-educational Schools State Ranking: 11th Overall State Ranking: 65th

Ella Hart ATAR 98.25

Ma’ayan Granot ATAR 97.50

HSC TOP ACHIEVERS LIST ELLA ENGLER 5th in the State Modern Hebrew Continuers ASHLEY GOLDMAN 17th in the State Legal Studies

CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE ARIELLE MELAMED Top 10 in the State Extension History Major Work

MA’AYAN GRANOT (Behind the Wheel) Individual Performance (nominated) RUBY MILLER (Falling) Individual Performance (nominated) SCOTT REUVENY (Fine Young Men) Individual Performance (nominated) TESS ENDREY, MA’AYAN GRANOT, RUBY MILLER AND SCOTT REUVENY Group Performance of The Crown (nominated)

Encore JAMIE SCHNEIDER Individual Performance (nominated) ZOE NEBENZAHL Individual Performance (nominated)

education feature

New high school leadership achieving academic distinction KESSER TORAH COLLEGE In a stride towards educational excellence, Kesser Torah College (KTC) ushers in a new era with the appointment of James Mulhall as the head of high school.

This pivotal move heralds a period of transformative growth and a renewed commitment to the school’s vision to “Grow Minds and Nurture Character – Guided By The Torah.”

With a rich background of fostering academic achievements in Sydney's top-tier schools, Mulhall brings a fusion of heartfelt empathy and unmatched expertise to KTC. His appointment has been met with acclaim, with principal Rabbi Chaiton lauding him as a perfect match for the school's ethos, describing him as a "strategic and thoughtful leader" and an "excellent cultural fit”.

This development coincides with KTC's surge in growth and its pursuit of academic distinction in secular education, while continuing to excel in its renowned Jewish Studies program.

Mulhall attributes the school's recent triumphs, including its success in the 2023 HSC, to its intimate class settings, a team of devoted educators and the cultivation

Kesser Torah Eisenberg

College

dux

Hillel

of student body engagement. In his new capacity, Mulhall will oversee all operational aspects of the high school, striving to elevate both academic standards and administrative efficiency.

Under Mulhall's guidance, KTC is set to embrace a strategy that prioritises datainformed teaching, consistent discipline policies and academic enrichment.

His forward-thinking approach and initiatives signal a bright and promising horizon for the high school, sparking enthusiasm among the KTC community.

Kesser Torah College new head of high school, James Mulhall

‫בס״ד‬

Over 50% of the Kesser Torah College HSC cohort received early entry offers into Law, Business, Accounting and Psychology

Mazel Tov to our entire graduating class!

First in State Hillel Eisenberg Classical Hebrew Continuers

First in State Hillel Eisenberg Classical Hebrew Extension

Third in State Chana Schapiro Classical Hebrew Continuers

Fifth in State Chana Schapiro Classical Hebrew Extension

Preparing our students for every journey! Our Kesser Torah College graduates continue their tertiary level education at select, world class institutions around the world.

Ohel Chana

Yeshiva Gedolah

We grow minds and nurture character - guided by the Torah.

education feature

A Jewish journey well worth taking BJE From celebrating the richness of Jewish festivals to engaging in vibrant educational programs, BJE’s Jewish Journey enables students to grow intellectually and spiritually.

Students explore and learn about a range of engaging and relevant topics and identify the importance of tradition in preserving Judaism. This is done through discussions about some of the unique practices that have been passed down within their own families. They talk about how these traditions continue to enrich their lives by creating a sense of family and community. BJE is introducing Learning Hubs, designed as welcoming, dynamic workspaces outside a classroom setting.

They are specifically tailored to primary and high school students enrolled in nonJewish schools.

The BJE Hub was launched in Bondi Junction earlier this week. In Term 2, BJE hopes to open a second Learning Hub in Sydney’s southeastern suburbs.

Children will have the opportunity to come together and develop new friendships while participating in meaningful and engaging collective learning experiences. BJE’s youth leaders, ShinShinim and experienced educators bring Jewish culture alive with experiential opportunities around Festivals, traditions and collective values.

BJE’s Youth Engagement team, including its two Shinshinim (our youth leaders from Israel), plays a significant role in creating and facilitating experiences and social

networking in BJE’s Jewish Journey. The team develops and coordinates a variety of educational programs in schools, in the BJE Hubs, at Shabbatons and at camps.

The Youth Engagement team is integral to the Year 10 Nesiah Israel program.

As part of their service, the Shinshinim are passionate about informing the community, specifically young people, about Israel. They have started a regular podcast – targeting students and adults – on which they discuss different elements of Israeli society.

BJE is thankful for their commitment to the organisation and appreciates the local families that have agreed to host them during their year in Sydney. If you are interested in hosting Shinshinim, please contact Jo (jo@bje.nsw.edu.au) or Ronnen (ronnen@bje.nsw.edu.au).

The Natif Bar/Batmitzvah program is a hands-on, experiential educational program designed to explore coming of age through Jewish identity. It starts by developing an understanding of Jewish identity and what this means to each of the participants. The concept of gratitude and how to practice it is discussed, as is how to be more empathetic towards others by demonstrating compassion.

The course includes a session facilitated

by Stand Up and Koori Kinnections, in which participants learn about First Nations, their cultural heritage and similarities to our own Jewish customs and rituals. The program concludes with a graduation celebration, in which students make a short presentation reflecting on the program and expressing gratitude to their parents.

To find out more about BJE, reach out to info@bje.nsw.edu.au or call 9365-7900.

Members of the BJE team

the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

CO NS I D E R E D

OPINION

DR YVETTE ALT MILLER COURTESY: AISH.COM Countries are pulling their funding from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the United Nations body that performs essential social services in Gaza and elsewhere, due to allegations that at least a dozen of their employees helped plan and took part in the October 7 pogrom, which saw over 1,400 Israelis murdered, raped and kidnapped.

It’s about time. For generations, United Nations employees have spread hate and radicalisation, and made true peace between Israel and Palestinian Arabs all but impossible. Here are nine facts about the UN in Gaza and how it has fomented violence through the years.

1. The UN treats Palestinian refugees differently from all other refugees in the world Nearly all refugees around the world are aided by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, founded in 1921 by the League of Nations and today run by the United Nations. The High Commissioner for Refugees mandate is “protecting people forced to flee and those left stateless” by international conflicts, and it works around the world to provide emergency help to those forced to flee their homes. It estimates that currently it is aiding 108.4 million people who’ve been displaced from their homes, often by resettling refugees in new countries.

There is one exception to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees’ work. Any Arab who lived – or who had an ancestor who lived – in any land which today is Israel, Gaza, or the West Bank between June 1, 1946 and May 15, 1948, and was displaced from the location they resided during those two years, is taken care of by a special UN refugee agency: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Founded by the United Nations in 1949, after the establishment of the state of Israel, and the subsequent war against it launched by its Arab neighbours, UNRWA is the only UN agency created to care for a specific refugee population. It also defines “refugee” very differently from the rest of the UN. 2. UNRWA defines refugee as a permanent state In 1951, the UN Convention and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees specified that a person is no longer a refugee if they have found a home in a new country and been granted citizenship in their new home.

UNRWA alone ignores this landmark ruling: when it comes to Palestinian Arabs, becoming a citizen of another country has no effect on refugee status. Arabs who resided in presentday Israel between 1946 and 1948 and left are thus permanent refugees, counted as stateless by the United Nations, even if they’ve acquired citizenship in the United States, Jordan, Britain or elsewhere. What’s more, their children and grandchildren are all considered refugees as well.

In 1965, seeing that many Palestinian Arabs were building new lives for themselves, UNRWA changed their definition of refugee (only for Palestinian Arabs): children and grandchildren of refugees would be considered refugees too. UNRWA changed their rules again in 1982, saying that all descendants through the male line – including adopted children – are refugees, forever, no matter their citizenship status or where in the world they were born or live.

3. UNRWA creates the false perception that Israel will disappear By defining refugees so broadly, UNRWA is ensuring that those descended from people who once lived in present-day Israel harbor plans to return to their ancestors’ former homes. While the UN High Commissioner for Refugees considers it a success when refugees settle in safe countries, UNRWA regards any life that their “refugees” build for themselves as temporary.

Today, UNRWA considers 5.9 million people around the world to be Palestinian refugees.

By classifying them as refugees – for most people, a temporary designation – UNRWA creates the false perception that the only desirable situation is for these refugees to return to the original spaces their ancestors once lived in.

17

UN workers helped Hamas attack Israel Mutterings

Stoking this false hope encourages people to consider Israel a temporary impediment to their ultimate goal. “UNRWA became a central mechanism in keeping a permanent question mark over the existence of a Jewish state,” explains Israeli politician and writer Einat Wilf.

4. UNRWA encourages apartheid in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria Israel is often erroneously accused of being an apartheid country these days. Ironically, Palestinian Arabs do experience apartheid in some Middle Eastern Arab countries, including Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, where UNRWA operates “refugee camps”, which have grown through the years to become massive towns and cities.

In Jordan, the UNRWA counts 2,307,011 Palestinian refugees. According to UNRWA, “most” have Jordanian citizenship, yet the UN still considers them refugees. 18 per cent of the Palestinian population in Jordan lives in ten areas UNRWA maintains as refugee camps (including inside the capital city, Amman), benefiting from UNRWA funded schools, health clinics, financial loans and other services. In recent decades, Jordanian authorities have arbitrarily revoked the citizenship of thousands of Palestinian refugees in their country, an act made much easier by the presence of UNRWA to provide documentation, services and diplomatic representation for the “refugees” in their midst.

UNRWA operates nine “refugee camps” (often towns and cities or neighbourhoods in cities) in Syria, helping a total of 575,234 “refugees” in that country. Syria has never offered citizenship to Palestinian refugees, including their children and grandchildren.

Instead of working with the Syrian authorities to obtain citizenship or working to settle these Palestinian Arabs in a new country where they could become citizens, UNRWA has encouraged them to remain in Syria, where they are second-class citizens.

In Lebanon, most Palestinian refugees and their descendants are outcasts, denied citizenship and basic rights, such as freedom to work and access to schools. Rather than agitate for greater integration or help settle them somewhere else, UNRWA operates nine refugee camps and 64 schools, sustaining a population of 489,282 permanent refugees.

It’s an intolerable situation that wouldn’t be accepted by any other UN agency.

5. The UN allows Hamas to avoid the hard task of governing Gaza It was often supposed that when confronted with the reality of governing, Hamas would become more moderate. That never was

the case: Hamas has remained a fanatical, rigid, Islamist group, which oppresses LGBTQ+ people, women, Christians and political dissenters, and is implacably devoted to Israel’s destruction. That’s in part because of UNRWA’s presence in Gaza.

UNRWA allows Hamas to avoid the hard task of governing Gaza by doing much of the day-to-day work of looking after Gaza’s people for them. In Gaza, UNRWA operates 183 schools and 22 doctors’ offices. That’s 183 schools and 22 medical centres that Hamas doesn’t have to fund and run, leaving Hamas free to devote its money to building a network of fortified bunkers and tunnels throughout the area and building up a massive army and supply of weapons.

With an annual budget of about US $1.6 billion, UNRWA employs over 34,000 people.

(In comparison, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, which aids a much larger population, has a staff of about 18,000.) That represents a massive investment in Gaza’s day-to-day functioning, which Hamas did not have to make.

6. Gaza’s UN schools teach hatred of Jews and Israelis UNRWA produces many of the textbooks it uses in the hundreds of schools it runs. For years, many of these books have been riddled with hatred for Jews and Israel. UN Watch, an independent organisation monitoring the UN, recently combed hundreds of UNRWA textbooks and observed UNRWA schools.

It found: “Teachers and schools at the UN agency that runs education and social services for Palestinians regularly call to murder Jews, and create teaching materials that glorify terrorists, encourage martyrdom, demonise Israelis and incite antisemitism….”

Some of the most egregious examples of antisemitism came from UNRWA schools in Gaza. In one typical example, UNRWA’s AlZaytun Elementary School in Gaza included lessons for 5th graders glorified Dalal Mughrabi, a female terrorist who landed in a boat on Israel’s shores in 1978 and helped carry out the “Coastal Road Massacre”, hijacking two busses and shooting and lobbing grenades at passing cars. 38 Israelis were murdered, including 13 children and many more were injured. UNRWA teachers called Mughrabi a “hero” to emulate.

7. UNRWA allows Hamas to use its facilities UNRWA schools and medical buildings in Gaza have been found to conceal entrances to Hamas-built tunnels inside them.

Tzipi Hotovely, Israel’s Ambassador to Great Britain, recently described the situation in Gaza: “Every school, every mosque, every second house” conceals a Hamas entrance,

weapons depot or both. Despite the UN’s recent insistence that its employees had absolutely no idea Hamas was building a network of terror tunnels bigger than the London Tube system underneath Gaza, UNRWA officials did report that Hamas was building tunnels under their buildings two times in 2017 and again in 2021 and 2022. It’s impossible to know what the relationship was between each UNRWA site and Hamas and whether UNRWA’s participation in Hamas’ preparations for war were voluntary or coerced. Willingly or not, however, UNRWA – as well as other UN agencies and aid groups – have provided cover for Hamas’ military build-up for years.

Soon after Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, as Israel began bombing Hamas targets in Gaza, UNRWA tweeted that Hamas members looted UNRWA food and fuel supplies. UNRWA deleted the tweets and issued statements denying that Hamas had taken any supplies. Willingly or not, UNRWA workers were protecting Hamas.

8. UNRWA Has falsely accused Israel of targeting aid workers UNRWA claims over 150 of its employees have been killed during the current war between Hamas and Israel. Their presence in buildings that are known terror centres opens them to risk – and raises the question of why so many UNRWA buildings are doing double duty as Hamas depots.

Yet instead of causing any soul searching in the UN, the fact that UN buildings house Hamas tunnels is being ignored. Just before Christmas 2023, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, accused Israel of killing UN aid workers on an unprecedented scale. His accusations shocked the world, yet they say much more about the close ties between UNRWA members and Hamas than about Israel. US Representative Darrell Issa, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the US House of Representatives, has noted: “There is extensive evidence of a troubling connection between UNRWA and Hamas, and it is far deeper than was known.”

9. UN workers helped plan and execute the massive pogrom in Israel on October 7 Given UNRWA’s hostility to Israel, the evidence – which has not been publicly disclosed – that UNRWA workers helped plan and took part in the October 7 attacks, in which 1,200 Israelis were murdered and over 240 were kidnapped, must be horribly damning. “This was strong and corroborated intelligence,” a senior Israeli official who withheld his name has said. “A lot of the intelligence is a result of interrogations of militants who were arrested during the October 7 attack.” In addition to taking part in the attacks, which included widespread sexual violence, torture, kidnapping and murder, UNRWA employees used UNRWA vehicles and buildings in the course of the attacks and kidnappings.

On January 25, UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini said he received “information about the alleged involvement of several employees” in the horrific attacks.

Lazzarini immediately fired a dozen UNRWA employees.

These explosive allegations came just days after the International Court of Justice, another United Nations agency, ruled that Israel must take steps to avoid committing any act that is genocide in its war with Gaza.

With Israel’s every military move under intense scrutiny right now, it’s important to examine the people and organisations who are critiquing Israel, as well.

It’s tempting to assume that a prestigious, august institution such as the UN could never harbour genocidal evil as Hamas does. Yet for years, UN agencies have encouraged vile antisemitism and hatred of Israel. UNRWA behaves like a combatant, helping Hamas fight and kill Israelis and Jews. It’s long past time we stopped giving them a pass and held them to account for their actions as combatants and allies of Hamas.

18

the sydney jewish report | feb 2024

Renewing the Be’eri Forest JNF On October 7, residents of southern Israel were thrust into a nightmare that shook Israel to its core.

One of the largest massacres was perpetrated at the Nova Festival, held in the forest areas surrounding Be’eri. That is where thousands of young people had gathered to enjoy a weekend of music.

Today, the decimated Gaza border communities stand desolate, much of their local forests reduced to ashes. The Be’eri Forest holds a special historical significance. Its first seeds were planted by pioneers (chalutzim) in the western Negev in 1946. Despite the improbability of growth in the arid land, this act of hope envisioned new life – flourishing agriculture and thriving communities.

Since 2014, the Be’eri Forest has been periodically hit by incendiary balloon and kite attacks, launched by terrorist organisations in Gaza. These airborne arson strikes have set ablaze forests,

fields and nature reserves, causing extensive environmental damage. The Be’eri Forest was further desecrated on October 7.

Donations from this year’s JNF Green Sunday appeal will provide an opportunity for supporters to partner with JNF in helping to restore the forest.

Its serene Re’im Recreation Area, close to the site of the Nova Festival, is where new trees will be planted.

JNF is resolutely committed to breathing new life into the scarred landscape, with plans to replant 120 acres (50 hectares) with trees, selected for their ability to withstand fires.

The revitalisation of the Be’eri Forest will serve as a powerful symbol of resilience for the community of Be’eri – turning darkness into a canvas of renewal.

Its restoration is a symbol of hope and a crucial step in the collective healing and growth of the region and its residents.

JNF Green Sunday Appeal Renewing the Be’eri Forest A symbol of remembrance, resilience, hope & healing for communities in Israel’s South.

You can still donate to the JNF Green Sunday appeal at jnf.org.au/beeri/ or by calling 1300 563 563.

Donate Now jnf.org.au/beeri 1300 563 563

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES Friday, Feb 16, 2024

7:29 pm

Shabbat ends, Feb 17, 2024

8:25 pm

Friday, Feb 23, 2024

7:22 pm

Shabbat, Feb 24, 2024

8:17 pm

Friday, Mar 1, 2024

7:13 pm

Shabbat ends, Mar 2, 2024

8:08 pm

Sydney Jewish Report Disclaimer: Except where expressly stated otherwise, content in The Sydney Jewish Report is provided as general informations only. The articles in this paper have been contributed by a third party. The opinions, facts and any media content here are presented solely by the author, and The Jewish Report assumes no responsibility for them. It is not intended as advice and must not be relied upon as such. You should make your own inquiries and take independent advice tailored to your specific circumstances prior to making any decisions. We do not make any representation or warranty that any material in the papers will be reliable, accurate or complete, nor do we accept any responsibility arising in any way from errors or omissions.

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

AROUND

T H E The legacy of Holocaust survivors and the fragility of freedom

COMMUNITY A reflection on International Holocaust Remembrance Day SYDNEY JEWISH MUSEUM On January 27, the world observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day dedicated to commemorating the six million Jewish lives and countless others lost during the Holocaust.

This significant date also marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945, underscoring the resilience of the human spirit amid unimaginable horror.

In Sydney, the Jewish community gathered at the Sydney Jewish Museum on Sunday, January 28 to honour Holocaust survivors and victims.

Against the backdrop of rising antisemitism and racial hatred globally, this year's commemoration had added significance.

The event delved into the fragility of freedom, urging reflection on the lessons of history.

At the heart of the day was 97-yearold Holocaust survivor Olga Horak OAM, the sole survivor in her family.

In her keynote address, she emphasised the importance of documenting the Holocaust.

With each passing year, the number of survivors and eyewitnesses dwindles, making it crucial for the younger generations to hear their stories.

Acclaimed concert pianist, writer and

Holocaust Remembrance Day, marked on January 28 at Sydney Jewish Museum (photo courtesy Giselle Haber) descendant Simon

of

Holocaust

survivors,

Reflecting on the incomprehensibility

Tedeschi,

addressed

survivors

of the Holocaust, Tedeschi stressed the

directly in his speech.

He highlighted their emblematic role in the Jewish struggle and the fragility of freedom.

importance of speaking out against hate and violence.

He said: “What happened to the Jews of Europe only 80 years ago is something

that we must remain guardians against and witnesses to.

“So fragile is our freedom that we must speak the truth aloud whenever and however we can, with conviction and courage.”

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: 7 = Good; 13 = Excellent; 18 = Genius

Yoni Glatt has published more than 1,000 crossword puzzles worldwide, from the LA Times and Boston Globe to The Jerusalem Post. He has also published two Jewish puzzle books: "Kosher Crosswords" and the sequel "More Kosher Crosswords and Word Games".

ANSWERS PAGE 24

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

CO NS I D E R E D

OPINION AMICHAI COHEN

The international legal proceedings against Israel are part of an ongoing campaign led by the Palestinian Authority to turn the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into a global one.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently issued a series of interim measures in South Africa’s lawsuit against Israel. In this lawsuit, South Africa claimed that Israel was violating its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Genocide Convention) in the context of the war in Gaza.

Most of the discourse since the ruling has focused on the decision’s impact on Israel and its immediate implications. In short, the ICJ’s rhetoric reflected South Africa’s position against Israel, as it ruled that South Africa’s claim was not unfounded.

At the same time, in practice, the orders issued by the ICJ did not take into consideration Israel’s gravest apprehensions, namely the order for the cessation of hostilities in Gaza.

Instead, the ICJ instructed Israel not to commit genocide, which Israel says it is not committing; to ensure it supplies sufficient humanitarian aid, a rather vague term; and to prevent and punish incitement to genocide.

Indeed, had the ICJ ordered a cessation of hostilities, it could have

What were the motives and results of South Africa's ICJ case against Israel? had an impact on the war and Israel would have faced great difficulties visà-vis some of its allies had it continued fighting despite the court’s rulings. While the worst-case scenario did not come to pass, the orders issued have some future effects.

What did the ICJ order?

First, the ICJ ordered Israel to submit a report within 30 days pertaining to its compliance with the court’s orders. It explicitly stated that should South Africa find Israel’s report insufficient, it may apply again to the ICJ for temporary injunctions. In other words, the hearing in the ICJ may only be the opening act for further hearings on requests for interim measures.

Nevertheless, if there is no change in the actual state of warfare or a humanitarian catastrophe, it is unlikely that the ICJ will change its mind and order a cessation of hostilities. On the other hand, if Israel’s report does not address the issue of incitement, it is indeed possible that the ICJ will choose to tighten its directives.

Moreover, the ICJ hearing on the merits of the South Africa v. Israel case is expected to persist for years. Throughout these proceedings, we should expect a series of discussions regarding Israel’s actions – discussions in which different countries will use the international podium

to tarnish Israel’s reputation. Second, next month, the ICJ is scheduled to start another proceeding that could affect Israel. The UN General Assembly asked the court for an advisory opinion on “the legal implications of Israeli policies and actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and East Jerusalem.” This proceeding presents claims against Israel and states that Israel’s continued control over the territories (mainly the West Bank and eastern Jerusalem) is illegal under international law.

Although an advisory opinion is not binding under international law and Israel chose not to participate in the proceedings, we must consider the interplay between these two cases.

Given that Israel has indeed managed to avoid a cessation-of-hostilities order in the genocide case, many countries worldwide may see this as a sign that the ICJ is not a political or biased court but a professional one.

In the context of the genocide case, even the judges who come from Muslim countries (Lebanon, Morocco, and Somalia) did not believe that an order should be issued to stop the war.

This makes it harder even for Israel’s allies to accept the idea that the ICJ is a political and biased body, as was broadly understood among supporters of Israel prior to the genocide case. It would be difficult for Israel to dismiss

the advisory opinion as a meaningless, biased opinion.

Finally, the International Criminal Court (ICC), an international tribunal also in the Hague (which, unlike the ICJ, focuses on individuals, not states), is investigating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The ICC prosecutor has already visited the area several times and pledged to speed up investigations.

Here, too, Israel may find itself before an international tribunal.

The international legal proceedings against Israel are part of an ongoing campaign led by the Palestinian Authority to turn the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into a global one. In the interim measures before the ICJ, Israel managed to get through the hearing.

However, the international legal system is deeply focused on Israel and Israel faces a broad array of challenges ahead. International law, for better or worse, will continue to accompany the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel would do well to continue treading with great care to adhere to it.

The writer is a senior fellow at the Israel Democracy Institute and a member of the Faculty of Law at Ono Academic College.

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

AROUND

T H E

COMMUNITY

Technion is revolutionising our plate

YOASH DVIR TECHNION AUSTRALIA We have just marked an historic milestone in the journey towards sustainable food production. Aleph Farms, an innovative company at the forefront of cultivated meat technology, received world first approval to market its lab-grown beef products in Israel. This breakthrough heralds a new era in food production, one where meat is grown from animal cells in a lab rather than obtained through traditional livestock farming.

The future of cultivated meat is one where food is produced without the ethical and environmental concerns associated with conventional animalbased food industries. That, or course, includes pollution, dwindling land and water resources, greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, antibioticsresistant bacteria proliferation and animal welfare issues.

Cultivated meat, also known as cultured meat or clean meat, involves extracting a small sample of animal cells, known as “stem cells”, and nurturing them in a controlled environment to grow into muscle tissue – essentially producing real meat without the need to raise and slaughter animals.

This method aims to drastically reduce the environmental footprint of meat production and address ethical concerns, providing a sustainable, guiltfree alternative to traditional meat.

The significance of Aleph Farms'

Professor Yoav Livney sharing a business presentation with members of the AustraliaIsrael Chamber of Commerce (AICC) at accounting firm Kelly+Partners (photo courtesy Liora Engler, AICC) achievement cannot be overstated. It paves the way for a future where food production aligns with the growing global demand for environmentally friendly, ethical and sustainable dietary choices. This is particularly relevant in light of the challenges facing the meat and dairy industries, including their substantial contributions to climate change, resource depletion and ethical debates around animal farming.

Professor Yoav Livney from the Faculty of Biotechnology & Food Engineering at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, recently visited Sydney and brought these discussions to the

Australia Day Honour COA COA and the Sydney Jewish community extends a hearty Mazel Tov to George Freund, on being awarded an OAM. George served as COA president from 2012-2017 and for more than 15 years has been devoted to helping seniors and vulnerable members of COA. As the current vice-president, he continues to play a vital and inspirational role in our community.

Born in Budapest, Hungary, George’s earliest recollections are those spent in hiding with his parents, during WWII. When George and his family arrived in Australia, his parents immediately became involved in serving the Jewish community.

George saw the positive impact people could make and from then felt compelled to make a difference in the lives of others. As he now says: “It’s part of my DNA.” Over many years, George has dedicated countless hours to various charitable organisations and projects.

When he retired, he was adamant that he was going to spend his time serving the community that took him and his family in after the war. “Giving

forefront, highlighting the evolving landscape of food technology. During his briefings, he explored the variety of technologies available for creating alternative proteins, not just meat, but also dairy and egg products.

However, despite the excitement surrounding these innovations, the technologies for producing alternative protein are not yet fully mature.

Challenges, such as scaling up production, reducing costs to reach price parity with the parallel animal products and ensuring desirable sensory properties and nutritional equivalence remain.

Yet, the reformulation of animal food

substitutes provides an opportunity to create products of greater nutritional and health impact compared to the original animal-based products, by removing undesired components (like mercury in fish or saturated fats in beef) and adding more health promoting ones (vitamins, or healthy oils).

Recognising these hurdles, Professor Livney has taken a significant step by establishing the Sustainable Protein Center at the Technion. This multidisciplinary research hub aims to further explore and promote solutions for sustainable protein production, supporting companies in their mission to bring these innovative products to our tables in a cost-effective and healthy way.

The dawn of cultivated meat and alternative dairy products represents more than just a technological marvel; it signifies a shift towards a more conscientious and sustainable approach to food production.

In embracing these innovations, we're not just changing what's on our plates, we're reimagining the very essence of how we produce and consume food.

The journey towards sustainable protein is just starting, but with leaders like Professor Livney and the breakthroughs achieved by Aleph Farms, the path forward is clearer and more promising than ever.

Eat Well Every Day with Kosher Meals-on-Wheels • Nutritious menu to choose

from including meat and vegetarian options prepared by Kosher caterers

• Makes preparing food

simple for those who can no longer cook a nutritious meal on their own

• Delivered by friendly COA Among the recipients of an Australia Day honour was COA vice-president and former president George Freund

back is what gives me freedom,” George says.

Selfless, humble, committed and always enthusiastic, George has had a profound effect on the lives of so many and is thoroughly deserving of this honour.

COA and the Sydney Jewish community are not only immensely proud of George, we are also incredibly grateful to him.

To enquire about COA meals please call 8367 5010 or email s.franklin@coasydney.org or go online to www.coasydney.org

volunteers who will pack the meals into your fridge and chat with you at each delivery

• Over forty years

experience and over one million meals delivered to our community

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

RA BBINIC

THOUGHT

A new vision for Gaza

RABBI DR BENJI LEVY A Gaza that places a premium on life, literacy, respect, and opportunity will surely outlive the new buildings that will soon dot the landscape.

The eyes of the world remain fixated on Gaza. But true vision requires looking beyond the here and now and ensuring that the horror of the present day won’t be repeated. Assuming Israel succeeds in freeing its innocent hostages and neutralising Hamas terrorists, what then?

The immediate concern will undoubtedly be repairing the physical and material devastation. New homes, roads and infrastructure will be among the first items on the post-war agenda.

Yet, the building blocks of Gaza’s collective future will depend not just on the bricks and mortar of communal buildings, but also on the social fabric of a viable future. While Gaza’s material welfare has been devastated in a matter of weeks, much of its moral and ethical wellbeing was destroyed by Hamas decades ago.

In his seminal work, Imagined Communities, political scientist Benedict Anderson dissected how nations develop a sense of identity. He argues that nations are a cultural construct that can be shaped. In the case of Gaza, hatred, violence and terror have been normalised, culminating in over 3,000 terrorists crossing the border on October 7 to wreak death and havoc and to be gleefully greeted by many more on their return, as they paraded victims through the streets.

At the heart of the identity that precipitated this chaos sits a warped ideology fueling indoctrination. An estimated 100,000 children underwent military training and were taught to lionise armed “resistance” in summer

Renana and Rabbi Dr Benji Levy getting a strategic perspective on the war while on a UIA mission camps across Gaza a few months ago. This supplements everyday schooling, which has been documented to contain hatred toward Jews and Israel, incitement to violence and the glorification of martyrdom.

And all of this is exacerbated by leaders of religious institutions, Hamas-controlled media and social media propaganda, fueling a culture of death and destruction. October 7 did not happen in a vacuum. The seeds of terror were carefully sown by Hamas in classrooms and summer camps, from pulpits and TV screens. Tellingly, media reports are increasingly detailing how Gaza’s schools are being harnessed by Hamas to launch attacks and store weapons.

Out with the old, but in with what?

So, if the stated aim of rooting out Hamas is achieved, what will fill this void?

A Gaza that places a premium on life, literacy, respect and opportunity will surely outlive the new buildings that will soon dot the landscape. According to Anderson’s thesis,

a new sense of identity can be constructed in place of Hamas’s ethos of hate. And so, just as Hamas hijacked education to poison young minds, education can fuel a new and brighter future.

While not a simple transformation, there are historical precedents. Japan’s meteoric postWorld War II transformation into an economic powerhouse is something of a 20th-century miracle. It is no coincidence that just one month after Japan’s surrender in 1945, the American administration introduced new education policy guidelines that focused heavily on fostering a sense of cooperation, open-mindedness and a love of peace.

Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabian curriculum has steadily developed over the past few years, rooting out antisemitism from its textbooks and introducing a greater sense of gender equality.

These reforms go hand-in-hand with the country’s ‘Vision 2030’ to steadily grow its economic and geopolitical curriculum.

Clearly, no single curriculum is perfect, but these case studies offer hope.

Instructively, before a single brick has been laid, the first step for any architect is to draw a plan of the finished product. So, too, must Gaza’s education be planned. When I served as the Dean of a school in Australia, we reconstructed the educational offering by defining the ideal graduate. Once we were clear about what an ideal graduate looked like, we worked backwards, developing each detail of the curriculum, each lesson plan and a host of enrichment activities accordingly.

In the context of Gaza, a new educational reality will mean ensuring that graduates become productive members of society.

It will mean that graduates are committed to building a Gaza that is prosperous and peaceful. It will mean graduates who are proud Palestinians and, at the same time, active global citizens.

These cannot be treated as vague concepts. They must infuse each facet of a reimagined education system that empowers the next generation. Such a system will require just as much time investment and careful planning as the rebuilt Gazan landscape, which the international community is already contemplating. Defining how this looks will require moderate voices in partnership with fine educators, experts and those who truly understand how to connect with students.

Failure to prioritise education at the heart of Gaza’s post-war plan will mean that new buildings, new neighborhoods and new schools will house hate once more. In other words, there will be no real future at all.

Rabbi Dr Benji Levy is the co-founder of Israel Impact Partners, Keshev and Tanna AI. Previously he was the CEO of Mosaic United and the Dean of Moriah College. Learn more @Rabbi Benji or rabbibenji.com

JDC Hibuki campaign – comfort that can be shared THE JOINT AUSTRALIA Amid the profound trauma experienced by survivors in Israel, the Hibuki doll therapy program has emerged as a remarkable initiative, fostering healing and emotional expression among children.

The dog-like doll with long, Velcro arms has become more than just a cuddly companion … also a means for children to articulate feelings they may not be ready to discuss openly.

As Israel grapples with the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, the Hibuki doll stands as a symbol of resilience, providing a tangible and therapeutic approach to understanding and addressing the emotional complexities faced by young survivors in their journey towards recovery.

Valentina and her daughter Maayan live in Ashkelon. The area has long suffered rocket attacks launched by terrorists in Gaza.

In 2014, during Operation Protective Edge, Valentina was teaching in a local pre-school and was part of a Jewish Distribution Committee (JDC) training exercise on how to comfort youngsters using the Hibuki doll and the Hibuki therapy methods (Hibuk is Hebrew for "hug").

Also at that time, Maayan received her very own Hibuki doll through a JDC

Valentina and her daughter Maayan in Ashkelon program in her school. Since then, Hibuki has remained among Maayan's most treasured possessions.

When the rockets began reigning down again at the start of the current war, Maayan quickly grabbed Hibuki off the shelf and brought him to the shelter.

But when she got there, she realised that there are now other, much younger

children, who needed him more.

Maayan gifted her Hibuki doll to a twoyear-old boy she met in the shelter.

Hibuki dolls will hopefully continue to bring comfort to many.

JDC has purchased thousands of new dolls and will work in partnership with the Israeli Ministry of Education to distribute them. It will also offer trauma therapy

and support to children of all ages that have been deeply impacted by the current crisis.

To donate to the Emergency Campaign for Children, go to: https://www.mycause.com.au/ page/324144/for-the-childrenemergency-campaign

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

F O O D I E S'

CORNER

Jerusalem bagels

MANNA CUISINE KA-CERTIFIED The team at Manna Cuisine are busy in the best way, dazzling our community with their culinary and creative flair.

Dynamic duo, Artur and Yulia Bilder are at the helm, both bringing decades of experience and talent to each and every event, large or small.

Manna Cuisine specialises in high quality and bespoke menus expertly crafted for each customer, always with budget considerations in mind. So whatever your vision, whatever your price range, Manna Cuisine will realise your dream.

Having lived in our Holy Land for over two decades, when it comes to all-things-savoury, Manna Cuisine is a Middle Eastern fare expert and so much more.

Lately they have been consistently catering an assortment of Israeli favourites to shuls around town for Shabbat Kiddushim.

With Jerusalem forever in our hearts and minds, especially at this time, in this edition they have chosen to publicly share their coveted Jerusalem Bagel recipe for the very first time with Jewish Report readers.

Weddings certainly have the ‘wow’ factor when catered by Manna Cuisine, along with Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, parties and more. The sushi styling is sensational as are Yulia’s perfect pastry superpowers.

They are eminently capable, affordable and all-round incredible!

Ingredients For the dough: 500 gm plain flour 1 ½ cups water, room temperature 1 tsp salt 1 ½ tsp caster sugar 4 teaspoon olive oil 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast For the sesame mix: 2 cups sesame seeds 2 cups water 1 Tablespoon sugar

Quiz answers 1. Ira Levin 2. Hava Nagila 3. Springs of water and palm trees 4. Jonah 5. A grenade in an attempted political assassination. No one was killed but a number of people were injured including Ben Gurion and Golda Meir 6. c) Geneva 7. Lior Suchard 8. The Vilna Gaon 9. a) China b) India c) Myanmar (formerly Burma) 10. Gate

Method Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl of an electric mixer.

Start mixing on the lowest speed then add the olive oil and the water.

Mix for about 5-7 minutes, then form a ball with all the dough, cover to rest for 10 minutes.

Proceed to knead the dough for 10 minutes and form a ball. Cover and leave to rest for 45 minutes in an oiled bowl. Roll the dough ball into a tube shape and cut into 4 equal pieces.

Form the pieces into small balls.

Cover and leave to rest for 15 minutes (they will increase in volume).

Poke a hole in the centre of each ball and slowly stretch to an oval ringshape.

Leave to rest for a further 15 minutes.

Mix the sesame with sugar and water. Pour the sesame mix onto the table.

Place each bagel onto the sesame mix and rub it equally along both sides of each bagel’s surface.

Once fully coated, leave to rest for another 15 minutes.

Bake for 15 minutes or until visibly golden brown.

Enjoy on its own, with dips, za’atar and olive oil and so much more.

11. Ladino 12. John Grisham 13. T he serpent in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3) 14. The Israel Museum (founded in 1965, the Museum houses encyclopaedic collections, including works dating from prehistory to the present day in its Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Jewish Art + Life wings. It features the most extensive holdings of biblical and Holy Land archaeology in the world.)

15. Dustin Hoffman 16. Anim Zemirot after the opening two words of the song 17. The letters bet, chaf, lamed and mem 18. Rabbi Joseph Karo

19. N etanya (The British Army executed the three Irgun fighters after which the Irgun hanged the two sergeants.)

20. It was Jeremiah’s eyewitness account of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BCE 21. T he Book of Ruth. It is read because it highlights the time of the wheat harvest which is one of the reasons to celebrate this festival. Secondly, Ruth converted to Judaism and in so doing accepted the Torah, which was given to the Jewish people on this date in the Jewish calendar Thirdly, Ruth was the great grandmother of King David who according to tradition was born and also died on Shavuot

22. R aoul Wallenberg 23. Fred Astaire 24. Jerusalem 25. Woody Allen

To contact Manna Cuisine and chat about your upcoming simcha or event, large or small, call Artur Bilder on 0450 184 020 or email: info@mannacuisine. com.au. Manna Cuisine is located at 55 Doody Street, Alexandria

Spelling bee answers Jewish Answer: USHPIZIN. 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) – PUSHPINS, PUSHPIN, PUSHUPS, PINUPS, PUNISH, PUSHUP, UNPINS, UNZIPS, PINUP, SHIPS, SPINS, SNIPS, SUNUP, UNHIP, UNPIN and UNZIP .

Questions/comments: email Yoni at koshercrosswords@gmail.com

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

RA BBINIC

THOUGHT

The silence is deafening

RABBI DAVID FREEDMAN In recent weeks in synagogues around the world, Jews have been reading once again about the Egyptian slavery and Exodus. The bondage began when Pharaoh consulted with his advisors and proclaimed that the Israelites were a threat to Egypt and should be enslaved.

According to Talmudic rabbis, Pharaoh held council with three wise men. Firstly, Balaam, the prophet called upon many years later by the king of Moab to curse the Children of Israel. Then Job, who had a book on the subject of suffering named after him, and Jethro the priest of Midian, whose daughter Zipporah married Moses.

Having identified Pharaoh’s advisers, Rabbi Hiyya Bar Abba offers additional insight. Balaam, who had advised Pharaoh to enslave the Israelites and drown all their newborn boys in the River Nile, was punished by being killed in the war with Midian. Job, who remained silent, was punished with terrible afflictions as detailed in the biblical book that bears his name. Finally Jethro, who protested against the slavery by leaving Egypt, was rewarded by having some of his descendants hold office in Israel’s Supreme Court, the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem.

From a moral standpoint, Balaam and Jethro’s positions are relatively clear.

One was deemed wicked, the other righteous; Job’s ambivalence is more

difficult to assess. If silence is taken as consent, then one could argue that he sided with Balaam, or was his refusal to come out decisively on the side of decency a sinful act?

It certainly appears from the Talmud that his reluctance to unambiguously oppose the indignity of slavery warranted punishment, perhaps not as dire as Balaam’s fate, but dreadful nonetheless.

Had Job been given the opportunity to defend himself, he might have claimed that not speaking out was simply an act of self-preservation. Thereby fearing that taking a position in favour of the Israelites would have angered Pharaoh and endangered himself. Hence the reason why Jethro fled Egypt. But is this a reasonable defence?

Nobel Prize winner and Holocaust survivor, Elie Wiesel, of blessed memory, delivered a breathtaking speech on this very theme in 1999. His message,

House of Peace

BEIT SHALOM

delivered at the White House in the presence of the President and First Lady, combined his own experience of the Holocaust and the evil of apathy.

“The opposite of love is not hatred, it is indifference. Even hatred at times may elicit a response.

You fight it. You denounce it. You disarm it. Indifference elicits no response. Indifference is not a response.

Indifference is not a beginning, it is an end.”

In an equally forceful speech, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l spoke in the House of Lords back in 2019. He mentioned that he had visited Warsaw, a city that he admitted he did not know well. He was shaken to discover that the Warsaw Ghetto, which existed between November 1940 and May 1943, had been located in the centre of town.

With its high walls topped by barbed wire, holding 400,000 Jews, its existence must have been known by everyone

in Warsaw. It was there that Jews were systematically starved and enslaved. This happened in open view in the centre of one of the great cities of Europe and no one protested.

It seems in the present climate that we are experiencing more of the same. According to Peter Wertheim in an article published recently in The Australian, there has been a massive 738 per cent increase in the number of antiSemitic incidents reported in October and November 2023, compared to the same two month period a year prior.

Yet when conversing with friends outside our community, they reassure me that here in Australia, the silent majority are pro-Jewish and supporters of Israel.

Yet of what value is the silent majority, if they choose to remain inaudible and not publicise their views? When the majority fail to speak up, governments tend to respond to the loudest sections of the community. Perhaps that is the reason our present Labor government has failed in its duty at times to protect the interests of the Jewish community.

It takes incredible courage to speak up against wrongdoing. It is an oft repeated saying that only dead fish go with the flow; it is live fish that swim against the current. This is a message for each human being, be unafraid to swim against the tide of popular opinion if you believe that it is heading in the wrong direction and never remain silent in the presence of evil.

We proudly present Beit Shalom the House of Peace Beit Shalom has been designed to observe the sanctity of Jewish traditions, with a range of lawn and monumental graves available.

Many families plan for their final resting place by purchasing today.

Contact our Family Consultant Team for more information and to book an appointment.

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

F O O D I E S'

CORNER

Kosher KApers

RAMONA FREEDMAN THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY Work and school life are now back in full swing but there is one iconic Aussie summer activity we don’t let go of easily – the barbeque. Enter our local KA-certified butcher, Village Finest, which has been supplying so many items, each fresh and of a worldclass quality. Guests who have flown into town have marvelled at what we can produce here on the east coast of this Great Southern Land.

Savouring the deep flavours of a premium cut Black Angus T-Bone or Scotch fillet steak, filling hot dogs with BBQ sausages or the new hot chorizo, burgers and more, it’s a large, extensive and genuinely impressive range on offer daily. The best news is that it is continually expanding (see below for ordering details).

Speaking of summer, so many have been flocking to enjoy KA-certified Oakberry Acai bowls with unlimited toppings. The KA is so excited to share that the following seven Oakberry outlets are now proudly also under KAcertification: Bondi, Coogee, Manly, Newcastle, Byron Bay, Coolangatta and Surfers Paradise.

Dippin’ Dots is an American invention and available at so many locations across Australia. They are unique pots of tiny little balls of ice cream that are so much fun for kids (and adults alike!) They contain fresh ingredients which are cleverly flash frozen, thereby retaining their rich

New Oakberry Acai sorbet tubs 750ml

flavour and nutritional value. Flavours include pareve varieties such as Rainbow, along with dairy delights (not CY) including Chocolate, Cookies N Cream, Fairy Floss, Banana Split and more.

As we begin to fill our calendars and diaries with meaningful upcoming events and simchas, keep in mind that Mendy’s has so much in store for 2024.

Expanding its capabilities Mendy’s offers catering that encompasses corporate, Kiddushim and everything in between. So many opt for their respective Bar or Bat Mitzvah to be sprinkled with some Mendy’s magic.

Consider: you can order from a large range of platters or bring in a Mendy’s mobile pizza station. You can choose your preferred toppings and perfect pizzas will be made on the spot. On repeat. Hot and heavenly for your guests.

Did you know that Mendy’s is one of three KA-certified eateries offering a meaningful mitzvah opportunity? For a limited time at Mendy’s, Pita Mix and Jesse’s Café you can purchase IDF dog tags with a unique dedication.

Each reads, “Our hearts are with the IDF soldiers – Am Yisrael Chai.”

All proceeds go towards helping a heroic combat soldier recently injured in a Givati sniper brigade.

Somehow it is never too early to start thinking about Pesach. This year there will be a KA-certified Pesach retreat in the Blue Mountains which promises to be a fabulous family experience.

It will have so much on offer for kids and adults in every way, from the spiritual to the gastronomical.

Organisers are experienced, friendly and here to cater to all needs. The ambiance will be warm, inspirational and heimishe – treat yourself and your family!

The KA team was asked to investigate the status of Slurpees and after a thorough review, recently advised that all Original Slurpee flavours are approved along with No Sugar varieties, which are also approved (except the No Sugar Grape flavour).

The KA thanks all for the ongoing support. For now, it is onwards and upwards on our around-the-clock journey in KA Kosher Land. We can’t wait to share lots of new treats in store for you next month.

Here’s a snapshot of kosher news around town: • To order from KA-certified Village Finest Kosher butcher, visit www. villagefinest.com.au. Follow on Instagram and Facebook too for regular VF news. Also join the VF WhatsApp group for all latest announcements.

Fresh duck is now back in stock in a limited quantity only while supplies last.

• 7 Fat Cows Point End Pastrami and Chilli Chuck Burnt Ends are now back in stock. To order visit www.7fatcows. com.au.

• To speak with the Mendy’s team about your upcoming simcha, call

0402 534 053 or email: mendy@mendys.com.au.

• For more information about the upcoming KA-certified Pesach retreat, contact Rabbi Daniel Yescar on 0402 188 971.

• Lil’ Mix is located at 519 Old South Head Road, Rose Bay is KA-certified.

Purchase cookies, babkas, focaccias, Jerusalem bagels and street bread, pita breads, laffa and more. All Pareve.

• New KA-certified Oakberry Acai outlets in NSW & QLD: - 205 Bondi Rd, Bondi

- 205 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee - 13 Market Lane, Manly - 289-295 Darby Rd, Bar Beach (Newcastle) - 3/3 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise - Shop 2A/3 Lawson St, Byron Bay - Unit 3/110 Marine Parade, Coolangatta • To find the closest Dippin’ Dots vendor near you across NSW, VIC, QLD, TAS and SA, visit: http://dippindots.com. au/store-locator/. E.g in the eastern suburbs, visit a shop called CTC @ 210 Bondi Road, Bondi.

KA PRODUCT UPDATES • New KA-certified Chilli at The Bagel Co. made

by Rod and Julie da Silva. Purchase a small jar 200gm $8.95 or large jar 350g for $12.95 (gluten free and pareve) • Three new San Pellegrino flavoured mineral waters are now acceptable: Lemon + Lemon Zest, Blood Orange + Black Raspberry & Tangerine + Wild Strawberry • Thins – Himalayan Pink salt thin & crispy potato chips now KA-certified • Dole tropical fruit chunks in light syrup, Product of the Phillipines (Pareve) • Bushells sweetened coffee with chicory essence (certified by Kosher Australia, pareve) • Oakberry Acai – four items packaged and sold at all Oakberry Acai outlets are under KAcertification and are Pareve: Oakberry Natural Peanut Butter (450g jar), Oakberry Signature Vegan Granola, Oakberry Acai sorbet tub (750ml) & Oakberry Acai bucket (1kg) • Chef’s Choice Organic Sauerkraut is KAcertified Pareve – must have KA logo on label • Woolworths Prep Set Go Stir Fry Mixed Vegetables – fresh carrots, broccoli, green beans, yellow beans and water chestnuts is acceptable • COYO Vanilla Custard is KA-certified Pareve • Chef’s Choice natural premium selected date syrup is KA-certified • Yumi’s Spiced Chickpea Koftas – Smoky Harissa and Spiced Lentil Koftas – Middle eastern spices – both Pareve and OU-certified • Nuttelex Zero must have Kosher Australia logo on bottom of the tub • Cob’s Popcorn – Zingy chilli & lime is now acceptable • Mayver’s Indulgence cookie dough choc chip swirl peanut butter 100% natural (Pareve, certified by Kosher Austrlalia)

KA CLARIFICATIONS • Oatly Organic Oat Milk is now designated as Dairy Equipment, not Pareve. This product is acceptable Made in Singapore, Sweden, The Netherlands or Germany.

• Oatly Barista, Oatly Original, Oatly Vanilla and Oatly Chocolate are not acceptable when Made in Singapore, they are Pareve and must be Made in Sweden, The Netherlands or Germany.

• Oatly Oat Cream 250ml is not acceptable if Made in Singapore. It must be Made in Sweden, The Netherlands or Germany.

• San Pellegrino Sanbitter Aperitif not acceptable (contains colour 120, Carmine) • Coles Black Beans in tins not acceptable • Unflavoured sake – all brands are acceptable without certification, all flavoured varieties must be kosher certified • Coles Tuna chunks in olive oil blend and Coles Tuna Chunks in Springwater, for all sizes there is a new code that must be stamped on the tin if Product of Thailand. Look out for: A0313 instead of 145823.

• Serendipity ice cream and sorbet – if the Marrickville NSW address is found on the tub and it bears a KA logo (Dairy or Pareve) it remains KA-certified • For Coles double strength white vinegar 8%, ensure the label has the following vendor code: A1094 • CSR 100% Natural Date Syrup is no longer produced • Coles Deli Hummus dip is not acceptable • Nonna’s Bakehouse – all varieties of breads and pizza bases are not acceptable and existing stock should be discarded

Dippin' Dots Rainbow flavour (Pareve), KA-certified new chilli condiment at The Bagel Co., KA-certified COYO Vanilla Custard and KA-certified Thins Himalayan Pink Salt chips

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the sydney jewish report | Feb 2024

M O V IE

REVIEWS

Hard to sit through

THE ZONE OF INTEREST (M) ALEX FIRST A vitally important film, The Zone of Interest is a deeply distressing watch, at the root of which is pure evil … and denial.

It focuses on the commandant of Auschwitz and his family living in the lap of luxury while victims in the concentration camp next door are ruthlessly murdered en masse.

Rudolf Hoss (Christian Friedel) is applauded for the role he has played at Auschwitz – on the outskirts of Oswiecim in Poland – for four years.

He and his wife Hedwig (Sandra Huller) and their five children, including a baby, have everything they could wish for.

They have a large home, a sprawling garden, including a greenhouse and a gazebo.

They have servants aplenty.

As Jews are gassed to death, they have access to all the clothing and valuables they could possibly want.

As if without a care in the world, they swim in the river and enjoy the convivial country life.

A keen horseman, Hoss loves his steed deeply and takes every opportunity to ride.

Meanwhile, plumes of dark smoke are continually seen rising into the sky from the chimneys at Auschwitz.

The top brass sees a bright future for the ruthless and practical Hoss. Against his wishes, he is transferred and elevated to deputy inspector, while his wife and children stay behind. In so doing, Hoss

will oversee other concentration camps to obtain greater efficiencies.

He will need to bring the latter to the fore because Hitler has just agreed to deport 700,000 Jews from Hungary. Of course, he is up for the challenge.

Written and masterfully directed by Jonathan Glazer, The Zone of Interest is based on a novel by Martin Amis.

The film starts and ends in darkness against a troubling music bed, which serves to illuminate the horrors.

Throughout the movie we hear barbaric sounds emanating from Auschwitz, which is but a few hundred metres from the Hoss residence.

Hoss is an unbending authoritarian, while his wife treats the help with indifference, at best.

She recognises what a perfect life she has and all she is concerned about is when her husband will find the time to take her on another spa holiday to Italy.

She even let out girlish giggles.

The performances of Christian Friedel and Sandra Huller are chilling.

Their children appear to buy in to the idyllic picture, ignoring – as far as possible – the dastardly deeds being perpetrated within metres of their home.

It is impossible to see past the atrocities depicted in The Zone of Interest, but these are handled in a way I have not seen before.

Much of the film unfolds through the power of suggestion.

The brutality is depicted through the carefree life of Hedwig and the children, in sharp contrast to the insidious nature

of the Nazi war machine. The latter only needs to be shown in a handful of scenes to become entrenched in one’s psyche. And the final scenes go some way to highlighting the magnitude of what went down at Auschwitz and at other concentration camps during WWII. Let us never forget that six million Jewish lives were lost.

The Zone of Interest is traumatising, but it needs to be seen.

Incidentally, the title is drawn from the term used by the Nazis to describe the 40 square kilometre area surrounding Auschwitz concentration camp.

It speaks to the determined and disquieting sense of obfuscation that permeates the film.

Rated M, it scores a 9 out of 10.

Culture clash RICEBOY SLEEPS (M) ALEX FIRST A powerful, sensitive and affecting work in Korean and English, Riceboy Sleeps is a coming-of-age legacy story.

On a cold winter’s night in 1960, So-Young (Choi Seung-yoon) was discovered on the steps of a temple in Korea wrapped in a blanket.

No one knew where she came from.

Moved from one orphanage to another, when she came of age she packed her bags and left for the city, where she worked tirelessly.

One of her jobs was at a popular bar near a university, which was where she met a young student who had just returned from finishing his military service.

He was the son of poor rice farmers.

So-Young and that man became inseparable, but his mental health deteriorated.

Suffering from schizophrenia, he was admitted to a psychiatric hospital and took his own life, leaving behind SoYoung and their newborn son.

As the baby was born out of wedlock, by law he couldn’t have citizenship.

So, again, So-Young packed her bags to start a new life in Canada, where she took a job in a factory.

After a narrator’s introduction, giving the back story, which I have just

provided, Riceboy Sleeps unfolds in two time frames – 1990 and 1999.

It is So-Young’s journey and that of her son, Dong-Hyun, played as a Grade 1 student by Dohyn Noel Hwang and then, as a 15-year-old, by Ethan Hwang.

Both So-Young and her son are headstrong.

So-Young is determined to provide a better life for Dong-Hyun than the one she left behind.

She tries to teach Dong-Hyun resilience, including standing up for himself when he faces discrimination and bullying.

Dong-Hyun develops attitude and it

is not uncommon for the pair to clash.

So-Young avoids any and all questions from Dong-Hyun about his father, until a devastating development changes all of that.

Riceboy Sleeps is very much a personal story for writer, director and actor Anthony Shim.

His family emigrated from South Korea to Canada in 1994, when he was eight.

He grew up on Vancouver Island, where he was often the only Asian child in school.

He was looked at and treated like an alien, so he desperately tried to fit in.

These are just some of the images Shim – who has also edited the film – captured in Riceboy Sleeps.

It is a movie of quality and substance, with naturalism at its core.

I very much believed what I was seeing unfold thanks to the striking characterisations.

So-Young is the glue that binds the piece together. Choi Seung-yoon plays her as generally quiet but gutsy. You can tell just how much So-Young has endured and continues to bear – always ready to face adversity.

Dohyn Noel Hwang is a loner, cute and bewildered as son Dong-Hyun, while Ethan Hwang is noteworthy as a rebellious teen.

A gentle soul in the film is the character of Simon (played by writer and director Anthony Shim), who has faced his own challenges and takes a shine to SoYoung.

The cinematography by Christopher Lew well captures the cultural divide between Canada and Korea.

I also appreciated the mood-setting music by Andrew Yong Hoon Lee. Riceboy Sleeps moved me greatly – no scene more than that focusing on SoYoung in the Korean mountains towards the end of the film.

Rated M, it is special and scores an 8½ out of 10.

OWN

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