The Jewish Report stalwart Ramona Freedman and her husband, Oliver, recently made Aliyah. She discusses the early days of their new beginning (see page 10).
ANNE-MARIE
We tend to associate time management with our work schedules or with the extracurricular activities of school children. It is important, however, to utilise these same principles in our dayto-day lives.
A quick and obvious definition of time management is the process of organising and planning how to divide your time between different activities.
So, let’s start with a 24-hour clock and consider how you spend your time. What is productive? What is wasted? What is controlled by others. The first thing to allocate is sleep. This may not be the magical eight hours that we read about but needs to provide you with adequate restoration, reenergising and revitalisation.
Next, ask yourself whether you skip meals. My dietitian colleagues believe that we need to eat five to six times each day, starting with breakfast. Our meals should be nutritious and appealing. From a mindfulness perspective, think colour, taste and texture. Food is important because it provides us with energy. If we expend energy on our daily activities, we need to replenish it – energy out requires
energy in. Now think about how else you spend your day. How much time do you spend at or on work? Where and when is your “me” time? Is there couple and/or family time? Exercise? Time with friends? Learning and well-being? Meditation? Relaxation?
How do you manage all these elements and prioritise them? It is important to have a schedule. Some aspects of the schedule will be fixed and others flexible. Everything needs to be in your diary. If it’s not written down, you will not see it as a commitment. Doing so is also a good
way to reschedule something if you get ‘a better offer’.
Eleanor Roosevelt, the wife of fourtime US president Franklin D., saw time a wonderful blueprint to remind us about managing our thinking process and encouraging us to be more in the moment. She said: “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift –that’s why we call it the present.”
As adults we can spend a lot of our thinking time in the past. Learn to recognise when you are ruminating on negative aspects of what was. Think
also about the positives – the pleasant memories. Consider it in these learning terms: the benefit of hindsight.
As we don’t possess a crystal ball, we can’t certifiably predict the future. Furthermore, thinking the worst only serves to exacerbate stress, tension and, in extreme cases, brings on depression.
If you are prone to worrying or overanalysing, you are wasting time. Psychologists consider these unhelpful thoughts to be bad tenants taking up residence in your brain. Learn to recognise them early so you can move on.
Is spending time on social media or the internet, watching or reading countless news reports on the same, often destructive, subject a positive experience? If not, don’t do it. Staying connected is one thing, but miring oneself in misery can have a negative effect on our wellbeing.
Whilst we need social connections, ensure that those with whom you associate are energy givers, as distinct from energy takers. Do you give time to people where the result is detrimental to you? If so, cease and desist, this practice.
UK psychotherapist Julie Twist put it well when she said: “it’s time to stop wasting years of your life and live the life you want, your way.”
Anne-Marie Elias is a psychologist in clinical practice for 25 years.
6. Rosh
7. Window boxes, briefly?
8. Homeric word of woe
9. Use Hulu, e.g.
10. "Achi" alternative
11. Bit of a chuckle
13. Authoritative statement
18. Hatzolah destinations: Abbr.
21. Home of Coke: Abbr.
24. Makes into a mummy
25. Highest position
26. Yutzes
27. Angels, on the scoreboard
30. "Annabel Lee" poet's monogram
33. "Can ___ frank?"
35. Drop a fly ball, e.g.
37. "Oh no!"
38. "Curb" comic, to friends
39. Org. especially busy in 2020
40. Highway menace
41. Lets out, as a fishing line
43. Selects, as artworks
44. What we becomes in Israel
45. Disney's dwarfs and others
48. Not so sharp
49. Punching bag in the throat, in cartoons
52. Common American tree
56. The longest serving leader in Jewish history
57. Electrify, in a way
58. 1040 reviewer, briefly
59. "Go, bullfighter!"
60. Abner to Ner
62. Former Giant and Rams star receiver, for short
In December 2023, the Sydney Jewish Museum commissioned the acclaimed photographic artist Emmanuel Santos to visit Israel to document the impact of the October 7 massacre by Hamas, which claimed 1,200 lives and saw more than 250 people taken hostage.
These photographs are now the subject of a powerful new feature exhibition at the museum titled Into the Heartless Light of Darkness.
Raw and moving, the images provide visitors with a visual narrative of a nation grappling with the enduring effects of violence.
The pictures capture Santos's emotional journey, as he traverses once vibrant streets, then barren, makeshift memorials, vigils, and the resilience of people holding onto the broken pieces of their lives.
His photographs emphasise the shared humanity among Jewish, Druze, Muslim and Christian Israelis, each community burying their dead, seeking solace and praying for peace.
Santos, who has spent more than 30 years photographing the Jewish Diaspora, described his recent
"For three and a half decades, I have been going to Israel and experiencing its magic … but when October 7 happened, my first thought was: a beautiful vessel has been broken. The romance had died.
The whole place was broken in all aspects,” Santos said.
"On my previous trips to Israel, I saw so much light all around me. Coming back in December, it was darkness. These
light of darkness’ because the heart of Israel was taken out."
Sydney Jewish Museum head curator Roslyn Sugarman said: "Transcending mere documentation, Santos’ photo essay is a personal vision that explores the complexities of Israel and illuminates the immense challenges and remarkable resilience of its people.
His work exemplifies photography’s capacity to document and inform, while evoking a deep emotional response in the viewer.
His expert use of light and shadow parallels the metaphorical light and darkness of emotion, creating a conceptual connection between the visual elements and the narrative of the photos."
Sydney Jewish Museum CEO Kevin Sumption PSM said: "Santos’ work offers a glimpse into the profound complexities of life in Israel after the October 7 massacre. His photographs evoke a deep emotional connection, reminding us of the power of photography to bear witness to history. This exhibition is not just about the aftermath of a tragedy; it is a testament to the resilience of a people and the shared humanity that binds us all."
Into the Heartless Light of Darkness captures the essence of Santos's mission to "expose little cracks of light in the darkness", highlighting the resilience, love and humanity that persist, even in the face of such tragedy.
Exhibition visitors have described it as "beautiful" – a paradoxical term for an exhibition born from violence, yet fitting, as the photographs resonate deeply with our shared humanity.
The Sydney Jewish Museum invites the community to experience this powerful exhibition, which is on until late 2024.
Tickets are available at sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
In December of 2023, photographic artist Emmanuel Santos travelled to Israel to document the profound and ongoing impacts of the October 7 massacre The result is a powerful visual narrative of a nation grappling with the lasting effects of violence
This exhibition of Santos’ works is a powerful memorial to all the lives lost It’s a space of quiet reflection, contemplation, and hope that one day, there will be peace
More information and tickets at sydneyjewishmuseum com au
DR YVETTE ALT MILLER COURTESY: AISH.COM
Rabbi Jonathan Abraham, a 47-yearold rabbi, mohel (one who performs a brit milah, or Jewish circumcision), and father of ten from London has been held in an Irish jail for weeks, awaiting trial for the “illegal” circumcision of a baby boy. Rabbi Abraham has been denied bail, forbidden from praying with tefillin (the boxes of prayers that Orthodox Jewish men traditionally wrap around their heads and arms during weekday morning prayers), and is denied kosher food.
Limiting Jewish circumcision in Ireland
Circumcision is unusual in Ireland: only 2-3 per cent of Irish baby boys are circumcised each year. Performing circumcision is legal, but with tight restrictions. Inside a hospital setting, only medical practitioners can perform circumcision and only when it’s deemed medically necessary. The Irish press periodically highlights high-profile calls to ban circumcision entirely, calling it “barbaric” and “mutilation”.
Yet Jews, Muslims and others who wish to have their babies circumcised are allowed to hire a religious figure who’s licensed to do so. With a Jewish population of fewer than 3,000, Ireland has no Jewish circumcisers; when a Jewish family in Ireland wishes to arrange a brit milah (circumcision) for their baby son, they typically fly in a mohel from neighbouring Britain for the day.
Jews aren’t the only Irish parents who hire British circumcisers. The Dublin Hebrew Congregation, Shaarei Tzedek, notes on its website: “We receive many requests every year from non-Jews seeking this procedure for their own sons. Many mohelim from the Initiation Society will be happy to perform the procedure…”
Surprise arrest
At just after one in the afternoon, Rabbi Abraham had performed one circumcision on an African baby boy and was about to circumcise a second baby when police knocked on the door of the home where the ceremonies were taking place. Invited in by the homeowner, they arrested Rabbi Abraham, brought him to their stationhouse, and held him for two days before charging him.
When he finally appeared before a judge, the charges against Rabbi Abraham were tinged with antisemitism prejudice. Detective Megan Furey recounted how she’d found Rabbi
Abraham “dressed in a white robe, a doctor-style coat, with blue gloves and a scalpel in his hand.” Other medical equipment was present at the scene. She “observed a very young child on the changing pad naked.” The judge was told that Rabbi Abraham was a flight risk because he is wealthy.
It seems that by performing a circumcision on an African baby, instead of a Jewish one, Rabbi Abraham had exceeded his authority in Ireland and was no longer allowed to work. In a statement to Aish.com, the Initiation Society emphasised that “On the facts as we know them, we have no reason to believe that he acted unlawfully.
It is also important to emphasise that there is no suggestion that the circumcisions he carried out were performed incorrectly in any way.”
When Rabbi Abraham’s lawyer pointed out that he’s a trained, licensed, and insured mohel and that he would be allowed to circumcise an African child in England, the judge noted that Ireland is not England. Rabbi Abraham was ordered to remain in Dublin’s notorious Cloverhill Prison, an institution where prison guards are under investigation for brutalising inmates. If found guilty of performing a circumcision without the correct medical license, Rabbi Abraham faces five years in jail and a fine of €130,000.
In Cloverhill, Rabbi Abraham’s situation is dire. He is being kept in a solitary cell, prevented from praying with his tefillin and was denied kosher food. When the Chief Rabbi of Ireland, Yoni Wieder, heard about Rabbi Abraham’s plight, he brought kosher food to Cloverhill Prison and begged the guards to deliver it to Rabbi Abraham. His offer was refused.
Rabbi Abraham appealed to Ireland’s High Court, alleging that his human rights are being abused, which is illegal under Ireland’s Constitution. During his trial, Rabbi Abraham has described his conditions over the past weeks. He’s been eating only breakfast cereal once a day.
When he asked for kosher food, he was delivered a piece of chicken, which had clearly come from that evening’s prison dinner: it had been placed in a cardboard box with the word “kosher” scrawled on the outside in pen. Chief Rabbi Weider has described his frustration with Cloverhill Prison authorities who insisted that they were providing kosher food to Rabbi Abraham, while never once contacting any Jewish authority, nor any kosher caterers about sourcing ingredients.
At his human rights appeal, Rabbi Abraham described his anguish at being refused access to his tefillin, which the prison insists can be used as a weapon by other inmates. “I am in a cell by myself,” Rabbi Abraham told the judge, explaining that no other prisoner would be able to grab his tefillin and use them as weapons.
He also described how at least on one occasion, as he was praying in his cell, guards burst in and ordered him to strip to his underpants.
Given the conditions of his incarceration, Rabbi Abraham has begged to be released on bail. The High Court trial is ongoing, but the judge, Ms Justice Nuala Jackson, has refused Rabbi Abraham’s release, though she has ordered Cloverhill Prison to give him access to his tefillin and to kosher food.
While Rabbi Abraham’s human rights appeal about the conditions of his imprisonment is ongoing, no date has yet been set for his criminal trial of illegal circumcision. The Irish police have said they will likely ask that even more charges be added to the existing charge of performing a circumcision without the appropriate license. Meanwhile, Rabbi Abraham’s wife, who works part time in London tutoring children with learning differences, is looking after their family alone.
We can all support Rabbi Abraham by making sure he is not forgotten. Follow the news of his unbelievable case and speak out when sensational news coverage distorts the facts of his case. We also can double down on our embrace of Jewish traditions as a way of showing support to Rabbi Abraham and with Jews worldwide. Let’s show the world that when one Jew is prevented from living a Jewish life, we all embrace that life even more.
ROBERT GREGORY AUSTRALIAN JEWISH ASSOCIATION
When you think of the issues you want your local council to focus on, what springs to mind?
Perhaps fixing the local pothole or providing some relief from high rates. If you’re like me, then solving the Middle East conflict, isn’t at the top of your expectations from your representatives from the third tier of government.
Roads, rates and rubbish are no longer interesting enough for some councillors across Australia, who are under the impression that they are serving in the United Nations.
Recently, Canterbury-Bankstown Council, in southwest Sydney, passed a motion to start the process of implementing a boycott of Israel. AntiJewish prohibitions have a long and ugly history. The latest manifestation, boycotting the only Jewish State, is led by a shady outfit called Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS).
BDS is widely recognised as antisemitic and has been condemned across the political spectrum, including by the prime minister and state premiers. However, the message hasn’t filtered down to some local councillors who think they have a better grasp of foreign policy.
The debate at Canterbury-Bankstown was heated. Police were called and there are allegations that death threats were made.
A number of Melbourne councils, including Merri-bek, Maribyrnong and Darebin have adopted Israel-boycott motions.
Aside from serving to increase community tensions and make Jews feel unwelcome, these motions cost ratepayers dearly. In 2011, in Sydney’s inner-city, Marrickville Council, toyed
with the idea of an Israel boycott. The cost was in the millions, including $3 million alone to remove the council's Hewlett Packard computer systems. Accounting for inflation and the larger size of many councils, the cost today would be far greater.
It turns out that there is an Israeli or Jewish contribution in many parts of our economy and tearing up signed contracts comes at a price.
Boycotting ‘Zionist’ Coca Cola and McDonalds may sound easy, but
imagine explaining to hardworking ratepayers that their rates will increase significantly because councillors want to throw out perfectly good equipment.
These foreign policy forays are often the domain of inner-city activists from the Greens or socialists. However, a boycott motion was backed by Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore, while the Canterbury-Bankstown motion was an initiative of Labor councillors.
From Byron Bay to Hobart, local councils have passed motions about the Middle East conflict, and extremist activists have many more in the pipeline. The actions of any local council in Australia will, of course, go unnoticed by anyone in the Middle East, but, as mentioned, there is a real risk that they will cost you money and damage social cohesion.
For supporters of Israel, the upcoming council elections are more important than usual.
NSW local government elections will be held on Saturday, 14th September. Before you vote, consider carefully whether the candidate you select is likely to spend your money trying to solve the Middle East conflict.
NOMI KALTMANN COURTESY: THE JEWISH INDEPENDENT
An old tradition of recycling has been revived to give modern brides access to glamour without the price tag.
When Chaya Liberow got engaged in 2019, she found herself busy with a long list of wedding preparations. There were the invites, guest list and venues to consider, dinner choices to mull over and whether to go with a DJ or just play music from Spotify. Every choice has a price tag.
Weddings are among life's most significant financial expenses, and so, Liberow, who lives in Melbourne, made a savvy decision to bypass one of its most expensive options. Instead of purchasing a wedding dress, she opted to borrow one from a Gemach.
Gemach is a Yiddish word, and it refers to a Jewish free loans society, an idea that has its origins in eastern Europe. There are many gemachs in Australia for different items – prams, strollers, wheelchairs and medical equipment, etc. But only one bridal Gemach. Instead of buying a gown, new brides borrow one for a small donation, which allows them to experience the joy of wearing a beautiful dress without the heavy financial burden.
“I didn’t think spending all that money for one night was worth it,” Liberow explains. Some Gemachs are intimate spaces; others are expansive showroomlike setups that house hundreds of bridal gowns. When she arrived at the bridal Gemach, in Melbourne, she was surprised to see how large it was.
With an inventory neatly organised by size, you could have mistaken it for a conventional wedding boutique –except that the Gemach is not a street front but a big, unoccupied suburban house, filled with nothing but hundreds of gowns. “There were lots of options and many gowns. All different styles and different fashions.”
After spending some time looking through the dresses and trying on a few gowns, Liberow found the one she wanted: a white mermaid gown adorned with delicate lace sleeves. “I felt really happy and really beautiful,” she tells The Jewish Independent.
A local dressmaker tailored it for her and after the wedding she had it drycleaned before returning the dress, at a total cost of only a few hundred dollars. By contrast, the average Australian bride spends roughly $2,000 on her dress and they go well above $5,000 or $10,000 for those from name designers.
For the price, you get something to remember the most important day of your life, where you looked your most beautiful, but it’s hardly the most important part of the day and on a costper-wear basis, it’s the worst part of your wardrobe.
When she reflected on her experience a few years after her wedding, Liberow had no regrets. “I totally understand that people want to have their special dress for their special night, but I’m so glad I borrowed mine. Dresses can be so much money. It’s so much time and so much stress. So, I think being able to borrow gorgeous dresses is a really good option.”
Gemachs have been helping Jewish brides for hundreds of years. But in the 21st century, amid growing concerns
about the environmental and labour costs of a throwaway, disposable fastfashion culture, their core concept seems radically contemporary. It’s an idea that’s taken hold in the greater world of fashion. Clothes rental services like Rent the Runway and FashionPass have become hot startups by allowing affluent women to rent the latest high fashion for a steep monthly price.
To start a bridal Gemach requires passion, focus and lots of hard work. It also requires a network of women, who after getting married want to donate their once-worn dresses so that other brides can enjoy them and use them.
When Zippy Oliver, who runs the Gemach in Melbourne, founded her bridal Gemach almost 30 years ago, she never anticipated that it would evolve into the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
“In 1994, my son passed away. I wanted to do something in his memory and we had a little bit of money that we had for him, says Oliver. “I started a Gemach to help people when they made simchas (celebratory events), and to defray costs. Things like tables, chairs, and table centres,” she explains.
Two years after she founded her Gemach, Oliver’s mother passed away and she was once again driven by a desire to spread kindness in the world to honour her mother’s memory. She decided to expand her Gemach to include bridal gowns. She collected a few donated gowns and since then it has continued to grow.
Today Oliver’s Gemach boasts a vast collection of donated bridal dresses, with Jewish brides from around Australia and New Zealand coming to choose from the carefully curated collection of gowns she has assembled.
Although Gemachs are set up by members of, and for, the Orthodox Jewish community, Oliver says she also has plenty of less modest gowns donated by women who are not religious, and if a
non-Jewish woman approached her for a gown, she would be happy to lend her one.
“[The Gemach] has everything for the bride,” says Oliver. “Headpieces, veils, gowns, jewellery, shoes and petticoats. We are talking about big numbers. There’s a couple of hundred wedding gowns. And gowns for the mother of the bride, dresses for the flower girls. There are outfits [that can be borrowed] for all the people in the bridal party.”
Oliver does not keep an official registry of how many brides she has helped find a dress over the years, but several times a week she fields calls from people who would like to inspect the collection of gowns she loans.
“There are so many different shapes of bodies and so many different dreams,” she says. “It’s about helping someone to find something that they will feel good in.” Customers can choose from two six-foot racks of veils. “I have 12 feet of racks with just petticoats. This would have to be one of the largest petticoats collections in the Southern Hemisphere!”
Over time, Oliver’s Gemach has outgrown three different locations. But unlike fashion rental startups, Oliver does not run her Gemach for a profit. It’s a labour of love, helped by a small group of volunteer women to manage the clothes and field enquiries. She feels good about the important work she does and loves meeting brides. The store is open to any potential bride who finds out about her Gemach – Orthodox, non-Orthodox and non-Jewish – and it is discreet.
“It’s why I chose not to have a website, which displays the gowns, so no one could match whose dress belonged to who. Nobody who donates a dress knows who wore it. It’s totally confidential,” she says.
Gemachs were initially conceived to assist financially challenged brides in achieving a beautiful look, but they are not exclusively used by those who are
unable to afford a dress. Many brides choose to use a Gemach because it helps to foster a sense of community.
Shoshana Hami, a resident of Monsey, a tightly knit ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in New York, availed the assistance of local Gemachs for her daughters' weddings. “I’ve used Gemachs for all my chassanehs,” she said, using the Yiddish word for wedding.
“I think it very much generates a feeling of unity, of love, and generosity, the kindness and sharing with each other. It’s almost like the people who are involved with the Gemachs are celebrating the simchas with you,” says Hami. “The kindness is almost contagious.”
“It’s a win-win situation,” Oliver says. “People have invested a lot of money into a gown, a wedding gown that they will hopefully not wear again, so it’s a really wonderful thing that the person who created it and bought it, is able to feel that someone else can benefit from it. The person who [borrows] it is getting something special and the person who gives it, gets a lot of joy that what meant so much to them is being used.”
When I returned from interviewing Oliver, I started to think about own wedding dress, a beautiful off-white gown, with lace sleeves and intricately hand beaded bodice that had cost a small fortune. But since my wedding almost a decade ago, it had been meticulously preserved in my cupboard, unworn and taking up space.
I never had a plan for it. I never intended to donate it. But having toured the Gemach with Oliver, and spoken to women who used their services, that changed. I approached Oliver, who was delighted to accept my donation, and add my dress to the Gemach. As I drove to deliver the gown to the Gemach, I couldn't help but send a silent prayer and a heartfelt wish for boundless happiness to the bride who would soon embrace its magic.
Rosh Hashana, a significant milestone in the Jewish calendar, is a time of reflection and renewal. Whether through childhood songs about the shofar, the tradition of dipping apples in honey, or gathering with family, these rituals create a consistent thread in the fabric of our identity as the People of Israel.
Yet, this year Rosh Hashana feels different. In the aftermath of the trauma of October 7, Jews worldwide approach the new year with a sense of trepidation, facing the harsh realities that war has imposed upon us.
In Israel, the prevailing insecurity and fear are palpable. Many have been forced from their homes, spending months in hotels and temporary apartments, separated from their communities and comforts. It is in these challenging times that UIA steps in to support the People of Israel, making a significant difference to the lives of the most vulnerable among us.
The shortage of affordable housing in Israel places immense strain on many elderly citizens, particularly Holocaust survivors and immigrants from the former Soviet Union, who often lack a robust support system. This is where Amigour, a UIA-supported project, offers crucial assistance. As Israel’s leading operator of public and sheltered housing for seniors, Amigour serves more than
7,500 disadvantaged elderly across the country. Currently, 2,700 Amigour residents live in Israel's south. Due to their advanced age and inability to reach shelters quickly, they remain in their homes, relying on Amigour to meet their daily needs during these stressful times.
As the High Holidays approach, UIA and Amigour are going the extra mile to provide food packages to these residents, ensuring they are well cared for during this significant and familyoriented time. For those who cannot be surrounded by loved ones, this gesture brings a sense of belonging and care.
All funds raised through the purchase of e-cards on the UIA website will be directed toward supplying these food packages to Amigour residents. In lieu of gifts for your family this Rosh Hashana, consider sending a food package to your extended family in Israel. In that way, while the world may look and feel different, know that you can make a difference to the lives of those who need your support most – the People of Israel.
To donate to UIA, go to http://www. uiaaustralia.org.au
To buy an e-card, go to http://www. uiaaustralia.org.au/e-cards
Visits may include Reim Junction, Nova Dance Festival Site and Memorial, ‘Car Graveyard’ at Kibbutz Tekumah, Sderot and Netivot
How many common words of five or more letters can you spell using the letters in the hive? Every answer must use the centre letter at least once. Letters may be reused in a word. At least one word will use all seven 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: 12= Good; 18 = Excellent; 25 = Genius
has published more than 1,000 crossword puzzles worldwide, from the
and
to
has also published two Jewish puzzle books: "Kosher Crosswords" and the sequel "More Kosher Crosswords and Word Games".
We all have photos that resonate with us. Perhaps family pics or images of tragedy. The black and white photograph pictured is one of mine. It shows a bunch of mid 20th century blokes looking pretty pleased with themselves. Here is the story of that photo.
Australia has skin in the game with Israel. While often overlooked, Australia was critical in the creation of Israel. It is a great example of how a couple of individuals of good heart can really help change the world. In this case, the two were Bert Evatt (often known as the Doc because of his PhD) and Abram Landa, the latter being my grandfather.
In Sydney, in the late 1920s, there were two lawyers, great friends and collaborators. Both came from impoverished backgrounds, where the father of the house had died young. They were saved only by the power of their minds.
Bert Evatt KC was a lion of the Sydney bar. Often briefing him was Abe Landa, a Jewish solicitor with a largely industrial practice. Bert Evatt had a spectacular career as a lawyer, intellectual and High Court judge. At age 36, he is the youngest judge ever appointed to the High Court. Their most famous partnership
was not so much a collaboration, but an accident of history. It occurred when a case Abe took to the High Court came before the Full Court, including the Doc. When a young Jewish immigrant fell into unfenced, unsigned roadworks and drowned, Abe helped the family take a legal action.
The family lost the case Chester v the Council of Waverley Municipality, but in a powerful dissenting judgement then Justice Bert Evatt sowed the seeds for future negligence claims. Gideon Haig’s book “The Brilliant Boy” provides detail.
The brilliant boy of the title could have been Bert, but was actually a description of the Jewish boy who died.
Bert was also notable for being the High Court judge sitting alone that allowed Egon Kisch, a Jewish refugee who escaped Nazism, to remain in Sydney.
As the decades rolled on, the two men flourished. In the 1930s, Abe had a short stint in the NSW parliament, grew his practice and briefed Bert’s brother, Clive Evatt. By the 1940s, Abe was back in parliament and a rising star, eventually spending years as a Minister, with a series of portfolios in the 1950s and 60s. Bert left the High Court and became a federal politician and Attorney General. This is when the two men’s vocational lives became entwined again on the question of Israel.
Bert, ever the polymath, was deeply interested in foreign affairs. In the aftermath of WWII, he joined several overseas delegations. His intellect shone through. Accordingly, Evatt was elected president of the UN in the third session of the body (September 1948 to May 1949) just as the debate over the partition of Israel was reaching its zenith. Being UN head at this critical time was vital as it coincided with the creation of Israel. Abe immediately became his adviser. The latter was a staunch Zionist and advocate for Jews and other immigrants. I even read a speech from the NSW parliament where, with great deference, Abe attacked Sir Isaac Isaacs, Australia first Jewish and first Australia-born Governor General, who had argued against the creation of Israel. Abe was nothing if not a fearless advocate.
As Bert became UN President, Abe role as adviser on Israel became critical. Abe stepped on to a plane, met his old friend and mentor, and pushed for the creation of a Jewish state. Truth be told, I suspect that Bert did not need much convincing.
As his presidency played out, David BenGurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on 14th May 1948 and Israel was admitted to the UN.
My family still treasures the photo below, ravaged by time, taken as the
document was signed creating Israel as a sovereign state. Pictured on the extreme left is Abe. In the middle is Bert, shaking hand with Moshe Sharett, Israel’s first Foreign Minister and second Prime Minister. Standing next to Bert on the extreme right is Abba Ebban, statesman, also later Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Israel. I don’t know the identities of the two men standing between Abe and Bert. If any reader does, I would love to find out.
Like most high achievers, fate can be less than kind towards the end of one’s life. Bert became leader of the federal Opposition and lost three elections to Sir Robert Menzies. His retirement was mired in illness and acrimony. Abe was expelled from the ALP after accepting a position from the Libs, although there was some meeting of minds with the Labor party again late in his life.
As Shakespeare’s Mark Anthony said, “The evil that men do lives after them. The good is oft interred with their bones.” I want Abe and Bert’s lives to be remembered for the boldness of their achievements, particularly the creation of the State of Israel, a titanic achievement.
Four-time Mayor Dick Gross is a candidate in Victoria (in the City of Port Phillip) in the upcoming local Council election there.
My journey to Judaism began as an exploration of spirituality, seeking a deeper connection and understanding of G-d that was left unfulfilled by Christianity. I long felt a strong and perplexing pull toward Judaism and was blessed with wise mentors who guided me on this path. This curiosity eventually led me to Sydney, where I embarked on the formal process of conversion. The decision to convert was not made lightly. It was the result of years of contemplation and a profound inner calling. I was drawn to the structure, law, the moral teachings of Judaism and the emphasis on community.
Yet, I also grappled with fears about embracing a new identity and leaving behind aspects of my previous life. Ultimately, the desire for a spiritual home and an unexplainable calling outweighed these concerns.
Moving to Sydney from New Zealand to pursue conversion was a significant life change. The city, with its vibrant Jewish community, provided the environment I needed to fully immerse myself in the process. Adjusting to a new city, finding my place within the community and beginning the conversion process at SAJE was both exciting and overwhelming. The warmth and support of the community have slowly made Sydney feel like home. There were challenges, such as moving away from friends
and family and navigating Sydney's logistics, but these were balanced by the rewarding experiences of personal growth and discovery.
My time at SAJE has been instrumental in my conversion journey. The program provides not only the educational foundation necessary for understanding Jewish law, history and customs, but also a space to connect with like-minded people and strengthen my faith. I am particularly grateful for the support of Rabbi Shua and Candice Wermut from SAJE, whose guidance and encouragement have been invaluable. I’ve also been
As SAJE continues to grow and expand across Australia, the SAJE team has visited a number of candidates and communities in the eastern states.
Earlier this month, SAJE rabbinic representative Rav Shua Solomon travelled to Brisbane and Byron Bay. He caught up with rabbinim, shule presidents and those potentially interested in joining the SAJE program.
There was a keen interest from many in the community about supporting the program and ensuring others became aware of what SAJE does.
Following a series of meetings, Rav Shua met with members of the Byron Bay community at a Tu B'av event hosted by Chabad of Byron Shire.
Rav Shua explained the way in which SAJE was able to help people in their process of conversion and how it could enable them to have a meaningful and enjoyable journey to becoming part of the Jewish People.
fortunate to receive support and guidance from Rabbi Wolff and Rabbi Eichenblatt of Central Synagogue, as well as Rabbi and Rebbitzin Yaffe of CBD Chabad. Their teachings and warmth have greatly enriched my understanding of Judaism and deepened my connection to the community. The friendships I’ve made have also played a crucial role in my journey. The sense of community and belonging I’ve found in Sydney has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this experience. My friends here have welcomed me with open arms, offering support, guidance and
a sense of family. Their companionship has slowly made Sydney feel like home and reinforced my commitment to this path.
To me, Judaism is like a beautiful, choreographed dance, one that weaves through every aspect of life. From the solemn rebellion of Pesach to the ecstasy of Simchat Torah, each moment in the Jewish calendar is a step in this dance. The rhythm of the week, building up to and ebbing away from Shabbat, provides a frame and structure to my everyday life. Judaism offers not just faith but a way of living that is both grounded and uplifting, where every action is infused with meaning. Through this journey, I have experienced immense personal growth. The rituals and practices of Judaism have become central to my life, providing structure, meaning and a sense of belonging. The values of compassion, justice and humility, deeply embedded in Torah teachings, have influenced my actions and decisions. I now find myself more mindful, more connected to others and more at peace with my relationship with Hashem.
As I continue toward conversion, I feel immense gratitude for the experiences and learning that have shaped me. Judaism has become a vital part of my identity, shaping my life in ways I could not have imagined. I look forward to continuing this journey, fully embracing the rich traditions and community that have welcomed me so warmly.
“The community seemed interested, engaged and, even, excited at the opportunities that SAJE might be able to give them. There will definitely be more interaction with the Byron Shire community going forward,” the rabbi said.
Rav Tomer and Inbar Ben Harosh, who run the Chabad of Byron Shire community, said they looked forward to many more visits. "This is exactly what our community needs. We are excited to be able to offer them this opportunity. We are extremely
grateful to Rav Shua and the SAJE team for making this visit happen."
To read more about SAJE, go to https:// saje.org.au or contact Candice at candice@saje.org.au
RAMONA FREEDMAN KESHER COMMUNICATIONS
I need to find some yellow ribbon. As I sit tentatively behind the steering wheel located on the left side of my car, I ponder whether there might be any haberdashery shops with ribbon trimmings in my new neighbourhood of Ra’anana?
Well, there must be. Every car seems to be sporting one tied to its wing mirrors. Why? To keep the hostages and their necessary release at the forefront of our collective consciousness. I’ll report back on this shortly.
As someone fresh off the proverbial boat, there are Aliyah discounts for all sorts of things for a couple of years. Is there a long list of items one can peruse to ascertain if they are applicable to the microcosm of each person’s world? Don’t be silly. Of course not. At least, no one has shown me.
Early on, I knew I needed to find a swimming pool to do freestyle laps at some point each week. No, I am not a super fish like our Aussie Olympic heroes. I’m just the gal who needed to start swimming post breast cancer surgery a long time ago. It helps so much. But that is not the crux of this reflection. Very quickly I discovered that Ra’anana has a sports centre, with many offerings, including a 25-metre indoor pool.
As I was about to buy a ten-swim pass with an Aliyah discount, I was asked if I also swim on Shabbat? When I said I didn’t, I received a bonus discount. I thought that was pretty cool. I had been worried about leaving my Sydney gym, where I made friends with the ladies of a certain age who attended early morning aqua aerobics classes. I knew I would especially miss my newest friend, Patricia, with her big laugh and South African accent.
Here in Israel, it was comforting to know that as I was donning my Speedo goggles, there was also a mirror-image Israeli aqua class just starting. Snap ladies.
One participant in stern, fast Hebrew told me to move to another lane (at least that is what I believe she said). I smiled
disarmingly and while I didn’t cotton on at first, her gesticulations helped. When I mentioned the one essential phrase, ‘Slicha, ani Olah Chadasha’ – sorry I am a new immigrant – her flash of anger turned into a warm welcome. Her name is Ayala, which apparently means a gazelle or a doe (no, dear readers, we are not going to break into song right now).
I wave to her each time I swim and now we are firm friends, although I secretly know that no one has the same sparkle in their eyes as Patricia.
One more thing about this pool – the
lifeguard seems to spend most of his time perched with his legs up reclining, engrossed in his smart phone. So much so that one morning he fell backwards and broke his chair! We all know that if there was any drama whatsoever, this ex-army guy would leap over his high railings and dive straight in to rescue anyone in need. Therefore, whether he watches the pool or not, his mere presence is a great comfort. As I walk out, I can’t help but notice that on the roof of the sports centre there are eight loudspeakers assembled in a circular design, not for the pumping of patriotic music, rather a vehicle for sirens to wail in case of danger. Speaking of emergencies, given ‘the situation’ I couldn’t help but notice a few new fluorescent signs stuck to the sports centre walls, pointing to the bomb shelter. I made a mental note of its direction and kept my swimming bag on a chair close to my lane on the off chance I need to make a mad dash.
There is a soulful sense of togetherness here in Israel. Although one day I was caught off guard. I entered our local library to concentrate on writing a chapter of my book (more on that another day). Upon exiting, I said a casual ‘shalom’ to the older security guard, named Betzalel. He replied in rapid Hebrew and the only word I caught was ‘coffee’. I was holding a water bottle and said earnestly: ‘No, I have a drink.
This is water’. It was only then, after he slowly repeated the words that I realised he was asking me out on a date. My eyes widened. No Betzalel, that just ain’t gonna happen in any language! Boy did my friends (new and old) laugh about that for a couple of days. These Israelis, they are chutzpahdik!
There are many shuls in our area and yes, I really feel part of the warm community at Kehilat Lev Ra’anana (KLR). In fact, I arrived a month and a half ago and every week since there have been new members joining this ever-expanding congregation. Australians, South Africans and others. It is evolving before my eyes and I love that I am a small part of its positive progression.
You want to talk brave? I also attended a local Pilates class taught in Hebrew only. Did I understand much? Almost nothing, except when the teacher opted to translate the colours of the Reformer springs into English. Dear teacher, the colours are the only Hebrew words I actually know.
So, I just did what any clueless kid would do and copied the girl next to me. I pulled out the old nugget of being an Olah Chadasha and it transformed from a creepy closeness to camaraderie in a heartbeat.
I love how many opportunities there are here. One evening, I joined about a dozen people from my local shul and area and made a barbeque. This was not in someone’s backyard.
It was organised for the soldiers on an army base in the Shomron (or as it is more often called by media around the world, the West Bank). I knew this was going to be an unusual night when an especially strong volunteer driving me pulled over early on a random Ra’anana road to recite Tefilat HaDerech, the traveller’s prayer, before we got going.
A philanthropist had donated thousands of shekels. The best quality steaks, chicken and more were brought, along with salads, dips, pita, watermelon – in short, the works.
I wore an apron with ‘Grills of Hope’ written on it, replete with a caricature of a bearded man with a Star of David front and centre, holding tongs in each hand.
It had been unusually scheduled during the nine days when we don’t traditionally eat meat, but one extraordinary soldier had just completed seven years of continuous study and celebrated his Siyum HaShas with his entire unit.
The soldiers could only eat after 10pm that evening as they had been practising for specific night manoeuvres.
They all thanked us, yet in all honesty it was for us to thank them.
When I say ‘us’, I don’t just mean the volunteers that night – I mean every single Jew around the world.
Did I find a yellow ribbon? You bet I did. So many are advocating daily on behalf of our hostages and we won’t stop. May they be released this minute.
May Am Yisrael go from strength to strength. Shalom Australia from Ramona in Ra’anana.
Ramona Freedman contributes a monthly column about her Aliyah journey. To contact her directly, please email ramona@keshercommunications.com.au
TOBIAS SIEGAL AUJS AROUND THE COMMUNITY
As Jewish students return to campus amidst a climate of uncertainty, The Australasian Union of Jewish Students (AUJS) remains steadfast in its commitment to providing its members with services and programs to help them better navigate the rapidly changing environment that has characterised the aftermath of October 7.
After spending much of the previous semester extinguishing fires, AUJS kicked off this semester with a more proactive and hands-on approach by increasing its budget for on-campus initiatives and placing a heightened focus on advocacy training, community engagement and creating safe spaces where students can connect with peers, explore shared interests and take pride in their identity.
In an effort to adapt to the new challenges faced by Jewish students and the Jewish community at large, AUJS will also be expanding some of its existing programs to better adapt to the new reality knocking at our doorstep. These include Jewish Engagement Week (JEW), which will run between August 26-30 and regional Accelerate conferences, that will take place throughout September and October.
JEW is designed to celebrate the rich and diverse culture of the Jewish people. This year’s program aims to educate both Jewish and non-Jewish communities about the varied history and traditions of the Jewish people and the Jewish State. Considering widespread misinformation that has been propagated since October 7, JEW will emphasise that Israel is not a European colonialist project but a vibrant, multicultural society with deep historical roots in the Middle East. The initiative will be showcased through an online campaign and a
series of events held on campuses around Australia. Accelerate is another key program designed to deepen AUJS members' understanding of Israel and its multifaceted challenges. While previous conferences have had the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a primary focus, this year’s events will offer a broader perspective on various aspects of Israeli society. Participants will delve into the societal, religious, ideological and political tensions within Israel and how these factors have influenced the country's response to October 7.
This year, Accelerate will also seek to engage a wider audience by being conducted in different formats across all AUJS regions. Unlike past conferences, which were typically held in one state –usually Victoria or NSW – this approach looks to reach hundreds of students across multiple locations, thereby increasing accessibility and impact.
The unifying theme of both JEW and Accelerate this year is the recognition that effective Israel advocacy begins with a nuanced understanding of the diversity within the Jewish world and Israeli society. By fostering this understanding, AUJS aims to empower students to advocate more effectively and confidently for their community.
As we approach the first anniversary of October 7, it is crucial to reflect on the significance and introspection that this day can offer. For young Jewish students, this reflection starts with a deeper comprehension of Israeli reality and building a sense of confidence and pride in their religion and culture. These initiatives are designed to support this journey and equip students with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate and advocate within today’s complex landscape.
RABBINICAL COUNCIL
Earlier this month, 25 rabbis from across NSW came together at Parramatta Synagogue to network and share stories and ideas.
Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison addressed the Second Annual Rabbinic Conference on faith and leadership.
He told the gathering how he drew upon his own faith when he most needed it during the challenging times he faced as the country’s leader.
He also expressed his concern and support for the Jewish community in Sydney and his strong commitment and connection to the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
The other guest, for the second year running, was Rabbi Yosef Tzvi Rimon. Rabbi Rimon is one of the world’s leading religious Zionist rabbis.
He is involved in several projects concerning education and support for IDF soldiers.
At the conference, he headlined sessions on Jewish law and thought, and told inspiring tales of working with Israelis in the aftermath of October 7.
Rabbinical Council president Rav Shua Solomon said the event was “all about the rabbis taking time out for a couple of days to recharge, learn and be inspired by others”.
A gathering of rabbis at the Second Annual Rabbinic Conference in Parramatta
Being held in Parramatta, the conference also helped rabbinim that are primarily from Sydney’s east and north get to know a little about the western Sydney Jewish community.
Solomon praised the leadership of Paramatta Synagogue. “They went out of their way to make us feel at home in
their space and helped us with whatever we asked for.” The conference comes off the back of a $50,000 dollar grant given to the Rabbinical Council from the state government to help rabbis enhance their professional development and foster greater community collaboration.
This is the first time the Rabbinical
Council has obtained such an endowment, which Rabbi Shua said would benefit tens of thousands of Jews.
The Rabbinical Council currently has 40 active members, the largest number in its history. It continues to strive to give its rabbis the best opportunities to enhance their learning and growth, and promote community collaboration.
DAVID SOLOMON AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF TEL AVIV UNIVERSITY AROUND THE COMMUNITY
Breakthrough in brain-computer interfaces enables a patient to “speak” using only the power of thought.
A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from Tel Aviv University and Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center has demonstrated the potential for a paralysed person to communicate using the power of thought i.e. the successful vocalisation of imagined speech by a silent patient.
Led by Dr. Ariel Tankus and Dr. Ido Strauss, the study involved a silent participant who imagined saying one of two syllables. Electrodes implanted deep in his brain captured the electrical signals, which were then processed by a computer to vocalise the syllables.
This remarkable achievement opens new avenues for enabling people with severe paralysis, such as those suffering from ALS, brainstem stroke or brain injuries, to regain their ability to speak voluntarily.
The researchers began by asking the patient to articulate two syllables out loud while recording the corresponding brain activity. Using machine learning, artificial intelligence models were trained to recognise the specific brain cells responsible for these sounds. Subsequently, the patient was instructed to merely imagine saying these syllables,
and the computer translated the electrical signals into pre-recorded sounds.
Dr. Tankus said: “For the first time in history, we connected speech parts to individual brain cell activity, allowing us to distinguish between the electrical signals representing the syllables. While our current research involves only two syllables, our ambition is to achieve complete speech. However, even with just two syllables, a fully paralysed person could signal ‘yes’ and ‘no’.”
This pioneering study represents a significant step toward developing brain-computer interfaces capable of replacing the brain’s control pathways for speech production. The potential to allow completely paralysed individuals to communicate voluntarily with their
surroundings offers a beacon of hope for many.
Reservists with PTSD recalled amid ongoing war – therapists warn of risks
Soon after the October 7 terror attack and the ensuing war with Hamas, it became evident that Israel would face a tidal wave of cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Amid the prolonged conflict, many Israeli Defense Forces’ reservists diagnosed with PTSD after returning home, are now being called up for additional duty before completing their therapy.
The National Center for Post Trauma & Resilience at Tel Aviv University has raised concerns about this troubling phenomenon, warning that returning to service prematurely can aggravate psychological conditions, as well as pose risks to both the affected individuals and their comrades.
When war broke out, Tel Aviv University was constructing a dedicated building for its National Center, intended to house research facilities and a PTSD treatment clinic.
However, considering the pressing needs arising from the crisis, it successfully raised emergency funding to kickstart the Clinic’s operations in a temporary venue on campus.
The Clinic, Israel’s largest PTSD facility, has been inundated with an unprecedented level of new treatment requests from soldiers and civilians,
reflecting the severe emotional toll of the war.
However, some reservists, driven by deep commitment to their country and comrades, abandon or delay their PTSD treatment to respond to the call of duty. Head of the Centre, Professor BarHaim said: "Returning to the context of trauma before completing therapy can severely impact one's mental health and operational effectiveness. We must adapt our therapeutic protocols to address this unique situation."
There is a clear need to develop new and innovative PTSD treatments. TAU researchers have been at the forefront of such research for 30 years, developing a broad range of internationally recognised models and techniques for diagnosing, preventing and treating the psychological effects of exposure to traumatic events.
The Centre drives innovation in trauma and mental health care through an ongoing cross-fertilisation of ideas between research and the treatments administered in the Clinic. The Australian Friends of TAU are pursuing additional financial support for this initiative.
To donate to The Australian Friends of TAU, go to https://www.aftau.asn.au/ donate/
Now, more than ever, the future of our people in Israel is paramount. A bequest - a promise today for Israel’s tomorrow - is one of the most inspiring gifts you can give. Join TAU’s global family of supporters who, beyond their lifetime, have committed to ensure Israel’s future by supporting its greatest natural resourceits people. The education of future generations at TAU will have an enduring and global impact. Making a gift in your will to Tel Aviv University will ensure your legacy lives on with Israel, forever.
YOASH DVIR TECHNION AUSTRALIA
The Technion – Israel Institute of Technology has achieved a notable ranking in the number of US patents approved relative to the size of its research faculty. According to a recent report by the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), based on data from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the Technion ranked first in Europe and among the top 20 globally according to this metric.
This achievement highlights the ongoing role of Israeli institutions in technological innovation, a phenomenon that has led to Israel's nickname as the "Startup Nation".
The Technion, in Haifa, has long been considered a significant contributor to Israel's tech ecosystem.
The report indicates that the Technion had 48 patents approved in the US in the year leading up to the ranking. It is important to note that patent approvals often lag patent applications by several years, so these approvals may represent work from earlier periods.
One area where the Technion has made notable strides is in medical imaging. Researchers at the institution have developed methods to reduce MRI scan times and improve image quality using machine learning techniques. This
advancement is particularly relevant in the context of global healthcare, where efficient and accurate imaging is critical for diagnosis and treatment.
Another area of productivity is water purification, with the development of new methods for efficient water treatment, an area of particular interest, given global concerns about water scarcity.
Cybersecurity, a hot topic these days, is a further field in which Technion’s
researchers made advancements, as they developed a novel approach to securing communication networks, reflecting the growing importance of digital security.
These areas of research align with global technological trends and challenges, suggesting that the Technion's work has potential for broad impact.
However, it's crucial to remember that patent approvals, while a useful metric,
do not necessarily translate directly to market success or societal impact.
The Technion's performance in patent approvals offers one perspective on Israel's innovation ecosystem.
Other factors contributing to Israel's tech sector include government policies, military technology transfer, international investment, and a culture that has been described as encouraging entrepreneurship and risk-taking.
Moreover, although small, Israel has three universities within the top 100 universities in the world, based on the Shanghai ranking, with Technion scoring 85th place this year.
While the ranking and patent approvals provide insights into the Technion's research activities, they represent only part of the complex landscape of technological innovation.
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, institutions like the Technion will likely play a crucial role in addressing global challenges and driving innovation. Of course, the challenge of commercialising these inventions remains and the measure of their success will ultimately be determined by the real-world impact of research and innovation.
For 100 years, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology has strengthened the State and people of Israel. No institution holds more promise for its future. It educates global entrepreneurs, develops pioneering technologies, expands our scientific frontiers and betters life around the world.
STEPHANIE HAUSMAN JDC (THE JOINT) AUSTRALIA
JDC (The Joint) is actively working to prepare and protect the residents of northern Israel, who are facing increasing threats from rocket and drone attacks. In a region where the sound of sirens and explosions has become a part of daily life, JDC's efforts are a lifeline for the most vulnerable communities.
In response to the escalating conflict, JDC has launched a comprehensive two-stage emergency preparedness plan. The first stage, focusing on providing nearly 150,000 of the most susceptible residents with personalised emergency kits tailored to their specific needs, is already underway. These kits are crucial for people with disabilities, families with young children and older adults, ensuring they have the necessary resources to protect themselves in the event of further attacks.
Should the conflict worsen, JDC is prepared to move into the second stage of its plan, which involves delivering direct aid to those in need. That includes providing essentials like food, hygiene supplies, medications and psychological assistance, as well as evacuation support. The organisation’s groundwork in the first stage will enable a swift and effective response to save lives.
JDC’s expertise in disaster response is also being leveraged to equip civilian
first-response teams in northern Israel. Hundreds of emergency medical kits, containing critical items such as ventilators and burn bandages have been distributed and there is a growing demand for more as the conflict continues.
The situation has taken a significant toll on children in the region, many of whom have been living under constant rocket fire for months. To address this, JDC is training early childhood caregivers to
cope with stress and trauma, expanding its Hibuki trauma treatment program, and preparing to support evacuee children and their families to temporary locations. These efforts are vital in helping children and their parents manage the anxiety and uncertainty that have become part of their daily lives.
Older adults, another highly vulnerable group, are also receiving critical support from JDC. With local social services overwhelmed, JDC has
Student protests and encampments over the war in Gaza have challenged universities in the diaspora. For the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, however, the difficulties have been different, and of a greater magnitude. “It’s more complicated than in the States because we live the complexity; we see what’s going on in some way,” said Professor Mona Khoury, the university’s vicepresident for strategy and diversity, and a professor in the School of Social Work. Professor Khoury, a former Fulbright postdoctoral fellow at the University of Chicago, has herself contributed to Hebrew U’s diversity: she was the first Arab woman to be appointed dean of faculty at an Israeli university, when she took up School of Social Work role in 2018. She also received the President of Israel’s Medal of Honour in recognition of her contribution to the country.
Professor Khoury visited Australia in 2019 to participate in a series of events highlighting women that have ‘shattered the glass ceiling’.
As an academic institution, the Hebrew University was uniquely placed to respond to the war. It invited its own experts, especially those who work on trauma, onto Zoom after 7 October to talk with students and with faculty and
mobilised community caseworkers to reach out to isolated seniors and people with disabilities, providing them with emotional support and connecting them to essential community resources.
JDC has established pop-up day centres for the elderly, offering a range of activities and support services to prevent physical, emotional and cognitive decline. As the situation in the north becomes more precarious, JDC plans to expand these centres to accommodate the growing number of elderly evacuees.
To ensure that essential services remain operational in the north, JDC is also supporting the Ministry of Economy’s National Employment Coordination Center by readying a database of 2,000 emergency workers who can be deployed to critical industries like food production, healthcare and transportation. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the stability of the region’s infrastructure during times of crisis.
JDC’s commitment to strengthening and revitalising Israel’s northern communities is clear. Its efforts to prepare, protect and support the region's most vulnerable populations are vital as the threat of escalation looms. In these challenging times, JDC’s work is not only providing immediate relief but also laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience.
administrative staff about the anxiety of what had happened and what was unfolding.
In the Hamas attacks, sons, daughters and parents of teaching staff and postgraduate students were murdered and taken hostage. Among Palestinians killed in the ongoing war are relatives and friends of students and faculty members. In addition, 5,000 students were recruited to the IDF, some of whom
have been killed in active service.
Professor Khoury and her colleagues already had a crisis management plan: one prepared during the May 2021 Israel/Palestinian crisis, which detailed the steps the institution needed to take in a time of conflict. She had then just been appointed to the diversity role.
Much of the content of that document has been applied post October 7. Workshops and arts activities are among
the tools used to encourage students to talk to each other and as a way of increasing inclusion.
A project that has had particularly positive results is one in which students from different backgrounds undertake assignments with each other, with a view to changing attitudes, ideas and perspectives. Away from their studies, students are offered access to interfaith groups, music and theatre ensembles.
Ahead of collaboration, student diversity must start with bringing in different groups. In recent years the university has increased the number of Arab students from 12 percent a few years ago to 21 percent of current firstyear students.
The university has not had student encampments or violence on campus, Professor Khoury said.
“This doesn’t mean that people don’t feel bad or feel that tension. It’s not a normal situation, so you can’t ignore it, and we have a lot of anger about what’s going on with the hostages.”
Still, as she looks at how the university has managed, Professor Khoury is optimistic. “I’m not saying we are perfect, but I wish that in some way our country will act as we act … as we try to give opportunity for everyone, as we try to be inclusive and be diverse.”
RABBI LEVI WOLFF CHIEF MINISTER THE CENTRAL SYNAGOGUE
There’s no need to test our collective memory; we will win every time. There’s a famous story about Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. While walking in Paris during his reign early in the 19th century, he heard wailing sounds emanating from a synagogue.
He asked his companion why the Jews were crying so despondently, to which he replied: "Emperor, they’re mourning the destruction of their Temple." Napoleon enquired as to when it had been destroyed. He was shocked to discover it was almost two millennia earlier.
Napoleon then declared, "a nation mourning for so long will be eternal and live to rebuild their Temple".
Earlier this month, we commemorated Tisha B’Av, the saddest day on our lunar calendar, marking the destruction of both of our Temples in Jerusalem and so much more. I am reflecting upon this Napoleonic notion.
He understood that there was a depth to the palpable pain, far deeper than mere broken bricks and stones could evoke. Tisha B’Av is not merely about a building’s destruction; it’s about the exile of a people, the estrangement of a nation from G-d, and a deep national tragedy.
Yet, why do we continue to mourn annually? I consider the story in Genesis
in which our forefather Jacob grieves for his son Joseph, who he believed had been killed. For 22 years, Jacob was inconsolable. Our commentators explain that Jacob’s mourning was atypical because Joseph was actually still alive. Mourning a death is differentiated from mourning a missing person.
When someone dies, it is excruciating, but there may ultimately be closure. Yet Jacob’s wounds couldn’t heal because Joseph was still alive – missing in Egypt.
As a Jewish nation, we aren’t grieving a finality; we are grieving what is missing. The Temples were destroyed, but only temporarily. They will be returned to us.
One of the most moving songs in our spiritual repertoire is based on one of Rambam’s Thirteen Principles of
Faith. Ani Ma'amin has a melody that embodies our steadfast belief and unwavering trust in a glorious future and ultimate redemption.
The lyrics were composed by the great medieval Jewish scholar Maimonides:
"I believe with perfect faith in the coming of the Messiah, and even though He may delay, nevertheless, I await His arrival every day."
There are many melodies to these words, but the most famous one is the haunting tune composed in an extraordinary and tragic moment by Azriel David Fastag.
RABBI MOSHE GUTNICK RABBINIC ADMINISTRATOR THE KASHRUT AUTHORITY
In my capacity as Rabbinic Administrator of the Kashrut Authority I sometimes find myself in some of the most interesting places. One such place is the Solomon Islands. Coconut is one of the main commodities grown there and it is made into coconut oil.
The copra, or white flesh of the coconut, is dried and then pressed in very large and powerful mills, until an oil is extracted. After filtering, the oil is light brown and perfectly clear. Coconut oil needs no aids in production or any refining. It is pure and kosher. It is packed and shipped in large containers to the Europe, USA and Australia.
Most of the oil originated in the Solomon Islands goes to Europe, where it is used in some famous brands of chocolate that are kosher. The unique properties of the coconut oil give the chocolate a particular smoothness.
The first time I visited the Solomons I noticed a unique sign at the entrance to the factory: No Smoking.
No Betel Nut. No Alcohol. What on Earth is Betel Nut? It is actually a stimulant drug found in the areca palm and used throughout the Pacific. It is readily accessible from those palm trees and as with all drugs is quite dangerous, hence the warning. Truth be told, the warning is probably more to keep the workers from having accidents.
What is probably more interest is that the Solomon Islands were named after the biblical King Solomon. When the Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana discovered alluvial gold on Guadalcanal (the main island in the Solomons and the site of major battles in WWII) he thought he had found the source of King Solomon’s wealth and named the island accordingly. During the colonial period it was called British Solomon Islands Protectorate. The rest of the story I heard from a Solomon Islands member of parliament at a rally for Israel. It is well known how supportive Pacific Islanders are toward Israel. Very often at the UN, the Pacific Islands will vote with Israel when others do not. This is due to a deep religious belief on their part. They believe that we are Hashem’s chosen people, that the land of Israel is G-d’s gift to the Jewish people and no one else has a right to it.
He told me that when the Solomon Islands achieved independence there was discussion as to what its name should be. Should it change to an islander language moniker? This was eventually done by Vanuatu, which altered its name from New Hebrides in 1980 and so too other Islands. It was ultimately decided to maintain the name and not sever the connection between King Solomon and the islands.
He explained to me that not changing the name was a loud act of support for Israel and to this day the Islanders absolutely support Israel and its people.
Sadly, Azriel David was not so fortunate. In 1942, he was forced onto a train bound for Treblinka, along with hundreds of other Jews. While on that fateful journey, the melody for Ani Ma'amin was born.
As the train rattled towards its horrific destination, Azriel David began singing the song quietly. Gradually, everyone on the train joined him, their voices rising in a powerful chorus. In that moment, they were no longer victims; they were each beacons of hope and faith.
After repeating the melody many times, Azriel David made a desperate plea. He offered half of his heavenly reward to anyone who could deliver the tune to his mentor, the Modzitzer Rebbe, in New York.
The odds of escaping were slim to none. Yet, two boys managed to jump out of the train via a gap in the carriage roof. One was killed leaping from the train, but the other survived and ultimately delivered the meaningful melody.
The Modzitzer Rebbe was deeply moved by the song and its haunting origins. He declared: “With this tune, they went to the gas chambers. With this tune we will march to greet Redemption.
Even in these difficult times, always recall that we are Bnei Ma'aminim – a people of belief. Soon we will merit the final Redemption and please G-d, the rebuilding of our Temple in our days. Amen!
Before World War II, Fastag was a beloved chazzan and composer of Hasidic melodies. His spiritual mentor, the Modzitzer Rebbe, managed to escape Poland just before the decimation of Jews in his region and arrived in New York in 1940.
RABBI DR BENJI LEVY
If you went on Amazon right now and typed in ‘happiness + books’, you would get roughly 80,000 results – all books trying to teach you the secret to happiness. That’s a lot of secrets.
So, what if we just start with just three? Let me explain.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks highlighted the following paths to happiness:
• Inner peace
• Covenantal community
• Sacrificing for a cause
Inner peace
True happiness comes from finding peace and serenity from within yourself. I learnt this from Holocaust survivor Eddie Jaku who called himself the happiest man on earth. When asked how he could be so happy after surviving Auschwitz he told me that his secret was his capacity to find peace. He was able to let go of negativity and open himself up to the beauty of the world and discover the inner peace that led to happiness.
Covenantal community
Every Friday night, I close my eyes and smile when I sing a verse in the Lecha Dodi prayer, “your God shall rejoice over you, as a bridegroom rejoices
over his bride”. At that moment, I think about the most important covenantal partnership of my life – my marriage to my wife, Renana: a partnership that has enabled us to build a Jewish family and covenantal community.
Being a part of a partnership and community built around a shared covenant of faith and identity gives one a sense of belonging and peace that leads to happiness. Think of the last time you felt part of a community or spent time with those close to you. Did you not feel true joy?
Sacrificing for a cause
How can we derive joy from sacrifice? Think about the last time you sacrificed something for a cause you believed in. Didn’t you feel a deep sense of fulfilment, joy and happiness?
Abraham’s life was ridden with hardships. Despite that, we’re told that he lived a wholesome life and ultimately found true joy. More recently, the earliest Zionist pioneers sacrificed to turn what was uninhabitable land under onerous conditions into the future of the Jewish state, yielding the ultimate joy in seeing the state of Israel born and growing. So, why not forget about all the ‘secrets’ and access one of these three significant pathways?
Question
What does the word Zion mean? As far as I know from reading the Bible, Zion can mean the Land of Israel, the people of Israel, or the city of Jerusalem. But what does it actually mean?
Answer
When I lived in Jerusalem, I used to take my shirts to be pressed at Itzik’s laundromat. He did a great job and was very fast. They said about Itzik that he would iron like a lion in Zion.
So, what does Zion mean? The literal translation is “sign” – a symbol, a demarcation, an object that represents something else.
Zion is the Jewish people. We are a sign. Understand that and you’ll understand our secret. You’ll also understand those who love us and those who hate us.
A sign is not there for itself. A sign has a message to convey about something else. If you see a sign on a highway with a picture of a kangaroo on it, it’s not there for decoration. It’s there to warn you to look out for wildlife on the road. If a house has a “for sale” sign out the front, the sign is not for sale, the house is. If you come across a sign with an arrow pointing right, simply look right. The purpose of a sign is to draw attention not to itself, but to something beyond itself.
The Jewish people are a sign pointing upwards. Everything about us points to a higher power. You can’t explain
Jews without G-d and you can’t understand Israel without faith. In every chapter of our history, until today, you see an unmistakably divine fingerprint. Somehow our little nation always ends up at the centre of world events. Somehow our tiny piece of land is the focus of all the nations of the world. And somehow whatever happens to Jews anywhere has an impact on Jews everywhere.
That’s because our story is not about us, it’s about something higher. Every Jew on the face of the Earth is a walking sign of the One above. We are here to bring a message, not by preaching, but merely by existing as Jews.
This is why people love us. And this is why people hate us. A Jew is not just a Jew. A Jew is a symbol of G-d, the G-d who took us out of Egypt, gave us the Torah and brought us to the Promised Land. Those who love the G-d of the Bible love the Jews. Those who hate that G-d, hate the Jews. They may say they only oppose Zionists, but we know what they mean. They can’t stand seeing the sign that points clearly to G-d, who gave us the Torah and the land of Israel.
It’s not always easy to be a sign of the One above, but there can be no greater gift. We have infinity in our soul, we have G-d on our side and we have good people the world over who believe in us. We stand strong and proud, doing our job as Itzik did – iron like a lion in Zion.
Rabbi Aron Moss is the director of the Nefesh Centre in Bondi Beach. For more information, go to www.nefesh.org.au
Method:
Cream sugars, margarine and vanilla essence in mixer.
Add eggs and beat until light and fluffy. Add combined dry ingredients and mix well.
Stir in chocolate chips.
Form into balls.
Place on baking sheets, lined with baking paper.
Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes. Enjoy!
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TCHOTCHKES. 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): TCHOTCHKE, SKETCHES, SOCKETS, CHECKS, CHEEKS, CHOKES, SKETCH, SKEETS, SOCKET, SHACKS, STOKES, STOCKS, CHECK, CHEEK, CHOKE, COOKS, HOCKS, HOOKS, KOOKS, SOCKS, SEEKS, SHOCK, SHOOK, STOCK, STOKE and TOKES. Questions/comments, please email Yoni at koshercrosswords@gmail.com
We are in Poland in 1870. Yentl (Amy Hack) is driven by her desire to study … to learn and understand. Her father teaches at the local Yeshiva. Being a girl, she is not allowed to attend the Yeshiva, nor to study the Torah.
So, she does so in secret … behind closed doors, often wearing her father’s clothes (her mother died during childbirth), even smoking his pipe. He knows and while he doesn’t overtly countenance Yentl’s endeavours, neither does he ignore her pleas.
In short, he gives in and begins to teach her one-on-one. After his health deteriorates and he passes away, Yentl “transforms” herself into a man.
She wraps a tight bandage around her breasts, again dons her father’s clothes, including his prayer shawl, and travels to parts previously unknown. There she enters a religious male society, with its distinctive smells, assumes the name Anshl and befriends Avigdor (Nicholas Jaquinot).
Anshl expresses a desire to study in a small Yeshiva and Avigdor suggests that “he” join him at his. And so it comes to pass, with Anshl becoming Avigdor’s study partner and best friend. Anshl learns about twin tragedies in Avigdor’s life – his brother’s death and the “uncoupling” of his engagement to the girl he loves, named Hodes (Genevieve Kingsford).
As a fine student, Anshl is invited by Hodes’ father to eat and study in the company of his family, attended to by
Sensitive and affecting, Touch is a love story that spans the ages.
The two in play here meet at a Japanese restaurant in the UK.
On principle, Icelander Kristofer gives up his place at the prestigious London School of Economics to work as a dishwasher at the busy eatery.
That is where he first sets eyes upon the restaurant owner’s daughter, Miko, also a student, who works there part time.
She and her father emigrated to London from Hiroshima in 1957.
Their past lives form an important part of the back story.
The connection between Kristofer and Miko is palpable. He is shy and cares deeply. She goes after what she wants.
Theirs is a clandestine relationship, but circumstances tear them apart and they are not to meet again for more than half a century. By then, Kristofer’s cards are marked and he is told to pursue any unfinished business before it is too late.
The COVID outbreak is in its infancy. Masks and distancing are beginning to be a part of everyday life. Citizens are being urged to return home.
Nevertheless, the now elderly man closes his restaurant in Iceland and takes a flight to try to find his lost love.
Told through flashbacks, Touch is a heart-wrenching story, both dramatic
Hodes. Anshl and Hodes grow close. Meanwhile, Avigdor – who is still in love with Hodes – insists on regular “debriefs” from Anshl after he has seen Hodes. Anshl continues to live a lie, but while loving both Avigdor and Hodes, dark forces are circling, ones that threaten to expose and shatter Anshl’s idyll.
Mysticism, spirituality and Yiddish culture are the keys to Isaac Bashevis Singer’s original short story, upon which Yentl the play is based. Writers Gary Abrahams (who also directs the work), Elise Esther Hearst and Galit Klas have taken the force of Singer’s tale and turned it into compelling theatre. Told in
English and Yiddish (with English surtitles), Yentl is a mighty production in all respects, driven by bravura performances.
Throughout their endeavours, Yentl/ Anshl is egged on by a malevolent force, known as a dybbuk. With a disquieting cackle, Evelyn Krape assumes that ever present character with distinction. She is at one with the “muck raker”, who “drives” Yentl’s/Anshl’s journey, revelling in its trajectory.
Amy Hack is equally extraordinary as the always anxious central player. Yentl’s heart may be in the right place, but she becomes mired in the subterfuge that takes over her life and threatens the
wellbeing of those closest to her. Hack convincingly channels the tortuous dichotomy at the centre of the story, such that we – the audience – care deeply.
Integral to that endeavour is Nicholas Jaquinot’s sterling endeavour as the shattered soul given new hope by Anshl. His Avigdor is deeply human, troubled and yearning.
Genevieve Kingsford keeps it real as the pure, naïve soul that is Hodes, who –in keeping with Jewish tradition – would like to marry a worthy man, settle down and have a large family. Hodes has every reason to believe that in Anshl she has finally found “the one”, but as time passes her frustrations grow. Hack’s realisation of Hodes ensures that we feel for her, as much as we do for Avigdor and Yentl. Helping to bring the story to life is Dann Barber’s earthy set design (he is also responsible for costuming). A tall ladder puts Yentl within touching distance of the Yeshiva. Rocks and tufts of grass complete the picture. The lighting by Rachel Burke is integral in setting and changing the mood … in creating the air of foreboding central to Yentl.
The moral quandary, not to overlook the androgynous nature of the lead, that underpin the piece give it real bite. Truly triumphant, this glorious realisation of Yentl will be performed at Playhouse at Sydney Opera House from 17th October, 2024.
For bookings, go to www.yentl.com.au
Alex First reviewed the most recent Melbourne production of Yentl, which will be replicated with the same performers in Sydney.
and romantic. It has been beautifully composed and executed by writer and director Baltasar Kormakur (Beast), alongside fellow writer and author Olafur Johann Olafsson.
It is a welcome change of pace for Kormakur, best known in the US for his bigger action and survival films.
While Touch has a gentle tone, it unfolds against one of the greatest atrocities of WWII.
I felt like I was going on a journey with the key protagonists, one that I was pleased to be taking. I yearned for a
happy ending. Touch brings us all the “feels”, with nuance and conviction. It is the rich and redolent characters, along with the pacing and production design, that make Touch as good as it is.
Nothing is rushed. Rather, I felt a sense of calm and timeliness.
Palmi Kormakur oozes charm and sensuality as the young Kristofer. Egil Olaffson parlays that into determination and respect as the elder incarnation.
There is joie de vivre and enthusiasm about Koki’s portrayal of the young Miko. Masahiro Motoki embraces his pivotal
role as Miko’s principled but obstinate father, Takahashi-san.
Touch is a movie with light and shade, joy and heartache, enhanced by the strength of the secondary players.
It is a film I highly recommend to those that enjoy intelligent, thought-provoking filmmaking.
Rated M, it scores an 8 out of 10.
For more of Alex First’s reviews, go to https://www.itellyouwhatithink.com
