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VOL. 36 Friday, 4 May 2018 / 19 Iyyar 5778

Fostering a closer Jewish community

Free subscription to electronic copy go to www.thejewishreport.com.au

PULITZER PRIZE WINNER LAUNCES BOOK ON ISRAEL’S OCCUPATION PAGE 3

LEST WE FORGET GREG SHER PAGE 9

CELEBRATING YOM HA’ATZMAUT Celebrations at The King David School

8648 Scott Winton - Banner for Melb Jewish report (correct size).indd 1

2018 GHF AUSTRALIAN AGE PAGE 23 SWIMMING

26/3/18 9:49 am

community

May 2018

Batmitzvah girls thanked by the Make-A-Wish® Australia & Israel Shared Appeal MAKE-A-WISH AUSTRALIA & ISRAEL SHARED APPEAL Two batmitzvah girls from Melbourne were recently thanked by the Make-A-Wish Australia & Israel Shared Appeal. Both generously chose to support the Make-AWish Australia & Israel Shared Appeal, in lieu of gifts for their batmitzvahs. Elly Dodge and Abbey Weinstein were presented with certificates of appreciation by Stephen Sharp, Chairman of Make-AWish Australia. The Make-A-Wish Australia & Israel Shared Appeal grants wishes to children fighting critical illness. All donations to the Appeal are shared equally between the two countries, changing the lives of really sick children and teens in both Australia and Israel. In Australia and Israel, thousands of kids are diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition every year. They spend their days in and out of hospitals, battling tough treatments, and missing out on important parts of their childhood. Each wish is a carefully planned journey that uses positive psychology. Every journey is tailored individually to their most cherished wish.

Abbey Weinstein being presented her certificate of appreciation by Chairman of Make-A-Wish Australia Stephen Sharp

Elly Dodge being presented her certificate of appreciation by Chairman of Make-AWish Australia Stephen Sharp

When a child has a life-threatening illness, their fun times can be few and far between. Thinking about their upcoming wish gives them the hope and strength

they need to face the challenges of their illness and feel excited for the future. Wishes are a powerful distraction from grueling medical treatment and in bringing

their wishes to life, Make-A-Wish make the impossible possible. The Israeli-led Wish Impact Study (2015 “The effects of the Make-A-Wish intervention on psychiatric symptoms and health related quality of life of children with cancer”) shows that wish journeys make a lasting difference to the physical and mental health of seriously ill kids and teens. The study found that wish journeys are important. Children on a wish journey eat better, sleep better, are less anxious and can respond to medication better than children who do not receive a wish. Most importantly, wish kids are more likely to have the positive outlook and resilience they need to get them through. Elly and Abbey’s support will help to make more life-changing wishes come true and bring hope to children who need it. For more details visit www.makeawish.org.au/shared-appeal or contact Sarah Singer, Philanthropy Coordinator on 1800 032 260 or 0458 133 280 or s.singer@makeawish.org.au

Genorosity that brings a smile to your face STAND UP JACQUI DUBS A Jewish orthodontist based in Melbourne’s outer suburbs has been making a difference to the lives of children from refugee families by covering the full cost of their braces and orthodontic treatments. This professional gift has extended an opportunity to young people through the non-profit organisation Stand Up, who would otherwise not be able to afford braces, making a life-long impact on their dental health and self-esteem. This generous practitioner, who prefers to remain anonymous, has for the last three years granted an orthodontist bursary that has benefitted four Sudanese teenagers so far. These Sudanese secondary students are part of a weekly tutoring and mentoring program with Jewish volunteers, run by community social justice organisation Stand Up. Siselia, Mary, Amose and Oliver, all participants in Stand Up’s iCan program, have been the lucky recipients of the donated dental treatments, which have covered their braces process from start to finish, to the value of approx $40,000. “I was never able to smile in photos or in public”, says Siselia, who parents arrived in Australia as refugees from Sudan in 2009. “Getting braces has given me the opportunity to feel confident. I want to thank Dr (anonynmous) very much”. “In 2017, we had 15 Sudanese students

from our iCan program who were keen for braces and each year we have randomly selected one from the group”, explains Stand Up’s Refugee Support Programs Director, Lisa Buchner. “Last year there was one boy who missed out was but so desperate for braces that the orthodontist decided to extend the offer to include two students in need”. “These humble orthodontists don’t wish to be named but we are in awe of their kindness and the real difference they have made to the lives of these young people”, adds Lisa. “We have 40 students in our iCan program this year and so many of them dream of getting braces. I hope that other orthodontists and health professionals will be inspired by their example and get in touch with us”. Stand Up’s iCan program is an early intervention program aimed at supporting and guiding Sudanese youth through secondary school, and into further study and secure employment. Through individual mentoring, weekly tutoring and vocational skills development, Stand Up is encouraging this community of marginalised youth to reach their full potential at school and in their future. 96% of program graduates have now entered tertiary level education or permanent employment. To find out more about Stand Up’s Refugee Support Programs, contact Lisa Buchner at lisa@standup.org.au

community

May 2018

Pulitzer Prize winner Geraldine Brooks to launch book on Israel’s 50-year occupation NEW ISRAEL FUND AUSTRALIA Israeli award-winning author Assaf Gavron and Breaking the Silence executive director Avner Gvaryahu will join author Geraldine Brooks for the Australian launch of their book next month. The New Israel Fund Australia will launch Kingdom of Olives and Ash, a collection of essays exploring the 50th anniversary of Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, in Sydney and Melbourne in June. To create the book, co-editors Ayelet Waldman and Michael Chabon teamed up with Breaking the Silence – an Israeli NGO which uses the testimonies of Israel Defence Force soldiers to highlight what is being done in Israel’s name in the Occupied

Palestinian territories. A series of eminent Jewish, Israeli, Palestinian and international authors – including Colum McCann, Jacqueline Woodson, Colm Toibin, Geraldine Brooks and Mario Vargas Llosa – all contributed chapters. Last year while she was in Israel to research her essay, Australian-born Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks told the ABC that “Israel remains a very open society — nobody is stopping us doing what we are doing here, which is exploring occupation in all its aspects and talking to whoever we want to talk to. People need stories and we are storytellers, so we will be able to bring this information in a slightly different way.”

Assaf Gavron at the Separation Wall at Bilin

Launch events will be held in Sydney on Wednesday, 6 June and Melbourne on Thursday, 7 June. In Sydney, Brooks, Gavron and Gvaryahu will discuss their contributions to the book, as well as the current political reality in Israel. In Melbourne, the event will feature Gavron and Gvaryahu. Both events will be moderated by Debbie Whitmont and include Q&A with the audience and book signing by the authors. Tickets are available from www.nif.org.au/kingdom “Being a Zionist in Australia means understanding and grappling with complicated issues in Israel,” said NIF Australia executive director Liam Getreu. “We may find talking about the occupation uncomfortable, but we shouldn’t turn a blind eye to its impact. ‘Kingdom of Olives and

Ash’, with its cast of incredible contributors, offers an opportunity to read narratives that take us beyond the news headlines.” “This book is a unique opportunity for the authors to shine a light for their readers on what occupation means for those living under it, but also those enforcing it,” said Avner Gvaryahu, executive director of Breaking the Silence. “The human cost of the Occupation is high and we hope that this book will contribute to shifting political realities on the ground and haisten the end of the Occupation.” ‘Kingdom of Olives and Ash’, published by HarperCollins, is widely available for purchase.

Authors visiting Nabi Saleh

Join us for Open Day The United Israel Appeal would like to say

Thank You to all our wonderful and dedicated volunteers on the occasion of National Volunteers Week. We are grateful for all your support!

“Volunteers are not paid, not because they are worthless but because they are priceless.” To volunteer, please contact Simonne Winecier 1300 ISRAEL (1300 477 235) or simonne.winecier@uiavic.org

Friday 11 May 2018 9:00am - 12:00pm* See our College in action * For a personalised tour please contact enrolment@sholem.vic.edu.au Sholem Aleichem College 11 Sinclair Street, Elsternwick

8527 3000 www.sholem.vic.edu.au

community

May 2018

Rare and unique collection of Haggadot acquired by the Jewish Museum in Melbourne JEWISH MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIA The Jewish Museum of Australia has made an addition to its collection of rare and unique haggadot, including handillustrated manuscripts dating back to the year 1781 (from Amsterdam). The haggadah — the liturgical text used on the festival of Pesach (Passover) — is one of the most important religious and artistic artefacts of Jewish life. The acquisition pieces are diverse in their origins and time of publishing, ranging from Spain and Italy, to 19th century Morocco and Yemen, to 20th century USA and Israel. These include remarkable and scarce manuscripts from some of the lesser-known (and now almost vanished) Jewish communities, such as those from Yemen, Iraq and India. The haggadot are an important addition to the Museum’s collection. Prior to the acquisition, the Museum had a sizeable collection of haggadot in its holdings, but the new artefacts are of mostly greater value, artistic quality, rarity and/or other significance. Director & CEO of the Jewish Museum, Rebecca Forgasz, says that these haggadot give us great insight into Jewish life across many diverse cultures and moments in time. “There’s a whole lot of important and different stories told by this collection, which is why we are really thrilled to have them.

Haggadot purchased with the assistance of the Copland Foundation and with support from private donors. In historical terms, the illustrations within this collection of haggadot tell us a lot about the communities, their culture, their values, and about how assimilated or not assimilated they were in the wider community around them. But the illustrations and illuminations in the haggadot are also fine examples of artistic practice in their time and place, and therefore help us to exhibit the history and diversity of Jewish artistic tradition.”

Charles Leski, auctioneer, collector of Judaica, and then director of Mossgreen, managed the sale of the haggadot. He was approached by Dr. Harry Buckstein, who had built up a diverse and beautiful collection. “He wasn’t a religious man”, says Leski, “but he just loved the haggadah. He brought the love of Pesach with him from his childhood, and he’s delighted to know that the haggadot have found their way to the Museum.”

The haggadah is one of the most widely published Jewish traditional and liturgical texts throughout Jewish history. Leski says, “It occured to me that you might not find a prayer book or a tanach (bible) in a Jewish home, but you are likely to find a haggadah. It’s a remarkable document that really permeates Jewish life everywhere, and gives tremendous information and insight on when and where they were printed.” The artefacts were purchased with the assistance of the Copland Foundation, who generously granted the Museum $20,000. Katherine Kovacic, a trustee from the Copland Foundation remarks “we could see immediately how important it was for these haggadot to stay as an entire collection and not get broken up for sale, and that it went to an institution who would appreciate them on so many different levels.” An additional $10,000 was raised between several major donors, including Jewish Museum of Australia Board member Marcia Pinskier and her husband, Henry. Marcia says, “this is a museum that caters to such a breadth of not just the Melbourne Jewish community but the wider Jewish community. On behalf of the Board I want to say thank you to everybody who’s taken part, stepped up, and especially to the Copland Foundation.”

The world waits on Hadassah in MS research HADASSAH AUSTRALIA On May 30 we will celebrate World MS Day – a sombre but hopeful time that brings the global MS community together to share stories, raise awareness and campaign with and for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis. This year the theme is ‘research’. Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem has emerged as one of the frontrunners in the race to find a cure for this insidious disease, which affects more than 2.3 million people worldwide. Of that group, the majority are aged between 25 and 31 with twice as many women diagnosed than men. The cause of MS remains a mystery and while there is no cure, researchers at Hadassah are on the cusp of a breakthrough that would change the lives of millions of sufferers as well as an even greater number of family, carers and friends. Hadassah Australia launched a campaign earlier this year to fund Hadassah Hospital’s groundbreaking research, now recognised as being closer to the ‘holy grail’ than any other research endeavour. Researchers and medical specialists working in Hadassah’s neurological department are now at the advanced human trial stage. “The trials at Hadassah involve injecting

a patient’s own stem cells, known as mesenchymal stem cells, which are typically found in fat tissue, umbilical cord and bone marrow into the spinal fluid,” says Shelana Silver, Hadassah Australia’s NSW Director of Development and Campaign Manager of Hadassah’s STEM Neurological Disease Campaign which launched in March. The campaign revealed for the first time how advanced Hadassah’s research is, bringing it closer than ever before to making medical history by creating the

scientific platform for a cure to many neurological diseases that scientists previously thought was impossible. ‘The preliminary results suggest that the Hadassah research may protect damaged neurons and may also help repair damaged cells,” Ms Silver says. She said that while the current Hadassah research is centred on MS, over time the same scientific platform could expand to tackle neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, ALS and Alzheimer’s. Evidence of the success of the

Hadassah trial came in the form of Mark Lewis, a leading UK media defamation lawyer who travelled to Australia to help launch the STEM campaign. Mr Lewis’ remarkable journey was featured in a very powerful BBC documentary, ‘In Search of a Miracle Cure’ which aired in November, 2017. In participating in the Hadassah trials, Mark Lewis’ physical response to the treatment was overwhelming and instantaneous. “Within minutes I was getting feeling and movement back,” he says. While many of his symptoms have since returned, he is hopeful that if funding can be found to continue the trials, he and others with MS could benefit from continued treatment. “I urge everyone to support the STEM campaign in recognition of World MS Day. Hadassah is within reach of ridding the world of this disease, and it would be a tragedy to fall short so close to the finishing line.” Donations can be made at www.stemneurologicaldisease.org/ donate/ or by calling Hadassah Australia on (03)9272 5600 or australia@hadassah.org

May 2018

community

UIA Victoria Treasurer awarded the Yakir Award in Israel UIA The Keren Hayesod-United Israel Appeal (KH-UIA) Annual World Conference opened on Monday 16 April 2018 at the Jerusalem International Convention Centre before a crowd of over 1,000 strong supporters. It was a particularly special night for UIA Victoria Treasurer Julian Black who received the Yakir Award for his decades of service to the UIA. The KH-UIA Yakir Award is given to leaders within the organisation in recognition of their commitment and volunteerism, as well as to those who have distinguished themselves by their contribution towards promoting the aims and goals of the organisation both in Israel and throughout the Jewish world. Julian became involved with the UIA in 1979 and worked as a canvasser until 1988. Since 1998, he was worked as the Treasurer for UIA Victoria and since 2005, as the Federal Treasurer. In 2005, he was recognised with an Askan Award. He is a member of the Executive where he supervises the financial staff and works in fundraising. Other Victorians who have received the Yakir Award include John Shalit OAM (1998), Max Shnider z”l (2000), Mark Leibler AC (2001), Jack Smorgon AO (2007) and Roslyn Smorgon z”l (2008).

Julian Black Receiving the Yakir Award in Israel Another highlight of the evening was the presence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who was presented with KHUIA’s prestigious Isaiah Award given to him by outgoing World Chairman of KH-UIA Eliezer (Moodi) Sandberg, and the Chairman of the KH-UIA World Board of Trustees, David Koschitzky. It was conferred upon

the Prime Minister in appreciation for his leadership and many years of commitment to the security and well-being of the State of Israel and the people of Israel. The Isaiah Award is the highest recognition conferred by KH-UIA. Prior recipients have included Former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, British Prime Minister David

Cameron and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, who received the award a few months prior to his assassination. Netanyahu said, ”The founders of modern Zionism did not say that, with the establishment of the State, the attacks on us would cease. They did say that now we would be able to defend ourselves by ourselves, and this is what we have done. We have renewed the ability of the Jewish people by itself against all threats. We are stronger than we have ever been in the past; we are more economically successful than we have ever been in the past. We will take our economic success and our might and devote them to strengthen our diplomatic standing around the world. We have a brain. We have a heart. We have a state. We have an army. We have a future. And you are part of this future.” The Prime Minister concluded by thanking KH-UIA for honoring him with the Isaiah Award. It was a wonderful evening full of ruach and ahavat Israel and the start to a memorable week of celebrations for the State of Israel, especially for the 1,500 participants from around the world who convened in Israel for various UIA missions in celebration of Israel’s 70th birthday. Mazal tov and Kol Hakavod to Julian and his family on this incredible achievement.

New Scholarship at Bialik: Year 3 and Year 4

With grateful thanks to the legacy of the late Don and Sonia Marejn (B”H), Bialik College is thrilled to be able to award a limited number of new scholarships offering

50% Fee Reduction for new students entering Bialik College in Year 3, 2018 or Year 4, 2019 The Scholarship will continue up to and including Year 9 Apply online: www.bialik.vic.edu.au or email Michelle Bergman on registrar@bialik.vic.edu.au

community

May 2018

“Love & Legacy’ - Melbourne Jewish Museum’s new exhibition about grandmothers JEWISH MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIA “Yes there is a traditional Jewish grandmother. I do believe that. I’m one of them!” Rahel Vivat, one of the grandmothers featured in Love & Legacy. From May to October 2018, the Jewish Museum of Australia will present Love & Legacy, an exuberant celebration of Jewish grandmothers. This exhibition, which launches with a free open day on Sunday 6 May, begs the question – what does the Jewish Grandmother in the 21st century look like? Featuring the stories of grandmothers from diverse backgrounds – orthodox to secular, from India to Egypt to Poland and beyond – this exhibition honours the complexity of the role of the grandmother in contemporary society. Love & Legacy also details the many ways cultural knowledge, shared histories and family traditions are kept alive from one generation to the next, providing a space to celebrate and fully acknowledge the achievements, contributions, experience and knowledge of our grandmothers. The curatorial team behind Love & Legacy engaged photographic artist Elli Bardas for specially commissioned portraits of the following women from all walks of life – Lady Anna Cowen, Barbara Ajzenberg, Hazel Kelly, Genia Janover, Renata Singer, Rahel Vivat, Claire Aghion and Claudine Berman, Nechama Werdiger, Carol Schwartz and Lee Ann Basser (bios below). The exhibition will highlight the achievements of all these strong female role models, and the many ways in which they shape and support our community. Love & Legacy includes filmed interviews, family heirlooms and accompanying objects from the Museum’s vast collection. With Melbourne’s Jewish community consisting of many families of Holocaust survivors, this exhibition also highlights themes of absence, for the grandmothers we never knew, for the grandmothers murdered in the Holocaust. Curator Juliette Hanson says “It has been a real privilege to meet the women whose experiences are at the heart of this exhibition. They all have amazing life-stories

Photography of Barbara Ajzenberg by Elli Bardas, commissioned for Love & Legacy 2018 and such varied perspectives on their role as grandmothers and on the role of women more broadly. This exhibition provides a warm reminder of how strong grandmothers can be, what they have overcome, and what they continue to give to our community.” This exhibition is one of five exhibitions about grandmothers launching in May, as part of the Multicultural Museums Victoria (MMV) ‘Grandmothers’ project, the inaugural exhibition for this unique alliance between the Chinese, Italian, Greek, Islamic and Jewish museums in Melbourne. Biographies of featured grandmothers Renata Singer, born Poland 1946, has 4 grandchildren, and is a kultur tuer (community activist) and writer who divides her time between Melbourne and New York. Rahel Vivat, born in Israel 1936, has 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, was a teacher and ran a catering business

that saw her cater for up to 300 people single-handedly! Since retiring, Rahel has kept herself busy crocheting countless blankets for charity. Barbara Ajzenberg, born in Melbourne 1947, has 2 grandchildren, and is a passionate member of the arts and disability network with extensive experience in community services, continuously providing support and leadership. Genia Janover, born in Germany 1948, has 4 grandchildren, and has held various roles as an educator for almost five decades, including being the principal of Bialik College for 20 years. Genia currently works as a consultant to Independent Schools Victoria. Carol Schwartz AM, born in Melbourne 1955, has 4 grandchildren, and was the first female President of the Property Council of Victoria, and then the National Property Council in 2000. She was also the Founding

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Chair of the Women’s Leadership Institute Australia, and was the President of the Melbourne International Arts Festival from 2005 to 2009. Carol is currently on the board of the Reserve Bank of Australia and Stockland. Nechama Werdiger, born in Ukraine 1935, has 28 grandchildren and 76 greatgrandchildren, and is passionate about education and continues the philanthropic work that she and her husband began together. Nechama regularly attends shiurim, Jewish text lessons based on commentators both ancient and modern. Lee Ann Basser, born Melbourne 1955, has 1 grandchild, was appointed as the Associate Professor and Reader at the La Trobe Law School, specialising in human rights, disability law and children’s law. She is currently the CEO of the National Council of Jewish Women of Australia (Victoria). Lady Anna Cowen, born in Melbourne 1925, has 16 grandchildren and 22 greatgrandchildren, and is the widow of Sir Zelman Cowen, who served as the 19th Governor-General of Australia. Lady Cowen has dedicated her life to her husband and family, as well as undertaking the considerable and broad-ranging duties as the wife of the Governor-General. Claire Aghion, born in Egypt 1916, (died 5 February 2018), had 2 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, spent much of her retirement volunteering at the Sephardi Synagogue, the Caulfield Synagogue, the National Council for Jewish Women and the Caulfield Hospital. Claudine Berman, born in Egypt 1944, has 5 grandchildren, was a teacher and school principal, and has made it her life’s work to help children through education. Hazel Kelly, born in India, has 3 Grandchildren, was a secretary for the National Council of Jewish Women. She currently enjoys doing yoga, Israeli dancing and health training classes, reading and cooking special meals for her grandchildren.

community

May 2018

Australia Atones For Its 1938 Evian Indifference MICHAEL DANBY MHR MELBOURNE PORTS Australia Atones For Its 1938 Evian Indifference Edited version of the Evian resolution, Australian Parliament 26th March That this House: (1) Congratulates on the 70th anniversary of the creation of the modern state of Israel. (2) Recognises the 80th anniversary of the end of Évian Conference, convened to discuss the issue of the plight of Jewish refugees fleeing the horror of Nazi persecution; (3) (a) the Australian Minister for Trade and Customs in 1938, Lieutenant Colonel White, declined to further assist the Jewish people, stating ‘Australia has her own particular difficulties ... It will no doubt be appreciated also that as we have no real racial problem, we are not desirous of importing one by encouraging any scheme of large-scale foreign migration..; (b) Post Kristallnacht, Australia reassessed its policy to admit 15,000 refugees over three years, compared to the previous quota of 1,800 per year; (4) States that this Parliament, issues a profound apology and says ‘sorry’ to the Jewish people for the indifference shown by the Parliament in 1938 that worsened the impact of the Holocaust; My speech in response is below; THE HON MICHAEL DANBY MP MEMBER FOR MELBOURNE PORTS Australia Atones For Its 1938 Evian Indifference 26/3/2018 I want to thank you Deputy Speaker and the member for Fadden for this opportunity. This motion refers to the 70th anniversary of a very

exciting, vital and happy nation of eight million people, Israel, but I’m not going to focus on that. I’m going to focus on the main thrust of the member for Fadden’s motion: the sharp contrast with what nearly happened during the Second World War. What nearly happened was encapsulated in a pledge of mass murder, synthesised in a sinister speech delivered at the Berlin Sport Palast on 30 January 1939 by Adolf Hitler. This speech was an attempted Nazi repudiation of President Roosevelt’s offer to deal with German aggression around the world. Roosevelt sought some assurances from the German Chancellor, for which he was mocked by the baying Nazi deputies, under that infamous eagle with a swastika, and seen in a film clip from Movietone News, that is a paradigm of the unbridled arrogance of that most odious of regimes. Fadden also ought to be particularly thanked for raising of then Australian attitudes, on the 80th anniversary of the fateful Evian refugee conference, convened by President Roosevelt in 1938 at Evian-les-Bains in France. This was another honest attempt by the President of the United States, Franklin Roosevelt, along with 31 other countries to deal with and discuss the plight of refugees fleeing the horror of Nazism. It’s an anniversary the member for Fadden has given Australia an opportunity to atone for. Why do we say atone? Because unfortunately, the representative of Australia at the conference, Lieutenant Colonel TW White, brought a message of indifference to that conference. He didn’t go on his own authority; he unfortunately spoke for the executive government of the day. He said Australia said it didn’t have a racial problem and didn’t seek to import one—a grotesque message given the desperate emergency of the time. Australia was a reluctant signatory to the Evian conference in 1938, which organised asylum for the Jews fleeing Nazi Germany. Eventually Australia agreed to take small numbers. In

1935 the Australian intake was less than 100; in 1936 more than 150, and in 1937 it was 500. Thereafter the great pressure of refugees mounted: there were 300 applications per week at Australia House, equal to 50,000 per annum. In the outcome only 1556 were admitted in 1938, and 5058 in 1939, including my late father Kurt Joachim Danziger or as he was sensitively renamed by Immigration – Fred Danby. I also want to commend my good friend the member for Eden-Monaro, Mike Kelly, who recounted in his speech little known Australian connections with the Jewish people of Palestine, who were trying to survive the Second World War, and connections with the First World War, including with his extraordinary family. These were amazing stories. Who knew that David Ben-Gurion, the first Labour Prime Minister of Israel, served under the Australians in the First World War? Who knew famous Defence Minister Moshe Dayan lost his eye fighting with the Australian machinegun battalion, spotting for the 7th Division as a forward artillery observer against the Vichy French in Lebanon in the Second World War? Stuart Robert, the Member for Fadden has organised for the resolution, supported by all sides of the Australian parliament, to be presented to the Israeli museum, Yad Vashem. That institution, is a memorial museum based in Jerusalem in honour of the murdered millions of the Second World War. Behind this resolution is a great idea, with the resolution to be presented as a non-partisan repudiation by modern-day Australians of that terrible past indifference to our colleagues in the Israeli Knesset. Then after they have received it, the resolution is to be placed right next to Colonel White’s infamous declaration: ‘We don’t have a racial problem and we don’t seek to import one’ in the museum at Yad Vashem. Nothing could be more thoughtful than this, and I commend the many members who spoke on it in the debate earlier today in the House.

On the weekend I had the joy of celebrating my niece Shani’s wedding in Byron Bay to Gil Baker, the grandson of Genia and Yossele Baker. I danced with Yossele Baker, the patriarch of the shattered Baker family, who came to Australia after the Second World War. The Baker family is now united with the even smaller Danziger family, from which I come, and which was also decimated in that genocide. My father Fred/Kurt was one of the refugees from Germany who luckily made it to Australia, his brother Peter came during the war on the famous refugee ship – The Dunera. Yossele Baker dancing at the wedding Australia’s rhetoric at Evian prior to the Second World War was a lot worse than our actual actions. At least eight thousand refugees from Germany and Austria were accepted into this wonderful country before WWII commenced. Our two families who survived—indeed flowered—in this extraordinary country are a repudiation of the official indifference of Lieutenant Colonel White. My late uncle’s firm is responsible for all of the outstanding woodwork around us in this very parliament—all the floors, all the parquetry, everything—because he was sent to SchleswigHolstein by his parents (my grandparents) to get him out of Germany to Australia to learn, and he had to have carpentry skills to get into Australia. What serendipity from then to now. Our joyous joint Baker/Danby wedding celebration was an intense affirmation of life. Like this resolution, it was the most effective repudiation of those terrible, nearly successful, threats of the “vernichtung der Judisce rasse in Europa”. All I can say, in response to this profound resolution is: Am Yisrael Chai.

YEARS OF STANDING UP FOR

HUMA N R I G HTS

Michael Danby MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR MELBOURNE PORTS

(03) 9534 8126 | Michael.Danby.MP@aph.gov.au www.danbymp.com | @MichaelDanbyMP Authorised by M Danby 117 Fitzroy Street St KILDA WEST

community

May 2018

Ashkenazi Jews and the Breast Cancer Gene: What are your chances? AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS OF SHAARE ZEDEK INC MIRIAM PACANOWSKI The Ashkenazi Jewish community has a high genetic incidence of the BRCA gene mutation which is associated with breast and ovarian cancer. In fact, BRCA genetic mutations occur in one in 40 in the Ashkenazi Jewish community compared to one in 500 of the general population. The good news is, there is an emerging revolution in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of these cancers. Shaare Zedek Medical Centre, as Jerusalem’s most central hospital, has a strong focus on genetic health and research. And the Australian Friends of Shaare Zedek Inc is committed to educating the Australian Community about new health initiatives that are of special relevance to the local Jewish community. In an event planned for 12th May, Deputy Chair of AFSZ Prof Agi Bankier OAM, together with Prof Martin Delatycki will feature in a forum at the home of Tamara and Michael Bruce. The topic of the forum will be: Ashkenazi Jews and The Breast Cancer Gene: What are your chances? Professor Martin Delatycki is Clinical Director of the Victorian Clinical Genetics Services and co-Director of the Bruce Lefroy Centre at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. Along with Professor Bankier, he pioneered the population screening test

for Tay Sachs disease and other genetic conditions amongst the Jewish Community in Australia. His current collaboration with Ovarian Cancer Australia has a bold objective to increase the survival rate and decrease the incidence of ovarian cancer by 25% by the year 2025. One way that his study aims to decrease incidence is to focus on high risk groups, alerting them of their heightened risk and their options including increased surveillance and/or preventative surgery. Studies in Canada the UK and Israel have shown that population screening program would be extremely beneficial to the Jewish population in Australia, as it would enable the identification of additional carriers within the community who do not qualify for testing according to current practice. Until now, it was only people with a personal or family history of cancer who were eligible for genetic testing. A family history of cancer, however, is not always known within a Jewish family, due to the impact of the Holocaust or family dispersal from migration. Prof Delatycki says that there is a strong case for testing everyone in the Ashkenazi community. This approach has the potential to reduce the incidence and impact of breast and ovarian cancers within the Jewish community

Prof Martin Delatycki will speak at a public forum about genetics and breast cancer at the home of Tamara and Michael Bruce in support of Shaare Zedek Medical Centre, Jerusalem

To register for the forum, please email info@shaarezedek.org.au www.shaarezedek.org.au facebook.com/shaarezedek

Beersheba Beret WIZO VICTORIA NINA RICHWOL It was dusty, the sun descended into the evening sky as five hundred people watched in rapt anticipation. The field in front of me revealed a scene 100 years old. I saw soldiers on horseback, hat feathers blowing in the breeze, ammunition belts draped across their chests and long leather boots protecting their feet from the desert sun. The crowd lifted their iPhones above our heads to record the re-enactment of the charge of the Australian Light Horse and the capture of Beersheba’s ancient wells in 1917. I watched this magnificent scene too. Then, suddenly another scene caught my attention. The two seats in front of me were empty and a man nearby stopped anyone sitting in these seats. I noticed that he was constantly looking around, moving in his seat and calling someone again and again. His body language said, “I’m annoyed, I’m angry, I am furious!” Soon a woman and child arrived and sat next to him. I assumed this was his family. What followed took my focus away from the horses and riders and soon brought tears to my eyes. As the woman and child sat down, the man raised his voice in a tirade of angry words. I looked at his wife and saw fear and embarrassment on her face. Her young son’s eyes seemed to plead Abba, calm down, Imma didn’t mean to be late,

forgive us, forgive us. But Abba’s angry words didn’t stop. His loud voice disturbed people sitting nearby. But, no one said anything to him. Maybe we didn’t speak because his loud voice shocked us at the very moment when we were concentrating on the horses approaching in formation. We heard his angry voice but we were silent about the threats it implied. At the end of the ceremony, he got up and left without waiting for his wife and child, anger still written on his face. Watching this scene upset me terribly. Later I regretted not speaking up and felt I was a coward. I consoled myself with the thought that if she needs a safe place to sleep, legal advice or emotional support she can approach a WIZO shelter for battered women and the staff will help her build the life she wants. This incident revealed to me the bullying and fear women experience in abusive relationships. I don’t know this woman’s name and I’ll never know her fate, but now more than ever I know that even from far away Australia, I can help Israel’s women lead lives free of violence by helping WIZO maintain safe places for women. My photo shows her beret in the lower right corner and is a reminder of a day in Beersheva that will remain with me for a long time. If you would like to become a member or donate to WIZO Victoria, please contact the office on 9272 5572 or email wizo@wizovic.org.

Please visit www.wizovic.org.au

community

May 2018

Remembering Private Greg Sher WWW.MELBOURNEFC.COM.AU MATT BURGAN PRIVATE Gregory Michael Sher was killed in a rocket attack in Oruzgen Province, Afghanistan on January 4, 2009 at 12:55pm Afghan time (19:25 AEST). He was 30 years old. Born in South Africa on December 3, 1978, Sher moved to Australia with his family in 1986. After finishing high school, Sher joined the Australian Army as an Army Reserve infantryman in 1998. He was deployed to East Timor in 2003 and in 2008 was deployed to Afghanistan. A member of the Sydney-based 1st Commando Regiment, Sher was with the Special Operations Task Group, which had deployed from Tarin Kowt to a provincial patrol base, at the time of his death. Almost 10 years on since his tragic passing, Sher’s parents, Felix and Yvonne, will light the cauldron before the Anzac Day Eve match between Melbourne and Richmond at the MCG. Here they share their story about their son, Greg, with Melbourne Media … Matt Burgan: Thank you for sharing your story. It’s greatly appreciated. Firstly, what are your memories of Greg? Felix Sher: Greg was a wonderful young man. He loved life. He enjoyed life. His passion for the military was just unbelievable. All he wanted to do was be a solider as a kid, and he joined the Australian Defence Force in 1998. Yvonne Sher: He was a fun-loving person. He just wanted to get out there and enjoy life. He had a very infectious smile and he loved reading. Felix: On that particular point with reading, there is a bookshelf in Greg’s room

and it’s got as many military books as you can think of. There are psychology books on the military and on training, and among all of those books, there is a book that makes me really proud. That’s one called: ‘How to manage your parents’. (laughing). That was the kind of guy he was. MB: As a family, you moved from South Africa to Australia in 1986. It’s a courageous move for anyone to start a new life in another country. What was it like for your family? Yvonne: As a family, it was actually relatively easy, because we were all together and we knew what a wonderful country we were going to. So, it made things a lot easier. The children, all three of them, really blossomed when they got here, so it was a wonderful move and we’ve never ever

regretted it. MB: Steven and Barry are your other children. Can you share a little bit about them? Felix: Steven is Greg’s older brother. He also loves the country he lives in. He couldn’t be more happy to be here. Him and Greg were very, very close. They were only 15 months apart in age, so they were almost like twins. Both of them were mad about the military and used to practice their parachuting by jumping off the jungle gym with a Coles bag on their back. Barry was a little bit younger than Greg, by four and a half years. He was also very, very close to Greg. They were very good mates and did a lot of things together. When Gregory passed away, it was difficult for us, particularly his brothers. THE LOSS OF GREG MB: Afghanistan, of course, was where Greg was tragically killed. Can you talk about what happened? Felix: When he applied to go [to Afghanistan], he told his brothers and his partner Karen he was going, but we didn’t know. He told us he was going off to do training in South Australia. Yvonne and I went away on a weekend and Monday at 3am, we got a phone call in the hotel. It was Barry and I said ‘Barry, what’s wrong and what’s happened?’ He said ‘It’s Greg, Dad. He had an accident’. I said ‘Where is he?’ He said ‘he was killed’. I said ‘how’. He said ‘by a rocket’. I said ‘where?’ He said ‘in Afghanistan, so you better come home, [because] the military is here waiting for you’. Yvonne was standing behind me, and I [thought] how am I going to tell her? I told her and the shock of hearing this news.

We just packed up our things, paid the bill downstairs, got into the car and thank goodness, my car had a GPS, because I couldn’t quite fathom which way to go. The military waited for us [at home] and [when we arrived home], they started telling us what had happened. Of course, our main concern was bringing Greg back. How was this going to happen? When would it happen? This was Monday. In the Jewish religion, when someone passes away, you’ve got to put them to rest as soon as possible. Friday, he came back on the [Boeing] C17 [Globemaster III], a huge military plane. He went into the back of the plane and his coffin was there and one of his mates had accompanied him back. The whole family went in and we stood around the coffin and I read a few words from a few psalms. Then we had the ceremony with him – in the hangar, where they presented him with his medals and a beret. And then we left. This was on a Friday, late on Friday, and you can’t have a funeral after sunset in the Jewish religion on a Friday or a Saturday. So, we had to wait until Sunday to have the funeral. It was attended by more than 3,000 people, including the prime minister [Kevin Rudd] and the opposition leader [Malcolm Turnbull] at the time, and many other politicians. They were all really very nice to us – both Liberal and Labor. And, so it was, the funeral took place and that was it. There has been a whole series of events after that. And we’ve just been involved in the military since then. CONTINUED PAGE 10

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May 2018

FROM PAGE 9 MB: As parents, how do you cope with the loss of a son, particularly after hearing that news? Yvonne: You do what you have to do. You have to be strong. We have other children that we have to be strong for, so you learn how to live with this. The pain never goes away and it never gets any easier, but you just have to learn how to live with it and continue for the other people around you. You don’t want to bring them down with you or see them down. So, you learn to live a different way of life. Felix: The best way I can describe it is if you look at some of these top athletes, who have lost a limb – [it’s like] we’ve lost part of ourselves with Greg. These athletes, despite having lost a limb, get on with their lives. You have to look forward and that’s what they do. It’s the same thing – we’ve lost a part of ourselves and we’ve got to keep moving forward. You’ve just got to look ahead. If you keep on watching the rear-view mirror, you’re going to crash and then there are more problems that are going to arise. Unfortunately, that’s happened with some families, where they have just fallen apart, and it’s very tragic and very sad. MB: Naturally, you were aware of the risks with Greg serving. But sadly, did it take this tragic event to occur before it really hit home? Yvonne: That’s exactly why he didn’t tell us where he was going, because he didn’t want us to sit and worry, while he was away, and that was why he didn’t tell us. He preferred to just let things be. I suppose he would have come home and said ‘you’ll never guess where I’ve been’. The reason he didn’t tell us was just simply to save us that worry. Felix: While he was away, a letter arrived. On Christmas Day, Greg phoned us and I said to him ‘where are you?’ He said ‘I’m in South Australia’. I said ‘how are you phoning?’ He said ‘on a satellite phone’. [I thought] ‘you can use any phone from South Australia’. That was the first trigger. Anyway, I got hold of Barry, and I said ‘I’ve got a feeling Greg is in Afghanistan’, because before he left, he grew a beard – the special forces guys grow beards. He’d actually cleaned out his room, cleaned out his clothes and he cleaned out everything as if he wasn’t coming back. I said to Barry, ‘so, where is Greg? I think he’s gone to Afghanistan.’ Barry wouldn’t deny it and he wouldn’t confirm it. When Greg’s phone came back, his mobile phone, I saw some of the messages that were on there. One was from Barry to Greg and it said ‘I think Dad knows where you are’. Then Greg says ‘well, you better tell him’. And that was it. But he didn’t tell. MB: Would you have liked to have known where Greg was, or were you content with his decision not to worry you? Felix: I would like to have known in order to wish him well. Yvonne: I think I would’ve preferred that he didn’t tell me, because I would’ve been extremely nervous while he was away. It was probably a good decision that he made, as far as I’m concerned. LIFE WITHOUT GREG MB: From your experience, has the military been respectful and acted in the best interests of your family? Felix: Incredibly. Yvonne: Definitely. Felix: Unfortunately, some families look for someone to blame. Greg, was in a forward base. He had left the main base and they were due to go out on a mission that night. Because of the weather conditions, they couldn’t. Anyway, the Taliban attacked the camp in the afternoon. They shot two rockets and one rocket just fell short. It was a dud. The other rocket was also a dud,

(Picture from left to right: Steven, Barry and Greg Sher) but it went through a HESCO wall. It then hit a container, but didn’t explode. It went through the container, which was full of water bottles and came out the other side. Greg happened to be on the other side and it just went through him. It then passed through a group of 10 or 12 soldiers and didn’t touch one of them. So, who do you blame? It’s not the military’s fault. But some people find reason to blame the military for some of these events and it’s pretty sad. MB: It’s been almost 10 years since Greg’s passing. Does it still seem surreal? Yvonne: At times, it feels like 10 years have passed so quickly and at other times it feels like it’s gone so slowly. A lot has happened in that time. We’ve had five new additions to the family, with another one on the way. We’ve also had two daughters in law join the family, so a lot has happened – a lot of wonderful things. But with each wonderful event, it highlights the loss even more, because you realise what Greg is missing. So, as wonderful as it is, it always brings it all back home. Felix: It also highlights what we’re missing in him, because he would be in the future and he would’ve also produced a family. So, that’s a collateral loss for the future. In terms of how I feel – I speak for myself – there are still peaks and troughs. The troughs are not as deep as they used to be, and they’re further apart, and sometimes they come. THE GAME AND ANZAC DAY MB: On Tuesday night, you’re involved in an event, which has quickly become an important occasion on the football calendar: the Melbourne and Richmond match at the MCG. It’s not comparable to war or what you’ve been through, but how important is it for your family to be involved in the event, by lighting the cauldron pre-match? Yvonne: I’ll do anything to honour Greg. If I could stand at the top of the world and shout out to the world and tell them what a wonderful person he was – and what he did, and what he did for his country, I would. If this is something that I can do to honour him – and to honour his memory, I’ll do it. Felix: I’ll go along with that – exactly the same as Yvonne. So, the next morning we’ve got to be up at the Dawn Parade at 5:30am. After that, we normally go to the cemetery and put a wreath on his grave. So, we work through it. MB: What does Anzac Day mean to you now, given what you’ve been through? Felix: It’s an opportunity to honour all those that have sacrificed their lives to provide for our wonderful lives in Australia. And we should do everything we can to honour them. Anzac Day should become the most major event and hopefully it will be

promoted to become that way. GREG’S LEGACY MB: What are some of the stories you’ve heard about Greg from other soldiers? Yvonne: There was a story when he arrived in Afghanistan – there was a new weapon they were going to be using that he hadn’t trained to use. So, he was sent off to go and learn how to use the weapon. When he got there, there were a whole lot of Afghan soldiers also being trained. He was shown how to use it and he picked it up really quickly. The person that was training them said ‘have you got any spare time, now that you’re so proficient in using this weapon. Can you help me teach the other Afghans how to use it?’ He said ‘yes, I’ve got about an hour – I can help you’. And he started helping teach the Afghans how to use this weapon. All the Afghan soldiers were calling him ‘Mr Greg’. And when Greg left, the captain, who was there, said to the soldiers, ‘did you like ‘Mr Greg’?’ They said ‘he was really good. He was so patient with us and taught us so well. He was really wonderful’. The captain said ‘did you know Mr Greg is Jewish?’ They said ‘no, we’ve never met a Jewish person in our lives’. They said ‘wow, this is special, if this is what Jewish people are about’. So, they clearly had no idea and automatically had a dislike. When they finally met him, they really took to him. Felix: When the Ram Ceremony takes place … [which is] when the soldiers line-up and load the coffin of the soldier, who was killed, onto the back of the vehicle – they drive through the soldiers lined-up. They then take the coffin to the aircraft. Normally, the Afghans wouldn’t attend, but all of them attended Greg’s Ram Ceremony. MB: Greg was a decorated solider. What do his medals mean to the family? Felix: I think the medals were a secondary thing. The medals were someone else’s acknowledgement of his services and efforts. But to Greg, it was the mere fact he participated and was there – that was the main thing. The medals weren’t what he was trying to achieve. He wasn’t trying to get medals. Yvonne: He wasn’t that kind of person. They wouldn’t have been important to him. Felix: He wasn’t materialistic at all, Gregory – not in any way. In Timor, one of his tasks was as a medic. He said ‘you see these little kids – they’ve got nothing and they wake up every morning with a smile’. He would be out there [in the morning] attending to one of the kids. That was the most important part of what he was there for. Yvonne: His exact words were ‘I’ve never seen so many people who have so little, look so happy’. Felix: If you go to the Shrine of

Remembrance in St Kilda Rd, and you look at the exhibition of current wars, there is a lot of stuff about Greg there. There is a little story about him too. One of the things I said about him was ‘here was a Jewish man, going to a Muslim country to help these women who were having acid thrown at them and kids being stopped from being educated. His objective was to help them get educated and protect them from being hurt’. So, if you look in the Shrine, there is that little bit about him. MB: Hearing your story is a great example of what Australia is about. You’re a family from South Africa, with a Jewish faith and Greg has served the country in Afghanistan. Is that something you reflect on? Felix: You know what, the bottom line is – irrespective of your religion or your beliefs – you can still mix without dissolving. And so, no matter what you believe – you can still meet the most incredible people, who we might not have met prior to Greg’s passing. Irrespective of what the religion might be – the key thing is to integrate, to accept and to become the country you immigrate into, rather than trying to bring part of your country and [trying to] change the country you’re immigrating to. You become immersed into what that country’s about – rather than try to change it. Yvonne: This is the country we chose for the values that we have. This is how we want to live. MB: And finally, as Greg’s parents, what would you like his legacy to be – personally and publicly? Felix: Well, from a personal perspective, he has bestowed incredible honour on our family. In terms of what he did and how he passed. From a public perspective, he served his country and he did it willingly and he wasn’t conscripted. He volunteered to do it and as a matter of interest, he was the only reservist – out of all 41 who were killed. All of the others were permanent soldiers and Greg was from a Reserve Unit. So, in other words … those soldiers were doctors, barristers, mechanics and advertising agents – they’re not full-time military. So, they train and then off they go to do their military and service. So, from a public perspective, I can only recommend that wherever possible, people go to the military, because the military has a very positive effect on people’s lives. It helps in a thinking process and enhances a sequential way of thinking and at the same time serve your country. This article is an excerpt from the original article which can be found on www.melbournefc.com.au

community

May 2018

Wizo Victoria WIZO VICTORIA On the Thursday April 19th, WIZO Victoria in conjunction with Zionism Victoria held an afternoon tea for over 100 senior citizens. We had senior citizens bused in from the aged care homes with their carers. It was a beautiful event. Sara Sofer (wife of Israeli Ambassador to Australia – Mark Sofer) spoke at the event and singer Brett Kaye performed with accompanying pianist Tamara.

Continuing the tradition – Remembering Miriam and Fred Palmer in the Sanctum of Remembrance SYDNEY JEWISH MUSEUM Last week saw Jewish communities around the world commemorate Yom HaShoah; a significant day in the global calendar that honours the six million Jewish people who were murdered during the Holocaust by the National Socialists and their collaborators. These six million are remembered not just as an unfathomable number, but as the individual spirits and personalities that they were. Last Sunday, 15 April, the Palmer, Zine and Olian families dedicated a plaque in the Museum’s Sanctum of Remembrance in honour of the memory of their parents Miriam and Fred Palmer. The ceremony was attended by their three children and a large gathering of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Miriam Palmer was a volunteer at the Sydney Jewish Museum, who dedicated her time to sharing the story of her family’s devastating loss and moments of triumph to students and adult visitors to the Museum. She used to speak of her husband Fred, the rebuilding of their lives together in Australia, and the subsequent

beautiful family that they created and that continued to grow over the years.

Yom HaShoah each year. The Sydney Jewish Museum’s Sanctum

If you would like to honour your

Family members took turns telling

of Remembrance is a quiet memorial space

loved

memories of Miriam and Fred, and

creates to honour the memory of the victims

Sanctum

ones

continued the legacy of Miriam’s historic

of the Shoah and those Holocaust survivors

Rita

attendance to the commemoration of

who are no longer with us.

communityliaison@sjm.com.au

Prager

with

plaque

Remembrance, on

9360

the

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international

May 2018

Accusing Putin of anti-Semitism ISI LEIBLER A very significant portion of my life has been devoted to personally combating Russian anti-Semitism. I experienced firsthand the extent of hatred against Jews which was basically ingrained in most Soviet leaders and bureaucrats. I will never forget the day when a leading KGB officer proudly told me that it would be the happiest day in his life to see Jews being strung up from the lamp posts in leading Moscow streets. Russian anti-Semitism dates back centuries. It was encouraged by the Russian Orthodox Church and the Tsars perpetrated pogroms to divert attention from other social issues. Whilst the communists initially condemned anti-Semitism, in practice they maintained it as a state policy. Having witnessed and battled against these trends as a cornerstone of the campaign to free Soviet Jewry, it would be somewhat bizarre for anyone to accuse me of being soft on Russian anti-Semitism. But I believe the hysterical attacks on President Putin following his recent misplaced comments about interference in the US elections are outrageous and can lead to dire consequences. In a rambling interview with NBC’s Megyn Kelly, who was pressing him to respond to allegations of Russian interference in the US elections, Putin facetiously referred to the possibility of Russian Jews being involved.

This was catapulted to front page headlines, many of which accused Putin of outright anti-Semitism and even resurrecting Judeophobia, including the notorious Tsarist “Protocols of the Elders of Zion”. These hysterical denunciations were echoed by the Anti-Defamation League who called on Trump to condemn Putin as an anti-Semite for reverting to the

blame game by attacking Jews and other minorities. Even the normally restrained American Jewish Committee joined in the fray. A Jerusalem Post editorial called on Netanyahu to denounce him. All these condemnations were based on taking Putin’s comments out of context and totally distorting them. What was actually said? In the course

of an interview insinuating that he had interfered in the US elections, Putin in exasperation turned on the interviewer and in Russian snapped “Maybe they are not even Russians. Maybe they were Ukrainians, Tatars, Jews, just with Russian citizenship. Even that needs to be checked. Maybe they had dual citizenship. Or maybe a green card. Maybe it was the Americans who paid them for this work. How do you know? I don’t know”. Anyone with a semblance of intelligence would appreciate that this gibberish was simply a tactic to end the interview. The fact that Jews were mentioned in passing as a Russian nationality was purely coincidental. Had he mentioned Jews alone and sought to blame them, that would be another matter. But that was not the case. There is an element of madness in the air. I am not entering into the issue of whether Putin did or did not interfere in the US elections. But he certainly did not engage in anti-Semitism. The indoctrination of hatred of Jews amongst Russians over the past centuries cannot disappear overnight and plenty of anti-Semitic paranoia remains amongst the masses. Which is why, even if one opposes Putin’s autocratic behavior and foreign policy, this CONTINUED PAGE 13

As situation heats up in Syria, the question is out there: Will Iran again target Israel? ISRAEL KASNETT Israel’s covert war with Iran became overt when, in what can only be interpreted as a clear escalation, Iran sent an armed drone into Israeli territory in February. While Israel then wiped out most of Syria’s air defenses after an Israel Air Force fighter jet was shot down, now, after Israel allegedly struck the T-4 base in Syria—killing several Iranian personnel—Iran is threatening to retaliate. The issue is when, where and how. According to David Makovsky, director of the Project on the Middle East Peace Process at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, “There is no question that there is more uncertainty of a possible war between Israel and Iran or its proxies then there has been in the past,” he told JNS. Israel would prefer to see the international community take a larger role in preventing Iran from becoming even further established in Syria, but this is unlikely since, as he explained, “the American strategy in Syria is largely focused on ISIS.” Makovsky acknowledged that “all this is not great comfort for Israel, which would like to see America launch its own military strikes.” Since this is unlikely at the moment, it is assumed that the United States would back Israel politically if it decides to take further military action against Iran in Syria. “It doesn’t seem to me that the president, given his public statements, has an interest in expanding America’s role in Syria,” he added. Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior Iran

analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told JNS that “the main strategy now for Israel is managing escalation dynamics in Israel’s favor. This is because Iran will seek to test Israel again. The armed drone was a qualitatively different threat for Israel—it represents a threat against the entire population and not just a message to Israel’s political or military establishment.” Like Makovsky, Ben Taleblu also does not see an expanded U.S. role in Syria, and at present, U.S. foreign policy there is still muddled. “Right now,” he said, “there is an unknown ‘unknown’ in terms of American analysts who are trying to define U.S. defense strategy in Syria. First is the anti-ISIS campaign. The second is more normative, and that is upholding the nonuse of chemical weapons. And the third is military commanders rhetorically blaming Iran for what is taking place in Syria.” Netanyahu: ‘Aggression against aggression’ In anticipation of Iran’s intentions to retaliate, Israeli security and defense planners are making every effort to demonstrate to Iran that Israel has superiority, and that it is not worth the consequences for Iran to try and strike Israel. As such, Israel announced that it was reportedly canceled plans to send its warplanes to a joint military exercise with the United States in Alaska amid concerns of the Iranian buildup. At the same time, Israeli leaders have made it clear to Iran that they will not tolerate

its threats. “Our policy can be summed up in three words: aggression against aggression,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last week. However, Iranian officials have responded to Israel’s actions and rhetoric. “Israeli aggression against the Syrians and the region’s Muslims remains ongoing,” Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi said earlier this week, adding that Tehran would respond “sooner or later.” Similarly, Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary General Naim Qassem on Tuesday told the pan-Arab satellite TV station Al-Mayadeen that Iran would retaliate against Israel. “We have to expect something from Iran,” he said. “Hezbollah and Iran will not allow Israel to limit their movement in Syria.” ‘Finish off last pockets of resistance’ Assaf Orion, a senior research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, told JNS “what we see in Syria now is an accumulation of several issues. One is the latest phase in the civil war, which means the regime feels quite emboldened to wrap up the last places of resistance. There is action up north between Turkey and the Kurds. Farther south, Russia has concentrated on Damascus and its suburbs. “This conjunction,” he continued, “means Syria feels confident to use chemical weapons. The regime has regenerated capabilities and the resolve to use it. The chemical attack was part of the regime’s usual style to finish off last pockets of resistance.”

In 2013, Syria joined the Chemical Weapons Convention, “but it is evident that the two northernmost sites that were hit by the coalition forces were post-2013 sites,” said Orion. “So actually, the Assad regime moved their assets around, kept some if its capabilities, hid them and then, assisted by Russia, used smoke and mirrors to deny their existence. The coalition strike was meant to tell Syria that the international community knows it used chemical weapons. But it all points to a failure of this mechanism to ascertain what is going on and to expose violations.” There are voices calling for the ouster—or even the assassination—of Syrian President Bashar Assad. What Assad must realize, said Orion, is that the crimes of tyrants like Adolph Eichmann, Saddam Hussein and Slobodan Milošević eventually caught up with them. “Parallel to the chemical-weapons issue, there is the Iran-Israel axis,” continued Orion. “Iran is established militarily in Syria. Now, Iran seems to feel it is time to reap its investment into actual gains and dig in to Syria. Iran is Hezbollah on steroids.” What Iran will do now is not immediately apparent, according to Orion, though he says he is certain that “the Israeli military has made preparations to thwart or counter any attempt by Iran” to further attack Israel. The question that remains, stresses Ben Taleblu, is: “Will Iran actually look to test Israel again, or will it try to save face?”

May 2018

international

Hamas terror engineer assassinated in Malaysia JEWISH NEWS SYNDICATE Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh blamed Israel for the shooting, saying “Israel has an open account with the Palestinians, it has moved the war overseas,” insinuating that Hamas would move its terror operations against Israel overseas as well. Hamas engineer Fadi Muhammad alBatash was shot dead in Malaysia on Saturday in an anonymous assassination. Al-Batash, an expert in attack-drone and rocket systems, was arriving at a mosque for morning prayers near Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia Saturday morning when two men on a motorcycle, who allegedly waited for him to arrive, approached him and shot him approximately 20 times. Hamas chief Ismail Haniyah and Senior Islamic Jihad leader Khaled al-Batash both accused Israel’s Mossad national intelligence agency of carrying out the targeted killing. “The Islamic Resistance Movement mourns the son of its sons, the righteous, and a knight of its knights, a scholar of young Palestine scholars and the guardian of the Book of Allah,” Hamas said on a statement posted to its website. “The martyr was an example in calling God and working for the

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh speaks during a meeting in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on Jan. 7, 2016. Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/Flash90 Palestinian cause.” Fadi Muhammad al-Batash was originally from Gaza and assisted in Hamas terror plots, but left for Malaysia in 2011. The local police chief in Malaysia stated that other people were at the scene, but that the killers focused exclusively on al-Batash,

Natalie Portman refuses to receive Genesis Prize in Israel JEWISH NEWS SYNDICATE Hollywood Actress and director Natalie Portman, who once said that she would not “you know, s**t on Israel,” has announced that she did not “feel comfortable” accepting an esteemed award in the Jewish state due to “recent events.” The Genesis Prize, akin to a “Jewish Nobel,” is handed out annually in Israel to “honor individuals who serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Jews through their outstanding professional achievement, along with their commitment to Jewish values and the Jewish people.” And this year, it comes with a $2 million prize, double that of previous years. The award foundation said it was “very saddened” to have received word from Portman’s representatives that “recent events in Israel have been extremely distressing to her, and she does not feel comfortable participating in any public events in Israel,” and that “she cannot in good conscience move forward with the ceremony.” Despite Portman’s rejection of the award

ceremony, the Genesis Prize Foundation told Haaretz that she did not intend to return her prize money, nor the $2 million matching grant she was promised by Israeli philanthropist Morris Kahn. As is the custom among Genesis Prize winners, Portman, who was born in Jerusalem, planned to donate her prize money to charity. She had already notified the foundation that she would give her award to international and Israeli causes dedicated to women. In a statement following the Genesis Prize announcement in November, Portman said she is “proud of my Israeli roots and Jewish heritage.” The 36-year-old has previous stood against the BDS movement, protesting efforts to keep the Toronto International Film Festival from staging a Tel Aviv-themed event in 2009. Portman came out as “very, very upset and disappointed” when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was elected in 2015, but said she did not “want to use my platform [in the wrong way] and “you know, s**t on Israel.”

Hollywood actress and director Natalie Portman with former Israeli President Shimon Peres at the premiere of Portman’s movie “A Tale of Love and Darkness,” based on the book by Israeli author Amos Oz, in Jerusalem in 2015. Photo by Hadas Parush/Flash90.

leading them to suspect it was a targeted assassination. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, speaking at al-Batash’s mourning tent, blamed Israel for the shooting and said “Israel has an open account with the Palestinians, it has moved the war overseas,” insinuating that Hamas

would move its terror operations against Israel overseas as well. Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett said al-Batash must not be brought to burial in Gaza until Hamas relinquishes the bodies of Israeli kidnapped soldiers Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul.

Accusing Putin ... FROM PAGE 12 former KGB agent must be recognized as one of the most positive forces combating Jew hatred and supporting the local Jewish community. There are various explanations for Putin’s apparent philo-Semitism. Some say he was influenced as a youngster in St. Petersburg where he was looked after by a Jewish couple and deeply affected by a German Jewish teacher Mina Yuditkaya who came to Israel. He met her on a visit in 2005 and purchased an apartment for her in Tel Aviv in which she lived until she recently passed away. Putin has encouraged the Jewish renaissance in Russia, developed a warm relationship with Chabad Rabbi Berel Lazare and has many Jewish friends. He has made a distinct effort to attend Jewish functions such as the opening of the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center in Moscow, to which he contributed $50 million of state funds and even symbolically personally donated a month’s salary. He attends Chanukah celebrations and conveys goodwill on the advent of the Jewish New Year – something utterly unprecedented from a nationalist Russian leader. Despite his strategic involvement with the Syrians, Putin has determinedly kept the channels to Israel open. He has personally visited Israel on several

occasions, making it the first country to visit after his election in 2012. He speaks warmly of the Jewish state, expressing pride that it contains the largest diaspora of Russian Jews. At the western Wall, he donned a kippah – undoubtedly making his Bolshevik predecessors turn in their grave and enraging his Arab allies. Putin holds regular meetings with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman and other Jewish leaders who all testify to his deep respect for Israel especially its military and intelligence capabilities. That is not to say that we should become party to idealistic delusions and could necessarily rely on Putin if he were forced to choose between supporting Israel and abandoning his control of Syria. For the time being, we will continue the balancing act and hope we can sustain the relationship. But to accuse this man of anti-Semitism and linking him with the dark forces of Russian Jew baiting because of an ad lib comment taken out of context mentioning Jews amongst others is utter madness. If such hysteria is not halted it could inflict enormous harm on the Jewish people and Israel. We have enough enemies and do not need to abuse those who display genuine friendship towards us. This column was originally published in the Jerusalem Post and Israel HayomX

international

May 2018

Open letter to Natalie Portman from an Israeli progressive HEN MAZZIG We are a family, indeed and you’ve made a mistake. Dear Natalie, How did we get to this? I was always a fan, even of your politics. I could relate to your frustration about much of Israel’s politics. As an LGBT Israeli liberal from an Iraqi-North African (Berber) background, I know full well how much work is needed to improve our country. I’m definitely not a fan of right-wing politics in Israel and do not support the current leadership. However, your actions this week were disturbing. You always pride yourself on being Jewish and Israeli, even though you are living in your comfortable and protected home in the United States. You made sure that your opinions are known in Israel and around the world. You supported the V15 campaign, that was pushing to influence the Israeli elections, back in 2015. You were always vocal about your criticism of Israel’s politics. When you were told that you would get an award for your Jewish activism, it took you a month to get your representative to say you would not participate in any “public event in Israel” because of the “recent events.” Later on you posted on Instagram that your representative does not speak for you (seriously?) and that you are only partially joining the boycott of Israel, stating that you “can be critical of the leadership in Israel without wanting to boycott the entire nation.” Well, thank you for not boycotting the entire nation. But shame on you for your terrible behavior. Yes, Israel can be criticized – ask every Israeli and they will have criticism about the government, even the ones that support it fully. But it’s the style of dissent that matters. Israeli author David Grossman was one of 16 recipients of the Israel Prize last week, in a ceremony that concluded Israel’s 70th Independence Day celebrations. In attendance were Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Education Minister Naftali Bennett. Grossman is a vocal critic of

Natalie Portman poses at the premiere for “Annihilation” in Los Angeles, California, US, February 13, 2018.. (photo credit: REUTERS/MARIO ANZUONI)

Netanyahu and Bennett, but he was there. In my work, in my publications and online, I try to make the progressive case for Israel, because I want people with different political views to feel comfortable supporting Israel. I do not want to see the Right as the only political wing that supports Israel. I work to make sure that the Left and progressives like myself are not represented by a small minority that is perceived as “traitors” or self-hating Jews. Education Minister Bennett said during the ceremony last week that “the Right doesn’t hold a monopoly on patriotism... not only the Right loves the land of Israel and not only the Left seeks peace. Both aspire for the best of the state.” Is it not shocking to you that a right-wing Israeli politician articulate a message of unity while yours was just divisive? Indeed, we are living in a divisive time and

age. We are being pitted against each other and polarization of the debate on Israel is stronger than ever. But I’m in pain to see you, of all people, making it worse. I do not think that you are anti-Israel, but as one Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions activist wrote online, “I can eat a salad and say I don’t eat healthy, but I’m still eating the salad. Portman boycotted Israel.” The BDS movement is not about economic boycott that will lead to the collapse of the Israeli economy; they know that cannot succeed. It is also not about a real cultural boycott that will lead to a full isolation; they know that will fail as well. It is about creating the facade of a successful boycott and influencing young people to think it is a movement they need to join, since it has traction and massive support. It is also about dividing the pro-Israel community, just as you did.

Like all Israelis, I am the product of a miracle. A miracle happened to my family in 1951, when they were in the middle of the life-changing crisis of expulsion from Arab and Muslim countries (North Africa and Iraq) because they were Jews. The miracle was that for the first time in 2000 years, there was a Jewish state to take them home. This is the same miracle that is happening today to French Jews escaping antisemitism – and it is the same miracle that will save many other Jews in the future. It should be clear that Israel is not only here to serve American Jews. I was in the army for five years defending Israel and working side by side with Palestinians. Today I speak up in the public arena because I understand the issue is bigger than me and my political agenda. Politicians come and go but the State of Israel is much bigger than you or the current prime minister. And contrary to your statement, the State of Israel was not “conceived as a haven for Holocaust refugees.” The Zionist movement began to establish a state way before the First World War. It is a rebirth of a nation, not just a home for Holocaust survivors. We are a family, indeed and you’ve made a mistake. You made it worse over and again. We are calling you out on it. It’s not about criticism, which we welcome here, it is about the way you do it, at this moment in time. I know you are used to a different type of political debate in the US, but we don’t need you to bring it here. Come to Israel, make things right, speak your mind at the ceremony and let’s put this to rest. It is not too late to correct your mistake. I promise that I will do all I can to support you if you do. As much as you love Israel, Israel loves you more, and we will not turn our back on you when you need us. Do not do us wrong. With brotherly love, Hen Mazzig HenMazzig is an Israeli writer, public speaker and strategic communications consultant from Tel Aviv. www.HenMazzig.com

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May 2018

schools / shuls

Our New Bar Mitzvah Program and highlights from UJEB Camp UJEB The UJEB Bar Mitzvah Program “Journey to 13” is in its first year and has been an incredible success. The participants have learnt about the importance of communities and how they support us as well as how culture has shaped us. “The UJEB Bar mitzvah is a program where you learn about manhood, manliness, stereotypes of men and what it’s like to be a man in the context of Judaism and other communities. This is taught through a series of interactive and fun programs, where the focus could be on one of the listed above topics. For example, the topic could be stereotypes of men, and you may have to complete a series of tasks that match what is thought that a man should be and should able to do. The Bar mitzvah program has expanded and developed my perspective. It has taught me how to make better assessments of problems and persons. I like the Bar Mitzvah Program as I made new friends.” -TomerWe have begun to focus on what it means to be a real man, not the stereotypes we always see. As a result, the boys have begun to develop their own complex and positive masculine identities. ”I started this program thinking that it was going to hard, going to be what I have done before-practicing my aleph bet all day long for my Bar Mitzvah. It turned out to be much better that that! It was something I enjoyed, that was fun and something that made me feel included. We do all types of things like play “Who’s the manliest man?”, a game that challenged how we envision what a man is, some being strong others being older than 13. This is a really good program and I have enjoyed it a lot since I started.” -GabeThe program has successfully appealed to families who want something more out of a Bar

Mitzvah than the traditional experience. “The UJEB Bar Mitzvah program is a first of its kind and really appealed to me as it targets public school children who come from traditional rather than religious backgrounds. I love the way that the content of this program addresses Jewish identity in such a broad context, helping the boys question who they are not only in their community but in the broader world. My son feels included, accepted and has really bonded with the group. As a result of being part of the group he attended UJEB camp and had an amazing experience meeting other Jewish children. As a traditional Jewish parent with a child in a public school this program is an amazing way to give your child a meaningful and memorable Bar Mitzvah experience whilst remaining true to your family values.” -Michele Slatem HIGHLIGHTS FROM UJEB CAMP Last week, 76 Jewish students from government schools attended UJEB’s annual

autumn camp in Alexandria, Victoria. Amongst the primary and secondary students, were participants of the organisation’s year 10 Israel program, as well as participants from both the Bar/Bat Mitzvah programs. The Four day camp provided the students with a great mix of fun activities and educational programs, along with a memorable inclusive Shabbat experience. On arrival, students experienced the giant swing, rock climbing, canoeing and a high ropes course, along with a host of other leisure activities. Fostering for students to bond with each other, and ultimately create lasting friendships. The educational component invited students to explore the notion of heroes, and how each student can incorporate their own heroes traits and characteristics into their lives as young Jews in a modern society. As camp coincided with Yom Hashoah, students were given a glimpse into the heroes of the Holocaust, including Oscar Schindler and Chana Tzenesh. For many students, this was their first time exploring the

Holocaust in such a nuanced manner, and it was fantastic to see their active engagement and interest in the topic. The camp culminated in a Shabbat experience like no other. Providing students with multiple platforms for religious experience, including insights into the various religious streams, concluding with a communal kiddush with the leaders and participants of the camp. Year 10 Israel program graduates explored the nature of our community, and the various options available for future engagement, providing a platform for future leadership and involvement in the Melbourne Jewish community. The fantastic camp leaders came from various yo uth movements and Jewish organisations, exposing students to the possibilities of prospective future engagement and involvement within our community. The camp was a huge success, and we look forward to further growth from here on out.

Grow with Scopus:

New primary school bursary grants now available Open to current or new students entering into Prep in 2019, these grants of up to $9,000 per year (for grants from Prep to Year 3 or Prep to Year 6) enable you to provide your child with the opportunity to learn in an immersive Jewish environment during their formative years.

Applications close on Friday, 1 June, 2018. For a confidential discussion about the Grow with Scopus grants and other options that may be open to you, call Laurent Schonker, Bursary Manager, on 9834 0027.

Scopus Values Excellence in Learning

Holistic Development

Jewish Identity

Community and Service

www.scopus.vic.edu.au

Up to $9,000 per year

schools/shuls

May 2018

Matzo Balls, Gefilte Fish and a “Gevaltike” (aka great) Governor RABBI RALPH GENENDE CAULFIELD SHUL

In the week leading up to Pesach, I attended a dinner at the stately Government House in our Royal Botanic Gardens. I’ve been fortunate to have visited this splendid State House on several occasions, but this time it was different. Our Jewish Governor, the Honourable Linda Dessau’s invitation was to a “Multi-Faith Youth Passover Dinner”. This was a dinner for young, Jews, Christians and Muslims, and a handful of religious leaders. It’s the brainchild of Governor Linda, as a way of promoting our State (and Australia) as a centre of tolerance and multicultural excellence; last year she hosted an Iftar Dinner for young people of different faiths. The evening program was run by several Jewish students from different youth groups - Hineni, Betar, Chabad Youth, and Habonim who presented different aspects of the Pesach Story and Seder. Sitting in the lavish State Dining Room with its telescopic table of exquisite Spanish mahogany and Australian

redwood with some 54 participants (almost the length of a cricket pitch) felt like a scene out of “The Crown” or “Downton Abbey”. This was accentuated by the team of waiters behind our chairs, gently gliding our seats towards the table, synchronising their service so we all received our plated food at the same time. This, I thought, is what the Seder is supposed to be like – a royal table to sit back at and feel like you’re a free and privileged citizen! Sadly the waiters weren’t available for our family Seders a few nights later… While the setting was elegantly colonial, and embellished by portraits of the Royal Family and Dame Nellie Melba, the menu was decidedly different (see picture): Traditional Gefilte Fish, Clear Chicken Soup with Matzah Balls and Beef Brisket! While the indulgence and luxury were enjoyable, this dinner was meaningful in several ways: Firstly, it was an affirmation of how fortunate we are to live in a free, open and accepting country; a place where our Judaism is not just tolerated, but celebrated. Secondly, it confirmed the importance and value of our multi-faith society. In

South Caulfield Shule Navigates Friday Night! SOUTH CAULFIELD HEBREW CONGREGATION RABBI DANIEL RABIN South Caulfield Hebrew Congregation recently hosted a two part series on ”Navigating the Friday Night Service”. Rabbi Daniel Rabin, Rabbi at South Caulfield Hebrew Congregation, presented the course to around 100 participants. The course explored a deeper exploration of the Friday Night Service and meaning into the prayers. There were numerous anecdotes and stories which shed light into some of the reasons behind certain prayers. One participant commented that the course has now given him a lot more perspective on the Friday night service and he looks forward to enjoying the Kabbalat Shabbat service at South Caulfield Shule. Rabbi Daniel Rabin said that it is important to find news ways to be inspired and the aim of the course was to provide some inspiration

for the Friday night prayers. ”Speaking from personal experience we can often fall into the trap of things feeling rather monotonous and perhaps even somewhat uninspiring during the prayer services and it is important to counter that with learning more about the prayers and the reasons certain prayers were chosen. I have certainly learned a lot from the course and from hearing the different comments and questions that were raised during the series. I look forward to further Shiur series in the coming months”. South Cauflield Hebrew Congregation invites the community to join them on Friday night for an uplifting service and an enjoyable sing-a-long Kabbalat Shabbat. Delicious soup follows the service through the winter months. There are many exciting events throught the year and those interested in finding out more can either sign up for their weekly newsletter, the Shule website or Facebook page.

Australia today there is a vigorous and respectful conversation across our country’s tables; we invite a multiplicity of cultures and faiths to be part of our civil discourse. Thirdly, it affirmed my confidence in the youth of our nation: the Jewish participants were eloquent, passionate and proud in their presentations. They spoke of the joy of being Jewish and their conviction that fear and distrust of the other can erode our society whereas the courage to reach out to the stranger can only strengthen it. The Christian and Muslim that were on either side of me at the dinner were equally passionate in their principles and conviction that the

way forward is through dialogue, trust and working together to create a better society for us all. I was especially moved by the young Somali Muslim woman, Ayan, who works as an ER nurse and also for a Muslim charity (charity is interestingly called “Zaakah” in Arabic). She spoke of her admiration of our Jewish community and the way we do “tzedakah”; she also spoke warmly of her Jewish and Christian friends and colleagues at the Alfred. You may argue that women like her are exceptions in their defiance of the stereotype. I would counter that I have met many exceptions and even if they are exceptions, they are the people we should embrace and assist to help counter Muslim anti-Semitism and extremism. If we want to oppose Jewish stereotyping, we need to ensure we aren’t Muslim stereotyping. We can only grow as a Jewish community and as a society when we move out of our insular spaces and converse, meet and work together in our public spaces. Finally, being at Government House and sharing a Kosher meal with a Jewish governor was sheer naches! Shabbat Shalom

Enriching Chagim at YBR YESHIVAH - BETH RIVKAH COLLEGES LISA FRENKEL At Yeshivah – Beth Rivkah, providing a rich and meaningful introduction to chagim is a key focus. Lag B’Omer outings and celebrations will be enjoyed by students across the campuses to mark the day, and with Shavuot on the horizon, learning and classroom activities will begin to incorporate elements to introduce and excite students about the upcoming chag. Similarly in the lead up to Pesach, YBR students took part in an array of activities and learning. Children at the Gurewicz Early Learning Centre (GELC) enjoyed Pesach dress-ups and learning through song and engaging activities and were captivated by a delightful Pesach puppet show, with those enrolled to attend the GELC in 2019 also attending for the morning’s fun. Model sederim took place in kinder and lower primary classrooms, and primary school activities were creative and varied – ranging from making beeswax candles to creating bedikas chametz (search for chametz) kits. Kinder and Primary students participated in Matzah bakery visits and created

beautiful personalised Hagaddahs, while upper Primary and Secondary students concentrated on delving deep into the text of the Haggadah and learning new concepts, ideas, halachot (laws) and minhagim (customs) associated with the Chag. These ideas were presented to fellow classmates and collated into a booklet to help enrich the chag for family members. At Yeshivah, a memorable Sunday morning of studying and fun for fathers and sons was a chance to extend knowledge, enjoy sport activities and a take part in a creative food activity together. In addition, a fascinating Pre-Pesach Yom Iyun morning of engaging and enlightening shiurim was held for women in the community – with many mothers and past students in attendance at the Beth Rivkah Secondary Beit Midrash. To help enhance chagim for those beyond the YBR family, Yeshivah Primary instrumental students delighted in an opportunity to perform a selection of Pesach songs for Gary Smorgan residents – further enhancing and enriching the chag for their attentive audience.

May 2018

schools / shuls

Celebrating Yom Haâ€™atzmaut BIALIK COLLEGE THE KING DAVID SCHOOL

MOUNT SCOPUS COLLEGE

schools / shuls

May 2018

Gen17 survey MOUNT SCOPUS MEMORIAL COLLEGE RABBI JAMES KENNARD What is the biggest story to come out of the Gen17 survey? Is it the overall demographic picture, showing that our community is shrinking slowly and is older than the general population? Is it the numbers of Jewish families suffering financial hardship? Or is it any of the many other important conclusions that this thorough and excellent report provides, each of which could qualify as “the main story”. But for me, the section of the report which deserves particular attention is the story it tells of rising rates of intermarriage doubling in twenty years and now standing, according to Gen17, at 33% of marriages, (lower in Melbourne and higher in Sydney). Similarly we learn that the “marrying a Jewish person” is declining as a “very important” component of Jewish identity. Whilst all the chapters in the report are essential reading, it is the data on intermarriage that determines above all what our community will look like for future generations. Some have criticised the Gen17 for failing to reach the unaffiliated and include them in its data. If that’s the case, then the intermarriage rate must surely be higher than one in three. Additionally, that figure does not include cohabiting couples which the report states are much more likely to be mixed-faith. Therefore the true number of homes and families that Jews are choosing to create with a non-Jewish partner will be closer to one in two. There are some who believe that intermarriage is not a concern - it’s actually a blessing as it brings non-Jews under our communal umbrella. Others claim that it is racist to even raise the subject, or that it should not be discussed for fear of offending those who have chosen to marry a non-Jewish partner. Or that the only issue worth discussing is how to make conversion easier, as if we should solve the problem by easing the consequences, rather than addressing the source. If a reader finds

themselves in one of these groups then please turn the page now - we differ too fundamentally to have a fruitful discussion. I believe that advocating for Jews to marry Jews is not racist (for the simple reason that Jews are not a race), and that while the issue must be addressed with sensitivity and compassion for all individuals, it is essential to examine the causes and the effects of intermarriage given that it impacts so greatly on the future of those involved and of the community as a whole. Many will point to intermarried couples who are raising Jewish children with a strong sense of Jewish identity. I know a number of such families, and I have great respect and admiration for their determination and achievement - especially for part played by the non-Jewish parent. But the fact remains that most intermarried couples do not choose this path. The Pew report on contemporary American Jewry showed that two thirds of children in such families do not identify as Jewish. Therefore a high and growing rate of intermarriage points to a declining community for the future. The past history of communities in this situation - many of which do not exist at all today should be a message for us all. Where, for instance, are the descendants of the 20,000 Jews in Melbourne in 1900? No doubt many are in the same city, but very few would have featured in Gen17. As for how the conversion should work, that is a halachic question to be left to the

experts in that field which should not distract us from the core issues. For what it’s worth, the sincere and wonderful converts that my wife and I have helped each sailed through the process in two years with little difficulty and we were delighted to dance at their weddings. My concern is not about the numbers themselves. Jews should not measure our strength by demographics (see Deuteronomy 7:7), though our leaders often assess our ability to sustain our institutions and to lobby government based on our size. The rate of Intermarriage is significant as both a symptom and a cause. It tells of our failure - as parents, teachers and communal leaders - to instil the sense of value of creating a Jewish home with a Jewish partner. And it tells of thousands of Jews, and their children, who are far more likely to disengage and disappear from Jewish life and Jewish involvement. There is no doubt that the mistakes and moral failures of some of our religious leaders have served to distance observers from Jewish engagement. But more than that, intermarriage implies a failure of education, of sufficiently sharing with the next generation the beauty and meaning of Jewish living and learning before they decide for themselves that it can be diluted Our communal strategists have struggled with rising rates of intermarriage for generations (although perhaps with an inadequate sense of priority). They have grasped at every straw, funded every program that seems to have success in boosting Jewish identity and hence the engagement that leads to a strong Jewish future. Although correlation does not equal causation, it is sensible to promote, say, a Birthright program when previous participants on such a trip indicate an increased levels of a desire to marry a Jew. It is reasonable to conclude that the Jewish education and experiences provided by Jewish Day Schools are at least part of the explanation as to why their graduates show greater Jewish identification than their

counterparts at non-Jewish schools. Yet there is one indication from Gen17, from its predecessor Gen08, from the Pew Report and from virtually every other demographic study, that is perpetually ignored. It is simply that likelihood to marry Jewish increases with religious engagement. This is no surprise. A young Jewish person who appreciates the beauty and the benefit of keeping Shabbat is more likely to want to build a home with a proper day of rest as a key feature. One for whom not speaking l’shon hara - negative comments about others - is important will find it harder to share a life with someone new to such a value. One who finds intellectual and spiritual excitement in Jewish learning will seek a partner who shares their passion. Therefore if our communal leaders and funders are serious about the Jewish future - not just for the sake of the numbers, but for the Jewish involvement and connection for each Jewish person, why is not more attention and support given to programs that aim to connect young Jews, and in particular the twenty-somethings in their self-defining years after they have left school, with their religious identity? This need not be a partisan issue. Let a program that encourages halachic Shabbat observance flourish alongside one dedicated to the non-orthodox style of that day. Jewish learning takes many forms. And of course religious observance is not going to appeal to everyone. But let us stop avoiding the one approach that has the most successful track record in strengthening Jewish identity. Let us overcome the fear of seeming too “evangelical” or too controversial. Let us honestly admit that Judaism guarantees a strong Jewish identity. Let us give more support and funding to existing and new programs, that engage with young Jews and give them more appreciation for Jewish life, learning and observance. And let us do so now before it’s too late. This article originally appeared in The Australian Jewish News on April 6 2018.

What makes Bialik College different?

Advanced Jewish Studies at Scopus

BIALIK COLLEGE

MOUNT SCOPUS COLLEGE

One way of articulating Bialik’s very strong Jewish ethos is with the statement: “we don’t preach, we teach”. A core value of Bialik College is to respect individual choice of expression when it comes to Jewish identity. The teaching is expansive and inclusive, demonstrating to students the rich mosaic of our Jewish tradition that encompasses ideologies and practices across the full spectrum of mainstream Judaism – from Orthodox to Progressive and from Secular to Conservative. Students are empowered, from a knowledgeable base, to choose how to express themselves according to their own, and their family’s own preferences. In a practical sense, this translates into students being given the choice of which siddur they would like to receive in honour of their bat or bar mitzvah. It means that the school’s canteen is fully kosher to accommodate everyone, but student’s private lunches are not “policed”. It means tefillot (prayers) are taught throughout the Primary and Middle schools, from birchat hamazon to Shema and from the Shabbat service to Rosh Chodesh, but in the Senior school, services are optional and are led by students for students. And it means that when there is debate about Israel, our school’s proud Zionism and support is unwavering while at the same time, debate is openly encouraged and tolerated. Bialik’s healthy approach to Judaism best reflects the plurality of our thriving and dynamic Melbourne Jewish community.

Academically, Bialik also leads the field not only in consistently outstanding VCE results – top 5 in the State for 20 of the last 21 years - but in innovative and cutting-edge programs that stimulate and engage students in myriads of ways. Whether it’s about learning to run a business, designing Apps, or constructing robots and drones through to using dogs as a conduit of learning in the ELC and Primary school, the College is quick to respond to new approaches and ideas. Bialik’s initiatives in STEM for instance have been so successful that there has been an exponential increase in girls studying forensic science and STEM electives into Senior school. But perhaps the area in which Bialik shines best, is the family atmosphere and care that permeates the environment of the school. With everyone on one campus, from ELC to VCE, respectful relationships are ingrained into the fabric of the school with mentorship programs between older and younger students and leadership opportunities from Year 5 through to Year 12 that are based on individual students volunteering to take on more responsibility rather than being voted into position by others. There is a lot more to Bialik than some may realise, and the surprises are delightful. Find out for yourself at Bialik’s upcoming Information Evening on Tuesday 15 May at 7.30pm. RSVP essential: RSVP@bialik.vic.edu.au

The study of Jewish texts has always been at the heart of Jewish learning and a key component of a Mount Scopus College education. Over recent years the school has witnessed an enormous growth in the number of students electing to take text based enrichment classes and attend informal weekly shiurim. Currently approximately 25% of secondary students are engaged in voluntary additional Jewish text study. Master Talmud classes, advanced text classes and after school Talmud classes, as well as informal shiurim during free periods for senior students see almost 200 secondary students engaged in enrichment Jewish Studies each week. In response, from next year Mount Scopus will offer a dedicated Advanced Jewish Studies stream as part of its curriculum for Year 9 students. The stream will cater for students wishing to develop their skills and exposure in reading Talmud and Bible, and analysing the arguments in the text. They will further develop thinking skills and have the time to delve deeply into the content. This exciting new option will see students engaging in classic Jewish texts in an intellectually stimulating manner, while laying the foundation for advanced Jewish learning. The course will develop critical thinking skills and enable students to analyse the commentaries and Talmudic arguments and biblical texts with classical commentaries. The course will be taught in English, over five

dedicated text lessons a week during regular Jewish Studies classes, along with a Jewish Studies elective during the elective block, which will cover Jewish history and Israel studies. The course has been timetabled to allow students to engage fully in all extra-curricular school activities as well as take part in this advanced learning stream. The new Advanced Jewish Studies stream is open to all students, male and female, wishing to further develop the skills of textual learning. For more information, please contact Mr Avi Cohen, Director, Alter Family School of Jewish Studies and Ivrit on ph: 9834 0000 or acohen@ scopus.vic.edu.au

shavuot

May 2018

SHAVUOT What’s it about?

havuot, is a the holiday that celebrates the giving of the Torah to the Jews. The Talmud tells us that God gave the Ten Commandments to the Jews on the sixth night of the Hebrew month of Sivan. Shavuot always falls 50 days after the second night of Passover. The 49 days in between are known as the Omer. In biblical times Shavuot also marked the beginning of the new agricultural season and was called Hag HaKatzir, which means “The Harvest Holiday.” Other names Shavuot is known by are “The Feast of Weeks” and Hag HaBikurim, meaning “The Holiday of First Fruits.” This last name comes from the practice of bringing fruits to the Temple on Shavuot. After the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE the rabbis connected Shavuot with the Revelation at Mt. Sinai, when God gave the Ten Commandments to the Jewish people. This is why Shavuot celebrates the giving and receiving of the Torah in modern times.

From Christina Mattison Ebert’s D’rash Designs series.

Tikkun Leil Shavuot

any religious Jews commemorate Shavuot by spending the entire night studying Torah at their synagogue or at home. They also study other biblical books and portions of the Talmud. This all-night gathering is known as Tikun Leyl Shavuot and at dawn participants stop studying and recite shacharit, the morning prayer. Tikun Leyl Shavuot is a kabbalistic (mystical) custom that is relatively new to Jewish tradition. It is increasingly popular among modern Jews and is meant to help us rededicate ourselves to studying Torah. Kabbalists taught that at midnight on Shavuot the skies open for a brief moment and God favorably hears all prayers.

Why Dairy on Shavuot?

hhh... the sumptuous delight of blintzes and cheesecake! Shavuot is the only Jewish holiday with a dairy menu and eating a milchik meal on Shavuot has become an enduring tradition. But what’s the meaning behind this? Here are a few reasons: • When the Jewish people received the Torah at Mount Sinai, included was special instructions for how to slaughter and prepare meat for eating. Until then, the Jews had not followed these laws, thus all their meat – plus the cooking pots – were now considered “not kosher.” So the only alternative was to eat dairy, which requires no advance preparation. • Another explanation comes from Song of Songs (Shir ha’Shirim) 4:11: “Like honey and milk [the Torah] lies under your tongue.”Likewise, the land of Israel is referred to as “a land flowing with milk and honey” in Deuteronomy 31:20. • Essentially, milk serves as sustenance, the source of life, and honey represents sweetness. So Jews the world over make dairy-based sweet treats like cheesecake, blintzes, and cottage cheese pancakes with fruit compote. • As the Torah is likened to nourishing milk, also, the Hebrew word for milk is chalav.When the numerical values of each of the letters in the word chalav are added together (8 + 30 + 2) the total is forty. Forty is the number of days Moses spent on Mount Sinai when receiving the Torah. • An alternative name for Mount Sinai is Har Gav’nunim, the mountain of majestic peaks. The Hebrew word for cheese is gevina, etymologically related to Har Gav’nunim. Further, the gematria of gevina (cheese) is 70, corresponding to the “70 faces of Torah.”

Other Shavuot Customs Chanting the Ten Commandments. Reading Megilat Rut, known as the Book of Ruth in English. This biblical book tells the story of two women: a Jewish woman named Naomi and her non-Jewish daughter-in-law Ruth. Their relationship was so strong that when Ruth’s husband died she decided to join the Jewish people by converting to Judaism. The Book of Ruth is read during Shavuot because it takes place during the harvest season and because Ruth’s conversion is thought to reflect our acceptance of the Torah on Shavuot. Also, Jewish tradition teaches that King David (Ruth’s great-great-grandson) was born and died on Shavuot. On Shavuot, it is customary to decorate the synagogue with branches and flowers. This is because Mount Sinai blossomed with flowers on the day the Torah was given. The Bible also associates Shavuot with the harvest of wheat and fruits, and marks the bringing of the first fruits to the Holy Temple as an expression of thanksgiving. (see Exodus 23:16, 34:22, Numbers 28:26)

shavuot

May 2018

Inspirational Shavuot platters

Baked Cheesecake Ingredients 1 packet of digestive biscuits 100grams butter (melted) Add butter to biscuits and press into a springform tin 2 x tins condensed milk 2 x punnets cream cheese 4 eggs (separated) Juice and rind of 2 lemons Method Beat egg whites until foamy and stiff Mix together the condensed milk, cream

cheese and egg yolks with a hand mixer Fold in the lemon juice and rind Fold in the egg whites Pour into biscuit base Bake at 170 deg for 35-40 mins (or until golden brown) Leave to cool for a while. Run a knife around the tin to loosen cheesecake. Release spring but leave in tin until ready to decorate. Serve with berries.

Tuna Lasagne Ingredients 2 medium chopped onions Â˝ clove crushed garlic 50g butter 3 tins tuna 1 tin tomato soup pepper lasagne 1 tub cream 1 tub cottage cheese 2 cups grated cheddar cheese 2 cups grated mozzerella cheese Method Fry chopped onions and garlic in butter

until transparent Flake tuna and add to the onions â€“ cook for about 5 minutes Add tomato soup and pepper Simmer for about 5 minutes Mix cottage cheese and cream together Place the layers in a dish in the following order: tuna lasagne thin layer of cream mixture thin layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese Repeat the layers ending with the grated cheese Bake for 30mins at 150 deg.

May 2018

lifestyle

20 phrases to use when your child isn’t listening WWW.MOTHER.LY WENDY SNYDER

Our children are often the best mirrors. Over time, I have gracefully taken a step back and realized I needed to clean up my communication. I replaced my judgmental, negative, threatening tone with a neutral, problem solving, empathetic, encouraging one (this took TONS of practice, and I’m still a work in progress) and my little girl’s behavior improved dramatically. The lesson was clear for me. Talk to minihumans the way you’d like to be talked to and things will go a lot smoother. Easier said than done, so over the years, I’ve adopted the motto “Progress over perfection.” These 20 positive phrases are a great place to start if you’d like to make a fresh start with your communication: 1.“What do you need to remember?” Take a break from: “Be careful.” Example: “What do you need to remember when you play at the park?” or “Please move slow like a careful turtle when walking on top of that wall.” Explained: Kids often ignore when we say this same thing again and again. Instead, engage their critical thinking skills and have them re-state the important precaution. Or give them specifics on what you want. 2.“Please talk softly.” Take a break from: “Stop yelling!” or “Be Quiet!” Example: “Please talk softly or whisper,” (said in a whisper voice) or, “I love your singing, AND I need you to sing loud outside or in the playroom.” Explained: Some kids are naturally louder than others. If they have trouble speaking softly, show them where they can go to be loud and also use the power of the whisper. In combination with a gentle touch and eye contact, whispering is an incredibly effective way to get kids to listen. 3.“Would you like to do it on your own or have me help you?” Take a break from: “I’ve asked you three times, do it now!” Example: “It’s time to leave. Would you like to put on your shoes by yourself, or have me help you?” or “Would you like to hop in your car seat by yourself or have me put you in it?” Explained: Most kids respond incredibly well to being empowered. Give them a choice and their critical thinking skills override their temptation to push back. 4. “What did you learn from this mistake?” Take a break from: “Shame on you” or “You should know better.” Example: “What did you learn from this mistake?” or “What did you learn and how will you do it differently next time, so you don’t get in trouble at school?” Explained: Focusing on motivation to change behavior for the future will get you much better results than placing shame on past misbehavior. 5.“Please ______________.” Take a break from: “Don’t!” or “Stop It!” Example: “Please pet the dog gently” or “Please put your shoes in the closet.” Explained: Do any of us go through our day telling waitresses, baristas, friends, etc. what we DON’T want? No, right? We wouldn’t get the best response if we said “Do NOT give us a whole milk latte” or “I don’t want the chicken.” That form of negative communication isn’t perceived well and puts undue strain on relationships. Instead, try asking for what you do want. 6. “We are on cheetah time today and need to move fast!” Take a break from: “Hurry Up!” or “We are going to be late!” Example: “We’re on racehorse time today! Let’s see how fast we can move!” Explained: Be sure to let them be on turtle time sometimes! We could all use a healthy dose of slowing down, so provide mornings where everyone is relaxed & kids can move slow. 7.“Do you want to leave now or in ten minutes?” Take a break from: “Time to go…now!” Example: “Do you guys wanna leave now or play for ten more minutes, then leave? Why it works: Kids love to be in charge of their

own destiny, especially power kids! This takes a tad bit of proactivity, but it works like a charm! Give them a choice & they’ll respond much better when you say “Ok, 10 minutes is up, time to go.” 8. “Let’s add that toy you want to your birthday list.” Take a break from: “We can’t afford that” or “No, I said NO TOYS!” Example: “I am not willing to buy that, would you like me to put it on your birthday wish list?” Explained: If we’re being honest, we often CAN afford the $5 lego at checkout, we’re just not willing to purchase it. But then buy a $5 almond milk latte from Starbucks. Instead of blaming our finances and creating feelings of scarcity, own your limit, then offer ideas to help them learn how to get it (birthday, earning money, etc.). 9. “Stop, breathe, now ask for what you want.” Take a break from: “Stop whining!” Example: “Let’s stop, breathe together, now try again to ask for what you want.“ Explained: Be sure to model this too. Keep repeating it calmly while breathing with them, till they can self-calm and change the way they’re talking. 10. “Respect yourself and others.” Take a break from: “Be good.” Example: “Remember to respect yourself and others when you’re inside the jumpy today.” Explained: Be specific here as kids often don’t absorb the general statements we throw at them. Ask for what you want and have them restate what is important to remember. 11. “Use your teamwork skills.” Take a break from: “Don’t be bossy!” and “No one will want to play with you if you act like that.” Example: “You’re a great leader. Remember to use your teamwork skills today. Ask your friends questions, instead of telling them what to do and let others have a turn leading too.” Explained: Many kids who have a strong desire to lead (or feel powerful) are often told they’re bossy or that no one will want to be their friends if they act mean. Instead, become a coach of your child and teach them how good leaders lead with integrity—asking instead of commanding, showing instead of telling, and taking turns, so everyone has a turn to lead AND also rest, etc. 12. “I need you to _____________.” Take a break from: “Stop doing ___,” and “It’s not ok to ___.” Example: “I need you to pet the dog gently, he loves calming pets and will sit with you longer if you touch him that way. “I need you to slow down and walk like a turtle right now instead of a racehorse since we’re in a dangerous parking lot.” Explained: I statements come across very different than you statements, and kids respond much better when we communicate with them in non-accusatory ways. Also, asking for what you

want is huge to guide kids in the direction you want (vs. focusing their brain on what you DON’T want!) 13. “It’s okay to cry.” Take a break from: “Don’t be a baby,” or “Don’t Cry.” Example: “It’s ok that you feel sad, I’ll be over here if you need me. I know you can find a way to take care of yourself.” Explained: It’s incredible how well kids respond when we don’t pressure them to “get over their feelings” or try to force them to stop freaking out. Empower and teach them they are capable of moving through the feeling on their own and they’ll come out of the sadness sooner—and also build their self-esteem. 14. “How will you take care of yourself?” Take a break from: Always fixing, i.e., “Do __________, and you’ll be fine, it’s not a big deal,” or “Why are you always so emotional? Here, a cookie will make you feel better.” Example: “It’s ok to be ____________. What are some things you can do to help yourself feel better?” Explained: Empowering kids to take care of themselves is an incredible gift! Kids who learn to move through emotions with integrity, and take self-calming action get into trouble less and have higher self-esteem. (Be sure you are learning through positive parenting curriculum like The Foundations Course how to support them in this journey to develop intrinsic care, self-control methods and how to self-calm.) 15. “I’ll stop, breathe and wait for you to finish.” Take a break from: “Just let me do it.” Example: “Looks like you need a moment, I’ll sit down and wait for two minutes or put the dishes in the dishwasher while I wait.” Explained: Many times, it’s us parents that need to chill. Slow down and let them try to tie their shoe themselves or figure out the elevator floor by reading the sign. Kids often do a great job of reminding us to be present. Be ok with a lumpy bed sometimes, or shoes on the wrong foot. The goal here is to let kids try, fail, try again and anchor feelings of capability—so they don’t always depend on us to do everything! 16. “I love you no matter what.” Take a break from: “No one wants to be with you when you’re bad,” or “You’re not getting hugs and kisses after acting like that.” Example: “I love you no matter what behavior you have, AND I’d like you to ask your brother for the toy next time, instead of grabbing it.” Explained: Unconditional love is at the core of Positive Parenting and means that our love for our kids does not depend on the level of good behavior they have in the day. We love them with all of our heart no matter what. Feeding this truth into our children pours into their need to belong, which is a key motivating factor that Dr. Rudolph

Dreikurs (grandfather of Positive Parenting) helps us understand. When kids’ basic needs are met, they misbehave less. 17. “I am not ok with ___________—yet.” Take a break from: “You’re not old enough,” or “You’re too little to do that.” Example: “I’m not ok with you walking on top of that brick wall because I’m scared you’ll fall and hurt yourself.” Explained: When we own our fears and worries, our kids respond and respect our limits a lot better. Kids often feel like they are old enough, strong enough, big enough and capable enough to do big things like ride bikes fast, climb high fences and carry big glasses of juice…but it’s us that isn’t ready to take the risk yet. Communicate this to your kids using the word I, and they will push back less. 18. “You care, so I’d love for you to decide.” Take a break from: “I don’t care.” Example: “You know what? I’m flexible on this, so can you choose for us. I’d love your help.” Explained: When we really don’t care, this is a great opportunity to empower our kids and let them lead! Good leaders are also good followers so teaching our kids this through letting them make decisions is good practice. 19. “I believe in you and am here to support you.” Take a break from: Rescuing, i.e., “I’ll take care of this.” or “Why do I have to do everything for you?” Example: “I can see how this is tough for you and I believe in you to get through this. I am here to support you if you need ideas on how to handle the situation with integrity.” Explained: It’s important that as parents we set our kids up for success in the world to take care of themselves, solve their own problems and have confidence that they are capable. Supporting instead of rescuing often takes more patience, but it builds kids’ self-esteem and intrinsic motivation in the most beautiful ways! 20. “How are you feeling?” Take a break from: “Chill out; you don’t need to get so upset!” Example: “I can see you’re upset, what are you feeling?” Explained: Helping kids identify their emotions and communicate them effectively is an important element of positive parenting. When children get comfortable actually feeling an emotion and communicating it to others (instead of denying it and trying to MAKE it go away), behaviors have a tendency to be much cleaner and respectful.

lifestyle

The sleep coach’s great hacks for new parents THE SLEEP COACH CHERYL FINGLESON Babies don’t come with a user’s manual but there are some expert tricks of the trade that can help in those early weeks 1. Don’t have such high expectations It’s going to take a while for you and baby to get to know each other. Don’t expect to be the perfect parents from day one - and don’t expect your baby to be perfect either! Remind yourself that you’re doing your best and pat yourself on the back - every single day. 2. Say yes to help One of the biggest shocks to new parents is finding time to do every day chores or activities with a newborn to look after as well. Here’s my best tip: don’t - get someone else to help you. If you have family nearby, or a willing friend to call on, give them a list of chores to do or just ask them to put on some washing for you. Flowers are always lovely but a home cooked meal is the perfect treat for new parents. 3. Get out of the house Even if it’s just for a short walk around the block, strapping your baby into a carrier or putting them in their pram and getting some fresh air will do you the world of good. Walking is also the perfect gentle exercise for new mums. The gentle motion will also soothe an unsettled baby. 4. Find your tribe Being among others going through the same thing can be such a help in early parenthood. Join a mother’s group or get online and get to know other new parents. Some of them may even become your best friends. But even if they don’t, chatting to others who are sleep deprived and perhaps struggling with aspects of early parenthood will help you feel less alone. This is so important as having a newborn can be isolating. 5. Learn your baby’s sleep secrets Now we get to the topic every parent

May 2018 news

wants to discuss with me as a sleep coach! It’s essential to our health but having a baby plays havoc with our ability to have a good night’s sleep. Newborns are programmed to walk up every few hours because they need to feed frequently and although it’s grueling for the parent - normally Mum! - this behaviour is completely normal. But there are some things you can do, even with a newborn, to encourage healthy sleeping: - try soothing techniques other than nursing. - once every 24 hours put your baby down for a nap when they’re drowsy rather than asleep. - feed your baby when he wakes from a nap. - create a sleep friendly environment. Make sure baby’s room is dark, quiet, not too hot or cold. - remember babies sleep between 16 and 18 hours in a 24 hour period, spread over day and night. Most babies will be capable of learning gentle sleep skills or sleep shaping at 4 or 5 months which is when it’s possible to start a bedtime routine. Good luck and remember, you’re doing an amazing job. If you’d like Cheryl to help you with your baby or child’s sleep issues, please visit www.thesleepcoach.com.au or call her on 0411 501 338 Enjoy your baby! Cheryl The Sleep Coach Zzz Cheryl Fingleson is a paediatric sleep consultant. As a mother of two, she very well knows the feelings of agony and desperation when you have a child that struggles to settle and sleep. She doesn’t believe in leaving babies or children to cry it out, nor in the practices of controlled crying. Her approach is to empower parents with the right tools and techniques to teach their babies and children to go to sleep calmly, happily and independently.

SHABBAT TIMES DATE LIGHT END CANDLES Friday, May 4, 2018 5:12pm 6:10pm Friday, May 11, 2018 5:05pm 6:03pm Friday, May 18, 2018 4:59pm 5:58pm Saturday, May 19, 2018 Eve of First Day Shavuot light candles after 5:58pm Sunday, May 29, 2018 Eve of Second Day Shavuot light candles after 5:58pm Holiday ends 5:57pm Friday, May 25, 2018 4:55pm 5:54pm Candle lighting times have been taken from www.chabad.org

T RS ON FI ITI ED FREE

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Join us on a journey style, music back in time when Care’s aged and family care facilities, in-hand tradition with beehives went handin its disability cook with , puffed custom suits clients homes or sleeves isolated share a with matching and members lunch with Jewish Care tie and kippah. of the commun Appleby is celebratin said. ity,” Mr Mitzvahs across generatio g Bar and Bat Hugo Burstin, you to be ns and another Initiative involved. we want Bnei Mitzvah participan This time t, said: importan in our lives “I think t to support share. The is somethin look after local charities it’s memorie g we all my commun s stay with You may that ity. I was visit clients us forever. have read excited who use your parsha Melbourn to Jewish Care before my at the East e Synagog Bar Mitzvah services ue before the New a ‘posh do’ donation to really Empire Ballroom see how s are making at at Carlton my , or had a differenc Sam Lipski, synagogu a service e.’’ e in your CEO, The followed school uniform emphasise by herring Pratt s: “When Foundatio and cheeseca home. n Jewish families children celebrate ke at Jewish Care’s and their a Bar or Bat We recall B’nei Mitzvah a unique Mitzvah, they opportunit connects the nerves Initiative, prepared young Jewish we felt which more meaningfu y to make the celebration have our speeches participan as we and philanthr people to l by giving even t said: ‘Giving , the voice on the bimah, charity tzedakah.” opy. For “We believe cracking 13, the charity is time and the lollies students that young B’nei Mitzvah money to or the women’s importan aged 12pelting down 13 are Jews at t for me I was so gallery on Initiative from opportun ideal candidate age 12 and my is a unique We know ity to demonst excited Shabbat family. first-hand s for learning you are to have morning. their matched about how rate commitm smiling as my donation commun by the So hunt giving can you read ent to ity. Pratt Foundati s difference, an for those this. occasion make a Participa cherished and dust on on the be memorab experience which of my Batmitzv nts nominate off your memorie we hope ah.” le and stay Bill Appleby, albums, s their charity Jewish will to take a because with them We chose Care as of choice Jewish Care walk down it’s time total in later life. Jewish Care matching in lieu of memory CEO said amount Jewish of the for the Bnei gifts. lane. donated the Initiative not only Care is Mitzvah in the student’s The Pratt Foundati gift dollar for dollar will be matched creating because of anecdote a compilati by the tovim (good it does ma’asim on empower name dollar for s and deeds) but give it their on Foundati ed participan dollar by photos celebrate on. best effort. the Pratt ts to regardless of affiliation because it does Jewish Melbourn to share and so “There is All funds in all its or involvem e’s coming The program no program tradition donated ent. of age go and glory. is open through like this as it gives towards wherever Send your to in Australia this initiative youth the Jewish and in whatever all Bnei Mitzvah, , favourite unique opportun Care’s social experien programs memorab , funny families, way they, ce how such as le Bar/Bat ity to choose to justice or most their money and their first hand,”he Mitzvah celebrate counselli housing all those helps people of passage” photo captured this special ng, financial years ago. support, said. . rite services, and employm He explained The project Share your education ent, mental it offered hopes to Bar/Bat insight disability and photo an eye-open raise awarene health promotio Mitzvah into the amazing and health anecdote on Faceboo ss of n, through ageing services. s work of Jewish ing use the k or Instagram Ruby Alford, a structure hashtag Care and d volunteer Bnei Mitzvah #bneimitz targeting these to: vah, or experien specifica mitzvah@ Initiative email ce lly for this jewishca “Participa For more age group. re.org.au nts meet informati on on the residents Initiative, Bnei Mitzvah in Jewish call Emma Boyar on 5933 or visit (03) 8517 www.jew ishcare.o rg.au/mit zvah

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lifestyle/sports

May 2018

Lag BaOmer Lag BaOmer—this year, May 3, 2018—is a festive day on the Jewish calendar, celebrating the anniversary of the passing of the great sage and mystic Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, author of the Zohar. It also commemorates another event. In the weeks between Passover and Shavuot, a plague raged amongst the disciples of the great sage Rabbi Akiva. On Lag BaOmer the dying ceased. Lag B’Omer occurs on the 33rd day of the Omer, the 49-day period between Passover and Shavuot. A break from the semi-mourning of the Omer, key aspects of Lag B’Omer include holding Jewish weddings (it’s the one day during the Omer when Jewish law permits them), lighting bonfires and getting haircuts.

Why Bonfires? It is traditional to light bonfires on Lag BaOmer eve. These commemorate the immense light that Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai introduced into the world via his mystical teachings. This was especially true on the day of his passing, Lag BaOmer, when he revealed to his disciples secrets of the Torah whose profundity and intensity the world had yet to experience. The Zohar relates that the house was filled with fire and intense light, to the point that the assembled could not approach or even look at Rabbi Shimon.

Why Bows and Arrows? Children customarily go out into the fields and play with imitation bows and arrows. This commemorates the midrashic tradition that no rainbow was seen during Rabbi Shimon’s lifetime. Rainbows first appeared after Noah’s flood, when Gd promised to never again devastate the world. When people are deserving of punishment, Gd sends a rainbow instead. Rabbi Shimon’s merit protected the world, rendering the rainbow superfluous. The Hebrew word for rainbow, keshet, also translates as bow. Excerpts taken from www. Chabad.org and www. aish.com

2018 GHF Australian Age Swimming MACCABI Young Maccabi swimmers star at the 2018 Georgina Hope Foundation Australian Age Championships Maccabi Australia was thrilled to have 2 Community Members medalling in the 2018 GHF Australian Age Swimming Championships (21 April – 28 April). Ashley Weill Bronze Medal – 16 yrs 100 Backstroke in 1:03:75 Bronze Medal – 16 yrs 200 Backstroke in 2:17:18 Double delight for Ashleigh who has had an impressive met with 2 bronze medals in her form stroke Backstroke. Swimming a total of 8 events, this has been a breakthrough meet for Ashley who is training with her coach Olympian Ashley Delaney at Northcote Swimming and Lifesaving Club. Dante Negri (note Dante is wearing the glasses in photo) Silver Medal – 18&U 4*100M Medley Relay Dante has won a Silver Medal in the final event of the Championships. Swimming the butterfly leg for the MLC Aquatic Team in a blisteringly fast 55.44. “We are proud at the outstanding performances of Ashley and Dante at the 2018 GHF Australian Age Championships.” Jeff Sher President Maccabi Australia

sports

May 2018

Commonwealth Games Wrap

MACCABI AUSTRALIA Maccabi Australia was proud to have 5 Jewish athletes representing Australia at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. As a group they bagged 2 Gold Medals, 2 Bronze Medals and 3 top 10 performances. Jemima Montag – Athletics Gold Medal – 20KM Walk The first ever from the Jewish community to win a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal. Jemima led for much of the 20KM walk until Aussie team mate Claire Tallent chased her down for the lead with 2KM to go. Jemima was only few metres behind Tallent when she was disqualified. She breezed past her to win the Gold in only her third 20KM event in 1:32:50. It was terrific to watch Jemima win with grace as she embodied sporting spirit when comforting her teammate on her disqualification. Matt Levy – Swimming Gold Medal – 50 free S7 At 31 Matt is a senior statesman on the Australian Dolphins swim team and has represented Australia at World Championships and the Paralympics several times. Matt swam a sizzling 28.68 seconds for his 50 metres freestyle leading from start to finish to win Gold. At the 2017 Maccabiah Games he swum a S7 World record in 200m Freestyle – the first World Record set at a Maccabiah Games and resulted in him being awarded male athlete of the Maccabiah. Alexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva – Rhythmic Gymnastics

Bronze Medal – Team (competing in all four disciplines – hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon) Bronze Medal – Ball 5th – Ribbon 10th – All-Around (competing in all four disciplines) At just 16 Alexandra is the youngest of our athletes who competed at the Gold Coast. This was a breakthrough competition for Alexandra as she announced herself as a formidable competitor on the world arena – her performances were beautiful to watch. Stephen Solomon – Athletics 7th - 400M Relay team representative – 4 by 400M After getting through the qualifying rounds and the semi-finals it was thrilling to see Stephen in the 400m Final. He has been a stalwart on the Australian team since 2012 representing at Olympics and World Championship events. Barack Mizrachi – Table Tennis Barack competed in the TT6 Table Tennis, unfortunately he did not make it through to the Round of 16 but impressed with his grit and determination as a competitor. “Maccabi is thrilled with and so proud of the performances of all the Jewish athletes at the Commonwealth Games. In particular, it has been wonderful to see Jemima and Alexandra emerging as new talent on the world stage. We are honored to have supported all of these Commonwealth Games representatives on their journey to elite athlete through scholarships and awards.” Jeff Sher – President, Maccabi Australia

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