2019 Australia Day Awards

January 26, 2019 by J-Wire Newsdesk
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J-Wire extends congratulations to all members of the Jewish community who have been honoured today by their country…including an award which has coupled a wife to her husband in sharing the country’s highest honour, the AC, and an award whose recipient now resides in Israel.

COMPANION (AC) IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Professor Rhonda Louise GALBALLY AO, Richmond VIC 3121

For eminent service to the advancement of social equity, particularly to the health and welfare of people with a disability, and to the community.

Rhonda Galbally

National Disability Insurance Agency:

Board Member, since 2013.

Principal Member, Independent Advisory Council, since 2013.

Health and Disability:

Chair, National People with Disabilities and Carers Council (nowthe National Disability and Carers Advisory Council), 2008-2013.

Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Our Community, 2000-2009.

Foundation Director, Australian International Health Institute, University of Melbourne, 1999-2001.

Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth), 1988-1998.

Transitional Chief Executive Officer, Australian National Preventative Health Agency, 2011.

Chair, International Evaluation Committee, Thai Health Promotion Foundation, 2011-2012.

Member, Human Rights Consultation Committee (Victoria), 2005-2006.

Patron, Australian Alliance for Inclusive Education, current.

Former Chair, Disability Advisory Council of Victoria.

Community:

Chair, Royal Women’s Hospital, 2004-2013.

Trustee, Reichstein Foundation, 1985-2004.

Board Member, Malthouse Theatre, 1983-1992.

Trustee, National Gallery of Victoria, 1985-1995.

Council, Monash University, 2002-2007.

Council, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, 1992-1997.

Patron, Compassionate Friends Victoria, since 2004.

Patron, WISA Wellbeing in Schools Australia, since 2016.

Chair, Australian Association of Philanthropy (now Philanthropy Australia), 1982-1985.

Awards and recognition includes:

Appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, 1991.

Honouree, Victorian Honour Roll of Women, 2005.

Nominee, Victorian Australia Day Local Hero, 2009.

Recipient, Centenary Medal, 2001.

Rhonda Galbally told J-Wire: “I feel really pleased on behalf of thousands of Australians with a disability, as well as family, friends, and supporters who have been campaigning for disability rights for decades. People whatever their differences ought to have a chance out in the world, to get jobs, to be part of community and recreation. “

Professor Rhonda Louise Galbally had polio from when she was thirteen months old, uses a wheelchair so has an experience and understanding of disability. 
Her parents were very pro integration especially with schooling. In those days people would have been segregated with very negative effects.
Her book, Just Passions, is her journey through the past five decades to track the sources of her passion for social justice, and her belief in community and group action that continue to fuel her working life.

Pauline GANDEL, Toorak VIC 3142

For eminent service to the community through humanitarian, philanthropic and fundraising endeavours, to social inclusion, and to Australia-Japan relations.

Pauline Gandel

Co-Founder, Gandel Philanthropy, since 1978.

Founder, The Pauline Gandel Gallery of Japanese Art, National Gallery of Victoria, since 2012.

President Emeritus, Urasenke Tea Society in Victoria, since 2003.

Founder, The Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery, Museum of Victoria, since 2016.

Contributor, The Torch, 2015-2018.

Contributor, Shout Out, Centre for Multicultural Youth, since 2015.

Co-Founder, Gandel Philanthropy Balance Disorder Diagnostics Unit, The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, since 2014.

Contributor, Victorian Cooperative on Children’s Services for Ethnic Groups, since 2014.

Contributor, Anne Frank Travelling Exhibition, 2012-2018.

Contributor, Hands on Learning Organisation, 2012-2014.

Contributor, Gabina, since 2012.

Contributor and Patron, Emmy Monash Aged Care, since 2008.

Co-Founder, Gandel Holocaust Studies Program for Australian Educators, since 2008.

Manager, Top-Opp Shop, 1990-2000.

Contributor, The Royal Women’s Hospital, since 1990’s.

Founding Contributor, Koorie Heritage Trust, since 1985.

Contributor, Jewish Museum Australia, since 1982.

Contributor, Monash University, since 1980’s.

Contributor, Cabrini Health, current.

Contributor, Mount Scopus Memorial College, current.

Patron, Centenary Appeal, Vision Australia.

Patron, Cabrini Health, Capital Appeal.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, Premier’s Award for Community Harmony, 2016.

Recipient, Great Australian Philanthropy Award, Research Australia, 2015.

Recipient, Honorary Doctorate, Monash University, 2014.

Recipient, The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, Government of Japan, 2014.

Recipient, Commendation from the Foreign Minister of Japan, 2013.

Recipient, Visionary Benefactors, National Gallery of Australia, 2010.

Recipient, Patron, Emmy Monash Aged Care, 2008.

Recipient, Life Governor, Vision Australia, 2002.

Pauline Gandel told J-Wire: “I am greatly honoured to receive this award. Giving back to the community is at the heart of our family, and my husband and I, and our children and grandchildren don’t do it for the accolades. We know that we have been very fortunate in life and we feel a strong obligation to give back, to contribute, and to help others less fortunate to build fulfilling lives.

Being the recipient of the Companion of the Order of Australia is a real privilege, and a responsibility to continue with my philanthropic work, hoping to inspire others to be generous and improve our society.

Most of all, I want this award to inspire my own family, my children and grandchildren, to continue following in the footsteps of my husband John and me. As much as I am dedicated to my community work, I am also dedicated to my family and being there for them – always.

This recognition is very much a recognition of all the causes and organisations that I have been supporting, from arts and culture to medical research, from Indigenous programs and education to help build social cohesion and inclusion, funding and supporting both the Jewish and general community.

I devoted much of my life to community work and humanitarian activities, and I hope to continue doing that for many years to come.”


OFFICER (AO) IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Ronni KAHN, Bondi NSW 2026

For distinguished service to social welfare, particularly through the development and delivery of innovative programs.

Ronni Kahn Photo: Sue Stubbs

OzHarvest:

OzHarvest Regional Chapters:

Founder and Chief Executive Officer, since 2004.

Founder, OzHarvest Market.

Founder, Nourish Program (youth at risk hospitality training).

Founder, NEST – Nutrition Education Sustainability Training.

Founder, FEAST – Food Education and Sustainability Training (national curriculum accredited schools program).

Founder, Fight Food Waste, (consumer focussed food waste prevention education program).

Founder, CEO Cookoff.

Coordinator, and establishment of UKHarvest, KiwiHarvest and SAHarvest (South Africa Harvest).

Developer of food rescue and redistribution model shared and activated globally in Thailand, United States of America, Vietnam, Egypt and Italy.

The United Nations Environment Programme:

Australian Partner, Think.Eat.Save, since 2014.

Coordinator, Think.Eat.Save events, United Nations Climate Change Conference, Peru (2014), Bankgkok (2015) and South Africa (2016).

Other:

Member, International Special Events Society, 2000-2011.

Managing Director, RKEDevents, 1990-2009.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, Honorary Doctorate, Griffith University, 2017.

Recipient, Social Entrepreneur of the Year, Global Impact, Ernst and Young, 2012.

Recipient, Veuve Cliquot Initiative for Economic Development Award, 2011.

Recipient, Australia’s Local Hero, Australian of the Year, 2010.

Recipient, New South Wales Local Hero, 2010.

Of the many efforts she has made on behalf of others, the Nourish Program is the initiative of which she is most proud Roni Kahn told J-Wire.

“The hospitality training program we do with vulnerable, at-risk youth opens up their world. We open a door for these young people and change their lives for the better. We have worked with about 200 kids and the positive feedback we get from them at the end of a program is what drives me” she said.

“I am extraordinarily proud to be recognized by my country and blessed by this huge honour and to work with a wonderful team at OzHarvest.


Elena KATS-CHERNIN, Coogee NSW 2034

For distinguished service to the performing arts, particularly to music, as an orchestral, operatic and chamber music composer.

Elena Kats-Chernin

Ms Kats-Chernin is an Orchestral, Operatic and Chamber Music Composer.

Commissioned by:

Australian Chamber Orchestra.

Australian World Orchestra.

Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.

Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.

Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

Australian Brandenburg Orchestra.

City of London Sinfonia.

Swedish Chamber Orchestra.

North Carolina Symphony.

National Museum of Australia.

Productions include:

‘Deep Sea Dreaming’, Opening Ceremony, Sydney Olympic Games, 2000.

‘Water’, Opening Ceremony, Sydney Rugby World Cup, 2003.

Composer-in-residence, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, 2017.

Composer-in-residence, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, 2011.

Writer of operas including:

‘Iphis’, 1997.

‘Matricide, the musical’, 1998.

‘Mr Barbeque’, 2002.

‘Rage of Life’, 2010.

‘George’, 2014.

‘The Divorce’, 2015.

Awards and recognition include:

Joint Recipient, Sidney Myer Performing Arts Award, 2014.

Recipient, Award for Best Original Score, Helpmann Awards, 2004.

“It is a huge honour and totally unexpected. I was flabbergasted when I learned I had been put forward. I am just doing what I love” Elena Kats-Chernin told J-Wire.

“As a musician, I am always particularly pleased when someone in the Arts – such as music and dance – has been included, I just never imagined it would ever be me. It’s nice to know that what I do matters” she said.

She considers herself privileged to have made a career in music as she was initially discouraged from doing this when setting out. The Award has energized her and validates her as an artist.

At present, she is far too busy writing an opera to take time off to celebrate.


Professor Sharon Ruth LEWIN, Armadale VIC 3143

For distinguished service to medical research, and to education, in the field of infectious diseases, particularly HIV/AIDS.

Sharon Lewin

University of Melbourne:

Inaugural Director, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, since 2014.

Professor of Medicine, University of Melbourne, since 2014.

Honorary Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, since 2003.

Senior Research Fellow, 2001-2003.

The Ian Potter Foundation Fellow in Infectious Diseases, 1999-2001.

Royal Melbourne Hospital:

Inaugural Director, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, since 2014.

Consultant Physician, Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, 1999-2003.

Consultant Physician, Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine, 1995-1997.

Alfred Hospital:

Consultant Physician, Department of Infectious Diseases, since 2014.

Professor/Director, Department of Infectious Diseases 2003-2014.

Monash University:

Honorary Professor of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, since 2014.

Professor/Director, Department of Infectious Diseases 2003-2014.

Burnet Institute:

Board Member, since 2014.

Co-Head, Centre for Biomedical Research, 2010-2014.

Co-head. Centre for Virology, 2007-2010.

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC):

NHMRC Practitioner Fellow, since 2007.

NHMRC Chief Investigator Program Grant, since 2014.

NHMRC Chief Investigator, Australian Partnership for Preparedness Research on Infectious Disease Emergencies (APPRISE) Centre of Research Excellence, since 2016.

NHMRC Chief Investigator, for more than20 NHMRC funded grants including project and development grants, since 2000.

Chair, NHMRC Health Translation Advisory Committee, since 2015.

Member, NHMRC council, since 2015.

Member, NHMRC Track Record Assessment Working Group, 2017-2018.

Chair, NHMRC Practitioner Fellowships Peer Review Panel, 2013.

Member, NHMRC Early Career Fellowships Panel, 2011.

Chair, NHMRC People Support Grant Review Panel, 2009.

Agence Nationale Recherche du SIDA (ANRS):

Member, Scientific Advisory Board, since 2018.

Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS):

Chair, Fast Track Cities UNAIDS Initiative for Melbourne, since 2015.

Member, Advisory Board to the Executive Director, since 2015.

Australian Representative, UN High-Level Meeting on the end of AIDS, New York, 2016.

Member, Lancet Commission on HIV, 2015.

World Health Organisation:

Member, Strategic and Technical Advisory Committee on HIV, since 2015.

Department of Health, Commonwealth of Australia:

Chair, Ministerial Advisory Committee on Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections, since 2015.

Member, Ministerial Advisory Committee on AIDS, Sexual Health and Hepatitis, 2003-2008.

Department of Health, Government of Victoria:

Member, Science, Medical Research and Technology (SMaRT) Panel, since 2016.

Co-chair, Global Challenges Working Group in Infectious Diseases, since 2018.

Member, Departmental Advisory Committee on Blood Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections, 2009-2014.

Professional affiliations:

Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences:

Foundation Council Member, 2014-2016

Member, since 2014.

International AIDS Society (IAS):

Member, Governing Council (Asia and Pacific Region), since 2016.

Co-chair, IAS Towards an HIV Cure Advisory Board, since 2017.

Co-chair, IAS Towards an HIV Cure Symposia, since 2013.

Local Co-chair, 20th International AIDS Conference, AIDS2014, 2014.

Deputy Chair, IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention, Sydney, 2007.

Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases.

Member, since 1997.

Australasian Society for HIV Medicine (ASHM):

Member, ASHM, since 1999.

Co-chair, ASHM International Advisory Board, 2013-2015

President, ASHM, 2005-2007.

Vice-President, ASHM, 2002-2005.

Secretary, ASHM, 1999-2001.

Member, since 1999.

Australian Centre for HIV and Hepatitis:

Chair, Quality Assurance Program, 2003-2014.

Deputy Chair, Immunovirology Research Network, 2003-2014.

Member, since 2002.

Royal Australian College of Physicians:

Member, Scientific Advisory Committee, 2010.

Examiner, 2003.

Fellow, since 2002.

Editorial Boards:

Member, International Advisory Panel, Lancet HIV, since 2015.

Editor, AIDS, since 2015.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, In Style Magazine and Audi Women of Style Award in Science, 2016.

Recipient, Peter Mills Medal, Research Australia, 2015.

Recipient, Tikun Olam Award, Hadassah Australia, 2014.

Recipient, Melburnian of the Year, City of Melbourne, 2014.

Recipient, Felicitation Award, Mumbai HIV Congress, 2012.

Recipient, Research Excellence Award, Victorian AIDS Council, 2011.

Recipient, Frank Fenner Award, Burnet Institute, 2011

Sharon Lewin told J-Wire: “It is incredibly exciting and a great honour. It has been an exciting journey.”

Sharon has spent most of her career working between medicine and science as well as research largely in HIV.

A great example of when science, medicine, and innovation come together was during the AIDS conference in Melbourne in 2014, Professor Sharon Ruth led and chaired the conference and it was an incredible opportunity for community, leadership, and science.

Her current role is the Director of The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity. Peter Doherty received The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1996   “for their discoveries concerning the specificity of the cell-mediated immune defence.”

Professor Sharon Ruth’s current role involves discovery, clinical services, and health services in AIDS, influenza, and other infectious diseases.

“There is a lot more to be done.”


Emeritus Professor Harold LUNTZ, Carlton North VIC 3054

For distinguished service to legal education, as an academic and editor, to professional development, and to the community.

Harold Luntz

Service includes:

Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne:

Emeritus Professor, since 2008.

George Paton Chair of Law, 1976-2002.

Professorial Fellow, 2003-2007.

Lecturer, Postgraduate Program, 2002-2008.

Dean, Faculty of Law, 1986-1988.

Professor, 1976-1986.

Reader in Law, 1971-1976.

Senior Lecturer, 1965-1970.

Torts Law Journal:

Member, Editorial Board, current.

General Editor, 1993-2012.

Other positions:

Deputy Chair, Seafarers Rehabilitation and Compensation Authority, 1993-1998.

Part-Time Senior Member, Workcare Appeals Board Victoria, 1990-1992.

Secretary, Victorian Chief Justice’s Law Reform Committee, 1967-1984.

Visiting Professor, University of California, Berkeley, 1971.

Visiting Associate Professor, Queens University, Ontario Canada, 1970.

Former Doctoral Examiner, University of Cambridge.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, John G Fleming Memorial Award for Torts Scholarship, 2000.

Recipient, AILA Insurance Law Prize, 2003.

Recipient, Doctor of Laws, University of Melbourne, 1983.

Harold Luntz said: “I feel very honoured. I’m glad that people feel I have made a contribution. I have enjoyed teaching at the university and am glad to receive the recognition for what I have done. I chose to help as much as I could with other academics starting their careers. Through my own apprenticeship in South Africa, I have been able to pass some of that on and this is what I am proud of.”

Harold is still writing new editions of books he has published, one for students and one for practitioners because of all the changes.

“It has kept my mind active.”

Harold Luntz was an Emeritus Professor in The University of Melbourne, Law School. Until his retirement at the end of 2002, he held the George Paton Chair of Law. Thereafter, he continued until 2008 to teach in the postgraduate program.

In 2000 he was the inaugural recipient of the John G Fleming Memorial Award for Torts Scholarship and in 2003 was awarded the AILA Insurance Law Prize.

He also served from 1990 to 1992 as a part-time senior member of the Workcare Appeals Board in Victoria and from 1993 to 1998 as Deputy Chair of the Seafarers Rehabilitation and Compensation Authority.

From 1986 to 1988 he was Dean of the Faculty of Law.

From 1967 to 1984, Harold was the secretary of the Victorian Chief Justice’s Law Reform Committee. From time to time, he acted as a consultant to other law reform agencies and government bodies.

He was educated in South Africa and at Oxford University, before migrating to Australia in 1965.


Jillian SEGAL AM, Darling Point NSW 2027

For distinguished service to the banking and financial regulation sectors, to not-for-profit organisations, and to women.

Jillian Segal

Business and Finance:

Board Member, Rabobank Australia and New Zealand, since 2018,

Director, Grattan Institute, since 2017.

Chair, Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority, since 2017.

Co-Chair, Australian Chapter, Women Corporate Directors, current.

Director, National Australia Bank, 2004-2016.

Member, Federal Remuneration Tribunal, 2010-2014.

President, Administrative Review Council, 2005-2009.

Australian Stock Exchange:

Director, 2003-2015.

Former Chair, Remuneration Committee.

Australia Israel Chamber of Commerce, New South Wales:

Chair, since 2015.

Director, since 2013.

Health and Education:

General Sir John Monash Foundation:

Chair, since 2010.

Director, since 2008.

Benefactor, perpetual Roth-Segal Harvard Scholarship.

University of New South Wales (UNSW):

Deputy Chancellor, since 2010.

Council Member, since 2008.

Member, Audit and Risk Committee, and the Financial and Remuneration Committee, current.

Board Member, UNSW Foundation, current.

Garvan Institute of Medical Research:

Director, since 2009.

Deputy Chair, current.

Member, Finance, Risk, Audit and Nominations Committees, current.

Australian War Memorial:

Council Member, 2014-2017.

Chair, Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, 2015-2017.

The Arts:

Trustee, Sydney Opera House Trust, since 2014.

Member, Major Performing Arts Board, Australia Council, 2002-2008.

Deputy President, Executive Council of Australian Jewry, current.

Awards and recognition include:

Appointed a Member of the Order of Australia, 2005.

Named 100 Women of Influence, Australian Financial Review, 2012.

Jillian Segal told J-Wire: “I’ve been very fortunate to have had lots of opportunities to participate in community…both Jewish and non-Jewish community and I have found it so rewarding. I have enjoyed them all. From education, my involvement in the University of NSW, The Sir John Monash Foundation which has enriched the lives of young people develop as leaders to the Arts through the Sydney Opera House, to medical research through the Garvan Institute and it has been exciting it establish a venture with the Weizman Institute in forming the Weizman Centre here in NSW which came about through a mission to Israel organised by the Australia Israel Chamber Commerce which I chair.

Earlier in my career, I was involved in JCA but in the kast dozen years, I have been closely involved with The Executive Council of Australian Jewry. This is very important because we continue to see a rise of antisemitism and I see the work done by the ECAJ is essential for the long-term survival and the security of the community.”

Gillian Segal has received the OA following her already being honoured with an AM.

She said: “I received AM many years ago for community involvement and for my work at ASIC. This award recognises other community activities.  You don’t do these things for the recognition but is humbling to being singled out this way.”


 

MEMBER (AM)  IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Joseph AARONS OAM, Toorak VIC 3142

For significant service to lawn bowls, particularly at the national and international level.

Joe Aarons

World Bowls:

President, 2012-2014.

China Bowls:

Advising Consultant to Government appointees for the promotion of the sport of bowls throughout the provinces starting in Xinxiang Henan, since 2018.

Bowls Australia:

President, 2010-2012.

Board Member, 2009-2011.

Certified Coach and Umpire, since 2009.

Bowls Victoria (formerly the Royal Victorian Bowls Association):

Group Chairman, 2006-2011.

Councillor, 2004-2008.

Member, Coaching Committee, 2007-2010.

 

Elected Chairman, MCC Kew Sports Club, 2017.

Chairman, Caulfield Park Sports Club, 2007-2008.

Maccabi Ajax Lawn Bowls Club:

Past President, Vice-President and Secretary.

Committee Member, 25 years.

Life Member, since 1996.

Awards and recognition includes:

Awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia, 2006.

Inductee, Maccabi Victoria Hall of Fame, 2016 and 2011.

Life Member, Lawn Bowls Association of Israel, 2013.

Recipient, Great Honour Citizen Award, Municipality of Raanana (Israel), 2013.

Recipient, Volunteer Award, Glen Eira Council, 2010.

Recipient, Community Recognition Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2007.

 

Joe Aarons said: “I love the sport. I love Maccabi in general. I work with Maccabi in Victoria with juniors in sports and for juniors who play sports. When I was five years old, I played sports with my best friend and he took up lawn bowls in Mt. Scopus. So I took up lawn bowls as well and went straight into administration.” The club had him involved straight away.

“I am blessed that I was able to do what I have done. I have innovated in my time here and have made friends all over the world. The biggest thing in my life was been awarded with an OAM in 2006 for Maccabi because I was able to set up the tennis club, and formed the foundation to get grounds for tennis and cricket. I initiated All Abilities with Jewish Care Victoria to come and play sport at my club.”


Dr Nathan Isaac CHERNY, Maccabim ISRAEL

For significant service to medicine, and to education, in the fields of palliative care and medical oncology.

Nathan Cherny

Shaare Zedek Medical Centre, Israel:

Norman Levan Chair of Humanistic Medicine, since 2007.

Co-Founder, Integrated Oncology and Palliative Medicine Department, 1994.

Medical Oncologist, since 1994.

Director, Cancer Pain and Palliative Medicine Service, since 1994.

European Society for Medical Oncology:

Member, Designated Centre Working Group, current.

Chief Scientist, Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale Task Force, since 2015.

Coordinator, global opioid pain initiative studies on the availability and accessibility of opioids in the management of cancer pain, 2009-2014

Coordinator, international consortium studies on the availability and accessibility of anti-cancer medications, 2014-2016.

Founder and Chair, Palliative Care Working Group, 1999 and 2008-2013.

Member, since 1998.

European Association of Palliative Care:

Member, Research Steering Committee 1997-2005.

Member, since 1994.

Academic:

Associate Professor of Medicine, Ben Gurion University, since 2008.

Visiting Professor in Palliative Care, Hong Kong Society of Palliative Medicine, 2002.

Visiting Professor in Palliative Care, Singapore Palliative Care Society, 2001.

Established palliative care teaching program, Monash University, Victoria, early 1990s.

Research

Head, ‘Global Opioid Pain Initiatives Studies’ published in Annals of Oncology, 2010 and 2013.

Senior Editor, ‘Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine’, current.

Author of a booklet ‘A guide for patients with advanced cancer’, 2011.

Extensive peer reviewed publications relating to palliative care, cancer pain, communication, cancer management and global access to palliative and cancer care,

Professional affiliations

Member, European Society for Medical Oncology, since 1998.

Member, Israel Medical Association, current.

Fellow, Royal College of Physicians (London), 2004.

Member, Israel Palliative Medicine Association, since 1998.

Member, International Association for the Study of Pain, since 1995.

Member, International Association of Hospice Physicians, since 1995.

Fellow, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, since 1990.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Honorary Doctorate of Laws (Honoris Causa), Monash University, 2017.

Recipient, Danielle Foundation Award, 2017 (for outstanding humanism in care).

Recipient, Medical Book Awards, British Medical Association, 2016.

Recipient, Policy Development Award, European Association for Palliative Care, 2016.

Recipient, European Society for Medical Oncology Award, 2015 (for contribution to the development of oncology in Europe).

Nathan Cherny told J-Wire: “As a dual citizen expat, who is both a proud Australian and Israeli citizen, it is deeply touching to have my professional life in palliative medicine and cancer care recognized in this way in my native Australia.  That, after an absence of 29 years, I am still considered part of the Australian  community is very touching to me.  I count my blessing, for having had phenomenal parents (Jack and Betty Cherny)  and a loving extended family; extraordinary educational opportunities in Australia;  exposure to Jewish and Australian values of community, humanism and tikun olam and inspirational professional mentors who set me on this professional trajectory.

I am hoping to return to Melbourne to share the ceremony and to celebrate with my father, brother extended family and friends.

It has been a privilege to have been a doctor/carer with the opportunely to work intimately with people in the most challenging of circumstances to try to make their lives better, and also to have had the opening to become a researcher and teacher/writer contributing to the global effort to continually improve medical care and to promote caring human values and  the relief of  unnecessary suffering.”


Lynette CHESTER, Mount Lawley WA 6050

For significant service to community health, particularly to people living with dementia and their families.

Lynette Chester

Alzheimer’s Australia (now Dementia Australia):

Treasurer, 1993-1994.

Vice-President/Acting President, 1991-1993.

Honorary Secretary, 1990-1991.

Committee Member, 1989-1994.

Convenor, First National Alzheimer’s Conference, 1990.

Founding Board Member, Alzheimer’s Australia Research Limited (now Dementia Australia Research Foundation), 1998-2000.

Alzheimer’s Association of Western Australia:

President, 1989-1992

Secretary, 1996-1998.

Vice-President, 1993 and 1987-1989

Treasurer, 1994.

Committee Member, 1984-1997.

Honorary Life Member, since 2007.

Founding Member, 1982.

“I’m very proud because I initially became involved when my mum was diagnosed at 50. A group of us got together and helped form the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Association. This is all in honour of my mother, the Mary Chester Center was set up to offer respite and resources for families. Everything was for nothing as they were all volunteers”, Lynette Chester told J-Wire.

The Mary Chester House became WA’s central hub for dementia specialist information, counselling, carers support, training, and respite services. Lynette has been involved with the Jewish genealogical and historical society and advocating for, providing respite, training, and supporting people and families with Dementia and Alzheimer’s has been her life’s work


Dr Milton Laurence COHEN, Mosman NSW 2088

Milton Cohen

For significant service to medical education in the field of pain management.

Faculty of Pain Medicine – Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists:

Board Member, 1998-2009.

Dean, 2004-2006

Vice-Dean, 2002-2004.

Director, Professional Affairs, since 2010.

Representative, Pain Australia Board, 2011-2015.

Chairman, Education Committee, 1999-2004.

Member, Examination Committee, 2000-2009.

Examiner, 2000-2015.

Supervisor, Training, since 2006.

Maintenance of Professional Standards Officer, 2006-2008.

Other:

Senior Editor,‘International Journal of Pain Medicine’, since 2009.

External Project Collaborator, POINT (Pain and Opioids in Treatment) Study, NDARC, University of New South Wales, since 2012.

Secretary, Australian Pain Society, 1997-1999.

Medical Education:

St Vincent’s Clinical School – University of New South Wales:

Conjoint Professor, since 2013.

Conjoint Associate Professor, 1999-2013.


Peter Louis COHEN OAM, Caulfield South VIC 3162

For significant service to hockey, and to the Jewish community of St Kilda. 

Peter Cohen

International Hockey Federation:

Honorary Secretary General, 2001-2011.

Past Vice-President.

Past Honorary Legal Advisor.

Member of Honour, since 2012.

St Kilda Hebrew Congregation:

Member, Board of Management, 1976-2015.

President, 2011-2012, and 1986-1988.

Honorary Solicitor, 1976-2012.

Cranbourne Country Club and Cranbourne Golf Club:

President, Cranbourne Country Club, 1998-2013.

Honorary Solicitor, 1976-2013.

Maccabi Victoria Hall of Fame:

Member, since 2000.

Awards and recognition includes:

Awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia, 1998.

“I feel this is for a wider group of people – my family and colleagues are a big part of it,” he said.

He told J-Wire it is humbling because he did not get involved in hockey or the synagogue to be publicly recognized.

“It is very nice to get another award and I appreciate it,” said Peter Cohen.


Jonathan Eric FAINE, Southbank VIC 3006

Jon Faine

For significant service to the broadcast media as a radio presenter, to the law, and to the community.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC):

ABC774 Radio, Melbourne:

Host, Morning Show, since 1997.

Host, The Conversation Hour, since 1997.

Former Host and Producer, The Law Report, ABC Radio National.

Employee, radio and television host, since 1989.

Law :

Past Member, Social Security Appeals Tribunal, 1980s.

Principal Lawyer, Fitzroy Legal Service, 1984-1986 and Former Volunteer.

Volunteer, Tenants Union Legal Service, 1979-1984.

Past Member, Victoria Law Foundation.

Trustee and Foundation Member, Tim McCoy Trust, since 1988.

Co-Author of a range of publications including:

From Here to There’, Harper Collins, 2010.

‘Lawyers in the Alice’, 1991.

‘Taken on Oath, 1990.

Editor, ‘Law Handbook’, 1987.

Awards and recognition includes:

Distinguished Fellowship Recipient, Monash University, 2013.

Recipient, ABC Local Radio Broadcaster of the Year, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 2003.


Robert Barry GAVSHON, NSW

For significant service to education, to business, and to the Jewish community of New South Wales.

Robert Gavshon

Moriah College:

Foundation Board Member, since 2013.

President, 1998 – 2005.

Immediate Past President, 2005-2008.

Trustee, Building Fund, since 2005.

Vice President, 1996 – 1998.

Honorary Secretary, 1995 – 1996.

Board Member, 1994 – 1995.

Jewish Community of Australia (JCA):

Member, Board of Governors, 1998 – 2006.

Member, Honorary Treasurer, 1994 – 1998.

Other Jewish Community service includes:

Founder, Jewish Learning Centre (JLC).

Chair, Kashrut Commission of Enquiry in New South Wales.

Business:

Rebel Sport:

Co-Founder and Director, 1985 – 1997.

Barbeques Galore:

Directory and Executive Deputy Chairman, 1986-2005.

Other service includes:

Director, Quartet Ventures, since 2016.

Chairman, SOLA Sport, 2010 – 2015.

Chairman, Mothercare Australia, 2010 – 2013.

Chairman, Think Education, 2007 – 2013.

Chairman, Open Colleges, 2011-2015.

Director, The Optical Company, since 2006.

Chairman, hiPages, 2007 – 2014.

Chairman, Oporto Holdings, 2002 – 2007.

Board Member, Kehillat Masada, 1987 – 1990.

Treasurer and Board Member, Masada College, 1985 – 1992.

Director, Norgen Vaaz, 1983 – 1987.

Awards and recognition include:

Life Patron, Moriah College, 2014.

Robert Gavshon told J-Wire:  I grew up in a home committed to community and professional service, and the principle of putting more into life than taking out of it was imbued in our family.

My wife, Jennifer, and I chose to emigrate to Australia 40 years ago, to raise our children in a country embodying cherished values including a fair go for all.  Australia has afforded us so many opportunities, and for me, it has been a privilege to seize them and be able to give back through pursuing my passion for education,  my involvement in business and commitment to our Jewish community.”


Dennis John GOLDNER, Hampton VIC 3188

For significant service to the community through charitable, health and cultural organisations. 

Dennis Goldner

Board positions:

Chairman, Oxfam Australia, since 2014.

Former Board Member, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne.

Chairman, Regional Arts Australia, 2012-2014.

Member, Library Board of Victoria, since 2010.

 

Deloitte Australia:

Chairman and National Leader, Deloitte Foundation, current.

Dennis Goldner told J-Wire: “I’m a first generation Australian who grew up in a safe place, full of opportunity. I have been blessed with a great life, family and career.  In the last 10 years I’ve been able to do something toward building a better world. No recognition is needed but this one is a joy nonetheless.”


Sally Lisa GOLDNER, Bulleen VIC 3105

For significant service to the LGBTIQ community through advocacy roles, and to the broadcast media.

Sally Goldner

Transgender Victoria:

Treasurer, and Media Spokesperson, current.

Former Executive Director.

Co-Founder, 1999.

Bi-Alliance, Victoria:

Treasurer, since 2010.

Helped to establish organisation, 2010.

Victorian Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby:

Treasurer and Spokesperson, 5 years.

Life Member.

Seahorse Club of Victoria:

Former Member, Working Group.

Helped to establish organisation, 2007.

Life Member.

Co-Founder, Transfamily, (support group for parents and siblings of transgender people).

Involved in the launch and management of the ‘No to Homophobia’Campaign, 2010s.

Member, Victorian Attorney-General’s Ministerial LGBTI Advisory Committee, over last 10 years.

Life Member, Zoe Belle Gender Collective.

Media:

Presenter, ‘Out of the Pan’ 3CR Radio Show, since 2005.

Presenter, Joy 94.9 Radio. 1998-2004.

Presenter, BENT TV, 2000s.

Awards and recognition include:

Inducted, Victorian Women’s Honour Roll, 2016. (first transgender woman to be awarded this honour).

Recipient, ‘LGBTI Person of the Year’ Award, GLOBE (Gay and Lesbian Organisation of Business and Enterprise) community awards, 2015.

Included, ‘Top 100 Creative and Influential People in Melbourne’, ‘The Age’, 2011.

Awarded, ‘Activist of the Year’, ALSO Foundation, 2010.

Sally Goldner told J-Wire: “The award is a sense of affirmation not only for  me, but for bi, trans and families everywhere.”


Noah David GRACE QC, Elsternwick VIC 3185

David Grace

For significant service to criminal law, and to the community through pro-bono contributions to sporting bodies.

Legal:

Director, Sentencing Advisory Council of Victoria, since 2004.

Co-Chair, National Criminal Law Committee, Law Council of Australia, 2003-2018.

Arbitrator, Court of Arbitration for Sport, since 2000.

Co-Editor, ‘Bourke’s Criminal Law Victoria’, since 1996.

Member, Editorial Board, ‘Criminal Law Journal’, since 2005.

Queen’s Counsel, Victoria, since 1994.

Queen’s Counsel, Western Australia, since 1996.

Law Institute of Victoria:

Chair, Criminal Law Section, 1993-2001.

Chair, Criminal Law Specialisation Advisory Committee, 1994-2001.

Member, since 1977.

Australian Olympic Committee:

Honorary Team Advocate, Athens Olympic Games, 2004.

Member, Panel of Advocates, Australian Olympic Team, Sydney Olympic Games, 2000.

Advisor, Sydney Olympic Games, 1997-1998.

Athletics Australia:

President, 2013-2015.

Vice-President, 2011-2013.

Director and Board Member, 2006-2015.

Tribunal President, 2016-2017 and 2002-2006.

Life Member, 2018.

Other sport:

Honorary General Counsel, West Coast Eagles (Australian Football League), since 2004.

Honorary Counsel, Skiing and Snowboarding Australia, 2002-2010.

Maccabi:

Chair, Hall of Fame Selection Committee, Maccabi Victoria, 2016.

Chair, Maccabiah Games Selection Justification Panel, Maccabi Australia, 2012-2013.

Member, Board of Governors, Maccabi Australia, 2007-2008.

Member, Court of Honour, Maccabi World Union, 2002-2006.

President, Maccabi Australia, 1991-1993 and 1984-1985.

Vice-President, Maccabi World Union, 1994-2002 and Vice Chairman, 1991-1993.

Vice-President, Maccabi Australia, 1989-1990 and 1981-1983.

Life Member, 2018.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, Service Award, Law Institute of Victoria, 2004.

Recipient, Pro Bono Award, Victoria Law Foundation, 1996.

“I am proud and honoured to receive this Australia Day honour,” David Grace told J-Wire.

“I certainly never sought or expected to receive it, but I am very grateful,” he said.

He believes that it is important for people to use their skills and abilities to assist others and benefit society and has tried to do this throughout his life.

David Grace says he has had a lifelong devotion to Maccabi, athletics, football and the law and has been instrumental in making changes to laws for the betterment of the community.


Professor Ronald Robert GRUNSTEIN, Double Bay NSW 2028

For significant service to medical education and research in the field of sleep disorders.

Ron Grunstein

Medical:

Head, Sleep and Circadian Research Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, since 2004.

Head, Centre for Research Excellence in Sleep and Circadian Translational Neurobiology, current.

Program Leader, Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Alertness, Safety and Productivity, current.

Professional organisations:

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC):

Senior Principal Research Fellow, current.

Member, various Expert Panels, 2003-2015.

World Sleep Society:

President, 2007-2011.

Australasian Representative, Governing Council, 1990-1992 and 1995-2003.

Education Chair, 1995-2002.

Chairperson, WorldSleep Federation Congresses, Cairns, 2007 and Kyoto, 2011.

Sleep Disorders Australia (SDA):

Honorary Medical Officer, New South Wales, current.

Helped establish the group, 1987.

American Thoracic Society:

Executive Member, Sleep/Respiratory Neurobiology Committee, 2007-2011.

Member, Sleep Disorders and Driving Working Group, 2010-2012.

Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP):

Member, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Curriculum Writing Committee, 2004-2008.

Member, Sleep Medicine Credentialing Working Group, 1998-1999.

Member, New South Wales State Committee 1986-1991.

College Nominee, Appointments Committee, Western and South Western Area Health Service 1989-1996.

Australasian Sleep Association

President, 1994-1997.

Executive Member, (Immediate Past-President), 1997-1998.

Head, Organising Committee, Annual Meetings, 1995-1999.

Founding Member and Chairperson, Research Committee, 1988-1992.

Founding Member, 1988.

Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand

Co-Opted Member, Specialist Advisory Committee (Sleep Medicine Credentialing Working Group) 1998-1999.

Chair, Clinical Respiratory Physiology/Sleep Special Interest Group, 1990-1992.

Member, Clinical Care and Resources Committee, 1991-1992.

Member, Fees Committee, 1988-1991.

Committee and advisory roles:

Advisor on Narcolepsy and Sleep Disorders, Australian Sports Drug Medical Advisory Committee, current.

Advisor, Medical Committee, International Olympic Committee, current.

Consultant, Australian sportsmen and sporting teams on sleep and performance including the Australian Rugby Union team.

Leader, Australasian Sleep Trials Network (ASTN), current.

Member, Panel of Clinical Experts, Prostheses and Devices Committee, Department of Health, 2000s.

Chair, Advisory Group, Insomnia, National Prescribing Service, Department of Health, 2010.

Chair, Fatigue Working Party, Country Roads Summit, New South Wales Roads and Traffic Authority, 2004.

Advisory Board Member, WFSRS Worldwide Project on Sleep and Health, World Health Organisation, 1998-1999.

Member, Working Group, Sleep Study Medicare Benefit, Department of Health, 1988-1996.

Former Western Pacific Representative, ICD-11 Working Party for Sleep Disorders, World Health Organisation.

Has published more than 300 peer reviewed articles and 41 book chapters.

University of Sydney:

Professor of Sleep Medicine, since 2008.

Involved in the establishment of multidisciplinary clinics at the Brain and Mind Centre.

Senior Staff Specialist, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, current.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Research Medal, Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand, 2015.

Recipient, Distinguished Professor Award, Sydney Medical School, 2014.

Recipient, Royal Prince Alfred Foundation Medal, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, 2012.

Recipient, Nathaniel Kleitman Distinguished Service Award, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2011.

Recipient, Distinguished Achievement Award, Australasian Sleep Association, 2010.

Ron Grunstein told J-Wire: “I have never received an AM before and although it’s an individual award I work with a reasonable sized group of people. Nothing like this is achieved without family support as my parents were very keen for me to get educated and help people.”

When Professor Grunstein was a medical student he ended up going to Stanford University and developed a passion and strong interest in his field through the Sleep Laboratory. Sleep disorders and sleep medicine didn’t exist then and he commenced working full time in this area. He is currently Professor of Sleep Medicine and head of the NHMRC Centre for Integrated Research and Understanding of Sleep (CIRUS) and the NHMRC Australasian Sleep Trials Network. He was the President of the World Sleep Federation (2007-11) which represents over 12,000 researchers and sleep clinicians globally and was President of the Australasian Sleep Association 1994-1997. He has also consulted Australian sportsmen and teams on sleep and performance and has diverse interests in clinical research in sleep disorders and sleep health. His research includes diagnosis, effects, and management of sleep apnea, epidemiology of sleep disorders, the impact of sleep loss on human health, interaction of work and sleep, and evaluating and developing new treatment approaches in sleep disorders.


Professor Paul Steven HABER, Coogee NSW 2034

For significant service to medical education and research, particularly in the field of addiction medicine.

Paul Haber

Medical:

Head, Discipline of Addictive Medicine, University of Sydney, since 2008.

Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, since 1998.

Clinical Director, Sydney Local Health District Drug Health Service.

International Society of Addiction Medicine (ISAM):

Former Board Member.

Section Editor, ISAM Textbook.

Member, Curriculum Committee.

Royal Australian College of Physicians, Chapter of Addictive Medicine:

President, 2011-2013.

President Elect, 2009-2011.

Fellow, since 2002.

Other:

Regional Editor, ‘Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research’, current.

Has written over 200 peer-reviewed journal articles.

Practitioner Research Fellow, National Health and Medical Research Council, 2008-2012 and from 2019.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, Senior Research Award, Professional Society on Alcohol and Drugs, 2013.

Recipient, National Drug and Alcohol Award for Research Excellence, 2007.

Paul Haber said: “It’s an exciting community acknowledgement of the field I work in. It’s sometimes unloved. It’s nice to know that the work is appreciated. A key part of the work is to move this field into the mainstream. To be a part of the College of Physicians, to be part of the standard treatment in hospitals and to be part of the training and experience for young doctors…I feel I have achieved these things.”

Paul Haber has received one of eight Commonwealth medical future research fund fellowships. He added: “I will be using it to continue by research into alcohol problems and new treatments for those who have these problems.”


Brian SEIDLER, Wahroonga NSW 2076

For significant service to the building and construction industry through professional organisations.

Brian Seidler

Master Builders Association New South Wales:

Executive Director, since 1999.

Former Deputy Executive Director.

Former Executive Officer, Industrial Relations and Safety.

Former Industrial Officer.

Former Member, Building Awards Conciliation Committee.

Former Member, Construction Industry Training Advisory Board New South Wales.

Industry organisations:

Chair, Mates in Construction, since 2014.

Director, Comet Training, 1997-2017.

Director, Australian Construction Industry Redundancy Trust, since 1996.

Committee Member, New South Wales Building and Construction Industry Long Service Payments Committee, current.

Committee of Management Member, Construction Industry Drug and Alcohol Foundation., 2004-2015.

Adjunct Fellow, The Western Sydney University.

Director, Building Workers Assistance Centre, 1994-2012.

Director, Mend Pty Ltd, 1998-2010.

Member, National Labour Consultative Council, Federal Government Peak Advisory Council, 2006.

Alternate Director, Allied Construction Employees Superannuation Fund, 1998-2005.

Director and Alternative Director, Construction + Building Superannuation Scheme, 1994-1999.

Former Member, Construction Policy Steering Committee.

Former Member, Construction Industry Consultative Committee.

Ministerial Appointment, New South Wales Council for Women’s Economic Opportunity, 2014-2018.

Construction Employees Redundancy Trust (CERT):

Director, 1993-1996.

Alternate Director, 1991-1993.

Awards and recognition includes:

Inductee, Fellow, Australian Institute of Building (FAIB).

Brian Seidler told J-Wire that the recognition was totally unexpected and certainly humbling. “I have just been doing my job,” he said.


Allan Boyd VIDOR, Watsons Bay NSW 2030

For significant service to the Jewish community, and to the hospitality industry.

Allan Vidor

JewishCare:

President, since 2010.

Board Member, since 2006.

Director, 2006-2010.

Toga Group:

Managing Director, since 1995.

Group Operations Manager, 1989-1995.

Other:

Board Member, The Tourism and Transport Forum Australia, since 2007.

Director, Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council, current.

This Award is really an acknowledgement of the incredible management team and Board at JewishCare and testimony to their competence and dedication.

He is proud of the current composition of Board and executive leadership team at JewishCare.

“I have worked across many enterprises and believe that the leadership and management skills of Claire Vernon and her team, together with the exceptional depth and talent of the current board, are as strong as any I have worked with,” Allan Vidor told J-Wire.

He intends having l’chaim with his family over the weekend.


 

MEDAL (OAM) OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA IN THE GENERAL DIVISION

Julian Louis BLACK, Caulfield North VIC 3161

Julian Black

For service to the Jewish community.

United Israel Appeal

  • Federal Treasurer, since 2005.
  • State Treasurer, since 1998.

Bialik College, Melbourne

  • School Governor, 2001-2006.
  • Treasurer, 1987-1994.
  • Member, Audit and Remissions Committees, since 1986.
  • Assistant Treasurer, 1985-1987.

St Kilda Hebrew Congregation

  • Trustee, Library Fund, since 2010.
  • Congregation member, current.

Accounting service

  • Director, Black and Krantz (paid employment), since 1981.
  • Fellow, Tax Institute of Australia, current.

Awards and recognition includes:

  • Recipient, Yakir Award, United Israel Appeal, 2018.
  • Recipient, Askan Award for outstanding voluntary service, United Israel Appeal, 2005.

Julian Black says that he has managed to keep the knowledge under wraps that he is receiving an award.

“It is a recognition for myself and for the organizations for whom I have worked, some for 20 and 30 years. When you work for a communal organization you are not doing it for money” he said.

He is pleased that he has a housewarming party planned to show off his renovated home so will be sharing the occasion with friends and family then.


Madeleine Phoebe BUCHNER, Caulfield South VIC 3162

Madeleine Buchner

For service to youth through a range of organisations.

Founding Chief Executive Officer, Little Dreamers Australia, since 2009.

  • Author, ‘My Brother is Sick Again’, 2016.
  • Supporter, Young Carers Festival.
  • Volunteer, Stand Up, many years.
  • Advocate for young carers.

Awards and recognition includes:

  • Westpac Social Change Fellow, 2018.
  • Recipient, The Queen’s Young Leader Award, 2017.
  • Finalist, Young Australian of the Year, Victoria 2015.
  • Member, Fastrack Innovation Program, RMIT, 2015.
  • Recipient, Jenny Goldberg Community Service Grant, 2013.
  • Recipient, Young Citizen of the Year, Glen Eira Council, 2005.

“I am very excited and very honoured. I am trying to process this and I didn’t expect it but it does shine a light on young carers”. said Madeleine Buchner.

When Madeleine was 9 she started running fundraisers with a group of friends as she was a very young carer. The aim was to raise money for carers, as well as for brothers and sisters of sick kids.

At 15 she wanted to launch her own foundation, so Little Dreamers

launched in 2009. Growing up with and running Little Dreamers, helped her and helped other carers. Working with over 4000 kids a year, it breaks down stigma offers support programs, peer support, mentoring and tutoring, as well as holiday programs, a yearly festival, and the Dreamers Hub.

Madeleine has written a children’s book, My Brother Is Sick Again illustrated by her mother Lisa, based on her childhood experiences.

She also volunteers with her mother for Stand Up, and is an advocate for young carers.

She was a finalist for Young Australian of the Year, Victoria 2015


Eitan DRORI, Glen Huntly VIC 3163

For service to the Jewish community.

Eitan Drori

  • Executive Director, Victorian Chapter,Australian Friends of the Hebrew University, since 2006.
  • Executive Director, Victorian Chapter, United Israel Appeal (UIA), 1998-2003.
  • Director of Development,Australia Israel Cultural Exchange (AICE), 2004-2006.
  • Founder, Association of Israelis in Australia (AIA),2011.
  • Leader of Delegations, Australian Chapter, World Presidents’ Organisation, 1998 and 2005.
  • Leader of Delegations, Young Presidents’ Organisation,2006.
  • Member, Israeli Business Club, Australia, 2014.
  • Former Member, Palestinian Dialogue Group, La Trobe University.
  • Producer, Hebrew radio show for SBS.

Awards and recognition:

  • Recipient, Community Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2010.

Eitan Drori told J-Wire: “This is not just a personal achievement.  It is also a tribute to a wide range of exceptional Australians and Israelis who, through sharing their knowledge and expertise, have forged links of enduring benefit to their countries.

Bringing together those experts in areas including the sciences, arts and information technology, has been an honour and a privilege. My work has been made possible by the tremendous goodwill of the many who have assisted me in Australia and my birthplace, Israel – the two countries I am proud to call home.

Above all, I see my role as part of the bridge between Australia and Israel.  It is a living bridge. Australia has a 12,000-strong Israeli community – 10 per cent of the country’s Jewish population – and its members exemplify both Israel’s dynamism and Australia’s vibrant multiculturalism.”


Esther Leah GANS, Bellevue Hill NSW 2023

Esther Gans

For service to the community.

Community

  • Volunteer, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, since 2001.
  • Volunteer Interviewer, Undergraduate Admissions, Medicine and Education, UNSW Sydney, since 2005.

Employment

  •  Teacher, English (ESL), Institute of Languages, 1986-2006.

Awards and recognition includes:

    • Recipient, 15 Year Service Award, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.

Esther Gans told J-Wire that she was “surprised, honoured and humbled by her award.

“There are lots of people who have done more than I have, but it is nice to be appreciated,” she said.

After retiring from teaching, she was looking for something to do and volunteered at Sydney Children’s Hospital. Helping parents and their children through a difficult time is something she finds most worthwhile and gives her a reason to keep on volunteering.

 


Alexander Phillip GOTTSHALL, Sydney NSW 2000

Alex Gottshall

For service to the media and communications sector, and to the community.

More than 40 years of service and contribution to the media and communications sector, as an adviser to significant Australian companies and institutions, with his professional skills sought at the highest levels of Australian businesses.

More than 40 years of service and contribution to the community as pro bono adviser in media communications, issues and crisis management to charitable, community and not-for-profit organisations, including honorary adviser to The Salvation Army for 35 years, providing communications counsel across humanitarian activities, including Salvos Legal, committed to making a practical contribution to the well-being of others, especially Australia’s most vulnerable, dispossessed and lonely people.

Alex Gottshall told J-Wire: “I am very grateful to receive this honour and fortunate to be involved in such an inspiring and stimulating profession. There are many people I admire who have contributed, for example, the hard-working journalists I’ve been privileged to liaise with, the corporate leaders who have sought ongoing counsel and the unsung charity heroes, especially the Salvos who give such compassionate support to those in need in our Australian community.

My sister, Eva and I are children of Holocaust survivors, Rabbi Dr Benjamin Gottshall and Rebbetzin Jana Gottshall, who came to Australia to start a new life after their entire families perished under the Nazis, yet they always believed the world is a much better place when there is kindness, respect and understanding. They imbued in us ongoing love for this wonderful country, dating back to its First Peoples, and raised us to appreciate the importance of community service.

Through their tireless efforts in the communities they served – Newcastle, Wellington, Brisbane and Maroubra in Sydney – as well as in wider Australia, their ongoing legacy continues to be their good name, the reputation they left for us to carry on. Eva has put this into practice with her quiet achiever leadership of more than 40 years as the honorary treasurer of the Emunah women’s organisation and we are both proud that even today our parents’ good deeds are still lovingly remembered.”


David Greenberg

Professor David Mace GREENBERG, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127

For service to medicine in the field of mental health.

  • Founder and Director, Court and Community Liaison Service, NSW Justice Health and Community Mental Health Network, since 2002.
  • Senior Conjoint Academic, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, current.
  • Member, Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health, National Health and Medical Research Council, current.
  • Director, State Forensic Mental Health Services, Western Australian Department of Health, 1999-2002.

Awards and recognition includes:

  • Recipient, Dean’s Award, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, 2015.

David Greenberg said the award is a great honour. “nevertheless there is much praise deserved by my researchers and clinicians”


Joan Hillman

Joan Barbara HILLMAN, Dianella WA 6059

For service to sports administration.

Maccabi WA

  • President, 2015-2017; 2001-2004.
  • Vice-President, 2013-2015.
  • Secretary, Hall of Fame Awards, 2008-2009.
  • Office Administrator, 1991-1999.
  • Volunteer, Maccabi Junior and Senior Carnivals, and at the Maccabiah Games held in Israel, 1990-2017.
  • Life Member, 2006.
  • Hall of Fame inductee, 2016.

Jewish Community Council of Western Australia

  • President, since 2018.
  • Secretary, 2009-2015.

Joan Hillman told J-Wire: “I have been a volunteer since I was 13.  It all started with the Jewish Lads and Girls Brigade in Glasgow from age 13 to 18 – an organisation which assists in discipline and assisting children which by virtue of its work promotes the personal and social development of young people. Through this organisation I was able to gain the Duke of Edinburgh Award of which I am proud.

I then continued as a prominent member of  JNF/KKL fundraising committee in Glasgow for many years raising thousands of pounds for Israel. I was also an active member of WIZO Aviv in Glasgow and the cookery calendar we started mid-1970’s is still produced annually.

I call myself a professional volunteer – being an integral part of Maccabi WA and Maccabi Australia since 1989 and now involved with JCCWA – a great challenge and every bit as enjoyable.

I’m so proud and so grateful to those people who nominated me and a huge thank you.”


Rabbi Chaim Nota INGRAM, Bondi Junction NSW 2022

Rabbi Chaim Ingram

For service to the Jewish community

 

  • Honorary Secretary, Rabbinical Council of New South Wales, since 1998.
  • Secretary, Organisation of Rabbis of Australasia, 2013-2015.
  • Director, Kol Shira Learning Centre Bondi, 2012-2015.
  • Aide, Sydney Beth Din, current.
  • Honorary Resident Rabbi, Sydney Jewish Centre on Ageing (CoA), since 2004; Volunteer teacher of educational and enrichment classes, since 2000; Nursing Home Visitor, 20 years.
  • Itinerant Rabbi, Surfers Central Synagogue Queensland, 2006-2007.
  • Chazan and Associate Rabbi, Central Synagogue Sydney, 1992-2004.
  • Author, ‘The Cosmic Diamond’ (2015); ‘Fragment of The Hammer’ (2013); ‘Spirals of the Soul’(2018).
  • Rabbi, The Caro Synagogue, 2004-2005.

Rabbi Chaim Ingram has worked as a volunteer for the Sydney Jewish Centre on Ageing  (COA) and honorary secretary of the RCNSW for the past quarter-century.  He said: “I believe the citation says “for service to the Jewish community”. It would appear that in particular I have been recognised for my work as a volunteer for the Sydney Jewish Centre on Ageing  (COA) and honorary secretary of the RCNSW for the past quarter-century.  I am proud of that citation but humbled by the award.  Most of my rabbinic colleagues work tremendously hard for their communities   My honour also reflects honourably on them, particularly those I have worked with at executive level over the many years, as well as of course my selfless co-volunteers at COA.  Most of all the honour belongs to my wife and family without whose support I could have done nothing.

I would also like to pay tribute to Central Synagogue who brought out our family to this wonderful country in 1992.

Much has changed in Australia generally and in the Jewish community in particular in the 26 years, I have lived here.  It is gratifying, however, that a rabbi who stands up publicly for Torah values even at the risk of making himself unpopular in certain quarters can still be honoured for his work for Judaism and the Jewish Community in the Australia of 2019

I hope that I have made a positive difference in peoples’ lives over the years through my teaching, writing and counselling.  I daven to the Alm-ghty that He give me the health and strength to continue to be able to do so surrounded by my wonderful family for many years to come.


Leonard Hyman LEVY, North Caulfield VIC 3161

Len Levy

For service to the pharmacy profession.

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, Victorian Branch

  • Councillor, 1990-1999.
  • Past Chair, Continuing Pharmacy Education Committee.
  • Past Chair, Victorian Pharmacy Self-Care Committee.
  • Past Chair, Legislation, Ethics and Membership Committee.
  • Past Chair, Methadone Committee for Pharmacists.
  • Delegate and speaker at International Conference on the Reduction of Drug-Related Harm, 1992 and 1996.
  • Member, Organising Committee, National Methadone Conference, 1996.
  • Past Chair, Drugs and Harm Minimisation Committee.
  • Past Chair, Drugs and Policy Committee.
  • Member and occasional member of several committees, Victorian Health Department.

Pharmacy Board of Victoria

  • Member, 1993-2005.
  • Past Honorary Treasurer.
  • Past Chair, Consumer Education Committee.
  • Past Chair, Planning, Investigations, Education and Audit Committees.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia (Victorian Branch)

  Past Member, State committee, Victorian Branch, Pharmacy Guild of Australia, 10 years.

  Distinguished Service Award, Victorian Branch, Pharmacy Guild of Australia.

  Honorary Member.

St Kilda Hebrew Congregation

  • President, 1997-1998.
  • Vice-President, 1995, 1996, 2002, 2006 and 2012.
  • Member, Board of Management, 1991-2012.
  • Chair, Ceremonial Committee, 1995.
  • Life Member.
  • Convenor of morning services, past 10 years.

Rotary Club of St Kilda

  • Member, since 1968.
  • President, 1976-1977.
  • Paul Harris Fellow.
  • Past Chair, Australian Rotary Health Fund, District 980.

Jewish Community

  • Guide, Jewish Museum of Australia, current.
  • Member, Courage to Care, current.
  • Past Executive Member, Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria.
  • Past Council Member, Yavneh College.
  • Manager, Australian Hockey Team, Israel Maccabi Games, 1993.
  • Manager, Australian Table Tennis Team, Maccabi Games, 1989.
  • Inductee, Maccabi Victoria Hall of Fame, 2000.
  • Community Service Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria.

Other

  • Councillor, City of St Kilda, 1984-1987.
  • Past President, St Kilda Community Health Care.
  • Past President, St Kilda Chamber of Commerce.
  • President, Victorian Amateur Hockey Association, 1971-1972.
  • Past Panel Member, Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (Pharmacists)
  • Past Assistant District Commissioner, Scouts Association.

Len Levy says pharmacists are a vital link in the chain of good health

He told J-Wire: “This honour recognises the important role of the pharmacist in today’s society.

Medication counselling, drug abuse, overdosing, addicts of all kinds, medication disposal, medication management, are all important issues in the hands of pharmacists today.

Ask your pharmacists  – they are well educated and trained to  know.

I have been privileged to be a leading member of a team which developed and conducted courses for the education of pharmacists who supply Methadone to Heroin addicts.

I thank my wife and family for their love, tolerance and support, without which, nothing could have been achieved.”


Anthony Henry (Tom) MAY, Caulfield VIC 3161

Tom May

For service to the law.

Law Institute of Victoria

  • Director, 2001-2015 and since 2017.
  • Chairman, Corporate Governance Committee, 2014-2016.
  • Council Member, 2001-2005 and since 2017.
  • Member, Taxation and Revenue Committee, since 1987.
  • Member, Journal and Library Committee, 1979-1982.
  • Member, Library Committee of the Supreme Court of Victoria, since 2008.
  • Australian Vice-President, Section on Taxes, International Bar Association, since 2001.
  • Head of Tax, Madgwicks Lawyers, since 2014.
  • Convenor, Managing Partners Group, since 1998.

The Jewish Community

  • Member, Committee of Management, Executive Council of Australian Jewry, 2012-2015.
  • Trustee, Melbourne Chevra Kadisha, since 1985. Chairman since 2003.
  • Board Member and Honorary Solicitor, Melbourne Eruv Pty Ltd, since 1995.
  • Chairman, The Chessed Foundation, since 2016.

Caulfield Beth Hamedrash

  • President, 1997-2003.
  • Vice-President, 1993-1997 and since 2003.

Monash University

  • Council Chairman, 1972-1997.
  • Chairman of Affiliation Committee, 1992-1997.
  • Foundation Chairman, Vice Chancellor’s Alumni Advisory Committee, 1991-1996.
  • Foundation Secretary, Monash University Law Alumni, 1981-1985.
  • Chairman, Monash University Association of Students, 1971-1972. Secretary, 1968-1971.

Hillel Foundation of Victoria

  • President, 1987-1991.
  • Vice-President, 1986-1987.
  • Secretary, 1985-1986.

 

  • Board Member, National Association of Forest Industries, 2006-2011.
  • Member, Melbourne Branch, Committee of Australian Forest Growers, since 2004.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

  •  Volunteer Recognition Award, Glen Eira City Council, 2013.

Tom May says that he is just one of thousands of volunteers who willingly give their time to a wide variety of causes.

“I suppose this belongs to my family as they were the ones that suffered when I was busy at all the meetings I have attended, so this is really for them,” he said.


Cynthia Pollak

Cynthia Lee POLLAK, Caulfield North VIC 3161

For service to community health.

  • Founder and President, Jewish Bereaved Parents, since 2011.
  • Volunteer, Golden Age Club, National Council of Jewish Women of Australia (Vic), current.

Rare Cancers

  • Co-Founder and Vice President, CRAVAT Foundation, since 2008.
  • Founder website, www.cartwheel.org, current.
  • Founder, HEARD Support, 1998-2000.

Awards and recognition includes:

  • Gleneira Volunteers Award, 2015.

My first instinct on hearing of my nomination was that I didn’t deserve it”, Cynthia Pollak told J-Wire.

However, she said that she is flattered to be nominated. When she looks back over the past 20years she knows that she has provided much needed support for a lot of people with the support groups she founded.

When her son Danny was diagnosed with a rare cancer at the age of 19, she was told there was not enough money for research into such rare cancers.  Pollak started a support and 350 people joined, and she went on to createa registry of rare cancers with details of each case. The registry has been widely used.

Danny died in 2008 and a registry since created at Royal Melbourne Hospital is dedicated to him.

In October 2018 she launched her book, ‘After the death of your child – a Jewish mother’s perspective’, which shares her experiences but also gives an overview of Jewish customs concerning the death of a loved one. This book is freely available to any Jewish bereaved parent in Australia. JBPsupport@optusnet.com.au


Colin Saul ROCKMAN, Dianella WA 6059

Colin Rockman

For service to sports administration.

Maccabi WA

  • Inducted into the Maccabi Hall of Fame, 2016.
  • Fundraising Coordinator, Hall of Fame, 2016, 2009.
  • Chairman, Maccabi Trust, 1997-2001.
  • Sponsor, numerous Maccabi events, publications and billboards, 1979-2001.
  • Life member, 1997.
  • President, 1993-1994, 1987-1989.
  • Administrator of the Year, 1984.
  • Maccabi Club Competitor in soccer, basketball and athletics, 1950s-1960s.
  • Member, over 60 years.

Football

  • Chairman, WAFL Council of Presidents, 2007-2008.
  • President, West Perth Football Club, 2003-2008.
  • Life member, West Perth Football Club, 2000.

Community and Charity

  • Founder and Organiser, Living in Retirement, current.
  • Lay Leader, Perth Hebrew Congregation, and Perth Jewish Representative, Council of Christians and Jews of Western Australia, current.
  • Inaugural Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, WA Motor Industry Foundation(renamed Wheels of Hope), 2006-2012.
  • Justice of the Peace, current.
  • Inaugural President, Rotary Club of Balcatta, 1980.
  • Former Fundraising and Social Director, Apex Club of Bondi.
  • Former Public Speaking and Fundraising Director, Apex Club of Scarborough.

Motor Industry

    • General Manager and Dealer Principal, Big Rock Toyota, 1979-2001.
    • Member, Australian Automotive Dealers Association, 1974-2001.

“I feel quite bewildered. I feel that I have been recognised for doing something that I love,” said Colin Rockman.

Mr Rockman started with APEX, a young men’s organisation which worked on confidence, debating and speaking. In 1970 he walked into the APEX club in Bondi, made friends and received invitations to BBQs and dinners. It set up a wonderful rekatinship of people and friendships later on in Sydney for Colin and his wife.

“You can’t get anything without putting it in yourself. Nowadays it’s almost impossible to get volunteers on board.”

All of his community endeavours were inspired by both his father and late father who were both active and showed him leadership.

Colin has been involved with sports and sports administration since 1995 with West Australia Football League Club, where 4 of the Presidents were Jewish and led the club to winning a Premiership, as well as with Macabbi WA.

Colin is currently the Founder and Organiser of Living in Retirement. 40-50 retired Jewish males meet weekly, enjoy Kosher catering, and listen to talks from a variety of people. Colin is also a JP.

“Men when they retire; it takes 3 days from a rooster to a feather-duster. The nachas is being involved in a community.”


Barbara Joan ROZENES, Southbank VIC 3006

Barbara Rozenes

For service to the community.

Court Network

  • Ambassador, current.
  • Past President.
  • Past Vice-President.
  • Former Chair of Marketing, Fundraising and Speakers Group.
  • Volunteer, since 1992.
  • Instrumental in getting Court Network into Queensland in Brisbane, Cairns and Townsville, 2007.

Epilepsy Foundation of Victoria

  • Board Member, since 1998.

Other

  • Director, Victorian Sentencing Advisory Council, 2004-2018.
  • Member, Critical Care Clinical Network, Department of Health and Human Services, since 2015

Consumer representative, Safer Care Victoria , Department of Health and Human Services, 2017.

  • Board Member, Victorian Association of Care and Resettlement of Offenders (VACRO), since 2011.
  • Ambassador for the Australian Prostate Centre Art Auction, to be held in February 2019.

·       Board member, One Umbrella(now Fair Share), approximately 5 years.

Ambassador, Windana Drug and Alcohol Recovery, 2012.

Inaugural Convenor, Royal Melbourne Hospital Neuroscience Foundation; Committee member ICU RMH Project.

“I am proud, delighted and humbled to receive this award,” Barbara Rozenes told J-Wire.

When she first learned she had been nominated, her first thought was for her parents who came from Poland and what it would have meant to them.

“I am most fortunate to live in a country where we can live freely. With all my not-for-profit efforts being outside the Jewish community, I hope I have been an ambassador for Jews” she said.

She says she has been enriched by her experiences in the general community and helping people at a difficult time in their lives.


Brian Russell SAMUEL, Caulfield North VIC 3161

Brian Samuel

Brian Samuel

For service to the Jewish community.

Jewish Community

  • Vice-President, Union for Progressive Judaism, since 2015.
  • President, Progressive Judaism Victoria, 2013-2015; Vice-President, 2011-2013.
  • Executive Member, Zionism Victoria, since 2011.
  • Executive Member,Jewish Community Council of Victoria, since 2011.

Temple Beth Israel (TBI)

  • Chair, Board of Governance, 2003-2018.
  • President, Board of Governance, 2008-2010.
  • Vice-President, Board of Governance, 2005-2008.
  • Member, Board of Governance, 2000-2013.
  • Former Chair, Fundraising, Social Justice and Corporate Governance Committees.

Neighbourhood Watch Victoria

  • President, 2005-2007.
  • State Secretary, 2011-2012.
  • State Treasurer, 2004-2005.
  • Member, State Board of Management, 2003-2014.
  • Member, North West Village Board of Management, 204-2012.
  • Former Area Leader, Glen Iris.

Australian Marketing Institute

  • Victorian President, 2003-2004.
  • National Deputy President, 2000-2002.
  • Fellow and Certified Practising Marketer, 1997.

Other

  • Treasurer, Victorian Division, White Ribbon Australia, since 2015.
  • Chair, Industry Advisory Board, RMIT University Business School, 200-2016.
  • Member, Parliamentary Social Inclusion Leadership Committee, since 2014; Parliamentary Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee, 2011

Deputy Chairman Australian Confederation of Apparel Manufacturers 1987-1988.

Deputy Chairman Apparel Exporters Association 1987-1988.

Education

  • President, Victorian Parent Council, 1997-1999.

·       Deputy President, Australian Parents Council, 1997-2000.

  • Board Member and Secretary, Victorian Parents Council, 1989-1992.
  • Acting President, Wesley College Parents Association, 2000-2001.
  • President, Auburn South Primary School Council,1989-1990; member, 1984-1992.

Brian Samuel told J-Wire: “I’m absolutely delighted. This is a combination over over 50 years of service to various both government and non government organisations.” His involvement began in the Neighbourhood Watch Program and in the past 4 years has been the VP of the Union for Progressive Judaism. “My family has always worked in community service. My father and 3 brothers have always been involved. It was the part and parcel of our education. I was raised in a very fortunate background and it was our obligation to give back to the community.

My involvement with the Jewish community has been my greatest pride and each organisation has been a joy. My catalyst to become involved started with Maccabi because of the friendships and the people I have met who have made all of this possible.”


Raphael Emmanuel SHAMMAY, North Bondi NSW 2026

Raphael Shammay

For service to the community.

Waverley Amateur Radio Society

  • Member, since 1993.
  • Treasurer, since 1993.
  • Wireless Institute of Australia Assessor, since 2006.

 

  • Member, Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network (WICEN), since 1997.
  • Volunteer, Jamboree On The Air – Jamboree on the Internet, Scouts Australia, many years.
  • Volunteer, Shahzada 400km Endurance Ride, since 2006.
  • Volunteer, Hawkesbury Canoe Classic,since 2006.
  • Volunteer, Sir Moses Montefiore Home, since 2008.

Raphael Shammay told J-Wire that Australia is a paradise and enjoys being involved and giving back.

“I am a private person and am humbled by this honour and recognition,” he said.

He enjoys interacting with Montefiore residents by helping them understand different aspects of using computers such as Facebook and Skype.

“When you give something, you get something back,” he said.

As an amateur radio operator, he is part of a network using WICEN to help search and rescue teams find people who are in trouble in places in Australia where there is no internet.


Max SHUB, Balwyn North VIC 3104

Max Shub

For service to the community health.

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

  • Ambassador, since 2005.
  • Member, National Support and Advocacy Committee, 2005-2012.
  • Chair, Victorian and Tasmanian Chapter, 2006-2010.
  • Group Leader, Prostate Heidelberg, since 2005.

Psycho-oncology Co-operative Research Group (PoCoG)

  • Member, Joint Community Advisory Group, since 2010.
  • Member, Scientific Advisory Group, since 2011.

Primary Care Collaborative Cancer Clinical Trials Group

  • Member, Advisory Committee, since 2016.
  • Member, Scientific Advisory Committee, since 2016.

Other

  • Member, Consumer Advisory Panel, Australian and New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate Cancer Trials Group, 2012-2015.
  • Member, Consumer Reference Group, North Eastern Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service, current.
  • Advocate, Cancer Action Victoria, 2010-2014.
  • Member Steering Committee, Prostate Outcomes Registry Victoria, since 2010.

Awards and recognition includes:

  • Recipient, Max Gardner Award for Distinguished Service, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, 2012.

Max Shub said: “I am absolutely flattered. I do a lot of work and I do it because I could make a difference.”

His work is mainly cancer related and he became active in support groups in local and state level. He kept getting asked to be involved in committees and found it gratifying work.

His roles have been on advisory committees and scientific groups particularly with Prostate Cancer. He was also involved with various studies, and research.

I gain more out of it, then I put into it.”

Max Shub was the recipient of the Max Gardner Award for Distinguished Service, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, 2012


Peter Kevin SMALLER, Rose Bay NSW 2029

Peter Smaller

For service to the Jewish community, and to industry.

Jewish National Fund of Australia

  • National President, since 2012.
  • Former New South Wales President.

 

Steel Industry

  • Managing Director, Southern Steel Group, since 1986.
  • Board Member, Australian Institute of Steel Construction, 1997-2002.
  • Board Member, Institute of Steel Service Centres of Australia, 1997-2002.
  • Involved with the establishment of the Anzac Museum in Beersheba.

 

Steel Institute of Australia

  • Board Member, since 2003.
  • Chairman, 1996-1999.
  • Director, 1989-1996.

Peter Smaller told J-Wire: ” This is a wonderful anniversary surprise as it is marks the 30th anniversary of coming to Australia from South Africa. 25 years ago. I have always been a strong Zionist and held a strong commitment to Israel. 25 years ago my friend Ron Ferster got me involved in a water project in the Negev which harnessed the flash floods in the desert utilising reservoirs. I was hooked in to the JNF’s work until this today. My time has been more than satisfying and I have been privileged to be able to enjoy contributing time and funds. I will reture in May but I will continue with being involved in the community.”


If we have made omissions, please email us the details at awards@jwire.com.au

 

Report prepared by Roz Tarszisz, Elana Bowman and Henry Benjamin

 

 

Comments

One Response to “2019 Australia Day Awards”
  1. Adrian Jackson says:

    I think if someone holding an OAM is given an AM then the OAM is no longer referred too. Same for the other honours if the person is upgraded. However I find it odd that someone who has an honour already is upgraded for doing generally the same things.

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