2022 Australia Day Awards

The 2022 awards see work with climate change being acknowledged and a wife and husband team making the list.

 

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

Dr Alan Simon FINKEL AO, South Yarra VIC 3141

For eminent service to science, to national energy innovation and research infrastructure capability, to climate change and COVID-19 response initiatives, and to science and engineering education.

Office of the Chief Scientist, Department of Industry, Innovation and Science

• Chief Scientist of Australia, 2016-2020.
• Executive Officer, National Science and Technology Council, since 2016 (formerly known as the Commonwealth Science Council).
• Chair and Founder, Rapid Research Information Forum, since 2020 (COVID-19 response).

Other Government Appointments

• Special Adviser to the Australian Government for Low Emissions Technology, since 2021.
• Chair, Ministerial Reference Group, Technology Investment Roadmap, since 2020.
• Leader, Australian Government’s Ventilator Taskforce, 2020 (COVID19 response).
• Deputy Chair, Industry Innovation and Science Australia, since 2016.

Other Appointments

• Chair, Selection Committee, Prime Minister’s Prize for Science, since 2013.
• Member, STEM Academy Strategic Advisory Board, University of Sydney, since 2014.
• Member, National Climate Science Advisory Committee, since 2017.
• Member, ARC Engagement and Impact Steering Committee, 2016-2017.
• Plenary Speaker, 6th World Congress on Research Integrity, Hong Kong, 2019.
• President, Australian Council of Learned Academies, 2015.

Reviews

• Chair, Expert Advisory Panel, Climate and Disaster Resilience Report, since 2020.
• Chair, National Hydrogen Strategy Review, 2018-2019.
• Co-Chair, The Innovation Metrics Review, 2019.
• Chair, STEM Partnerships Forum Report Response, 2018.
• Chair, Independent Review into the Future Security of the National Electricity Market (Finkel Review), 2017.
• Chair, National Research Infrastructure Roadmap, 2016.
• Co-Chair, Research and Development Tax Incentive Review, 2016.
• Member, Climate Change Authority Review, 2016.

Philanthropy

• Chairman, Trustees of the Finkel Foundation, since 2002.
• Benefactor, Australian Academy of Science, current.

Business

• Chair, Stile Education, since 2021 and Founder and Chief Executive Officer, 2012-2015.
• Executive Chairman, Manhattan Investment Group, since 2004.

Professional Affiliations

• Patron, Banksia Foundation, since 2021.
• Patron, In2Science, since 2011.
• Patron, Australian Course in Advanced Neuroscience, since 2012.
• Patron, Australian Science Media Centre, since 2012.
• Member, Australian Neuroscience Society, current.
• Member, American Society for Neuroscience, current.
• Honorary Fellow, Engineers Australia, 2016.
• Fellow, Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, since 2015.
• Fellow, Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), USA, current.
• Fellow, National Academy of Inventors, USA, current.
• Fellow, Australian Academy of Science, current.
• Fellow, Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering, current.
• Fellow, ASEAN Academy of Engineering and Technology, current.
• Bragg Member, Royal Institution of Australia, current.
• Trustee, Royal Society of Victoria, current.

Awards and recognition include:

• Appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, 2014.
• David Dewhurst Award for Biomedical Engineering Excellence, 2019.
• Joseph F Keithley Award in Instrumentation and Measurement, 2019.
• Peter Nicol Russell Memorial Medal, Engineers Australia, 2018.
• Doctor of Letters, Macquarie University, 2018.
• Doctor of Law, Monash University, 2017.
• M A Sargent Medal, Electrical College of Engineers Australia, 2016.
• Victorian of the Year, 2016.
• Mountbatten Medal, Institution of Engineering and Technology, 2015.

Alan Finkel told J-Wire: “I am absolutely delighted, honoured and extremely proud. Probably by far the most prominent work I’ve done it’s been in the energy space.

I also worked to help the need for high research facilities making it possible to do the kind of research which can improve our medical devices for medical, pharmaceutical drug development capabilities and I supported research, into disease, and climate change. In COVID Year 2020 particular, I was just in a position to do some really significant things because I was the right person at the right time and so in 2020.

I was able to assist the Victorian Government in assistance to modernize the testing, contact tracing isolation and outbreak management systems. And then as a result of that, I was invited by the Prime Minister to do a national review of our contact tracing capabilities that contact tracing and outbreak management capabilities for all the states and territories.”

Talking about the AC, Alan Fink said: “It’s a mark of appreciation by the country.  I’ve been doing everything I do because I enjoy doing it and I see the benefits to our country. Actually, in some it’s for the planet. I feel everything I’m doing is important.”

 

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

Dr Tom BEER, Brunswick VIC 3056

For distinguished service to science, particularly environmental risk, climate processes and sustainability, through research organisations.

Safe System Solutions

• Director, current.

International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG) 

• Chair, Nominating Committee, 2018-2019.
• Chair, Resolution Committee, 2014-2015.
• Chair, Visioning Committee, 2011-2013.
• IUGG Liaison Officer, World Climate Research Programme, 2011-2019.
• Chair, IUGG Union Commission on Climatic and Environmental Change, 2011-2019.
• President, 2007-2011.
• IUGG Liaison Officer, International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme, 2004-2007.
• Vice President, 2003-2007.
• Bureau Member, 2001-2003.
• Chair, Inter-Associations Commission on Geophysical Risk and Sustainability, 2000-2003.
• Member, since 2000.
• Fellow, 2019.
• Honorary Member, 2019.

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

• Retirement Fellow, Oceans and Atmosphere Flagship, 2014-2016.
• Site Leader, Aspendale Laboratories, 2010-2014.
• Program Leader, Climate Processes and Impacts Research Program, Centre for Australian Weather and Climate Research, 2010-2014.
• Leader, Transport Technologies and Sustainable Fuels Stream, Energy Transformed Flagship, 2007-2010.
• Coordinator, CSIRO Environmental Risk Network, 1995-2005.
• Officer-in -Charge, NATA Wind Laboratory, CSIRO Atmospheric Research, 1997-2003.
• Manager, Special Projects, Environmental Consulting and Research Unit, CSIRO Atmospheric Research, 1993-1998.
• Principal Research Scientist and Project Leader, CSIRO National Bushfire Research Unit, 1987-1992.
• Visiting Scientist, CSIRO Division of Fisheries and Oceanography, circa 1975.
• Atmospheric Research Chief’s Commendation, 2003, 2002 and 2001.
• Chairman’s Medal, 2000.

Australian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society

• Secretary, 1994-1996.
• Fellow, 2004.

The Royal Society of Victoria

• Councillor, 2017-2018, 2009-2010.
• Fellow, 2020.

Leo Baeck Centre

• Joint Secretary, 2015-2018.
• Joint President, 2012-2013.
• President, 2003-2005.
• Member, 1998-2019.

Other

• President, Society for Risk Analysis, Australia and New Zealand, 2014.
• Visiting Fellow, Bureau of Meteorology, Australia, 2014-2015.
• Member, Scientific Planning and Review Committee, International Council of Science, circa 2012.
• National Correspondent for Australia, International Association of Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences (IAMAS), 2011-2016.
• Science Advisor, Commonwealth Environment Protection Agency, circa 1995.
• Former Author and Expert Panel Member, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
• Former Committee Member that developed AS4360, Standards Australia.
• Former Co-organiser, NATO Advanced Research Workshop, Hungarian Academy of Sciences.
• Former Advisor, Mekong River Mission.
• Former Member, International Advisory Board, Hungarian Water Sciences Program.

Editorial

• Co-Editor, Global Change and Future Earth: The Geoscience Perspective, Cambridge University Press, 2018.
• Editorial Board Member, Taylor and Francis Encyclopedia of Natural Hazards, 2012-2015.
• Editorial Board Member, Acta Geodaetica et Geophysica Hungarica, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 2010.
• Editorial Board Member, Springer Encyclopedia of Natural Hazards, 2009-2012.
• Editorial Board Member, Open Environmental Engineering Journal – Bentham Science Publishers, 2007.
• Editorial Board Member, Natural Hazards, Springer Science Publishers, 2007.
• Editor-in-Chief, Geophysical Hazards, Springer, 1999-2007.
• Editorial Board Member, Environment International, published by Pergamon, 1990-2010.

Awards and recognition include:

• Life Member, University of Melbourne Graduate Union, 2019.
• International Award, American Geophysical Union, 2016.
• Life Member, American Geophysical Union, 2012.
• Fellow, Australian Institute of Energy, 2006.
• Fellow, Environment Institute of Australia, 1999.
• Fellow, Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand, 1999.
• Honorary Fellow, Deakin University, 1997.
• Honorary Fellow, Hungarian Academy of Science.

Tom Beer said: “I am pleased (and relieved) that the Government has noticed my work in relation to climate.

I was interviewed on TV (in Hungarian) before I addressed the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (of which I am a member).  I thought that my Hungarian was adequate. Not so.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and the panel had sent me an impressive certificate of appreciation for my role in that award.  Or that is what I thought that I told the interviewer.  In Hungarian, the word for ‘peace’ is ‘béke’.  During the whole interview, I had continually used the Hungarian word ‘béka’ instead.  It thus transpired that I had been informing the Hungarian television viewing audience about my role in the award of the Nobel Frog Prize.”

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

Professor Leslie BURNETT, Double Bay NSW 2028

For significant service to pathology, to medical research, and to professional societies.

 

Garvan Institute of Medical Research

•     Principal Medical Geneticist, since 2018.
•     Medical Director, since 2016.
•     Chief Medical Officer, 2016-2018.
•     Laboratory Director, 2016-2018.
•     Clinical Pathologist, Genetic Pathology and Bioinformatics, since 2016.

Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia

•       Member, Steering Committee, Pathology Information, Terminology and Units Standardisation Project, 2013-2018.
•       Member, Genomics Working Group, 2013-2014.
•       Member, Informatics Advisory Committee, 2013-2017.
•       Member, Chemical Pathology Advisory Committee, 1992-2014.
•       Member, Genetic Services Advisory Committee, 2008-2014.
•       Member, Pathology Professional Activities Committee, 2007-2011.
•       Foundation Fellow, Faculty of Science, 2010.
•       Chair, Quality and Scientific Educational Committee, 2001-2006.
•       Member, College Council, 2001-2006.
•       Member, NSW State Committee, 2003-2005.
•       Founding Chairman, Benchmarking in Pathology Program, Quality Assurance Programs, 1999-2003.
•       Member, Genetics Advisory Committee, since 1997.
•       Fellow, 1984.

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC

• Member, Genomics Mission ICT Working Group, 2018.
• Member, Genetics Working Group, 2015.
• Member, Human Genetics Advisory Committee, 2012-2015.

Office for Health and Medical Research, NSW Health

•     Chair, Medical Genomics Reference Bank Strategic Advisory Committee, 2015-2017.
•     Member, Expert Working Group on Translational Bioinformatics, 2013.

Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing

•     Member, Genomics Mission ICT Working Group, Office of Health and Medical Research, 2018.
•       Member/Representative, Review of Genetic Services, 2011-2014.
•      Member, Accreditation File Audit Project Reference Group, National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia, 2011-2013.
•       Member, Pathology Workforce Reference Group, Quality Use of Pathology Program, 2009-2012.
•       Member, Point of Care Trial in General Practice Review Group, 2009-2012.
•      Member, Pathology Review Consultation Committee, 2009-2011.
•       Chairman, National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC), 2006-2012.
•       Member, National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC), as NSW Health nominee, 2000-2006.

 University of New South Wales

•      Honorary Conjoint Professor of Medicine, St Vincent’s Clinical School, since 2016.
•     Honorary Conjoint Professor, School of Medical Sciences, 2015-2016.

University of Sydney

•      Honorary Professor, Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Northern Clinical School, since 2014.
•      Honorary Associate, School of Information Technologies, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies, 2013-2014.
•      Founding Member, Discipline of Genetic Medicine, Sydney Medical School, since 2005.
•      Clinical Professor, Pathology and Genetic Medicine, Sydney Medical School, 2005-2013.
•      Clinical Professor, Pathology, Sydney Medical School, 2002-2005.

NSW Local Health Networks

•       Senior Staff Specialist, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, 2014-2016.
•       Specialist/Consultant Pathologist, Northern Sydney, Central Coast, Hunter New England, Mid North Coast and Northern, 2011-2014.
•       Consultant Pathologist and Visiting Medical Officer, North Shore Private Hospital, Ramsay Health Care, 1998-2014.
•       Specialist/Consultant Pathologist, Hunter New England Health Service, 2007-2010.
•      Senior Staff Specialist/Consultant Pathologist, North Coast Area Health Service, 2006-2010.
•       Senior Staff Specialist/Consultant Pathologist, Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service, 2005-2010.
•        Senior Staff Specialist, Northern Sydney Area Health Service, 1997-2005.
•        Pathologist, Hunter Area Pathology Service, 2003.
•       Staff Specialist, Western Sydney Area Health Service, 1990-1997.

Pathology North, and South Eastern Sydney Laboratory Service, NSW Health Pathology Service

•       Genetic Pathologist, 2014-2016.
•      Consultant Pathologist, Pathology North, 2010-2014.
•      Chemical Pathologist/Clinical Biochemist, 2010-2014.
•      Genetic Pathologist/Medical Head, Laboratory and Community Genetics, 2010-2014.
•       Founding Director and Chief Executive, Pathology North, 2009-2010.
•       Interim Director, Northern Pathology Cluster, 2007-2008.

Pacific Laboratory Medicine Services (PaLMS), Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service

•       Director, PaLMS Sydney, PaLMS Northern Rivers, 2006-2007.
•       Director, PaLMS Central Coast, 2005-2007.
•       Founding Director, PaLMS Northern Sydney, 1997-2007.

 Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, Westmead Hospital

•       Assistant Director, 1995-1997.
•       Director, Division of Molecular Genetics, 1995-1997.
•       Area Director, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Western Sydney Area Pathology Service, 1993-1997.
•       Consultant, Hyperlipidaemia Clinic, Westmead Hospital, 1991-1997.
•       Director, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Westmead Hospital, 1990-1993.

Board and Committee Appointments

•       Member, Genomics Mission, Mackenzie’s Mission Recruitment Working Group, 2018-2021.
•        National Representative for Australia and New Zealand, Asian and Pacific Federation of Clinical Biochemistry representing the Australasian Association of Clinical Biochemists, 2007-2011.
•        Founding Chairman, JCA Dave Burnett Foundation for Community Leadership, Jewish Communal Appeal, since 2008.
•        Founding Chairman, International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFFC) Ethics Committee as nominee of the Australasian Association of Clinical Biochemists, 2001-2006.
•       Founding Chairman, Key Incident Monitoring and Management Program, RCPA Quality Assurance Programs, 2006-2009.
•       Founding President, National Coalition of Public Pathology (Public Pathology Australia), 2001-2006.
•        Executive Director, Pathology Alliance of Australia, 1998-2004.
•       Executive Director, Institute of Community Genetics, 2001-2002; Non-Executive Director, 1999-2001.
•        Member, Community Genetics Program (NSW) (“The Tay-Sachs Screening Program”), since 1995.

Australasian Association for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine

•      President, 2007-2011.
•        Chairman, Lab Tests Online Australasia, 2012-2014.
•        Non-Executive Director, Lab Tests Online Australasia, 2010-2012, and 2014-2015.
•        Non-Executive Director, AACB Services, 2012-2021.

College of American Pathologists

•       Life Fellow, 2017.
•        Emeritus Fellow, 2011.
•        Fellow, 1987.

National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry, American Association of Clinical Chemistry

•        Fellow, 2005.

Australian College of Health Service Management

•       Fellow, 2004
•        Associate Fellow, 1995.

 Other Professional Associations

•        Fellow, Australian Institute of Company Directors, 2004.
•       Fellow (Molecular Genetics), Human Genetics Society of Australasia, 2002.
•       Fellow, American Society of Clinical Pathologists, 1988.
•      Fellow, Quality Society of Australasia, 1991.
•       Fellow, Australian Institute of Management, 1991.

Awards and recognition include:

•        Fellow, Royal Society of NSW, 2016.
•       Meritorious Service Award, Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia, 2012.
•      Management Science Award, American Association of Clinical Chemistry, 2004.
•        Challenge Award, Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators, 1999. (Joint recipient)
•       NSW Quality Centre Award, Australian Organisation for Quality, 1994.

Leslie Burnett told us: “It was so unexpected. It has been exciting to realise that my work has been worthwhile. I have tried to improve safety in healthcare and have hoped that I have made a contribution to this. Along with my work, and my genetic screening; I have been helping to ensure that all of the work is the best it can possibly be. Everyone works hard and contributes hard. We try to make sure that everything works better. I quietly work away in the background, and am so grateful to have been acknowledged. I am very pleased and grateful to try and make the world a better place.”

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Professor Mark Stephen HERTZBERG, Rushcutters Bay NSW 2011

For significant service to haematology, to tertiary education, and to research.

Australasian Leukaemia and Lymphoma Group

•        Board Member, 2010-2017.
•        Chair, Scientific Advisory Committee, 2010-2017.
•        Senior Advisor, High-Grade Lymphoma Disease Group, 2007-2017.
•        Member, Finance and Audit Committee, 2007-2017.
•        Former Executive Committee Member (Treasurer).
•        Member, since 1996.

Prince of Wales Hospital / University of New South Wales (SESLHD)

•        Clinical Professor, Senior Staff Specialist, and Head of Clinical Haematology, since 2014.
•        Adjunct Professor, University of New South Wales, since 2014.

University of Sydney

•        Clinical Professor, School of Medicine, 2011-2014.
•        Clinical Associate Professor, 1999-2011.
•        Clinical Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Medicine, 1994-1999.

Westmead Hospital

•        Senior Staff Specialist Haematologist and Pathologist-In-Charge, Haematology Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, 1996-2014.
•        Head, Lymphoma Service and MDT, 2003-2014.
•        Head, Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, 2008-2014.
•        Staff Specialist Haematologist, 1993-1995.

Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA)

•        Deputy Chair, Haematology Quality Assurance Program, 1994-2013, and Acting Chairman, 1996-1997.
•        Chair, Molecular Diagnostics Program, 1998-2017.

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

•        Member, Project Grant Assessor Panel, 2013-2016.
•        Member, Grant Assessors Panel, Priority-Driven Collaborative Cancer Research Scheme, 2009-2010.
•        Member, Assessors Panel, 1993-1999.

Research Other

•        CJ Martin NHMRC Postdoctoral Training Fellowship, 1990 – 1993.
•        Member, Lymphoma Working Party, Centre of International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, current.
•        Associate Investigator, Translational Cancer Research Network (UNSW and Cancer Institute NSW), since 2016.
•        Co-Investigator, CI13 Cancer Survivorship Care, NSW Cancer Institute, 2015-2018.
•        Co-investigator, CI3 NHMRC/MRFF Grant 1170278, 2019-2024.
•        Co-investigator, CI3 NHMRC/MRFF Grant 1200271, 2021-2025.
•        150 authored or co-authored peer-reviewed publications and book chapters; over 250 abstracts, presentations and invited lectures.
•        PhD Supervisor, Mentor and Coordinator of Advanced Training, current.
•        Editorial Board Member, HemaSphere, European Haematology Association, current.

Haematology Society of Australia and New Zealand

President, 2003-2005.

Board Member, 4 years.

Research Project Assessment

•        Member, Victorian Anti-Cancer Council Assessors Panel, 1995-1999.
•        Westmead Hospital Scientific Advisory Committee Grant Assessment, 1996-2000.
•        Grant Review Assessors Panel, Anthony Rothe Research Trust, 1999-2005.

Awards and recognition include:

•        Pitney Fellowship, Haematology Society of Australasia, 2020-2021.
•        Fellow, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, 1988.
•        Fellow, Royal College of Pathologists Australasia, 1988.

Mark Hertzberg told J-Wire: “I am very flattered, privileged, and honoured. I am grateful to my friends, family and of course to my colleagues. This is attractable to all the opportunities I have been afforded to. I have the privilege of turning up and participating. I have been extremely fortunate for all of the opportunities that have been offered over the years. Opportunities for good clinical trials and drugs to Australian patients. This has all given me wonderful insights, and helped us in a small way, in collaboration with my colleagues. It is a team effort. I have been lucky to work with wonderful people. It has been a lifetime’s worth of wonderful opportunities and people.”

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Emeritus Professor Leslie Michael IRWIG, Frenchs Forest NSW 2086

For significant service to tertiary education, and to medicine as an epidemiologist.

 

University of Sydney

• Emeritus Professor of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, current.
• Personal Chair in Epidemiology, School of Public Health, 1998-2015.
• Sub-Dean (Research), School of Public Health, 2003-2006.
• Associate Professor in Public Health (Epidemiology), 1988-1997.
• Senior Lecturer in Public Health, 1987-1988.
• Epidemiologist, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1985-1987.

National Health and Medical Research Council

• Chief Investigator, 12 research grants, since 1990.
• Leader, Screening and Test Evaluation Program, 2002-2015.

Research and Education

• Author/Co-Author, over 400 publications including a print and web-based book for the general public: Smart Health Choices: How to Make Informed Health Decisions, 2008, 1999.
• Member of international and Australian committees and working groups concerned with generating good evidence and applying it to health care decision-making and policy, 1985 to 2015.

South Africa and the United Kingdom

• Honorary Faculty Member, South African Cochrane Centre, 1997-2000.
• Head, Epidemiology Sub-Programme, Institute for Biostatistics, South African Medical Research Council, 1981-1985, and Epidemiologist, 1979-1980.
• Epidemiologist, National Research Institute for Occupational Diseases, South African Medical Research Council, 1975-1978.
• Lecturer (Project Leader, National Study of Health and Growth), Department of Community Medicine, St Thomas’ Hospital Medical School, London, 1972-1975.

Australasian Epidemiological Association

• Founding Member, 1987.
• Life Member, 2016.

Professional Associations Other

• Foundation Fellow, Faculty of Public Health Medicine, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, 1991.
• Fellow, Faculty of Public Health Medicine, Royal College of Physicians, England, 1983.
• Overseas Fellow, American College of Epidemiology, 1982.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Excellence in Teaching Award, University of Sydney, 1995.
• W Harding le Riche Medal for Epidemiology, University of Witwatersrand, 1986.

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Lee LIBERMAN, VIC

For significant service to the Jewish community through not-for-profit and education organisations.

Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council

 

•        National Board Member, since 2007.
•        Member, National Editorial Committee, 1998-2008.
•       Benefactor.

Shoah Foundation – The Institute for Visual History and Education, University of Southern California

•        Chair, Board of Councillors, since 2019.
•        Former Chair, International Affairs.
•        Former Executive Committee Member.
•        Member, since 2006.
•        Volunteer since 1998.

Australia Israel Chamber of Commerce

•        Member and Supporter, since 1989.
•        Host and event sponsor.

General Sir John Monash Foundation

•        Deputy Chair, current.
•        Board Member, since 2014.
•        Co-Chair, Capital Campaign, current.
•        Sponsor Lee Liberman Scholarship.
•        Alumni Engagement Structure, current.

National Gallery of Australia

•        Council Member, 2004-2008.
•        Member, Acquisitions Committee, 2005-2008.

Other

•        Principal and Chair, Lee Liberman Foundation, current.
•        Stella Prize: Strategic Advisor, Seed Sponsor.
•        History of the Shrine of Remembrance, “A Place to Remember”: Strategic Advisor, Seed Sponsor, Nov 2009.
•        Humour Foundation, (Clown Doctors), Royal Childrens’ Hospital, Melbourne, and Hadassah Hospital Israel, Strategic Advisor and Sponsor.
•        Trustee, Jewish Museum of Australian Foundation.
•        Curator, Jewish Museum Exhibitions, various.
•        Jewish Museum 25th year Anniversary book, Strategic Advisor, Seed Sponsor.
•        Publisher and Editor, A Day in the Life of Africa, A Day in the Life of Israel, and Jerusalem in the Shadow of Heaven.
•        Chair, A Day in the Life of Africa AIDS Education Fund, current.
•        Sponsored the establishment of the Leon Liberman Chair of Modern Israel Studies, Monash University, 2005-2010.
•        Vice Chair, Haifa University Board of Governors, Haifa, Israel.
•        Advisory Council Member, World’s Jewish Museum, since 2017.
•        MOSAICA: The Religious Peace Initiative- Religion, Society and State, Israel, Sponsor.

Business

•        Director, LJCB Group of Companies, current.

Lee Liberman told J-Wire: I am so thrilled, I feel so privileged. I do what I do because I believe in it. Then to have this incredible public Australian recognition acknowledging the contribution to this country. It is a huge honour. I have to do the things I believe in. That’s what drives me.

The most profound work I have done is the Shoah Foundation, we carry the testimonies. Along with raising my children, my work with the Shoah Foundation is still ongoing. Protecting that history of the Jewish people, and making sure that it’s history can never be rewritten. I was brought up in a home and extended family where tzedakah is our mainframe. It has shaped me, it is in my bones, I understand this so deeply. My family came to Australia to its freedom and privilege.

They worked hard, they contributed to the country that gave them a safe haven. That needs to be acknowledged, we have passed this on to my children and grandchildren. We try. My foundation is education. Without education nothing grows in a meaningful way. My focus is on aspects of education to improve society and individuals. If you believe in what you are doing, it is never hard to do it. We all try to do our bit – in particular the Jewish world. We are very proud Jews and very proud Australians. It’s just one life, I have the energy and capacity, I love what I do, and I aim to make this life meaningful.”

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Dr Michael LIFFMAN, Middle Park VIC 3206

For significant service to tertiary education, the not-for-profit sector, and visual arts.

Swinburne University

• Adjunct Associate Professor, Centre for Social Impact, current.
• Founder, Master of Social Impact, 2002.
• Senior Fellow and Founding Director, Asia-Pacific Centre for Philanthropy and Social Investment, 2001.

Montsalvat Arts Community

• Director, since 2016.

Other Philanthropy

·       Life Member, Philanthropy Australia, 2018.

• Former President, Australian Association of Philanthropy, 1985 – 87.

·       Board Member, International Network on Strategic Philanthropy, 2000s.

• Former Member, Community Advisory Committee, Special Broadcasting Service.
• Board Member, Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs, 1980s

The Myer Foundation

• Chief Executive Officer, 1985-2001.

Other Community Appointments

• Former Member, Human Research Ethics Committee, Department of Human Services Victoria.
• Former Board Member, Southport Community Nursing Home.
• Former Board Member, Alpine School for Student Leadership.
• Former Board Member, Australian Council of Social Services.
• Former Board Member, Melbourne Forum.

Worldwide Initiative for Grantmaker Support

• Director, circa 2010.

Publications

• Power to the Poor, Allen and Unwin, 1978.
• Refugees, Resources and Reunion, VCTA, 1989.
• Non-Profit Motive in Civil Society, Australian Philanthropy Research Papers, 2000.
• A Tradition of Giving: Seventy-five Years of Myer Family Philanthropy, Melbourne University Press, 2004.

Michael Liffman told J-Wire: “I am very pleased and gratified. I am pleased that my work has been valued elsewhere. I feel that many people are deserving of these awards and that all of them should have recognition. I have established and been involved with philanthropic centres. My career has been not for profit and for the visual arts. I would describe my career as promoting discussion around philanthropy and the community. I have been trying to get the right blend of head and heart.

The emotions and head have to be balanced and am always trying to find that sweet spot. It’s all about trying to find the balance. I am not and have not been alone in this field, and with the interests I have, there have been plenty of others helping me to stay the course. As far as being Jewish is concerned, my early works of ethics and affairs have encompassed the Jewish community.”

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Emeritus Professor Arie ROTEM, Darling Point NSW 2027

For significant service to tertiary education, and to public health.

University of New South Wales

• Emeritus Professor, Faculty of Medicine, since 2006.
• Head, School of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, 1994-2001.
• Director, World Health Organization, Regional Training Center for Health Development, 1988-1999.
• Director, Centre for International and Multicultural Health, 1987-2002.
• Director, Centre for Public Health, 1993-2002.
• Author of a range of publications and recipient of research grants.

Committee and Board Positions

• Former Honorary Secretary, Australian and New Zealand Association of Medical Education.
• Former Chair, Australian Network of Academic Public Health Institutions.
• Former Board Member, International Network for Health Workforce Education.
• Board Director, War Memorial Hospital, 1996-2006.
• Chair, Sydney Consortium for Public Health, 1996-2006.

Other

• Medical Education Expert, Ministry of Health of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, 2008-2015.

World Health Organisation

• Consultant, Development of Human Resources for Health, 1976-2020.
• Consultant, South Pacific Management Development Network, 1983-1988.

Awards and recognition include:

• Friendship Medal, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, 2013.
• Fred Katz Medal, Australian and New Zealand Association of Medical Education, 1996.

Arie Rotem told us: “I feel very honoured, it is always nice to be recognised. I feel humbled as this has all been achieved with the corporation of a team. I think that I have been lucky to have been in the right place at the right time. It has given me opportunities to be both an academic and to be involved in development work in the field. It is something I continue to do. In the past 8 years, I have spent time in Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia making a difference to life. It makes me happy that these things are continuing. My area is development of human resources for health. My focus is on people, training and managing. I am also teaching in Ben GurionUniversity twice a year (this has been on Zoom since Covid), it is another way of giving back.”

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The late Dr Geoffrey SYMONDS

Formerly of Rose Bay NSW 2029

For significant service to medical research, particularly through gene therapy.

Medical Research

•        Senior Director, Gene Therapy Research, CSL Limited, 2017-2020.
•        Global Product Leader/Senior Research Director, Johnson & Johnson Research, 1992-2008.
  Head of Research Group, Children’s Medical Research Institute, Sydney, 1985-1992.
•        Author of over 130 scientific papers, 1975-2020.

Calimmune Inc

•        Head of Scientific Affairs and Collaborations, 2015-2017.
•        Chief Scientific Officer, Gene Therapy Research and Development, 2009-2015.

University of New South Wales

•        Member, Gene Technology Research Committee, 2013-2020.
•        Professor/Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, 1992-2017.

National Health and Medical Research Council

•        Chief Investigator of 9 grants, 1985-2020.
•        Senior Principal Research Fellow/Research Fellow, 1991-2020.
•        Member, Cellular Therapies Advisory Committee Sub-Committee, 2007-2009.
•       Member, Gene and Related Therapies Research Advisory Sub-Committee, 2000-2006.

Other

•        Deputy Presiding Member, Alliance for Regenerative Medicine Planning Group, 2014-2020.
•        Member, External Scientific Advisory Board, UCLA Center for AIDS Research, 2017-2020.
•        Member, Forum for Collaborative (HIV) Research, 2014-2020.
•        Past Member, Gene Therapy and Related Activities Panel.
•        Past Member, Office of Gene Technology Regulator.
•       Past Member, Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Professional Affiliations

•       Australasian Gene and Cell Therapy Society.
•        International Society of Experimental Hematology.
•        International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy.
•        American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy.
•        American Society of Hematology.
•        American Society of Microbiology.
•        American Association of Cancer Research.

Awards and Recognition include:

•       Best Paper Prize, Australasian Gene and Cell Therapy Society, 2013.
•       Phillip B Hoffman Research Scientist Award, Johnson & Johnson, 1995.

Renee Symonds said: “As a family of course, we are immensely proud of his achievements and for the work he has done. It would have been his ultimate joy to know that he has been acknowledged. We are immensely sad that he is not able to be here to accept his award.” The Kirby Institute wrote this: Vale Dr Geoffrey Symonds (unsw.edu.au)

 

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Alan David WEIN, Malvern East VIC 3145

For significant service to business, and to the community.

Mediation

•       Principal, Wein Mediation, since 2003.
•        Principal Mediator, New Zealand Dispute Resolution Centre, current.
•        Mediator, Office of the Franchise Mediation Advisor, since 2006.

 Office of the Victorian Small Business Commissioner

•        Senior Mediator, worked on more than 3,500 mediations for the office, current.
•        Secondment, Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority, 2009-2010.
•        Member, Reference Panel, Improving Business Conduct Study, 2007.

Law

•       Inaugural Member, SME Business Law Committee, Law Council of Australia, since 2010.
•      Member, Resolution Institute, since 2006.
•       Member, Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee, Law Institute of Victoria, 2013-2019, and Member, since 1981.
•       Co-founder, Dynamic Process Services, 1981-1985.
•       Solicitor and Barrister, since 1981.

Government Appointments

•        Director, Australian Financial Complaints Authority, since 2019.
•        Chair, Covid-19 Commercial Tenancies Relief Scheme Administration Committee, Victorian Government, since 2020.
•        Appointed Reviewer, Australian Government’s Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct, Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, 2013.
•        Ambassador for Small Business – Energise Enterprise, 2008.
•        Member, Victorian Government Infrastructure Planning Council, 2002.
•       Appointed Reviewer, Federal Government Independent Review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct, 2015.
•       Inaugural Chair, Small Business Advisory Council, Victorian Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development, 2000-2002.
•       Member, Infrastructure Planning Council, Victorian Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure, 2000-2002.

Professional Appointments

•        Board Member, Australian Research Centre for Urban Ecology, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, 2004-2011.
•        Ambassador, Energise Enterprise, Victorian Small Business Festival, 2008.

Community

•      Member, Member Protection Policies Grievance Appeals Tribunal, Maccabi Australia, current.
•       Board Member, Maccabi Victoria, 1997-2002 and Inaugural Chair, Hall of Fame Committee.
•       Council Member, Mount Scopus Memorial College, 2004-2007 and Member, Selections Committee, 2004-2007.
•        Member, Committee for Melbourne, 1997-2002.
•       Board Member, United Israel Appeal, 1989-2000.

Business

•       Adjunct Professor, Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship), Faculty of Business, RMIT University, 2001-2003, and Advisor, Mentor and Tutor, 2003.
•       Co-Founder, Managing Director and Shareholder, House Retail Group, 1984-2000.

Awards and recognition include:

•        Centenary Medal, 2001.

Alan Wein told us: “I was humbled in receiving this honour, noting that many Australians in this and past lists have added to the quality of life in Australia. I have been inspired to engage in new and difficult challenges where I can make a difference. I am particularly delighted for my wife Caroline, three children and grandchildren, in the hope that will also be motivated to make wider contributions to society. I attribute my motivation to contribute to public and communal appointments to my first principal in legal practice Gabi Fleiszig who engendered strong ethical values in legal practice. To Jack Smorgon AO who invited me on to the Committee for Melbourne who honed my understanding of outstanding leadership. Finally, to The Hon Prof Dr Justice Clyde Croft AM of the Supreme Court of Victoria whose mentoring, friendship and inspiration to achieve excellence in different areas of the law and ADR, continues to motivate me.”

Alan was awarded an Australian Centenary Medal in 2001 for outstanding contribution in commerce and the Order of Australia (AM) in this Australia Day Honours in 2022, recognises Alan’s substantial contribution to business, law, dispute resolution and regulatory reform in Australia and a strong community involvement.

In addition to the extensive list of public and communal contributions Alan also developed with his partner, Australia’s largest retail homewares business of its kind.

An extraordinary catalogue of achievements by an intelligent, creative and capable individual who and brings gravitas and experience in whatever he is engaged with. Alan is recognised for his tenacity and intelligent ability to assist parties come to resolution in the most complex of legal and commercial issues with humanity and understanding.

Alan’s study is decorated with photos of him with a number of former Australian Prime Ministers, and with awards and honours that tell the story of a fascinating life of achievement. His study is also full of family photos reinforcing the importance of family in his life.”

 

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

Rachel ARGAMAN, NSW

For service to the tourism and hospitality industry.

Hospitality and Tourism

• Board Member, Travel and Tourism Forum, 2018.
• Member, Investment Attraction Industry Advisory Panel, Tourism Australia,
  2015-2018.
• Chair, Advisory Board, Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, Torrens University, 2008-2016.
• Independent Director (Laureate), Higher Education Board, 2010-2016.
• Former Director, Accommodation Association of Australia.

Toga Hospitality/TFE Hotels

• Chief Executive Officer, 2007-2018.
• Chief Operating Officer, 2005-2007.

Business

• Chief Executive Officer, Opal Health Care, since 2018.
• Chair, New South Wales Chapter, and National Council Member, Chief Executive Women, 2015-2017.
• Mentor, Westpac Businesses of Tomorrow Program, 2018.
• Owner and Consultant, CLScc, 1997-1998.
• Director of Marketing, Charter Training Group, 1996-1997.
• Marketing Manager, International Sales Manager and Regional Sales Manager, Imperial Car Rental, 1990-1995.

Not For Profit: OzHarvest

• Chair, 2011-2014.
• Board Member, 2015.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Telstra Business Awards Judge (Outstanding Growth category), 2021-2022.
• ‘First Award’, HotelsWorld Investment Conference, 2014.
• Fellow, International Centre of Excellence, 2013.
• 100 Women of Influence, Board and Management Category, ARF and Westpac, 2012.
• Hotelier of the Year, HM Awards, 2010.
• National Tourism Legend, Tourism Training Australia, 2009.
• Telstra National Corporate Businesswoman of the Year, 2008.
• Telstra NSW Businesswoman of the Year, 2008.

Rachel Argarman told us: “As an immigrant to this country, I am a passionate and committed Australian, who loves this nation and its values. I am honoured to accept this award for the contribution I have made to the Australian hospitality and tourism sectors over 20 years.

In addition, I am delighted that in recent years I have been able to apply what I learned earlier in my career to help improve the lives of older Australians in the aged care sector.”

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Gregory Errol BLASHKI, Caulfield North VIC 3161

For service to the Jewish community.

Jewish Community

• Financial Adviser, Melbourne Chevra Kadisha, since 2009.
• Advisory Committee Member, The Chessed Foundation, since 2016.
• Honorary Treasurer, Zionist Federation of Australia, 2005-2016.
• Honorary Treasurer, Caulfield Hebrew Congregation, 2013-2018.
• Honorary Treasurer, Victorian Friends of the Hebrew University, 2006-2008.
• Honorary Treasurer, United Israel Appeal of Victoria, 1975-2001
• Honorary Treasurer, United Israel Appeal (Australia), 1984-2001
• Executive Member, Leibler Yavneh College Council, 1990-1993
• Honorary Treasurer, Zionism Victoria since 2020.
• Honorary Treasurer, Lamm Jewish Library of Australia since 2020.
• Honorary Treasurer, Beth Weizmann Community Centre Inc since 2020.

Caulfield Park Community Bank Branch, Bendigo Bank

• Director, 2004-2010.
• Co-Founding Member, Steering Committee, 2002-2004.

Accounting

• Chartered Accountant, 50 years.
• Partner, KPMG Australia and predecessor firms, 1982-1991.
• Founding Partner, Pitcher Partners 1991-2009
• Director Pitcher Partners Corporate Pty Ltd, since 2009

Awards and Recognition include:

• B’nai B’rith Menorah Award, 2019.
• Caulfield Park Community Bank Award, 2010.
• Askan Award, United Israel Appeal, 1996.

Greg Blashki told J-Wire: “It is very nice to be recognised. I have been involved in communal affairs for over 40+ years. I do it because I enjoy it so much. Over the years I have worked with many Jewish communities. It has been nice to do some good and to put my abilities to work. I have met wonderful people in the community. The biggest satisfaction has been working with other people and helping to make things work better. The role started with accounting and then moved to counselling and mentorship. It has given me enormous satisfaction. I have always seen myself in the engine room, helping to make it all happen, helping to make things work, and have always been happy to do this. I am extremely grateful.”

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John Szaja CHASKIEL, Caulfield VIC 3162

For service to the community through Holocaust education and understanding.

 

Jewish Holocaust Centre Melbourne

• Event Organiser, since 2006.
• Volunteer, since 2000.
• Keynote speaker, since 2000.

 

Buchenwald Boys

• Co-President, since 1950.
• Member, since 1950.

 

Chabad Malvern

• Elder, current
• Member, current

 

Melbourne Hakoah Soccer Club

• Former Chairman.
• Former Supporter/Member.

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Ian Russell DAVIS, Toorak VIC 3142

For service to the community, and to the law.

Maccabi Victoria

• Inaugural Chairman, Maccabi Victoria Sports Foundation, 2003-2019.
• President, 1992-1995.
• Board Member, 1991.
• Life Member, 2016.
• Hall of Fame Member, 2016.

Judean League

• President, 1990-1991.
• Executive Member, 1988-1989.

Minter Ellison (formerly Ellison Hewison and Whitehead)

• National Chairman of Partners, 1999-2003.
• Board Member, 1987-2003
• Partner, 1970.-2015

Law

• Former President, World Law Group, 2009-2011.
• Former Panel Member, AustSolve Arbitration and Mediation Services.
• Former Member, Australian Commercial Disputes Centre Panel of Mediators.
• Former Member, International Trade and Business Committee, Law Council of Australia.

Business

• Former Chairman, MaxiTRANS Industries Ltd, 1995 – 2016.

• Founding non-Executive Director, Circadian Technologies Ltd, 1985-2005.
• Former Chairman, Produce and Grocery Industry Code Administration Committee, 2000-2009.
• Former Member, Australia-Japan Business Cooperation Committee.
• Former Member, Australia-China Business Council.
• Former Chairman, Zenyth Therapeutics Ltd (formerly Amrad Corporation), 2005-2007.
• Former Non-Executive Director, Central Equity Ltd, 2003-2006.
• Former Non-Executive Director, Baxter Group Ltd, 2004-2007.
• Former Chairman, UCMS Group Ltd, 2006-2009.

Other

• Member, Victorian Jewish Bushfire Relief Appeal Committee, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, since 2020.
• Former Director, International Diabetes Institute, circa 2000.

Ian Davis told J-Wire: “It is a great honour to receive this award. In many ways, it is thanks to, and a reflection of the values instilled in me by my parents, which I have carried with me throughout my working life.

It also would not have been possible without the unwavering support and backing of my wife Yvonne, my family, and many superb colleagues, particularly over my 50 years in the law at Minter Ellison.

As the inaugural chairman of the Maccabi Victoria Sports Foundation, | am immensely proud of the integral fundraising vehicle it has become today, underpinning the growth of Maccabi as a thriving and vital organization in the fabric of our community.

I hope this award will encourage, inspire and motivate others not to stand on the sidelines, but to get involved, and utilize their skills and abilities to make a difference to the community and people’s lives.”

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Michael DEBINSKI, VIC

For service to the community through a range of roles.

Jewish Holocaust Museum

• Vice President, since 2021.
• Board member, 2020 – 2021.

Jewish Care Victoria

• President, 2012-2019.
• Board Member, 2009-2021.

Community Other

• Member, Human Research and Ethics Committee, Scope Australia, since 2015.
• Chair, Steering Committee, Australian Catholic University/NHMRC Partnership Project ‘Cerebral Palsy Check Up’, Jan 2015-Dec 2016.
• Lead, Independent Redress Scheme for Victims of Institutional Abuse, Yeshivah Colleges, 2015.

Business

• Co-Founder and Senior Adviser, Impact Co, since 2017.
• Senior Adviser, Pinnacle Consulting. Jan 2015-Dec 2016.
• Strategic Adviser for Ernst and Young on NSW Disability and Community Sector reform. Feb 2014-Dec 2014.
• Executive Adviser, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Dec 2012-Apr 2013.

Department of Human Services Victoria

• Career coaching & mentoring senior executives. 2014-2015.
• Strategic Adviser, National Disability Insurance Scheme, 2013-2014.
• Executive Director, Disability Services Division, 2012.
• Regional Director, Eastern Metropolitan Region, 2009-2012.
• Director, Human Resources, 2005-2009.
• Executive Director, Operations, 2007-2008.
• Director, Regional Operations, 2001-2005.
• Manager, Housing Primary and Complex Care, Eastern Metropolitan Region, 1998-2001.
• Manager, Children’s Services, Office of the Families, 1995-1998.

Professional Other

• Manager, Supported Accommodation Assistance Program, Department of Health and Community Services, 1988-1995.
• Regional Planner, Outer East Suburbs Regional Centre, Community Services Victoria, 1992-1988.
• Manager, Ringwood Community Youth Support Scheme, 1980-1982.

Michael Debinski said:“I am very honoured to be awarded an OAM. My parents were Holocaust survivors. When they came to Australia, they worked hard to build a new life with a commitment to family, community, and social justice. These commitments have also guided me.

My professional career and voluntary work have been in health and community services. I am particularly proud to have been involved in closing outdated night shelters for homeless people in Melbourne in the 1980s, responding to the Black Saturday fires in 2009, and establishing the NDIS in Victoria.

During my time as President of Jewish Care, we have reformed residential aged care services with wonderful new facilities and a new model of care. We have expanded disability care, including establishing a child and adult respite centre. We have introduced the Yesod program for emerging Jewish leaders, ensuring both Jewish Care and the wider community has strong leadership for years to come. I am proud to have helped build a resilient, and caring organisation to support our very diverse Jewish community.

In the last few years, I have become involved with the Holocaust Museum. This organisation plays a vital role in telling the stories of survivors who built new lives in Melbourne and teaching new generations about the Holocaust. We do this so the tragedy of the Holocaust is never repeated.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work has been collaborating with others to support our community. This award reinforces the importance of maintaining

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Louise DYSKIN, Caulfield VIC 3162

For service to the Jewish community.

Bridge@Blake Bridge Club

• Co-founder and President, since circa 2008.

Blake Street Hebrew Congregation

• Founding Member, since circa 1995.

Jewish Museum of Australia

• Education Guide, 10 years.
• Outreach Guide, 1999-2007.
• Committee Member, Museum Guides, 6 years.
• Volunteer, since 1996.

Community

• Member, National Council of Jewish Women Australia
• Committee Member, Victorian Association of Jewish Ex & Servicemen & Women Australia, 8 years.

Louise Dyskin told J-Wire: “When I was notified, I feel this award is as part of a team. When it becomes official, I will be accepting this award on behalf of myself and my late partner Eric Gordan. Eric was strong, supportive, and as far as he was concerned I was perfect. We were a team and he was always very supportive. We started Blake Street Hebrew Congregation in 1995, and I have been running the bridge club for the past 10 years. It is a friendship club and we raise tzedakah for causes. We are a friendly shul and a friendly bridge club. I will continue what I am doing because it needs to be done. People are lonely, and if they need some time, they are welcome to Bridge at Blake.”

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The late Jakob (Kuba) ENOCH

Formerly of Dover Heights NSW 2030

For service to the community through education.

 

Sydney Jewish Museum

• Volunteer Tour Guide, 2011-2021.
• Holocaust Educator, 2011-2021.
• Member, Survivor Focus Group, 2011-2021.

Kehillat Kadimah (formerly South Head and District Synagogue)

• Former Member

International March of the Living

• Holocaust Educator, 2007.

His family told us: “Jakob Enoch, known as Kuba to his friends, and affectionately called Zeidad by us, was our father, grandfather and great grandfather. He endured the worst humankind had ever experienced, in his teenage years from 13 to 18; yet he survived, with love, compassion and care for others. Although deprived of a formal high school education, he had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and the beneficiaries of this, were anyone who ever had the chance to know him, meet him or hear him speak.

“It’s up to us to make this world better. That is why I am speaking here to the children, to make the world a bit better.”

As a living historian and volunteer survivor at the Sydney Jewish Museum, which welcomes more than 50,000 visitors per year, Kubahe is also known to thousands. He has educated children and adults alike, through the museum and other avenues for nearly twenty years creating a better, more collaborative future for our society. He achieved this, not just by sharing his experiences and testimony of living through the Holocaust, but through his reflections on how we can be better as a society. It is here that he had the opportunity to talk to tens of thousands about the value of respect.

When his grandson James shared with him that on behalf of the whole family he had submitted an OAM nomination for his educational work, Zeida was typically humble. His initial response was “Why me, why would I deserve this recognition?” This is a fitting example of Kuba’s humility.

In his honour, we promise to live in remembrance of the “Kedoshim” (as he would say), who were denied such a privilege.

Zeida, you are in our thoughts and our actions, every breath we take and every step we make. You have guided us, taught us to love, laugh, be humble, forthright and to understand what it truly means to be Jewish – both spiritually and practically. You will live on through us and we will tell your story for generations to come.”

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Jessica FOX, NSW

For service to sport as a gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.

 

Tokyo Olympic Games 2020

• Gold Medallist and Olympic Champion, Canoe Slalom Women’s C-1.

·       Bronze Medallist, Canoe Slalom Women’s K1.

International Competition

• Winner, ICF Canoe Slalom K1, World Cup, 2021.
• 8 x World Champion
• Bronze Medallist, Women’s Canoe Slalom C-1, Rio Olympics, 2016.
• Silver Medallist, K1-Women, London Olympics, 2012.
• Gold Medallist, K1 event, Summer Youth Olympics Singapore, 2010.
• Medallist, C1 and K1, Junior World Championships, 2010.

Paddle Australia

• Advocate for gender equality in paddle program.
• Advocate for gender equality in Olympic paddle program.
• Instrumental in having C1 event added to Olympic program that debuted in Tokyo.

Local Sport Club

• Member, Western Sydney Whitewater Club, current.

Community

• Fundraiser, Penrith Rural Fire Service, 2019-2020.

Jess Fox said: “It’s a huge honour to receive an OAM. I am immensely proud to represent Australia on the world stage and to have achieved what I did in Tokyo. I’m also so grateful to the community who supports me and the Australian public who got behind us at the Games and throughout my career. To be recognised in this way and to share this with the other Olympic and Paralympic Champions from Australia is very special.”

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The late Roger Charles FRANKEL, Formerly of Fitzroy VIC 3065

For service to public administration and international relations.

Brazilian Honorary Consulate in Victoria

•        Honorary Consul of Brazil, since 2007.

Australia Latin America Business Council

•       Vice-President, 2004-2009.
•     Director, 2000-2009.

Council of Australia Latin America Relations

•       Councillor, and Founding Chair, Action Group on Education, 2003.
•       Consultant, 2001-2003.

Education

•        Special Adviser on Latin America, Chisholm Institute, 2015-2018.
•       Special Adviser on Latin America, Victoria University, 2011-2017.
•       Consultant, TAFE Directors Australia, 2013.
•       Latin America Consultant, RMIT University, 2012-2013.
•       Adviser on Latin America, Box Hill Institute, 2003-2011.
•        Latin America Consultant, Griffith University Queensland, 2011.
•       Adviser on Latin America, University of Wollongong, 2001-2005.

Professional

•       Founder and Managing Partner, Australia Brazil Latin America Advisory, since 2018.
•       Director, Frank Advice International, 2000-2017.
•        Consultant, Inter-American Development Bank, 2013.
•      Consultant, Andean Development Corporation, 2011-2012.
•       Founding Director, Youth Empowerment Network Ltd, since 2012.
•       Psychotherapist, and Counsellor, since 2011.

Government of Victoria

•        Special Advisor, Latin America, 2014-2016,
•       Periodic Adviser, Latin America, 2008-2013.
•       Key Adviser, Melbourne Latin America Education Symposium, 2014.
•       Key Advisor, Ministerial Education Mission to Latin America, 2015.

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

•        Ambassador to Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and the Dominican Republic, 1996-2000.
•       Head, Trade, Strategy and Business Affairs Branch, Economic and Business Affairs Division, 1994-1995.
•        Convenor, National Trade and Investment Outlook Conference, 1994, 1995, and 1996.
•        Counsellor, Australian Embassy Paris, France, 1991-1993.
•        Director of Staffing, 1989-1990.
•       Law of the Sea and Antarctica Section, Canberra, 1986-1988.
•       First Secretary / Charge d’Affaires, Brasilia, 1984-1986.
•       Third Secretary, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 1975-1977.

Publications

•        Co-author, Doing Business in Mexico: A Practical Guide on How to Break Into the Market, 2002.

His family told J-Wire: “Roger believed that a pre-condition for doing business in Latin America was to spend time getting to know potential clients before talking business and wherever possible to employ humour to help break the ice.

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 Andy GILD, VIC

For service to the community through charitable organisations.

 

Bicycles for Humanity (B4H) Melbourne

• Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, since 2008.
• Former Vice-President, Treasurer and President.

 

Career

• Principal, On the Move: Health and Wellbeing Coaching, since 2014.
• Health and Wellness Coach Facilitator, East Team, Synergy Global Pty Ltd, since 2020.
• Health Coach, Modern Health, since 2019.
• Physiotherapist, Peninsula Sports Medicine Group, 2004-2013.
• Various physiotherapist roles, 1992-2004.

Andy Gild told J-Wire: “I am honoured to be named amongst those receiving an OAM this year. Creating a thriving and sustainable Not For Profit is something that one person alone can’t achieve. This award is truly a testament to the passion, hard work and dedication from everyone in the Bicycles for Humanity (B4H) team and is something that I know my friend and B4H co-founder, the late Matt McCullough, would be so proud.

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Daniel Ange HAKIM, Israel

For service to the international community through a range of roles.

Karate

• Founder and Chairman, Budo for Peace, since 2004, current.
• Chief Instructor, Shotokan Karate-Do International Federation, Israel, current.
• Founding Chair and Board Member, Kids Kicking Cancer Israel, current.
• Represented Australia, Japan and Israel in international competitions.
• Two-time world karate silver medallist for Australia.
• 7th-degree black belt from Grandmaster H. Kanazawa in Japan.
• Special advisor to the International Centre of Martial Arts for Youth Development and Engagement under the auspices of UNESCO, current.
• Founder, Hakoah Bondi Karate Club, Sydney, 1976.

Peace 

• Board Member, Alliance for Middle East Peace, current.
• Initiator and co-organiser with the Australian embassies in Beirut, Amman and Jerusalem- The Middle East Peace Run, 2014.
• Initiator and co-organiser, Run and Bike for Peace, (Gaza, Israel) 2017.
• Initiator and organiser, International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, 2019.

Sport

• Chairman, Israel Life Saving Federation, current.
• Secretariat Member, Maccabi World Union, current.
• Chairman, Sport for Social Change, current.
• Initiator and backbone, Sports for Social Impact Coalition, current.

Education and Culture

• Director of the Azrieli Foundation, Canada, current.
• Founding board member of the Heritage Center for Middle East and North African Jewry, current.
• Board member of the Jerusalem Psik Theatre company, current.

Film Production

• Creator and producer of the award-winning documentary, Shadya, Independent lens, PBS.
• Creator and producer of Ride Like an Anzac, ABC Compass program.

Other

• Initiator and organizer of the Anzac Ride 2017 commemorating 100th Anniversary of Anzac Battle of Beersheba.
• Organiser of the annual Anzac Bike Ride commemorating the 1917 Anzac victory at the Battle of Beersheba.
• Former leader of the Betar Youth Movement, NSW.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Sylvan Adams Bonei Zion Award (Builder of Zion) for Culture, Arts and Sport, 2019.
• Regional NGO of the Year Award, Peace and Sport Awards, Rhodes, 2018.
• Hall of Fame, Maccabi NSW, 2017.
• Documentary Shadya won Documentary of the Year, Buster Copenhagen International Film Festival for Children and Youth, 2006; International Documentary Film Amsterdam (IDFA) festival, 2005 Golden Movie Squad; Docaviv, 2005 Best documentary of the year, Israel; Human Rights Watch Film Festival USA.
• Australian Jewish Sportsman of the Year, 1991.

Publications:

• The Times of Israel blogger, 2016 – current.
• Budo’s potential for Peace – Breaking down barriers in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Bennet, A. (2005) Budo Perspectives (Vol 1). Kendo World Publications.

Danny Hakim made aliyah in 2000.

He told J-Wire: I’m really honored. I didn’t think that Australia would give awards for an Australian who is  doing something out of Australia. So, but the fact is that because I’m Australian and I grew up in multicultural Australia and that gave me the ideas and tools and confidence to adapt my thinking and to make an impact here in and in this region. So yes, I’m surprised and honored that that they do recognize Australia’s doing work abroad.”

Danny Hakim hopes to travel to Australia to receive his award and to bring with him his 91-yr-old mother.

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Myer Chil HERSZBERG, East St Kilda VIC 3183

For service to the Jewish community.

 

Community

• Advisory Board Member, Chessed Foundation, since 2017.
• Co-Founder, Keren Tov Charity Fund, 2005.
• President, Melbourne Chevra Kadisha, since 1995.
• Contributor, Hatzola.

 

Business

• Director, Herszberg Group of Companies, since 1960s.
• Former Director, H5 Group PL.
• Former Director, Infomedia.
• Founder, Jewish Employment Network, 2001.

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Jamie HYAMS, Ormond VIC 3204

For service to local government, and to the community of Glen Eira.

 

City of Glen Eira

• Mayor, 2018-2019, 2011-2012 and 2012-2013.
• Deputy Mayor, 2017-2018, 2010-2011.
• Councillor, 2008-2020, 2003-2005.
• Former Member, various council committees.

Community

• Member, Committee of Management, Glen Eira Adult Learning Centre, since 2016, Vice President since 2021.
• Former Vice-President, Glen Eira Residents’ Associations.
• Former Area Secretary, Area GEI53, Glen Eira Neighbourhood Watch.
• Former Committee Member, Ormond-McKinnon Branch, Bendigo Community Bank.
• Former Trustee, Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Trust.

Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council

• Senior Policy Analyst/Policy Analyst since 2000.
• Staff Writer, Australia/Israel Review publication since 2000.

City of Moorabbin Historical Society

• President, 2003-2011.
• Committee Member, since 2020.
• Life Member, 2018.

Maccabi Ajax Cricket Club

• President, 2007-2008.
• Former Committee Member.
• Captain, 3 seasons.
• Player and Member, since 1992.
• Life Member.

Professional – Other

• Former Executive Director, Maccabi Victoria, 1990s.
• Former Solicitor.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Mayor Emeritus, Municipal Association of Victoria, 2020.

Jamie Hyams told us: “It’s really nice to be acknowledged as you don’t make the contributions for the acknowledgement or for the awards but by the same token is very nice to be acknowledged.

My high point has been mayor of Glen Eira and Ira three times and for one incident my favourite was seeing seeing my grandmother became an Australian citizen at the ripe old age of 92.”

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Alan David JOFFE, Vaucluse NSW 2030

For service to the Jewish community.

 

Shalom Institute

• Board Member, 2005-2015.
• Former Honorary Treasurer.
• Former Chair, Sponsorship Committee.
• Volunteer Organiser, PJ Library.
• Volunteer, current.

Shalom Gamarada Trust

• Trustee, Shalom Gamarada Trust, since 2007.

COA Sydney

• Volunteer, 15 years.
• Recipient, Volunteering Award.

B’nai B’rith New South Wales

• Lead Organiser, Moving Forward Together Poster and Songwriting Competition, since 2004.
• Former Secretary, Education Taskforce.
• Former Chair, Harmony Day Celebrations.

Sir Moses Montefiore Jewish Home

• Volunteer Organiser, since 2016.
• Recipient, Volunteering Award.

Community

• Founder, Exploring Sydney Group, 2019.
• Founder, Bi-weekly walking group, 2008.
• Founder, Bi-monthly book club, 2020.
• Volunteer, Emanuel Synagogue.
• Volunteer, National Council of Jewish Women of Australia.
• Former Volunteer, Australian Business Volunteers Project.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Award for Outstanding Achievement in Community Service, New South Wales Seniors Week, 2012.
• Volunteer of the Year Award, Jewish Community Association.
• Volunteering Award, Community Relations Commission, New South Wales Government.
• Volunteering Award, B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission.

Alan Joffe said: “I am, of course, delighted to receive my award today – it is the cherry on the top of all the wonderful volunteer work I have done over the years and the recognition is greatly appreciated.

I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to give back to the community. I have found it very fulfilling and meaningful and recognise that this has not happened in a vacuum.

There is an old African quotation which says “If we stand tall it is because we stand on the shoulders of many ancestors”. Today I feel that the quotation should be “If I stand tall it is because I stand on the shoulders of my many friends who have helped along the way.”

My reason for saying this is that my volunteering over the years can be mostly regarded as the accumulation of efforts associated with many meaningful projects covering a wide variety of organisations including Shalom, Shalom Gamarada – Indigenous Residential Scholarship Program, COA Meals on Wheels, Harmony Day Poster and Song Writing Competitions, Montefiore, NCJW. Without the support and generously given time of my many friends none of my projects would have happened, so I am the lucky person who is standing on top of my friends’ shoulders.

The credit for thinking of submitting my name for the award goes to my late wife Molly who was a big supporter of all my volunteer efforts, and herself a dedicated COA volunteer for many years. She enlisted our daughter, Sharon, to assist her. My thanks go to Sharon for all her hard work and persistence. Fortunately, Sharon was able to share the news of my award with Molly shortly before she passed away. How I wish that Molly could be here today to share the pleasure of the occasion with all of us.”

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Robert PATAKI, Caulfield North VIC 3161

For service to the design industry.

 

Neo Group of Companies

• Managing Director, NeoTechnics, since 1987.
• Co-Managing Director, Neo Design Synergy, 1966-1998.
• Co-Managing Director, NeoProducts, 1988-1994.

Design Institute of Australia

• Former Company Secretary, 14 years.
• Life Fellow, 2012.
• Fellow, 1985.
• Member, since 1978.
• Honorary National Treasurer.
• Former Councillor, Victoria.

Industrial Design Business Group

• Founder, 1991.

PA Design Consulting

• Founder, 1981.

Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

• Part-time Lecturer, 1978-1983.
• Member, Course Advisory Committee.
• Mentor, Mentoring Program.

Education

• Chairman, Course Advisory Committee, Design, Monash University.
• Member, Course Advisory Committee, Swinburne University of Technology.

Associations

• Committee Member, Victorian Chapter, Industrial Design Council of Australia.
• Member, Academy of Design (now LCI Melbourne).

Awards and Recognition

• Hall of Fame Inductee, Design Institute of Australia, 2007.
• Prince Phillip Prize for Australian Design, 1986.
• Australian Design Award, 1985.

A family member told J-Wire: Our family is very proud of Rob for receiving this honour in recognition of his input to design in Australia When told of the award, Rob felt that he wasn’t worthy , that others were more deserving .

Apart from  his success as a designer and business man, he always give his time freely to mentoring young designers and entrepreneurs, serving on course advisory committees, state and federal design institutes, judging committees etc.

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Dr Arnold SHMERLING, Caulfield VIC 3161

For service to the Jewish community.

Stand Up: Jewish Commitment to a Better World

• Chairman, 2014-2019.
• Past Treasurer.
• Board Member, since 1994.
• Co-Founder, 1994.

Other

• Member, Caulfield Hebrew Congregation, current.
• Founding Member, (then) Melbourne City Harvest, 2001-2004 (now known as FareShare).
• School Council Member, Yavneh College, 2003-2006.

Professional

• General Practitioner, Private Practice, Wheelers Hill Clinic, since 1989.
• Fellow, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, since 1987.
• Founding Member, South-Eastern Journal Group, 31 years.
• Past Senior Lecturer, Department of General Practice, Monash University.

Arnold Shmerling told us: “Stand Up: Jewish Commitment to a Better World was founded in 1994 in response to the Rwandan genocide. A group of us wanted to respond in some concrete way to this disaster, but to do so in a distinctively Jewish way, and hence launched a community appeal. Our community responded wholeheartedly and we quickly realised that there was a wellspring of passion, talent and commitment within our Australian Jewish community which could be tapped to make our general society better, and that this could most effectively be done as a collective unit. Stand Up’s mission is to mobilise the considerable energy and capacity of our local Jewish community and harness it towards the goal of an Australia where everyone has an opportunity to maximize his or her potential.

We function in three major areas- working with a) First Nations people, especially in remote communities like Toomelah and Boggabilla on the NSW/Queensland border

1. b) Refugee groups which have in the main come from Sudan and South Sudan
2. c) Jewish education, we want to touch everyone in our Jewish community, especially the young, and infuse them with a passion for social justice. For years we have run very successful Bnei Mitzvah programs in Melbourne and Sydney, and we are on the cusp of embedding ambitious programs about social justice within the curricula of multiple Jewish day schools.

Additionally, we run emergency appeals for major world and local crises. These include Rwanda, the tsunami, and many other crises over the years. Most recently we raised a huge amount of money in response to the devastating bushfires of 2019/20 in NSW and Victoria.

Volunteering gives much joy and satisfaction, and living in a household where my wife Lane is also a very dedicated volunteer allows me to fit in the volunteering along all the other aspects of my life.”

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Helena Lane SHMERLING, Caulfield VIC 3161

For service to the community through a range of roles.

Community Information and Support Glen Eira

• Volunteer and Volunteer Roster Coordinator, current.
• President, mid-2010s.
• Past Vice-President.
• Committee Member, since 1994.
• Life Member.

Other

• Founding Volunteer, Melbourne City Harvest (now FareShare), 2001-2004.
• Co-Founder, Stand Up: Jewish Commitment to a Better World, 1994 and Volunteer, since 1994.
• School Council Member, Yavneh College, 2007-2010 and Volunteer, Parents’ Organisation, mid 1990s-2010.
• Volunteer, Status of Women Committee, National Council of Jewish Women, 1990s-2004.

Professional

• Speech Pathologist, Windsor Primary School (formerly known as Stonnington Primary School), current.
• Speech Pathologist, Private Practice, Delta Centre and Wheelers Hill Clinic, since 1993.

Awards and recognition include:

• Volunteer Recognition Program, Glen Eira City Council.
• Caulfield Volunteer Award, David Southwick MP.

Lane Shmerling added:”I’m humbled by this honour. My volunteering gives me a lot of satisfaction. I incorporate volunteering into my weekly routine of family & work as a Speech Pathologist.

Volunteering is an ethos in our family and Arnold (my husband) is very dedicated to Stand Up and our 3 kids have all volunteered.

I’ve been inspired by my parents who both volunteered and who were both refugees after the Holocaust.

I’ve been volunteering 29 years at Community Information and Support Glen Eira. I’m honoured to give back to the local community I grew up in, providing services to the vulnerable members of Glen Eira. We give out food parcels, food vouchers, toiletries, nappies, utilities relief, tenancy support and advocacy in a warm, confidential environment.

I joined the board for a few years to affect change and was president for a number of years.

I was a founding member and am a grassroots volunteer for 27 years with Stand Up, which is a Jewish Social Justice organisation reaching out to local communities.

Stand Up is committed to First Nations communities, refugee communities, and Jewish education. I’ve been on the board. I’m a long term volunteer with the refugee community.

In my work as a Speech Pathologist with children, I also mentor students, young graduates as well as adults re-entering the career and do pro bono work with asylum seekers requiring speech therapy services they cannot otherwise access.

I was on the Yavneh College Parents’ Association while my 3 children attended school.”

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

Report prepared by Elana Bowman and Henry Benjamin