2023 Australia Day Awards: The Jewish Recipients

We thought the times had changed, but these awards show a regressive streak, with only one woman out of the 24 honourees. And there is no competition between the two major States, with Victoria scoring three times as many gongs as NSW.

Honourees include two faces well-known through television, a cricket great, one for Jewish media and a raft of awards for our sons, the doctors.

 

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

Emeritus Professor Robert Michael MANNE, Cottlesbridge VIC 3099

For distinguished service to tertiary education, to political and social commentary, to public affairs, and to the Indigenous community.

La Trobe University

• Emeritus Professor, Vice-Chancellor’s Fellow, since 2013.
• Convenor, Ideas and Society Program, since 2009.
• Professor of Politics, 1995-2013.
• Lecturer, 1975.

Author

• On Borrowed Time, Melbourne: Black Inc., 2018.
• The Mind of the Islamic State: Milestones Along the Road to Hell, Melbourne: Black Inc. Prometheus Press, New York, 2017.
• Cypherpunk Revolutionary: On Julian Assange ,Melbourne: Black Inc., 2015.
• The Best Australian Essays 2014, Melbourne: Black Inc., 2014.
• The Best Australian Essays 2013, Melbourne: Black Inc., 2013.
• Co-Author, The Words that Made Australia: How a Nation Came to Know Itself. Melbourne: Black Inc., 2012.
• Making Trouble: Essays Against the New Australian Complacency,Melbourne: Black Inc., 2011.
• Co-Author, Goodbye to All That? On the Failure of Neo-Liberalism and the Urgency of Change,Melbourne: Black Inc., 2010.
• W. E. H. Stanner, The Dreaming and Other Essays,Melbourne: Black Inc. ,2009.
• “On the Political Corruptions of a Moral Universal,” in Jeffrey C. Alexander, ed. Remembering the Holocaust, (2009) Oxford New York: Oxford University Press, 2009.
• Dear Mr Rudd: Ideas for a Better Australia,Melbourne: Black Inc., 2008.
• Reflected Light: La Trobe Essays,Melbourne: Black Inc., 2006.
• Do Not Disturb: Is the Media Failing Australia?,Schwartz Publishing, 2005.
• Left, Right, Left: Political Essays 1977-2005,Schwartz Publishing, 2005.
• The Howard Years,Melbourne: Black Inc./Schwartz Publishing, 2004.
• “Aboriginal Child Removal and the Question of Genocide, 1900-1940,” in A. Dirk Moses, ed, (2004) Genocide and Settler Society, Frontier Violence and Stolen Indigenous Children in Australian History, New York, Oxford: Berghahn Books, 2004.
• Whitewash. On Keith Windschuttle’s Fabrication of Aboriginal History, Melbourne: Black Inc., 2003.
• The Barren Years: John Howard and Australian political culture,Melbourne: Text Publishing, 2001.
• The Australian Century: Political Struggle in the Building of a Nation, Melbourne: Text Publishing, 1999.
• The Culture of Forgetting: Helen Demidenko and the Holocaust,Melbourne: Text Inc., 1996.
• The Shadow of 1917: Cold War Conflict in Australia,Text Publishing, 1994.
• Shutdown: The Failure of Economic Rationalism and How to Rescue Australia, Melbourne: Text Inc, 1992.
• The Way We Live Now: Controversies of the 90’s,Melbourne: Text Publishing, 1998.
• The Petrov Affair: Politics and Espionage,Sydney: Pergamon Press, 1987.
• The New Conservatism in Australia,Melbourne: Oxford University Press, 1983.

Political and Social Commentator

• Author of a number of peer-reviewed political essays and articles for journals and magazines, including The Guardian, The Monthly and The Conversation.
• Regular columnist for newspapers including The Melbourne Herald, The Australian, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.
• Chair, Editorial board, The Monthly, 2006-2011.
• Editor, Quadrant, 1989-1997.

Community

• Regular commentator on public affairs for the ABC.
• Chair, The Australian Book Review.
• Board Member, Stolen Generations Taskforce in Victoria, Government of Victoria.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Fellow, Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, 1999.
• Voted Australia’s leading public intellectual, Sydney Morning Herald, 2005.

Political and Social Commentator

• Author of a number of peer-reviewed political essays and articles for journals and magazines including The Guardian, The Monthly and The Conversation.
• Regular columnist for newspapers including The Melbourne Herald, The Australian, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.
• Chair, Editorial board, The Monthly, 2006-2011.
• Editor, Quadrant, 1989-1997.

Community

• Regular commentator on public affairs for the ABC.
• Chair, The Australian Book Review.
• Board Member, Stolen Generations Taskforce in Victoria, Government of Victoria.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Fellow, Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, 1999.

Voted Australia’s leading public intellectual, Sydney Morning Herald, 2005

“I am extremely pleased to be given this award,” Rob Manne told J-Wire.

“As the child of refugee parents who fled from Nazi rule in Germany and Austria, I have felt gratitude throughout my life to Australia. It matters to me that my often controversial career as a commentator is recognised as having made a positive contribution to this country. 

There are two professional areas of which I am proud.  

One is as a university teacher over the span of almost forty years. I have introduced many students to the political history of twentieth-century Europe and have tried to show them that for understanding both head and heart are needed.

 The second area, for which I am better known, has been as a so-called “public intellectual”, having made contributions, as author and editor, to an understanding of the Australian Cold War, to aspects of the cruelty of the dispossession of the indigenous population, and to the one antisemitic accident in our literary culture, the awarding of the Miles Franklin Prize to a fake Ukrainian author, Helen Demidenko.” 

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

Emeritus Professor Claude Charles BERNARD, Balwyn North VIC 3104

For significant service to medical research, and to education.

Monash University

• Emeritus Professor and Board Member, Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), since 2018.
• Interim Deputy Director, ARMI, 2016-2018.
• Lecturer in Human Pathology, 2006-2018.

La Trobe University

• Chair in Genetics, 2003-2005.
• Lecturer in Psychobiology, 1991-1999.
• Professor of Neuroimmunology, 1990.
• Research Fellow, La Trobe University, 1979-1980.

Brain Behaviour Research Institute, La Trobe University

• Personal Chair, 2000.
• Director, 1993-1999.
• Deputy Chairman and Executive Member, 1981-1990.

MS Australia

• Member, Autologous Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (AHSCT) Registry Steering Committee, current.
• Member, Medical and Scientific Advisory Board, 1990-1996.

Research

• Member, Experts in Residence program, CCRM Australia, current.
• Recipient, four project grants, Australian Research Council, 2008.
• Grant Committee Member, Health Research Council of New Zealand, 2006-2008.
• Member, Medical and Scientific Committee, Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria, 1990-1996.
• Member, Merck Sharp and Dohme Research Foundation, 1995-1996.
• Founding Member, International Executive Committee, International Society for Neuroimmunology, 1987.
• Research Fellow, Clinical Research Unit, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI), 1973-1977.
• Member, Basel Institute for Immunology, Roche Pharmaceuticals, Switzerland, 1977-1979.
• Biologist, National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), Paris France, 1964-1969.

National Health and Medical Research Council

• Principal Research Fellow, 1987-1990.
• Senior Research Fellow, 1981-1986.
• Chief Investigator, 18 funded grants, since 1986.
• External Reviewer, ongoing.

Publications and Scientific Review

• Editor, Journal of Neuroimmunology, United Kingdom, current.
• Editor, Multiple Sclerosis International, United States of America, current.
• Editor, Immunology and Cell Biology, Australia, current.
• Published over 300 scientific papers and contributed 25 book chapters.
• External Scientific Reviewer for a range of MS organisations in Australia, United States of America, Canada and Italy.

Stanford University United States of America

• Visiting Professor, Departments of Neurology and Neurosciences, 2003-2004.
• Visiting Professor, Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, 1990-1991.

University of California San Francisco Parnassus Campus (UCSF)

• Distinguished Visiting Professor, Department of Neurology, 2004-2005.
• Fulbright Scholar, Department of Neurology, 1998-1999.

Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel

• Visiting Scientist, 1985.
• Member, Weizmann Institute Fund Committee, Australian Academy of Science, 1984-1988.

Education Positions – Other

• Guest Professor, Bayi Brain Hospital, General Hospital of Beijing Military Command, Beijing China, 2011-2014.
• Guest Professor, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China, 2011-2014.
• Invited Professor, Laboratoire d’Immunologie, Faculte de Medecine de Nancy, France, 1998.
• Visiting Professor, Departments of Neurology and Neurosciences, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, 1998.
• Lecturer in Pathology, University of Melbourne, 1990-1997.

International Behavioural Neuroscience Society

• Fellow, 1995.
• Councillor and Founding Member, Executive Committee, 1992.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Chuncheng Friendship Award, Kumning Municipal People’s Government, China, 2019.
• Yunnan Friendship Award, Yunnan Municipal People’s Government, China, 2019.
• ST Huang Chan Memorial Award, University of Hong Kong, 2010.
• Bethlehem Griffiths Research Foundation Medal, 2004.

For Claude Bernard, the Award means recognition from colleagues, people he describes as a group of very motivated scientists working to help people with neurological disorders.

“We have been working to alleviate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS)” he told J-Wire.

Professor Bernard said it has been fortunate that they have been able to develop a model which has helped the international scientific community to develop new drugs for the treatment of MS.

It was important to get these drugs accepted by authorities like the FDA.

He is also proud of all the pro bono work he has undertaken in different parts of the world, especially in India and China.

“To be able to share the excitement and discoveries with my overseas colleagues has been great as well as helping younger colleagues make their mark in this field,” he said.

He believes that it is important to communicate with MS patients, working with organisations such as MS Australia, to let patients know that they are not alone, that scientists are trying to find ways to help them.

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Professor Martin DELATYCKI, Hawthorn VIC 3122

For significant service to medicine, to genetic research, and to education.

Mackenzie’s Mission, Australian Genomics

• Co-Lead Investigator, Chair, Research Committee, and Co-Chair, Clinical Committee, since 2018.

Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital

• Clinical Geneticist and Medical Director, Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, since 1997.
• Co-Director, Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, since 2003.
• Member, POSSUMweb – dysmorphology database, current.
• Lead Investigator, Mi-Iron study, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
• Investigator, TRACK-FA study, Friedreich Ataxia Research Alliance, United States of America, current.

University of Melbourne

• Honorary Professor, Faculty of Medicine, current.

Monash University

• Honorary Professor, current.
• Member, Australian Genetics and Life Insurance Moratorium, current.

Human Genetics Society of Australasia

• Member, PRNP Genetic Testing Working Group, current.
• Representative, Genomics Advisory Working Group, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, since 2018.
• Chair, Australasian Association of Clinical Geneticists, 1998-2002.

Haemochromatosis International

• Member, Joint Scientific Committee, current.

Haemochromatosis Australia

• Member, Medical and Scientific Advisory Panel, since 2012.
• Conference Presenter and Co-Organiser, since 2014.
• Media Presenter, author and content provider, current.

The Australian Society for Medical Research

• Member, current.
• Board Member, c2006-2009.

Other

• Fellow, Royal Australasian College Physicians, current.
• Author or co-author, over 350 publications. 

Awards and Recognition include:

• Bronya Keats International Research Collaboration Award, Friedreich Ataxia Research Alliance, 2013.
• Paul Harris Fellowship, Rotary Australia, 2012.
• Kyle Bryant Translational Research Award, Friedreich Ataxia Research Alliance, 2010.
• 10 of the Best, National Health and Medical Research Council, Haemscreen Project, 2005.

“I feel touched that people have taken the time to nominate me for this Award.

“I don’t know who is responsible, but I do appreciate it”, Martin told J-Wire.

He is most proud of the research he and his team have done and the genetic screening programs he has helped set up, including reproductive screening in the Jewish community.

“I am also proud of the PhD students I have supervised who have gone on to become leaders in their field,” he said.

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Sylvia HOFFMAN, Coolbinia WA 6050

For significant service to the Jewish community.

Ardross Group of Companies

• Co-Founder, 1957.
• Director, Current.

Carmel School

• Philanthropic Endeavours, 1991-2009.
• School Library, 1996.
• Official renaming to H and S Hoffman and G Korsunski Carmel School, 2008.
• Provided funding to build the Kadima Building for visual and performing arts, 2009.

Philanthropy

• Sponsor, Western Australian Symphony Orchestra.
• Sponsor, Property Education Foundation.
• Supporter, United Israel Appeal.
• Supporter, Leadership Western Australia.
• Sponsor, Wesley College.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Honorary Fellowships of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 2007.”

“It is a great honour to be given this award,” said Sylvia Hoffman.

“I am a very old woman now, and it is lovely to be considered good enough to get it.  It’s a big thing for me” 

She recalled the times her late husband, Harry, who passed away recently, was awarded Honours and attended the ceremonies with him.

“We worked together, it was good to keep busy,” she said.

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Dr Melvyn Gabriel KORMAN, Toorak VIC 3142

For significant service to gastroenterological and hepatological medicine.

Gut Foundation of Australia

• Treasurer, 1980-1994.
• Board Member, since 1980.

Gastroenterological Society of Australia

• Honorary Treasurer, 1979-1984.
• Council Member, 1977-1984.
• Chairman, National Programme Committee, 1980-1984.
• Member, since 1971.

Researcher

• Co-Developer, Gastrin Radioimmunoassay.
• Researcher, Gastrin, Bile Acids, Antacid medicines and Gastro-Oesophageal Haemorrhages.

Committee and Advisory Roles

• Director, Australasian Gastro Intestinal Research Foundation, since 2008.
• Member, International Medical Advisory Board, Chugai Pharmaceuticals, Tokyo, Japan, 1990s.
• Member, International Medical Advisory Board, SmithKline Beecham, London, United Kingdom, 1986-1992.

Monash Medical Centre, Monash Health

• Emeritus Director, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, since 2007.
• Director, Gastroenterology Unit, 1991-2005.

Monash University

• Associate Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine, since 1991.
• Honorary Senior Lecturer, Department of Medicine, 1977-1991.
• Senior Lecturer in Medicine, 1974-1977.

Prince Henry’s Hospital, Melbourne

• Director, Gastroenterology Unit, 1974-1991.
• Physician, 1974-1977.
• Postgraduate Scholar, National Health and Medical Research Council, Department of Medicine, 1970-1972.
• Registrar, Department of Medicine, 1969.

Medicine – Other

• Instructor, Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1974.
• Mayo Research Fellow, Gastrointestinal Unit, Mayo Clinic, United States of America, 1973-1974.
• Lilly International Fellow for Australia, 1972-1973.

Member/Fellowships

• Member, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, since 1969.
• Member, International Association for the Study of the Liver, since 1978.
• Member, Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver, since 1979.
• Member, American Association for the Study of Liver Disease, since 1979.
• Member, American Gastroenterological Association, since 1979.
• Fellow, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, 1974.

Publications/Editorial

• Author, various books and book chapters.
• Member, Editorial Advisory Board, Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 1982.
• Member, Editorial Board, Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology 1990s.
• Member, Editorial Board, American Journal of Gastroenterology, 1990s.
• Member, Editorial Advisory Board, Australian New Zealand Journal of Medicine, 1980-1983.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Kate Campbell Prize in Neonatal Paediatrics, University of Melbourne.

“I feel honoured and extremely humbled to be recognised for my service to medicine,” Melvyn Korman told J-Wire.

With over 50 years in his field, he has held multiple roles at Prince Henry’s Hospital, The Mayo Clinic, Monash University, Monash Health, Council of the GE Society of Australia,  Gastroenterological Society of Australia, Gut Foundation and Melbourne Endoscopy and is a member of International Advisory Boards.

Korman helped to establish the Melbourne Endoscopy Group, which has played an integral role in bowel cancer education, screening, and prevention.

He has dedicated his life to the research of gastric physiology, gastrointestinal hormones, the effectiveness of acid-lowering drugs, GI bleeding and bowel cancer prevention.

Over the years, he has worked with many other professionals and believes this accomplishment is a tribute to all those with whom he has worked.

“I hope that my colleagues feel as proud as I do,” he said.

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Dr Michael David LEVITT, Perth WA 6000

For significant service to medical administration, and to professional associations.

Western Australian Department of Health

• Consultant Medical Director, Western Australian Country Health Service, since 2022.
• Chief Medical Officer, 2018-2021.
• Governing Council Member, North Metropolitan Area Health Service, 2012-2015.

Professional Associations

• Council Member, Australian Medical Association, Western Australia, 2003-2005.
• Sessional Member, Specialist Review Panel, State Administrative Tribunal, Western Australia, 2006-2014.
• Clinician Member, Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), Medical Board of Western Australia, since 2014.

St John of God Hospital Subiaco

• Board Member, St John of God Health Care, since 2016.
• Director of Clinical Training in Surgery, 2006-2015.
• Director Medical Services, 2005-2013.
• Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, 2001-2004, and Member, 2000-2013.
• Chairman, Advisory Committee, Tonkinson Colorectal Cancer Research Fund, since 2009.
• Clinical Staff Member, since 1990.

Osborne Park Hospital

• Medical Co-Director, 2015-2018
• Acting Medical Co-Director, 2014-2015.
• Clinical Head of Surgical Services, 2013-2014.
• Clinical Staff Member, 1992-2018.

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital

• Head, Department of General Surgery, 2004-2005.
• Medical Co-Director, Gastro-Renal Clinical Services Unit, 1998-2003.
• Sessional General Surgeon, Colorectal Surgical Service, 1990-2005.
• Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) Supervisor of Surgical Training, 1991-1997.

Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

• Conference Convenor, Annual Scientific Congress, 2010.
• Chairman, Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, 2004-2005, Secretary, 2003, and Committee Member, 1999-2005
• Member, Court of Examiners in General Surgery, 1997-2003.
• Convenor, Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Annual Scientific Congress, 1995.
• Fellow, 1988.

 Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand

• Chairman, Research Foundation, 2014-2015, Deputy Chairman, 2012-2014, and Member, 2004-2016.
• Member, since 1992.

Publications

• Member, Editorial Advisory Board, Colorectal Disease, 1999-2004.
• Member, Scientific Reviewer Panel, Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery, since 2000.
• Author, The Happy Bowel, 2018, The (Other) Women’s Movement, 2008, and The Bowel Book, 2002.

Western Australian Familial Polyposis Advisory Committee

• Chairman, 1999-2003.
• Member, 1993-2001.

Carmel School, Dianella

• President, School Council, 2002-2008.
• Member, Board of Management, 2000-2016.
• Board Governor, 2009-2016.
• Life Member, 2008.
• Chairman, Educational Foundation, 2008-2016.
• Member, Korsunski Charitable Trust, since 2010.

Perth Hebrew Congregation

• President, since 2019.
• Board Member, since 2017.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Centenary Medal, 2003.

Michael told us: “It is a big honour to be recognised, not for having done any one earth-shattering thing, but for the lots of small contributions that have accumulated over many years. 

“It’s especially humbling to receive an honour that has previously been extended to so many people I admire and regard as outstanding in their respective fields”

“I am most proud of the assistance I have been able to give to my colleagues, both Australian and International graduates, and often at the outset of their careers, in progressing through the system. They’ve all been capable people, but it has been a pleasure to offer them direction or advice in pursuit of their aspirations.” 

His voluntary work inside the Perth Jewish Community – Carmel School and the Perth Hebrew Congregation in particular – has been incredibly rewarding, and that has given him great pleasure,” he said. 

On Australia Day, he plans to celebrate by spending time at the pool and on the beach in Busselton with his three grandchildren. A quiet glass of champagne with his wife, Carolyn, and their own children (when the grandkids are all in bed) will smooth out the big day.

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Dr Norman Gabriel SWAN, NSW

For significant service to the broadcast media as a science and health commentator.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation – Radio National

• Broadcaster and Journalist, Science and Health, since 1982.
• Producer and Presenter, The Health Report, current.
• Co-Host, Coronacast Podcast, since 2020.
• General Manager, Radio National 1990-1993.
• Former Co-Host, Life Matters.
• Occasional host, RN Breakfast, Late Night Live, Saturday Extra.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation – Television

• Broadcaster and Journalist, Science and Health, since 1982.
• Health Reporter, 7:30 Report, current.
• Guest reporter, Four Corners, current.
• Commentator and analyst, ABC News, current.
• Presenter, Invisible Wars.
• Occasional host, The Virus.
• Co-Writer and Narrator, The Opposite Sex.

Broadcasting and Publications – Other

• Former Editor, Choice Health Reader.
• Co-Founder and Board Member, Tonic Media Network, since 2012.
• Former Columnist, The Age and Sydney Morning Herald.
• Former Correspondent, the British Medical Journal, and the Journal of the American Medical Association.
• Medical Host, The Biggest Loser, Channel Ten, six seasons.
• Writer and presenter, Invisible Enemies, Channel 4 (United Kingdom) and SBS, 1990.

Health – Other 

• Board Member, Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth, since 2005.
• Deputy Director, Melbourne Festival of Ideas, 2012-2013.
• Rapporteur, Research priority committee, World Health Organisation and the World Bank, early 1990s.
• Co-Chair, Global Health Minister’s Meeting, West Africa, 2009.
• Former Ambassador, Avner Foundation, (now Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation – PanKind).

Medicine

• Fellow, Royal College of Physicians (Glasgow), 2004.
• Member, Royal College of Physicians (United Kingdom), 1980.
• Founding Member, Social Issues Committee, Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Co-Winner, Barry Williams Award for Skeptical Journalism, Australian Skeptics, 2020.
• Gold Citation, Media Peace Awards, United Nations Association of Australia.
• Michael Daly Award for Science Journalism (twice), Australian Government.
• Gold Walkley, 1988, and three Walkley Awards.
• Honorary Doctor of Medicine, The University of Sydney, 2006.
• Academy Medal, Australian Academy of Science, 2004.
• Inaugural National Press Club Award for Medical Broadcasting, 2003.
• Media Awards, Colleges of Ophthalmology and General Practice.
• Australian Radio Producer of the Year, 1984.

There would no Australian not familiar with the name of Norman Swan. His ABC reports on the Coronavirus epidemic followed the unchartered waters long before vaccines were available.

But his reaction to being awarded an AM took him back to basics. He told J-Wire: “Who would have thought that a good Jewish boy from Glasgow would come to Australia for three years and stay for life would have received this award? This is a great honour.”

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Dr Michael TEDESCHI, Garran ACT 2605

For significant service to medicine, particularly to people with drug and alcohol dependency.

Addiction Medicine

• Physician, ACT Drug and Alcohol Service, Canberra Health Services, 1985-1989, and since 1993.
• Research Presenter, various national and international forums including the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and Other Drugs.

Medicine

• Senior Staff Specialist, Canberra Hospital, current.
• Fellow, Chapter of Addiction Medicine, RACP, since 2002.
• Fellow, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, since 1984.
• Former Deputy Chair, ACT Medical Board.
• Member, American Society of Addiction Medicine, since 2015.
• Medical Practitioner, Canberra Hospital (formerly Woden Valley Hospital) since 1979.

Australian National University (ANU) Medical School

• Clinical Senior Lecturer, Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, since 2004.
• Academic Supervisor, current.
• Part-Time General Practitioner, ANU Health Service, since 1998.

Australasian Chapter of Addiction Medicine, Royal Australasian College of Physicians

• Supervisor, Advanced Training in Addiction Medicine, since 2002.
• Member, Expert Advisory Group, Continuing Professional Development, 2008-2011.
• Member, Adult Medicine Sub-Committee, Continuing Professional Development, 2008-2011.
• Board Member, Continuing Professional Development, 2004-2007.
• Chair, Education Committee in Addiction Medicine, 2004-2005, and Member, 2004-2007.
• Member, Chapter Committee, 2003-2007.
• Foundation Chapter Fellowship, 2002.

Michael Tedeschi believes that this Award is a recognition of a challenging field of medicine -drug and alcohol dependency – and he is honoured to receive it.

“It’s a small medical specialty, and I have been working in it for 37 years.  I think that this is a recognition of the field itself,” he told J-Wire.

He has been delivering the drug and alcohol syllabus to ANU Medical School students since 2002.  He believes that if he has helped to make young doctors aware of the issues, then he is proud of that impact.

“As one doctor, I can only see a few people.

But if the doctors I have taught have become better able to deal with these complex issues, then I am very proud to have helped that many more patients and had more of an impact through my teaching than I could achieve by myself” he said.

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

Michael Nathan BARNETT, Ashwood VIC 3147

For service to the LGBTQI community.

Aleph Melbourne

• President / Co-Convenor, since 1997.

LGBTQI Community

• Secretary, Australian Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer Multicultural Council (AGMC), 2005-2008.
• Newsreader, Announcer and News Director, JOY Melbourne, 1996-2003.
• Participant and Contingent Coordinator, Midsumma Pride March, since 1997.
• Donated personal photographic library documenting events relating to the LGBTQI community, State Library Victoria.

An acknowledgement of his tireless work within his community over very many years is how Michael Barnett thinks about his nomination for an honour within the Order of Australia. “My efforts must have made an impact,” he says.

Motivated by “the relentless and pointless homophobic and transphobic intolerance” he sees and has experienced; Mr Barnett is concerned about the resulting alarming rates of suicide and mental health issues arising in vulnerable young people.

“It destroys families and communities.”

However, he says that there has been change. “Over the years of my advocacy and activism, I have seen Melbourne’s Jewish community become a beacon of LGBTIQ+ inclusion.”

He thanks his husband Gregory for his guidance and belief in him, and his family for their unconditional love.

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Harvey BRUCE, South Caulfield VIC 3162

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

South Caulfield Hebrew Congregation

• Board Member, 1976-2017.
• Gabbai (Warden), over 30 years.
• President, three years.
• Vice-President, five years.
• Honorary Gabbai (Warden), current.
• Member, Charity Loan Fund, current.

·       President, three years.

Council of Orthodox Synagogues Victoria

• Member, since 1990.
• Education and Outreach Coordinator.
• Board Member, current.

Other

• Former Executive Member, Australasian Union of Jewish Students (Victoria), 1968-1972.

Professional

• Consultant and Notary, Batten Sacks, since 2006.
• Principal, Harvey Bruce and Co, 1978-2006.
• Member, Law Institute of Victoria, since 1973.
• Fellow, Society of Notaries Victoria, since 1990.
• Fellow, Australian and New Zealand College of Notaries.

For Harvey Bruce, his 46 years of involvement with South Caulfield Congregation is a labour of love.

“I have been a member of the shul since I was four, so it has been part of my life for over 70 years,” he told J-Wire.

He is disappointed that he will probably be in Israel when the official Awards ceremony takes place.

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Garry FABIAN, Caulfield South VIC 3162

For service to the community through a range of organisations.

Jewish Community

• Board Member, Victorian Association of Jewish Ex and Servicemen and Women Australia (VAJEX).
• Volunteer, Jewish Holocaust Centre, since 2021.
• Former Chairman and current member, B’nai B’rith Victoria.

Writer

• Journalist and Editor, Courage to Care (Victoria) Incorporated, since 2005.
• Autobiography, ‘A Look Back Over my Shoulder’, 2002.
• Senior Partner, RealWrite Media Consultants, since 2000.

Community

• Former President, Rotary Club of Glen Eira.
• Member, University of the Third Age.

Ex-Servicemen’s Organisations

• Volunteer, Shrine of Remembrance.
• Member, Monash sub-branch, Victorian Branch, National Serviceman’s Association of Australia.
• Member, Royal Australian Naval Reserve,1956-1960.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Order of Merit, Federal Republic of Germany, 2021.

A modest man, Garry Fabian is surprised that he has been included in the Australia Day Awards.

“When I look at people who have been given awards before, I wonder what I am doing there,” he told J-Wire.

“I suppose if you hang around long enough, things happen,” he said.

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Adrian FACTOR, Hawthorn East VIC 3123

For service to the Jewish community, and to music.

Community

• Volunteer, Melbourne Holocaust Museum, current.
• Australian Army, 1941-1945.

Music

• Former Leader of Violins, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
• Violin Tutor, Haileybury College, 1971-1981.

“I have had a very interesting life and to be given an OAM  is a confirmation that my achievements have been recognised during my lifetime,” Adrian Factor told J-Wire.

He intends celebrating with his family.

“I have never wanted to slow down.  Every day I practice my violin, I never overeat and enjoy the company of my friends.  I am very content” he said.

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Dr Hugo GOLD, St Kilda East VIC 3183

For service to medicine.

The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne

• Consultant Physician, 1987-2014.
• Board Member, The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation, 2004-2012.
• Chair, Clinical Advisory Board, 2006-2011.
• Chair, Medical Staff Association, 1998-2000.
• Physician and Head of Unit, 1988-2010.
• Outpatient Physician, Dr Elizabeth Turner’s Unit, 1969-1975.
• Junior Resident Medical Officer, 1962.

Children’s Bioethics Centre, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne

• Committee Member, current.
• Clinical Director, 2008-2014.
• Patron, Development Board, current.

Other

• Senior Paediatrician, Footscray-Western General Hospital, 1969-2008.
• Head of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Monash Medical Centre, 1982-1988.
• Former Chair, Committee of Chairs, Victorian Branch, Australian Medical Association.
• Senior Consultant Paediatrician, Queen Victoria Hospital, 1975-1982.
• Member, Caulfield Hebrew Congregation, current.

Awards and Recognition includes:

• Fellow, Academy of Clinical Teachers, University of Melbourne, 2015.
• Elizabeth Turner Medal, The Royal Children’s Hospital, 2013.
• Gold Medal, The Royal Children’s Hospital, 2008.

“I am very honoured and humbled to receive this Award. On the personal level, it is an acknowledgement that I have been involved in something worthwhile,” Dr Gold told J-Wire.

He said it has been his privilege to serve the community. The two areas he is proud to have been involved with have been the early introduction of bioethics into Australia and the screening of newborns for thyroid deficiency, and the use of growth hormones to treat dwarfism.

“The early treatment and use of growth hormones made a great difference to the children and families where thyroid deficiency was discovered,” he said.

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Leonard George GROSS, St Kilda East VIC 3183

For service to the community through a range of roles.

Access Inc.

• Patron, since 2013.
• Fundraising President, 2000-2010.
• Mentor, Life Coach and Counsellor, since 2006.

Maccabi Ajax

• Coach, 10 years.
• Founding Member, Past Players Association, 2003.

Other

• Founder and Director, Positive Directions, current.
• Owner, Lenny’s Deli, since 1994.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Citizen of the Year, Glen Eira City Council, 2009.
• Bnai Brith Menorah Award, 2008.
• Community Recognition Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2006.

Lenny Gross said he is genuinely surprised and humbled to be given this Award.

“It is recognition for the work my family and I have attempted to do. We try to help people move forward with their lives,” he said.

He has been involved for 30 years in both voluntary and non-voluntary work and said it’s touching to be so honoured.

Together with his wife, Jannine Gross and daughters, Samantha Rath and Mindy Gross, their teamwork is centred around trying to help people in different areas, from work to social life, to enrich their lives.

“Helping people to work out their goals and helping them achieve those goals is something we do as a team,” he said.

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Clinical Associate Professor Edwin HARARI, Fitzroy VIC 3065

For service to medicine as a psychiatrist.

Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists

• Former Member, Editorial Board, Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 10 years.
• Member, St Vincent Mental Health and The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) Supervisor Peer Review Group, current.
• Member, St Vincent’s Psychotherapy Group, current.
• Member, Como Group, current.
• Member, various committees, 1998-2018.
• Member, since 1976.

Professional

• Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, current.
• Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Mental Health Services, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, 40 years.

Edwin Harari told J-Wire: “I take it as an acknowledgement that I’ve tried over many years to teach medical students, trainee psychiatrists and psychologists how not to retreat emotionally from patients. That’s often more easily said than done in a clinical context.

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Professor Chyrisse HEINE, VIC

For service to speech pathology.

 

Speech and Hearing Project

• Founder and Director, since 2018.

Speech Pathology Australia

• Accreditor of University courses, since 2021.
• Hearing Health Alliance representing Speech Pathology Australia, since 2021.
• Vice President (Communications), 2020-2021.
• Director, 2015-2021.
• Member, Professional Standards Advisory Committee, 2019-2020.
• Member, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, 2017-2019.
• Member, Governance Committee, 2016-2017.
• Member, Steering Committee 2030, 2015-2016.
• Member, Aged Care Working Party, 2015-2019.
• Fellow, since 2010.
• Member, Professional Self-Regulation Program, since 2002.
• Member, Private Practitioners Association/ Private Practice Members Network, since 2006.

Professional – Other

• Discipline Lead Speech Pathology, Federation University Australia, since 2021.
• Member, Victorian Aboriginal State Ear and Speech Health Group, since 2019.
• Director, Chyrisse Heine and Associates, since 2002.
• Member, Independent Audiologists Australia, 2012-2019.
• Member, Audiology Australia, since 1988.
• Director, Speech Language Hearing Centre, 1991-1994.
• Range of Audiology/Speech Pathology roles, South Africa, 1982-1988.

Education

• Professor and Discipline Lead, Speech Pathology, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, since 2021.
• Lecturer, short course teaching, Danang University of Medical Technology and Pharmacy and University of Medicine and Pharmacy, in Ho Chi Minh City, 2021.
• Associate Professor and Former Lecturer, Speech Pathology, Department of Community and Clinical Allied Health, La Trobe University, 2000-2020, and 1990-1994 (formerly Lincoln School of Health Sciences).
• Associate Professor, Curriculum Development, University of Technology Sydney, 2018-2019.
• Unit Co-ordinator/Lecturer, Southern Cross University, 2014-2017.
• Sessional Lecturer, Charles Sturt University, 2015-2016 and 2003-2008.
• Senior Research Fellow, School of Primary Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, 2009-2014.

Research and Publications

• Research interests include Central Auditory Processing Disorder, age-related Dual Sensory Loss, hearing loss and its effect on communication and quality of life, student service learning programs and volunteering in majority-world countries.
• Co-Leader, Healthy Ageing Research Group, La Trobe University, 2016-2020.
• Member, Review Editorial Board, Frontiers in Public Health and Promotion, 2014-2020.
• Guest Editor, International Journal of Speech, Language Pathology, 2009-2010.
• Co-Editor, Acquiring Knowledge in Speech, Language and Hearing, 2005-2006.
• Co-Editor, Speech Pathology Australia Conference Proceedings, 2006-2008.

Cambodia

• Leader, Speech and Hearing Team, Cambodia Vision, since 2016.
• Volunteer, Speech Therapy Cambodia, 2016-2018.
• Senior Adviser, Cambodia Speech Therapy Program, Capacity Building for Disability Cooperation, Phnom Penh, 2013-2017.

Community – Other

• Speaker, Cambodian community in Victoria, since 2015.
• Volunteer, numerous organisations in Cambodia, since 2013.
• Board Member, Mount Scopus College, 1989-2006.

Chyrisee Heine told J-Wire: “It is an absolute honour to receive this award. As a migrant to this country, I never thought I would know anyone in my professions and to have had the opportunities I have had over the years is a privilege.

I have worked with students, impoverished communities, clients, families and broader communities and understand the importance of communication. The gift of giving far exceeds the giving itself and I am humbled to receive an award for something I am so passionate about.”

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Steve LIEBMANN, Cremorne NSW 2090

For service to the broadcast media as a journalist.

Television

• Host, Crime Investigation Australia, Foxtel, 2005-2010.
• Presenter, Ten Weekend news bulletins in Sydney, 2006.
• Co-Host, Today, Nine Network, Nine Network, 1990-2005, and 1981-1987.
• Anchor, TEN-10 Sydney’s Eyewitness News, 1987-1990.
• Host, 11AM program, Channel 7, 1976-1981 and Anchor, Sydney evening news.
• News Editor and On-Air Presenter, Channel Seven Sydney, c1967.
• Presenter, Counter-Terrorism Advertising Campaign, Australian Government, 2002-2003.

Radio 2UE

• Morning Show Host, 2009-2010.
• Former Director, News and Public Affairs.
• Senior Journalist, 1968 – 1976.

Radio

• Presenter, 2SM, c1976.
• Presenter, 2CA Canberra, 1962-1967.
• Former Part-Time Presenter, Cooma Radio 2XL.

Awards and Recognition include:

• News Presenter of the Year, Australian Commercial Radio Industry.
• Penguin Award, Special Recognition for Contribution to News.

I am still trying to get my head around it.  I am very grateful and very proud to receive this award,” said Steve Liebmann.

“I was in the business for 50 years before retiring.  Radio and television probably gave me more than I gave back.

“I am extremely chuffed,” he said.

The veteran broadcaster said that launching The Today Show in 1982 and staying anchor for 20 years was something of which he was most proud.

“I worked for media bosses who had a real passion for the business, and Liz Hayes and Tracy Grimshaw were great to work with.

“When the alarm went off at 3am, I was happy to get up and go to the studio. It wasn’t really work” he said. 

What is important to him is his 54 year marriage to Di and that their sons have grown up to be nice people.

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Jack MEISTER, Randwick NSW 2031

For service to the Jewish community of Sydney.

Sydney Jewish Museum

• Volunteer, since 1990s.
• Participant, March of the Living Delegation, Auschwitz-Birkenau, Poland, 2019.
• Member, Maccabean Hall, Sydney, circa 1950s-1990s.

Jack Meister has been a guide at the Sydney Jewish Museum for 30 years.

He is moved and inspired by his experience as a child survivor.

“I have never forgotten seeing the children being taken, the ones who didn’t make it when I was just a child myself.

That’s why I still volunteer,” he said.

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Moshe MEYDAN, VIC

For service to the community through charitable organisations.

Community

• Founder, Meydan Family Charitable Trust, since 2011.
• Major donor, various organisations including the Monash University Diabetes Complications Research Centre, Epworth Hospital, Cabrini Hospital, Yarra City Arts, and the Emmy Monash Aged Care.
• Member, Scopus Foundation, current.
• Donor, Room to Create Fund, City of Yarra, 2013-2014.
• Co-Founder and Supporter, Hamerkaz Centre, since 1999.

Business

• Chairman and Managing Director, Meydan Group, since 1982.

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David Paul MICHELSON, Caulfield VIC 3162

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

Zionism Victoria

• Vice-President, current.
• Security Chair, since 2002.
• Served in various roles over 30 years.

Community Security Group

• Security Advisor, Victoria, current.
• Security Chair, Beth Weizmann Jewish Community Centre, over 18 years.
• Security Chair, Lamm Jewish Library of Australia, current.

Jewish Community

• Volunteer, a range of Jewish community organisations including Chevrah Hatzolah, Maccabi Australia, Jewish Holocaust Museum and the Caulfield Hebrew Congregation, current.
• Co-Founder and Volunteer, Jewish Emergency Management Provider (JEMP), since 1998.
• Former Vice-President – Safety, and Club Advocate, Ajax Junior Football Club.

Community – Other

• Volunteer, a range of community organisations including Snowdome, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and the Southern Metropolitan Junior Football league, ongoing.
• Councillor, City of Caulfield, 1991-1994.

Victoria Police

• Police Officer, 1986-2004.
• National Service Medal, 2004.
• Victoria Police Service Medal 1st Clasp (15 years).
• Diligent and Ethical Service Medal, Victoria Police, 1997.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Community Services Award, Victorian Government, 2016.
• Distinguished Service Award, Zionist Council of Victoria (now Zionism Victoria), 2012.
• Distinguished Service Award, Ajax Junior Football Club, 2012.
• Distinguished Service Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2010.
• Certificate of Honour, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 1997.
• Certificate of Commendation, Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria, 1997.
• Crime Prevention Award, Victorian Government, 1996.
• Young Citizen of the Year, City of Caulfield, 1989.

“It is a great honour to receive this award,” David Michelson told J-Wire.

He said he has worked for the community in different capacities over a long period of time

“In a way, this will be nice for my family.  I have spent a long time away from home, so this is a recognition for many years of volunteering, and time away from them. It is great to be recognised” he said.

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Marshall Frederick ROSEN, Roseville Chase NSW 2069

For service to cricket.

CricketNSW

• Director, 2006-2019.
• State Selector, 2002-2012.
• Chair, Cricket Committee, 2013-2019.
• Member, Headquarters Relocation Committee, current.
• Manager, New South Wales Blues, Twenty20 Team, India Tour, 2009.
• Life Member, 2014.
• New South Wales Representative Player, Sheffield Shield, 1971-1975.

Gordon District Cricket Club

• Delegate, New South Wales Cricket and Sydney Cricket Associations, 1999-2019.
• Member, General and Executive Committees, 1998-2019.
• Club Selector, Chairman of Selectors and Occasional Chair, Cricket Committee, 1999-2019.
• 1st Grade Player, 1965-1980.
• Life Member, 2007.
• Volunteer, since 1965.

Cricket – Other

• Former Player, Maccabi New South Wales .
• Former Captain, Australian Cricket Team, Maccabiah Games, Israel, 1971.

Awards and Recognition:

• Inductee, Hall of Fame, Maccabi New South Wales , 2007.
• Lou Rose Sportsman of the Year Award, Maccabi NSW, 1971, 1972 and 1973.

There is a certain amount of pride in being acknowledged with an award but Marshall Rosen told J-Wire that he is also embarrassed to be nominated.

“I had no idea this would happen to me. I am not getting this for something heroic, just for doing something that I enjoy,” he said.

He plans to have lunch with his wife, Sue, on Australia Day.

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David Howard SHERR, Armadale VIC 3143

For service to the Jewish community of Melbourne.

Melbourne Hebrew Congregation

• President, 2004-2007 and 1991-1993.
• Board Member, 1982-2016.
• Vice President, 1989-1991 and 2014-2016.
• Treasurer, 1987-1989.
• Life Governor, resigned 2017.
• Exhibitions Coordinator including Sir John Monash and Anzac Centennial exhibitions.

Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria

• Council Member, 1995-2007.
• Former Secretary.

Magen David Adom, Victoria

• Committee Member, since 2015.
• Executive Member, since 2016.

Business

• Chief Executive Officer, MDR Group, since 1992.
• Peter F Danby Contract Interiors, 1979-1992.
• Former Auditor, KPMG Melbourne and Johannesburg.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Volunteer Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2009.
• Victorian Multi Cultural Award for Excellence, 2007.

As very proud Australians, David and his wife, Peppy, will always celebrate Australia Day.

“I just believe if one lives in Australia, it is incumbent on us to give back. We live in a fantastic country,” he said.  

He paid tribute to those who came before.

“Melbourne Hebrew Congregation was started in 1841 and the people who started the shul are the heroes, the pioneers.  In 1991 the shul held its sesquicentenary, celebrating 150 years of Victorian Jewry.

“This year it will celebrate 180 years.  I am very grateful to be able to enjoy it and proud to be living here.

“This is certainly a generous honour, and I appreciate all the people who were instrumental in getting me involved all those years ago” he said.

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Samuel Louis TATARKA, St Kilda East VIC 3183

For service to the Jewish community.

Beth Weizmann Jewish Community Centre

• Chair, since 2010.

Zionism Victoria (formerly Zionist Council of Victoria)

• President, 2010-2015.
• Chair, Public Relations, 2004-2010.
• Board Member, since 2004.

Zionist Federation of Australia

• Vice President, 2010-2015.

Kehillat Beit Aharon

• Former President.
• Honorary Life Member.

Hillel Foundation

• Board Member 1981-1984.

Monash University Jewish Students Society

• Treasurer 1977-1979.
• President, 1980.
• Honorary Life Member.

Chevra Hatzalah

• Foundation Member.
• First Responder, 15 years.
• Volunteer, 18 years.

Sam Tatarka commented: “I’m very chuffed to have been awarded a Medal.  It’s been a privilege to have been of service to the Community in a variety of roles over the years and that was only possible because of the forbearance, love and support of my wife Miriam and the four wonderful children we have been blessed to raise to adulthood.

I am also mindful of and extremely grateful to my late parents Abe a’h and Mignonette a’h Tatarka.  My father was the sole survivor of the Holocaust that took his immediate family and who found his way to these shores in 1947.  My mother was a second-generation Australian who traced her roots in this wonderful country to the late 1800s.  They both worked extremely hard to give us a good education and a firm foundation.  I am certain that they would’ve been extremely proud of the recognition afforded me.

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Reuben URBAN, Brighton East Vic 3187

For service to the Jewish community.

Progressive Judaism of Victoria

• Coordinator, Men’s Group, since c2017.
• Volunteers’ Coordinator, Meals Program, Sacred Heart Mission St Kilda, since 2010.
• Founding Member, approx. 1990.

Temple Beth Israel Inc

• Board Member, circa 1979-1988.
• Past Chair, Planning Committee.
• Editor, Temple Time monthly magazine, c1980-1990.
• Member, since 1974.

Community

• Volunteer Guide, Scienceworks, since 2010.
• Volunteers Coordinator, Impact for Women charity, since 2006.
• Teacher / Mentor, Glen Eira University of the Third Age (U3A), since 2006.
• Area Manager, Neighbourhood Watch Glen Eira, 1989-2005.
• Treasurer, City of Glen Eira Brass Band, since 1990 and Musician, since 1968.
• Founder and Coordinator, Biology Teachers Network, 1980-2005.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Ner Tamid Award, Union for Progressive Judaism, 2015.

Reuben Urban says that his OAM is a surprising recognition.

“I just see something that needs doing and have fun trying to fix a problem. I enjoy doing things for other people and when I see something that needs attention, I will step up and do what I can to fix” he said.

His involvement with Temple Beth Israel goes back a long way.  He recounted how he and his wife, Pat, once left a Temple meeting to get her to hospital so she could give birth to their daughter.

“I don’t go looking for trouble, but when I see a need, I want to help,” he told J-Wire.

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Uri WINDT, NSW

For service to the Jewish community.

Jewish Community

• Founder and Publisher, Plus61J Media, since 2015.
• Jewish/Uniting Church Dialogue Group, 2014-2018.
• Member, Inner West Chavurah.
• Involved with EcoPeace M.E.
• Former Director, Governing Board and Limmud Board, Shalom Institute, 2006-2019.
• Former Honorary Secretary and Executive Member, New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies, 2008-2012.

JOB Futures (now CoAct)

• Founding Director, 1997-1999.
• Coordinating Group Member, 1996-1997.

Other

• Co-Founder and Chair, Filling the Gap (Indigenous dental charity), 2005-2015.
• Chair, Marrickville Training Centre (now MTC Work Solutions), 1992-2000.
• Former Chair, Australian Centre for Co-Operative Research and Development (ACCORD), early 2000s.

Uri Windt told us: “This is an honour and a pleasure and it’s a mystery for me personally how it came about. This award recognises the activities I’ve been involved in the Jewish community, such as Filling the Gap, recruiting dentists to work in Aboriginal communities or the Jewish/Uniting Church dialogue.

With Filling the Gap, we invited dentists to volunteer in Aboriginal regional medical services because many of them even had dental chairs but could never have enough money to recruit a dentist. So by providing volunteer dentists to provide dental services.

I served the Jewish community on the executive of The New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies. I was the honorary secretary for a couple of years and on the executive for another eight years.

I was on the board of Shalom Institute, where I was heavily involved with the promotion of Limmud.

There was some tension some years ago between the Uniting Church and the Jewish community over their policies in relation to the Middle East. And so we started a  Jewish/Uniting Church dialogue. Unlike most other interfaith dialogues, this one concentrated on the elephant in the room,  which was the Israel-Palestine conflict  Four years of discussion culminated in a joint study group where we went together to visit both Israel and Palestine.”

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

Report prepared by Roz Tarszisz and Henry Benjamin