2024 Australia Day Awards: The Jewish Recipients

A husband and wife score OAMs and two awards head to regional NSW.  Unless we have erred, the awards go to Victoria and New South Wales more or less evenly. We wish a hearty Mazeltov to all  recipients!

 

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

Dr June Factor, Ivanhoe VIC 3079
For significant service to literature, to history, and to the community.

Australian Children’s Folklore Collection

·       Co-Founder, 1979.

·       Former Director, 25 years.

·       Donated to Museums Victoria, 1999.

·       Recognised on UNESCO Australian Memory of the World Register, 2004.

 

Museums Victoria

·       Founding Member, Advisory Board, Children’s Museum, 1985.

·       Honorary Associate, History and Technology Department, Museums Victoria Research Institute, since 2002.

·       Donated Australian Children’s Folklore Collection, 1999.

·       Co-Editor, Play and Folklore (formerly The Australian Children’s Folklore Newsletter), 1981-2016.

·       Co-Editor, Child’s Play: Dorothy Howard and the Folklore of Australian Children, 2006.

 

Education

·       Honorary Senior Fellow, School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, The University of Melbourne, current; and Former Senior Fellow, Australian Centre.

·       Lecturer, Institute of Early Childhood Development, 1970-1988.

 

Publications include:

·       Co-Editor, International Journal of Play, 2011-2016.

·       Author, Soldiers and Aliens, Men in the Australian Army’s Employment Companies during World War II, Melbourne University Press, 2022.

·       Author, Kidspeak: A Dictionary of Australian Children’s Words, Expressions and Games, Melbourne University Press, 2000.

·       Author, Captain Cook Chased a Chook: Children’s Folklore in Australia, Penguin, 1988.

·       Author, Unreal, Banana Peel!, Brolly Books, Melbourne, 1986 (24 Editions).

·       Author, All Right, Vegemite, Brolly Books, Melbourne, 1985 (29 Editions).

·       Author, Far Out, Brussel Sprout!, Brolly Books, Melbourne, 1983 (39 Editions).

·       Co-Editor, Cinderella Dressed in Yella, Heinemann, 1978.

 

Folklore Organisations

·       Member, Australian Folk Trust, 1983-1991.

·       Member, Australian Folklore Association, 1988-1991.

·       Member, Victorian Folklife Association, 1991-1992.

·       Member, Inquiry into Folklife in Australia, 1985-1986.

 

Liberty Victoria (formerly Victorian Council of Civil Liberties)

·       Member, Executive Committee, 1981-1996.

·       Editor, Liberty, 1993-1997.

·       Former President.

 

Community

·       Founder, Befriend a Child in Detention, since 2013.

·       President, ABC Friends Victoria, 1995-1999.

·       Member, Privacy Advisory Committee, 1991-1995.

·       Presenter, Radio 3CR, 1981-1988.

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Inducted into Victorian Honour Roll of Women, 2001.

·       International Folklore Fellow, Finnish Academy of Science and Letters, 1993.

·       American Opie Award, for Captain Cook Chased a Chook, 1989.

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Professor Steven Faux, NSW
For significant service to rehabilitation medicine, and to medical research.

St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney

·       Director of Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine, since 2008.

·       Co-Lead, Long Covid Clinic, since 2021.

·       Chair, Pain in the Elderly Working Party, since 2014.

·       Director of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Service, 2000-2022.

·       Resident Medical Officer, 1980s.

 

Rehabilitation Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand

·       President Elect, current.

·       Board Member.

 

Australian Stroke Register

·       Member, Management Committee, New South Wales Branch, since 2009.

·       Founding Member.

 

Australian Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, Royal Australasian College of Physicians

·       New South Wales Chair, Neurorehabilitation Special Interest Group.

·       Fellow, 2006.

 

Committee and Advisory Roles

·       Member, Australian Stroke Coalition, since 2010.

·       Lead, COVID 19 Community of Practice in Rehabilitation, NSW Ministry of Health, 2023.

·       Official Adviser, Trauma Rehabilitation Service Development, Grampians NHS Trauma Service, NHS Scotland, United Kingdom, current.

·       Leader, New South Wales’s Rehabilitation response to COVID-19, 2020s.

·       Chair, Scientific Program Committee, World Congress, International Society Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sydney, 2024.

·       Board Member, Rehabilitation Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand and Royal Rehabilitation Centre, current.

·       External Assessor, Grant Applications, National Health and Medical Research Council, 2009, and 2014.

·       Chairperson, National Stroke Audit, 2010.

 

Research

·       Chief/Associate Investigator, 18 research grants applications, Australian Research Council and National Health and Medical Research Council, since 2014.

·       Established first telehealth pain management clinic in Australia (in conjunction with ‘Reboot Online’).

 

The University of New South Wales

·       Conjoint Professor in Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Public Health and Community Medicine, since 2020.

·       Foundation Member, National Facility for Human Robot Interaction Research.

·       Associate Lecturer, Medical Ethics Program and Drug and Alcohol Studies, Department of Community Medicine, 1990s.

 

Academia – Other

·       Adjunct Associate Professor, School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame, since 2013 and Adjunct Professor, since 2020.

 

Publications

·       Peer Reviewer, Medical Journal of Australia, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine; Journal of Rehabilitation Nursing; Clinical Rehabilitation; and Neurotherapeutics.

·       Author, over 100 journal articles.

 

Professional Associations

·       Fellow, Faculty of Pain Medicine, Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists.

·       Ipsen Research Fellowship.

·       Travelling Fellowship Award, Stroke Society, 2007.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Highly Commended Award, Health Measurement, Australian Council on Healthcare Standards, 2018.

·       Health Australia Innovation and Excellence Award for Pain Research, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, 2017.

·       Health Australia Innovation and Excellence Award for Stroke Research, 2016.

·       Ko Awatea International Health Improvement Award for Patient Safety (Pain Management), 2016.

·       St Vincent’s Health Australia Quality Award for Pain Management in the Elderly, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, 2014.

·       Health Australia Exceptional Care Awards, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, 2012, and 2013.

Steve Faux told J-Wire: This honour is much more for rehabilitation medicine and the dedicated work of rehabilitation teams that care for people living with disabilities.
Its important recognition and acknowledgement for a part of medicine and hospital care that is often overlooked and for me personally it draws attention to working with the most inspired and inspiring people you will ever meet – those among us that live with disabilities.

 

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Ronald David Ferster, NSW
For significant service to the community through a range of organisations.

Community

·       Board Member, Black Dog Institute Foundation, since 2016.

·       Director, Black Dog Institute, since 2016.

·       Inaugural Chairman, Black Dog Institute, 2017.

·       Treasurer/Secretary, Sydney Chapter, World Presidents’ Organisation, 2000-2003.

 

Jewish Community

·       President, Jewish National Fund of Australia, 2004-2009.

·       President, Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce (NSW), 1988-1993.

·       Co-Chairman, Capital Appeal, Masada College, 1998.

·       Co-Chairman, Australian Institute of Jewish Affairs, 1994-1996.

·       Board Member, Montefiore Homes for the Aged, 1997-1999.

 

Jewish Community Appeal

·       Treasurer, 1998-2003.

·       Chairman, Investment Committee, 1998-2003.

·       Past Member, Appeal Committee.

·       Past Board Member.

 

Business Sector

·       Executive Chairman, Sanwa Holdings Pty Ltd, current.

·       Executive Chairman, The Halifax Vogel Group, current.

·       Founding Chairman, Portland Group, 1999.

Ron Ferster described what the AM means to him.  “There’s a sense of recognition that you’ve put a lot of time into various organisations over 25 years doing various things, and you feel that people appreciate ultimately the contribution that you’ve made, not only to the Jewish community but also to the wider community as well. So it feels very, pretty satisfying.”

He said the easy way to help others is by signing a cheque. But that is not the way Ron Ferster does things. He said: “You learn by being involved in organisations, you not only contribute but learn about the circumstances of what it does or about the countries it is involved with. I have a particular attachment to Israel.”

Ron’s son is visiting from New York and will join the family in celebrating his father’s special Australia Day.

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John Gregory Foreman OAM, VIC
For significant service to the performing arts, particularly music, and to the community.

Aussie Pops Orchestra

·       Director, since 2019.

·       Conductor, 2012-2017.

·       Former Guest Conductor.

 

Talent Development Project Foundation

·       Board Member, current.

 

 

NSW Schools Spectacular

·       Host, Schools Spectacular, 20 years.

·       Soloist, 1987 – 1988.

 

Director Roles

·       Musical Director, Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight, since 2003.

·       Musical Director, Logie Awards, 2009 – 2022.

·       Musical Director, The Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols, Brisbane, 2014 – 2019.

·       Creative Director, Australia Day Production, 2015.

·       Musical Director, The Oprah Winfrey Show Australian Final.

 

The Arts – Other

·       Program Ambassador, Music Count Us In, Australian Music Association, 2007-2020.

·       Host, NSW Annual Encore Concert, 2015 – 2019.

 

Community

·       Chair, National Australia Day Council, since 2023.

·       Creative Director – Sydney, Australia Day in New South Wales, since 2016.

·       Former Ambassador, Special Olympics Australia.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Medal of the Order of Australia, 2015.

 

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Catherine Tamara Fritz-Kalish, NSW
For significant service to the corporate sector through developing public policy.

Global Access Partners Pty Ltd

·       Managing Director, since 2015.

·       Co-Founder and General Manager, 1997-2014.

·       Acting Chair, GAP Standing Committee on Productive Ageing, since 2021.

·       Member, Editorial Board, Journal of Behavioural Economics and Social Systems, since 2019.

·       Chair, A Vision for Australia GAP Annual Summit Steering Committee, since 2015.

·       Chair, GAP Summit for the Pacific and Small Island Nations Steering Committee, 2021.

·       Chair, GAP Taskforce on Career Education, 2020-2021.

·       Co-Chair, Vision for Australia Advisory, 2015-2016.

 

International Centre for Democratic Partnerships

•        Company Director, since 2017.
•        Director, ICDP Foundation, since 2019.
•        Mentor, Pacific Connect Community, current.
•        Co-Facilitator, Pacific Connect Pacific Women Dialogues, 2018-2020.

 

Professional

•        Board Member, The Fritz Family Office, since 2016.
•        Advisory Board Member, Huddle, 2015-2021.
•        Steering Committee Member, Challenger Mature-Age Worker’ Community Programme, Council on the Ageing, 2019-2021.
•        Member of the Mission, Australia’s Women Leaders Trade Mission to Israel, 2016.
•        Marketing and brand management within all seven divisions, George Weston Foods Group, 1998-2001.
•        Executive Assistant, Small and Medium-sized Enterprise Unit, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, France, 1995-1996.

TCG Group

•        Director, TCG Pty Ltd, since 2007.
•        Director, TCG Computer Aided Engineering Pty Ltd, since 2007.
•        Director, TCG Systems Automation Pty Ltd, since 2007.
•        Director, Tiskara Pty Ltd, since 2007.
•        Director, Writing Partners Pty Ltd, 2015-2020.
•        Working with several TCG Group companies in the area of start-up incubator establishment, 1997-2004.

Philanthropy

•        Director and Advisory Board Chair, Fritz Family Foundation, since 2019.
•        Advisory Board Member, Social Impact Hub, since 2018.
•        Member, All in Giving Circle, current.

Stand Up

•        Board Member, 2016-2021.
•        Chair, 2018-2019.

Publications

•        Co-Author, Emergent communities of practice: A complexity theory lens, Dr Peter Massingham, Catherine Fritz-Kalish, Ian McAuley, BESS, vol. 2, no. 1,           2020.
•        Author, Twenty years on the Second Track: GAP case studies, Catherine Fritz-Kalish, Journal of Behavioural Economics and Social Systems (BESS) vol. 1, no. 1, 2019.
•        Blogger, Open Forum, since 2008.

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Catherine Fritz-Kalish told J-Wire that it was a huge surprise to receive the award and she will receive it in recognition of a team of people who have worked together tirelessly for decades.

“It is great honour and I accept it on behalf of the entire team at Global Access Partners and the wider network of GAP members who dedicate time and experience to our projects.

My family have been integral in providing the support and guidance necessary to grow GAP and I’m forever grateful to them. I feel like this award is for the team I work with and for my family” she said.

She has a desire to do work that has impact in the world and in particular, impact in Australia and says it’s a privilege to be able to spend time on such meaningful work across a broad range of policy areas.

“What stands out for me is how much impact a group of people, with different skills and interests, who may never have met before, can achieve together in a short space of time when they’re supported in the right environment,” she said.

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Professor Julian Colin Gold, Rose Bay NSW 2029
For significant service to medicine as a clinical epidemiologist and researcher, and to community health.

The Albion Centre (formerly The Albion Street Centre)

•        Founding Director, since 1985.
•        Director/Head, World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Capacity Building on HIV and STI Care, Treatment and Support.

Medical Appointments

•        Medical Director, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, 2008-2011.
•        Consultant Epidemiologist, St Vincent’s Hospital, 1984-1995
•        Chief Investigator, The Efficacy and Safety of Triumeq in Patients with ALS: The Lighthouse II Trial, Fight MND.

Prince of Wales Hospital Group

•        Director, Clinical Epidemiology, 1993-2000.
•        Visiting Medical Officer, AIDS Unit, since 1989.
•        Senior Lecturer, Conjoint Appointment, Prince of Wales Clinical School/Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, 1989-2000.

University of Sydney

•        Clinical Professor, Faculty of Medicine and Health, since 2000.
•        Head, National Health Surveillance Unit, Commonwealth Institute of Health, 1981-1985.

Centre for Health Initiatives, University of Wollongong

•        Professor, 2002-2011.
•        Associate Member, 2012-2013.

Education

•        Professor, King’s College, London, since 2015.
•        Professor, Neuroscience and Trauma, Queen Mary University of London, since 2010.
•        Honorary Professor, Medicine and Health, Macquarie University.

Appointments – Other

•        Member, NSW Ministerial Advisory Committee on HIV and Sexually Transmissible Infections, 1995-2012.
•        Member, Alcohol and Drug Foundation, Australia.
•        Member, NSW Infectious Diseases Advisory Committee 1992-2000
•        Consultant, HIV/AIDS, NSW Department of Health.
•        Member, NSW Ministerial Advisory Committee on Hepatitis 2000-2003.
•        Appointed, National AIDS Taskforce, 1982.
•        Member, Technical Assessment Panel, AusAID.
•       Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia, 1976-1979.

World Bank

•        Consultant, Integrating Antiretroviral therapy and HIV prevention in India, 2002.
•        Consultant, East Asia and Pacific Regional Section to review HIV/AIDS in the Region, 2002.

Consultancies

·       Project Director, AIDS Ambulatory Care Project, Thailand.

·       Project Director, AusAID Mekong HIV/AIDS Project in Vietnam and Laos, 2000-2002.

Publications

·       Member, Editorial Board, AIDS Gower Academic Journal, 1987-1990.

·       Consultant in Epidemiology, Medical Journal of Australia, 1982-1985.

·       Co-Author, AIDS and Australia: What everyone should know, 1985.

For Julian Gold, treating patients during the AIDS epidemic and seeing thousands of patients dying in the 1980s is something that has stuck with him.

“Finding treatment and conducting trials was very important” he told J-Wire.

Developing the Albion Centre as a beacon of hope for people with HIV and AIDS, supporting them and their families during the epidemic is a reflection of all the work done by staff and a whole range of people” he said.

 

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Emeritus Professor Gisela Kaplan, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
For significant service to science education through research into animal behaviour.

​Publications

·       Author and Co-author, 23 books including Australian Magpie, Biology and Behaviour of an Unusual Songbird, CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne 2019 (1st edition 2004); Bird Bonds, Macmillan Australia, Sydney, 2019; Tawny Frogmouth, CSIRO Publishing, 2018 (2nd edition); Bird Minds, Cognition and behaviour in Australian native birds, CSIRO Publishing, 2015; Orang Utans. Their evolution, behaviour and future, Perseus Press, 2000; and Songs, Roars and Rituals. Communication in birds, mammals and other animals, Harvard University Press, 2000.

·       Author, over 250 research articles.

·       Author, 73 Refereed Papers in journals and chapters in books in science, since 2000.

·       Author, papers and books in social science before 2000.

The University of New England

·       Emeritus Professor, School of Science and Technology, since 2016.

·       Honorary Doctor of Science, 2011.

Science – Other

·       Volunteer, WIRES, since 1994.

·       Science Educator and Volunteer, Siemens series, 2001-2008, and various Australian wildlife organisations, since 2005.

·       Volunteer Contributor, ABC Overnight Program, since c2008.

·       Honorary Professor, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, 2010-2020.

International Primatological Society

·       Member, since 2005.

·       Member, Scientific Committee, 2008-2009.

·       Life Member, since 2009.

Patronages

·       Patron, Bird Advocacy Foundation, Adelaide, South Australia, current.

·       Patron, Dingo Conservation Society of Australia.

Professional Memberships

·       Member, The Royal Society of New South Wales, since 2007, and Fellow, since 2021.

·       Honorary Fellow, American Ornithological Society, Washington DC, since 2015.

·       Fellow and Member, International Ornithology Union, since 2006.

·       Member, Centre for Veterinary Education, current.

·       Member, The Australian Society of Authors, current.

·       Member, Executive Committee, International Ornithologists’ Union, 2010-2014.

·       Member, The Australian Psychological Society, since 1986.

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Whitley Award, Behavioural Zoology, ‘Bird Minds’ (CSIRO Publishing), Australian Museum, Sydney, 2016.

·       Dean’s Award for Outstanding Higher Degree by Research Theses, University of Queensland, 2007.

·       Environment Award, Wilderness Society of Australia, 2005.

·       The Australian Awards for Excellence in Educational Publishing (single book category for Famous Australian Birds, Allen & Unwin), The Australian Publishers Association and TREAT, Sydney University, 2004.

·       Gustavus Myer Outstanding Book Award for Biological determinism, Gustavus Myers Center for the Study of Bigotry and Human Rights, 2002.

·       Federation Community Services Award, National Australia Day Council, 2001.

Gisela Kaplan is passionate about Australian birds and wildlife and encourages all Australians to see what is going on around them.

She receives about 120 emails a day from members of the public who write to her about something they have observed. She takes the questions seriously and answers them all.

“If it helps people to enjoy their own environment, that’s great” she told J-Wire.

The personal is extremely important.  I became absolutely hooked on all the wonderful wildlife when I arrived here” she said.

She encourages her students to create their own career by finding a topic that they love and doing it well and with conviction.

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Richard Charles Potok, NSW
For significant service to the Indigenous community, to education, and to the law.

Aurora Education Foundation (formerly Aurora Project)

·       Chief Executive Officer, 2006-2020.

·       Founder, Aurora Project, 2006 and Aurora Education Foundation, 2012.

 

Education – Other

·       Executive Director, Charlie Perkins Scholarship Trust, 2008-2021.

·       Executive Director, Roberta Sykes Indigenous Education Foundation, 2008-2021.

·       National Advisor on Diversity, Rhodes Scholarships in Australia, since 2016.

 

The Law

·       Legal Expert, The Hague Convention on the Law Applicable to Certain Rights in Respect of Securities held with an Intermediary, The Hague Conference on Private International Law, 2000-2003.

·       Australia’s Representative, Committee of Government Experts, International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT), Rome, 2005-2006.

·       Editor, Cross Border Collateral: Legal Risk and the Conflict of Laws, 2002.

·       Principal, Potok and Co., since 1998.

·       Associate, Davis Polk and Wardwell, New York, 1991-1999.

 

Teaching and University Positions

·       Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Laws, University of Technology Sydney, since 2012.

·       Visiting Fellow, Faculty of Law, University of New South Wales, 2003-2014.

·       Honorary Research Fellow, Monash University, 2004-2010.

 

Awards and Recognition include:  

·       Honorary Doctorate in Law, University of Technology Sydney, 2019.

·       Honorary Doctorate, University of Canberra, 2017.

·       Rhodes Scholar for New South Wales, 1984.

 

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

Vic Alhadeff, NSW
For service to the Jewish community, and to the media.

SBS

·       Non-Executive Director, since 2021.

·       Chair, SBS Community Advisory Committee, current.

·       Member, SBS Audit and Risk Committee, current.

·       Member, Codes Committee, current.

 

New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies

·       Chief Executive Officer, 2004-2021.

·       Spokesperson, Keep NSW Safe campaign, 2018.

 

Other

·       Chair, Multicultural NSW (formerly NSW Community Relations Commission), 2014.

·       Author, A Newspaper History of South Africa, and South Africa in Two World Wars: A Newspaper History.

·       Playwright, Torn Apart by War.

·       Judge, New South Wales Human Rights Awards, 2013-2016.

·       Judge, Kennedy Media Awards, 2023.

·       National Committee Member, Australian Republican Movement, since 2022.

 

Media

·       Editor and Associate Editor, Australian Jewish News, 1986-2004.

·       Chief Sub-Editor and Sub-Editor, The Cape Times, South Africa, 1975-1981.

·       Sub-Editor, The Diamond Fields Advertiser, South Africa, 1974.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       New South Wales Premier’s Award, 2021.

·       President’s Award, NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, 2022.

·       Mardi Gras Media Award, 2000.

Vic Alhadeff told J-Wire: “None of my career choices has ever been about a job; without exception, they have been about issues I care about, from advocating for human rights and respect for diversity to combatting bigotry in general and antisemitism in particular. It’s a privilege to hold positions which enable one to be proactive in the human rights space, especially when the Jewish community is struggling and the times are challenging.”

Alhadeff added that “it’s gratifying to have the opportunity to give something back to this country”, and he would mark Australia Day by reflecting on “how fortunate my family and I are to be living in this great country”.

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Dr Vivienne Elton, St Kilda East VIC 3183
For service to psychiatry, and to the community.

International Psychoanalytical Association

·       Chair, Humanitarian Organisations Committee, since 2017.

·       Member, Sponsoring Committee for China Study Group of Wuhan, current.

·       Training Analyst, current.

 

National Association of Practicing Psychiatrists

·       President, 2016-2019.

·       Vice President since 2019.

 

Australian Psychoanalytical Society

·       President, 2013-2016.

·       Vice President 2010-2013

·       Chair of Scientific Committee 2008-2010

·       Secretary, 2005-2008.

·       Training Analyst, current.

 

Additional roles

·       Steering Committee Member, Project Dignity Australia, Temple Beth Israel, since 2020.

·       Consultant/Advisor, Rwanda Tutsi Genocide Survivors Association, current.

·       Visiting Professor, Huazong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China, 2017-2019.

·       Member, European Psychoanalytic Federation

·       Member, Council of Presidents, European Psychoanalytic Federation, 2013-2016.

·       Co-Editor, Book, Trauma, Flight and Migration: Psychoanalytic Perspectives, 2023.

 

Psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Dr. Vivienne Elton is passionate about ensuring patients who need access to psychiatric and psychotherapy treatment are not denied it due to diminished circumstances, including human rights challenges, or the limiting of Medicare rebates.

One of Dr Elton’s most impactful contributions is her work in the International Psychoanalytic Association. She promotes and encourages psychoanalysts to participate in exceptional endeavours in the humanitarian field and raises awareness of these projects to the public worldwide.

In dealing with people’s wellbeing generally, the effects of trauma on frontline workers are not forgotten.

“Frontline workers can also be traumatised by the work. Talking about their experiences to a trained professional is exceptionally helpful in dealing with secondary traumatisation. It also helps them deal with difficult experiences from a more objective point of view” said Dr Elton.

Dr Elton has a passion for the education of medical, psychiatric students and trainees in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis..

She says it’s wonderful to have achieved this recognition.

“Being awarded an OAM highlights the impactful work of psychiatry and psychotherapy and will assist me to continue to build on this work into the future” she said.

 

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George Lawrence Freund  NSW

For service to the Jewish community of Sydney.

Connections Opportunities Activities

·       Vice-President, since 2017.

·       President, 2012-2017.

·       Former Committee Member.

·       Volunteer, since 2008.

 

Jewish Communal Appeal

·       Former Volunteer.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Hal Goldstein Award, Jewish Communal Appeal, 2019.

·       Westfield Local Hero, 2019.

 

George Freund says that volunteering is his way of giving back to the community.

“I was inspired by my father who volunteered at COA (Centre of Ageing).

When I retired, I got involved with COA, and am still involved. I am grateful for the opportunity to keeping doing something for the community” he told J-Wire.

 

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Peter Stephan Gaspar, North Caulfield VIC 3161
For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

B’nai B’rith Unit Mitzvah, Victoria

·       Former Secretary.

·       Former Treasurer.

·       Founding Committee Member, 1980s.

·       Former Committee Member, Mitzvah Employment for Migrants Orientation Network Project.

·       Former Member, Programming Committee.

·       Member, since 1985.

 

B’nai B’rith Courage to Care Victoria

·       Member, Committee of Management, 1998-2020.

·       Former Treasurer, 10 years.

·       Facilitator and Speaker, Holocaust Victims Program, various schools and Victoria Police, 20 years.

·       Member, since 1998.

 

Jewish Community

·       Former Committee Member, Annual Gandel Oration, B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission.

·       Holocaust survivor speaker, Melbourne and Metropolitan Chapters, University of the Third Age (U3A), Victoria.

·       Presenter, Jewish Holocaust Museum.

 

Professional

·       Former Consultant, Best practise within the food industry, 8 years.

·       Former Executive, Soccomin International Fine Foods, 30 years.

·       Australian Government Food Industry Consultative Council, 1978-1982

·       Australian Food Importers Council, 1972-1990

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Caulfield District Victoria Volunteer Award, 2013.

 

“The award is obviously unexpected,” Peter Gaspar told J-Wire.

 In his many years of involvement in Courage to Care and the Melbourne Holocaust Museum, it was the education of future generations against hate, prejudice, discrimination and bullying that was driving force behind his activity.

The rewards are the connection made with students.  Recognizing in their reactions, response and feedback that the way forward is in embracing diversity, rather than discriminating against it.

“Because of this, I feel that the award is not for me but for the activity and purpose behind it”, he told J-Wire.

“I will celebrate the award with my family and the other volunteers in these and other worthy causes because this recognition is for all of us”, he added.

 

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Lesley Pamela Gaspar, Caulfield North VIC 3161
For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

B’nai B’rith Unit Mitzvah, Victoria

·       President, 1989-1991.

·       Former Committee Member.

·       Volunteer Fundraiser, Mitzvah Employment for Migrants Orientation Network Project.

·       Founding Member, since 1985.

B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission

·       Board Secretary, early 2000s-2018.

·       Board Member, 2002-2010s.

·       Former Committee Member, Annual Gandel Oration.

B’nai B’rith Courage to Care Victoria

·       Secretary, Management Committee, 2019-2023.

·       Member/Volunteer, since 1998.

Community

·       Organiser, ‘Books out Loud’ group, National Council of Jewish Women, current.

·       Founding Member, Masada Group, Women’s International Zionist Organisation, since 1972.

·       Member, Women’s Committee, St Kilda Synagogue.

·       Member, Jewish Christian Muslim Association of Australia.

·       Member, Council of Christians and Jews.

Girl Guides Victoria

·       Assistant Guide Leader, 4th St Kilda Guides, 1976-1984.

·       Patrol Leader/Girl Guide, 1956-1961.

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Caulfield District Victoria Volunteer Award, 2013.

“I was totally surprised when I received notification that I was to receive this award. I had known that Peter had been proposed but never expected to receive one myself,” said Lesley Gaspar.

“I feel very overwhelmed but nonetheless thrilled to accept.

I have always felt a need to be involved in some way in communal life.  This need to be involved came from my parents.

 On arrival in Melbourne in 1956 from South Africa, and knowing no one, they joined communal organisations to become involved and to meet people.

“This was enriching for them and for me. It showed how to gain acceptance and friendships. I have found that one gains more by giving. Joining and becoming part of an organisation is always enriching.

We will celebrate the day in Hong Kong as Peter has been invited to deliver the address for the annual UN Holocaust Memorial Commemoration.

We look forward to joining friends and family on our return to celebrate together,” she said.

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Frank Greenstein, Caulfield North VIC 3161
For service to the community through political engagement.

Liberal Party of Australia, Victorian Division

·       Chairman, Community Engagement Committee, current.

·       Member, South Multicultural Branch, since 2017.

·       Member, MacNamara Electoral Conference, current.

·       Vice-President, Administrative Committee, 2013-2015.

·       Member, Administrative Committee, 2006-2011.

·       Former Member, State Seats Committee.

·       Member, Alma Branch, 2001-2011.

·       Member, since 2000.

 

Liberal Party of Australia, Victorian Division, Caulfield Branch

·       Vice-Chair, since 2019.

·       Chair, State Electorate Conference, 2003-2011.

·       Member, State Electorate Conference, current.

·       Member, since 2011.

 

Multicultural Advocacy

·       Executive Member, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, since 2018.

·       Founding Member, Jewish Community Centre, 1998.

·       Member, Australian Intercultural Society, 2012-2016.

·       Member, Jewish Christian Muslim Association, current.

 

Victorian State Government

·       Member, Small Business Multicultural Advisory Ministerial Council, 2008-2011.

·       Member, Advisory Committee, Multicultural Affairs, 2010-2014.

 

Illy’s Good Taste Bakery

·       Operator, 2002-2022.

·       Founder, 2002.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Distinguished Service Award, The Liberal Party of Australia, Victorian Branch, 2016.

 

Frank Greenstein is passionate about social cohesion and working with multifaith and multicultural communities in Victoria.

“I am extremely honoured and humbled to receive this award,” said Frank Greenstein.

“As an immigrant to Australia who strongly supports Australian values, I am immensely proud to be a recipient.

It has been a privilege to play a role in various organisations, and I am so grateful for the opportunities that have been given to me.  I have met many wonderful people who have inspired me and encouraged me along the way” he said.

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Gary Mark Inberg, Rose Bay NSW 2029
For service to the Jewish community of New South Wales, and to business.

Sir Moses Montefiore Jewish Homes

·       Vice-President, since 2004.

·       Honorary Treasurer, 2001-2004.

·       Director, since 2000.

·       Co-Convenor, annual fete, 25 years.

·       Chair Finance and Investment Committee, 2001-2004, and Member, since 2001.

·       Chair, Quality, Safety and Risk Committee, since 2007.

·       Community Relations Committee, 2004-2007.

·       Member, Burger Centre Joint Operating Committee, since 2009.

·       Member, Montefiore Development Committee, since 2001.

 

Aged Care – Other

·       Non-Executive Director, Care Decisions Pty Ltd, 2015-2022.

·       Chair and Non-Executive Director, Camelot Nursing Home Pty Ltd, 15 years.

·       Involved with establishment of The Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, The University of New South Wales.

 

Jewish Community

·       Non-Executive Director, The Burger Centre, since 2010.

·       Former Member, Executive Committee, Orthodox Synagogues of New South Wales.

·       Constituent Delegate, New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies, since 2021.

 

Community – Other

·       Director and Trustee, Navy Clearance Divers Trust, since 2021.

·       President/Director, Sydney Grammar School Foundation, 1997-2001.

·       Former Chair, Berry’s Bay Project Steering Group (new home for Sydney Heritage Fleet on Sydney Harbour).

 

Business

·       Independent Chair, Your Project Control Group, since 2010.

·       Director, NNP Pty Ltd, since 2007.

·       Independent Director, Invigor Group, 2021-2022.

·       Chief Executive Officer, Gary M Inberg and Associates, 1997-2013.

·       Vice-President, Sydney Casino, 1993-1997.

·       Finance Manager, Leighton Holdings & Leighton Property, current.

·       Associate Director – Property Funds, Oceanic Funds Management, 1984-1987.

 

Property and Real Estate

·       Expert Reviewer, Infrastructure NSW, since 2019.

·       Director, Commercial and Property, Roads and Maritime Services, 2013-2017.

·       Head of Property, Sydney Water, 2005-2012.

·       Senior Finance Executive, Leighton Properties, 1988-1993.

·       Finance Manager, Dillingham Corporation, 1976-1984.

 

Investec Bank Australia

·       Chair, IWPE Nominees Pty Ltd, 2003-2014.

·       Chair, Compliance Committee, Investec Australia Property Fund, 2013.

·       Chair, Compliance Committee, Toga European Accommodation Fund, 2003-2013.

·       Chair, Compliance Committee, 2002-2013.

 

Awards and Recognition include: 

·       New South Wales Premier’s Public Sector Award for Leadership.

 

Gary Inberg told J-Wire: “I’m just overwhelmed. I still can’t believe it. I’ll believe it when I read in the media!  Both myself and my wife were brought up to give to the Monty. From when we were married forty years ago, we continued to do what we were taught. I eventually joined the board and eventually became the treasurer before becoming vice president. The current treasurer, Tom Mautner, President David Freeman, and I have developed into a great team, and I think we’ve achieved enormous things for the community. None of us is looking for accolades, but this award is appreciated.

The Monty is probably the leading aged care provider in Australia. We get visitors from overseas wanting to see what we’ve done.

I am also proud to help the Navy Clearance Divers Trust. Those divers are Australia’s equivalent to the US Seals and they need assistance when they leave the service.

Gary Inber will spend Australia Day with his family. His wife, Sue, is a fifth-generation Australian. I’m first generation. We will enjoy Australian day with my family.”

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Dr Starlette Anne Beaumont (Isaacs), Gladesville NSW 2111
For service to medicine, and to community health.

Balmain Family Medical Practice

·       Principal General Practitioner and Owner, 1971-2021.

·       Benefactor, Healthy Communities Foundation Australia Ltd, current.

Starlette Isaacs is not keen on being in the limelight and is convinced it is ex-patients who put her name forward.

“I am grateful, shocked and humbled,” she told J-Wire.

“I loved my job – I am retired now – and grateful to my patients. I was just doing the job that I loved. This is the icing on the cake.

It is nice to get recognition for my work as a local GP.  Patients are like my family, and I did my best for them,” she said.

When she retired, she was awarded a Community Recognition Statement in the NSW State Parliament, acknowledging her 50 years of service to the Balmain and Rozelle communities.

“I miss my patients and they miss me” she said.

 

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Tonina Rochelle Joel, Brighton VIC 3186
For service to the community through social welfare initiatives.

Off Your Back Winter Coat Drive

·       Founder, since 2003.

 

Volunteering

·       Volunteer and Member, Special Events Committee, Epworth Hospital, 10 years.

·       Volunteer and Supporter, Jewish Care, since 1984.

·       Supporter, Mercy Care, current.

·       Member, Nil Magnum Nisi Bonum Project, St Catherine’s Old Girls’ Association, 2012-2014.

 

Australia Women Donor’s Network (now Australian’s Investing in Women)

·       Founding Member, 2010.

 

Tonic Product Development Pty Ltd

·       Director, since 1992.

·       Co-Founder, 1992.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Inductee, Hall of Fame, HerBusiness (formerly the Australian Business Women’s Network).

·       Co-Winner, The AusMumpreneur Awards, 2012.

 

“It feels very special to be recognized for creating the coat drive – Off Your Back – an idea that came into fruition with the help of the community. I am grateful to have been able to connect and bring greater good to those in need,” Toni Joel told J-Wire.

Toni believes that it is important to inspire and be inspired – it’s part of the circle of creativity and growth.

She was inspired to create the Off Your Back coat drive after seeing a man sleeping rough in St Kilda.

“I had the impetus to take the coat of my back and lay it over him. I thought about spare coats that I might have in my cupboard and those of my family and friends and wondered how I could get those coats onto the backs of those in need,” she said.

Off Your Back coats are collected at a selection of drop-off points and distributed with the help of soup kitchens, refugee centers, through the prison network and women’s refuges and other community reach-out programs throughout Victoria.

A total of 250,000 coats have been given to those in need during winter months.

“I have been fortunate to speak at many school assemblies and love connecting with young people and showing them how easy it is to give. It often means more than a “gold coin” donation. I teach children about how they can make someone feel warm, not only from the outside in, but from the inside out as well.

I also love that I have generational inspiration through my great-grandfather, Sol Green, a well-known philanthropist in his day. I feel that he has guided me in so many ways” she said.

 

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Barbara Helene Kessel, VIC
For service to the community through social welfare organisations.

B’nai B’rith Courage to Care Vic

·       Facilitator and Educator, the effects of racism and bullying, secondary year school groups, since 2015.

 

Voluntary Roles

·       Administration and Telephone Bereavement Counsellor, Support for Parents, Grandparents and Siblings after the death of a child, The Compassionate Friends Victoria (TCFV), 1994-2023.

·       Education Speaker for groups, The Compassionate Friends.

·       Pro Bono Counsellor/Family Therapist, Camcare Camberwell, 2016-2019.

·       Facilitator, Younger Bereaved Widows and Widowers Support Group, St Vincent’s Sisters of Charity, 1992-1994.

·       Volunteer Coordinator and Co-Facilitator, Chesed Widow and Widowers Support Group, 1991-1992.

·       Telephone Counsellor, Personal Emergency Service, 1984-1986.

 

Professional Career

·       Family Counsellor, Knox Community Volunteers, 1987-1990.

·       Counsellor and Educator, Road Trauma Support Team, Transport Accident Commission, 1991-1996.

·       Designed and Facilitated, Educational Workshops for Facilitators, Living with Cancer Education Program, Cancer Council Victoria, 1997-1998.

·       Private Practice, 2001-2010.

 

“I’m very surprised and honoured to receive this award. It was so unexpected,” Barbara Kessel told J-Wire.

“Three years after we emigrated to Melbourne, my husband David had a heart attack and died. Suddenly, I was a single parent with three boys under the age of 14.

We had no family members in Australia, but the Doncaster community where we lived was wonderful to me and my boys.

A couple of years later, I did the training and became a telephone support person with a voluntary organisation called Personal Emergency Service, similar to Lifeline.

Then, as a mature student, I went to university and qualified as a family therapist.

Sadly, tragedy struck my family again and again, leading to the deaths of my three adult boys.

I became a member of two voluntary organisations where support was offered and they became my lifeline – a non-denominational group, Compassionate Friends (TCF) and a Jewish Chapter consisting of bereaved parents.

My experience of migration trauma and grief and loss has made me a more empathic person and led me to work in both a voluntary and professional capacity to support others at stressful times in their lives.

It has been, and continues to be, an absolute privilege to do so” she said.

 

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Devorah Anne Komesaroff, Caulfield North VIC 3161
For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

Temple Beth Israel

·       Member, High Holyday choir, current.

·       Volunteer, current.

·       Service Leader and Music Leader.

 

Kedem Synagogue

·       Volunteer, 11 years.

·       Member, since 2004.

 

Jewish – Other

·       Former Member, Nitzanim Singers, Kehilat Nitzan.

·       Volunteer, Progressive Chevra Kadisha, Progressive Judaism Victoria, current.

 

Glen Eira Adult Learning Centre

·       Tutor, English as an Additional Language, since 2021.

·       Tutor, Multicultural Choir, since 2023.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Jewish Community Council of Victoria Award, 2016.

·       Ner Tamid Award, Union for Progressive Judaism, 2013.

 

Devorah Komesaroff declined to talk to media,

 

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Colin Henry Krycer, Murrumbeena VIC 3163
For service to the LGBTIQ community.

Thorne Harbour Health

·       Volunteer, since 1988.

·       Member, Care Teams, 1980s-1990s.

 

Pride Foundation Australia

·       Board Member, 2007-2022.

·       Volunteer, 2004-2023.

·       Member, Small Grants Selection Committee, 2017-2023.

·       Coordinator, Seed Funding Project, 2015.

 

Aleph Melbourne

·       Co-Convenor, current.

·       Volunteer.

 

Community Radio

·       Volunteer Presenter, JOY 94.9 FM, since 1993.

 

Other

·       Volunteer Audio Visual Technician, various special events include: Living Positive Victoria; Melbourne Rainbow Band; and Melbourne Gay and Lesbian Chorus.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Volunteer of the Year, Victorian Pride Awards, 2022.

·       Minister for Health Volunteer Award, VicHealth, 2017.

 

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have been selected to receive an Australia Day Honours award for service to the LGBTIQ community. It means so much to me to think that others believe I am worthy,” said Colin Krycer.

“Well into my third decade of volunteering, I could not have achieved all these years of volunteering for the LGBTIQ community by working alone.

“I have worked with so many other wonderful volunteers from various organisations, and together, we work to make a difference, no matter how small or how large the task.

Volunteers are such an important part of any community, whether it be the LGBTIQ community or the Jewish community,” he said.

 

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Peter Derek Levi, Brighton VIC 3186
For service to business, and to the community.

Colorific

·       Founder and Executive Director, 1990-2022.

·       Supporter, Colorific Community Care Program, 1990-2022.

·       Developed, hundreds of educational toys.

 

Australian Toy Association

·       Member, c30 years.

·       Member, ATA 25 Year Club, since 2018.

 

Toy Industry

·       Founding Director, Toy Kingdom Buying Group, 1983.

 

Temple Beth Israel

·       Committee Member, various youth groups, 1969-1972.

·       Founding Organiser, Shockwave youth parties, c2001-2003.

·       Board Member, 2001-2003.

·       Volunteer, Nourish food for the homeless, since 2017.

 

The King David School

·       Member, School Council, 1990s and since c2015.

·       Member, Finance Committee, 2013-2020.

·       Community Liaison Coordinator since 2021.

 

Other Community

·       Supporter and Volunteer, Christians Helping in Primary Schools (CHIPS), since 2004.

·       Mentor, Deakin Centre for Refugee Employment, Advocacy, Training and Education (CREATE), 2021.

·       Committee Member, Union for Progressive Judaism, 2023.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Community Hero Award, Metropolitan Ambulance Service, 2000.

·       Various Toy of the Year and Supplier of the Year awards, 1991-2004.

·       Australian Family Business of the Year, 2006.

·       First Generation Family Business Award, Family Business Australia, 2006.

·       Australian Family Business Hall of Fame, 2019.

 

“I feel extremely fortunate to be honoured in this way.

It has been an enormous privilege for me to help children.  This might be through our family toy business or in my broader community work, particularly through The King David School Council and by helping kids in trauma in the Casey area,” Peter Levi told J-Wire.

Levi’s association with the school goes back to the 1980s when his two sons attended. He was also on the Board of Temple Beth Israel for many years, and currently serves on the Board of Progressive Judaism Victoria. In business, Levi’s toy business sold more than 50 million craft and educational products around the world.

 “I believe that it is important for our community to be seen contributing to society as broadly as we can.

As we’ve seen recently and over history, being Jewish can mean that you sometimes have a tenuous relationship with society. If we are to continue to be accepted, I believe that, unfortunately, we need to show the value that we add to the world. I hope that I have helped to do that in some small way.

It is indeed humbling to be recognised for something I love to do,” he said.

 

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Dr Arne Rubinstein, Mullumbimby NSW 2482
For service to youth.

The Rites of Passage Institute

·       Chief Executive Officer, since 2018.

·       Founder.

·       Founder/Coordinator, ‘The Making of Men’ Camps and camps for teenage girls.

·       Founder, camps for youth in 25 countries.

 

Pathways Foundation

·       Chief Executive Officer, 2002-2008.

·       Co-Founder, 2000.

 

Uplifting Australia

·       Co-Founder, 2011-2013.

 

Medical

·       Emergency Medicine Doctor, Mullumbimby and Byron Bay 2000-2012.

·       General Medical Practitioner, Mullumbimby Medical Centre, 1993-2000.

·       General Medical Practitioner, Geelong Hospital, 1990-1991.

·       Fellow, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

 

Media/Publications

·       Featured, ‘Silent No More’ DocPlay, by Tracey Spicer AM.

·       The Making of Men: Raising Boys to be Happy, Healthy and Successful, Brio Books, 2013.

·       How to Parent Teenagers: Five Things Every Father and Mother Really Needs to Know, (e-book).

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Special Commendation, for significant contribution to health and wellbeing of men and boys, Australian Men’s Health Forum.

·       World Environment Day Award, Byron Shire Council, 2014.

·       Unsung Hero Award, HESTA Community Sector, 2013.

·       Tipping Point Award, Social Ventures Australia, 2010.

 

It was while he was working as a medical doctor that Arne Rubinstein noticed he was treating older patients who had issues that went back to their teenage years.

“I became increasingly aware of the high rates of harm that teenagers were subjecting themselves to.  Those at-risk behaviours had lifelong consequences.

Then I discovered a preventative medical process called Rites of Passage,” he told J-Wire.

Indigenous and traditional communities had for thousands of years created ceremonies to acknowledge, support and celebrate young people becoming adults. These ritual events were designed to help young people transition in a healthy way into the world of adults.

“A Barmitzvah is also a rite of passage,” he said.

Dr Arne began researching Rites of Passage as a tool to assist teenagers as they transition from child to adult in a safe and healthy way, while maintaining strong family relationships and absorbing critical wisdom and knowledge.

“Rites of Passage programs have now been set up in 25 countries to help young people develop their own sense of self,” he said.

 

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Rose Temple, Rose Bay NSW 2029
For service to the Jewish community.

Jewish Communal Appeal

·       Coordinator, Telephone Campaign, since 1992.

·       Coordinator, Community Communications, since 2005.

·       Member, Women’s Fundraising Committee, 2007-2013.

·       Member, General Fundraising Committee, 2005-2008.

 

Jewish Community

·       President, B’nai B’rith Intermediates group, 1982-1983.

·       President, B’nai B’rith Toastmasters group, 1973-1975.

·       Museum Guide, Sydney Jewish Museum, 2005-2011.

 

Mount Sinai College

·       Senior Vice President, 1989-1990.

·       Board Member, 1984-1988.

·       Former Patron.

 

Awards and Recognition include:

·       Communal Award, Jewish Communal Appeal, 2015.

“I started volunteering as a student,” said Rose Temple.

“I have spent 60 years volunteering in VIC and NSW. This award recognises over 30 years volunteering for JCA in various roles.

She said she has always had a need to be involved in the community.

“It also set an example for my children. I want to see the community continue to be strong. We need to support each other.

It is important to be able to assist an organisation which has multiple needs,” she said.

 

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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