Jacqui Lambie visits Hobart Synagogue
The Hobart Hebrew Congregation hosted Senator Lambie for a meet and greet to express gratitude for the Senator’s speeches in Parliament that so eloquently call out antisemitism, detail the barbaric attack of 7 October, and argue for Israel’s right to defend itself.
Senator Jacqui Lambie with the synagogue’s president, Jeff Schneider
Congregation members participated in heartfelt conversations with Senator Lambie. Topics ranged from members’ experiences serving in the IDF, plans for the Jacquie Lambie Network, and the unique responsibilities of a sofer.
The highlight of the event was congregation member Michal Golebowicz’s address to Senator Lambie, where she described her own experience growing up on Kibbutz Nirim, where her 93-year-old father and brother’s family hid in safe rooms during the massacre.
An excerpt follows:
As someone hailing from one of the kibbutzim near the Gaza border, the recent attacks on our community struck very close to home. The harrowing experience of hearing about the people I grew up with, murdered, raped, maimed, or kidnapped as hostages is the trauma we will have to live with and while the hostages are still in Gaza, we cannot start to heal.
Your outspoken support amidst the backdrop of criticism and, at times, outright antisemitism is profoundly appreciated. It’s heartening to witness leaders like you advocate for the right of Israel to defend its citizens. Your commitment to standing by Israel, particularly when it faces such adversity, is a testament to your integrity and courage as a politician.
The congregation presented the book Jewish Anzacs: Jews in the Australian Military to Senator Lambie on behalf of the Tasmanian and Australian Jewish community, considering the Senator’s service in the Australian Army and interest in Veteran Affairs.
Congregation President Jeff Schneider said, “Amid these dark days for the Jewish community, it was fitting that on the first day of Chanukah our community was able to engage so positively with Senator Lambie. Her visit felt like a ray of light shined in.”
Senator Lambie said: “I was honoured to be invited to speak with some of the Tasmanian Jewish community. I know that this has been a very difficult time since the Hamas terrorist attack on October the 7th. My heart goes out to the families of the hostages, and to Jewish Australians who are feeling unsafe in our country. Australia has a history of great Jewish Australians who have given a great deal – not least one of my heroes – General Sir John Monash.”
On Sunday 10 December, the Hobart Hebrew Congregation hosted Senator Jonathon Duniam, Senator Claire Chandler and Tasmania State MP Madeleine Ogilvie at their annual Chanukah. Rabbi Paul Jacobson from Sydney led a special menorah lighting. The event was another excellent opportunity to show appreciation for local politicians’ support of the Jewish community and Israel.
Jacqui Lambie is my newly discovered hero.
Not only does she use her public profile in a staunch defence of Israel and
in fierce opposition to the outbreak of anti semitism, but she has the rare abillity to convey her message concisely with courage and utter clarity, and is a hugely effective advocate of our cause.
Jacqui Lambert has my vote for Prime Minister!!