However, I would like to make a couple of clarifications.

Southern Sydney Synagogue was also firebombed in 1991. Fortunately, as the damage was largely contained within the building, we were able to rebuild and continue serving our community.

Following the unfortunate fire at Bankstown Synagogue, a number of its members joined Southern Sydney Synagogue. We were entrusted with a significant number of Bankstown’s plaques and Sifrei Torah, including the original foundation stone of Bankstown Synagogue. This was prominently displayed in the foyer of Southern Sydney Synagogue and was not, as suggested, simply stored away for 30 years. Other memorabilia from Bankstown continue to be displayed, reflecting our strong sense of connection to, and responsibility for, the legacy of the Bankstown community.

Southern Sydney Synagogue continues to hold weekly Shabbat services and, although small in number, remains a viable and active community in the southern suburbs of Sydney. We are currently in the process of organising a special meeting to consider how the community can move forward with confidence into the future. We are hopeful of attracting more young Jewish families to the area, particularly given the relative affordability of housing compared with other parts of Sydney.