The end of a golden era as Helen Gold retires from UIA
UIA NSW President Gary Perlstein delivered a heartfelt tribute to office manager Helen Gold at Wednesday night’s AGM at Central Synagogue, marking her retirement after 25 years of service and her upcoming aliyah.
Perlstein described Gold as the person who kept the United Israel Appeal steady through decades of change. “You have been the backbone of UIA for 25 years,” he said. “You have been a confidant and have held my hand throughout the period of my presidency and all the years leading up to it.”
He told the audience that Gold’s value inside the organisation could not be overstated. “I will miss your wise counsel, your knowledge and all that you have done, both for me personally and for the organisation,” he said. “You have been the person we rely on for everything concerning UIA operations. You always brought warmth, honesty and a steady hand.”
Michael and Helen Gold (photo by Giselle Haber)
Perlstein also used the chance to acknowledge her husband, “Michael, you have the highest participation rate on the weekly update and events,” Perlstein said to laughter. “Thank you for embracing the UIA family alongside Helen. It has been a real team effort.”
Because Gold had firmly instructed that she did not want to be called up or made a fuss of, Perlstein honoured her request. “You do not have to come up on the stage. That part of your instructions I will adhere to,” he said.
Instead, a tribute video of the “UIA family”, both in Australia and Israel, was screened and carried the same tone of affection. One speaker began simply, “Dearest Helen, after so many wonderful years of service to the community in New South Wales and helping so many thousands, you have shown what dedication looks like.”
Another spoke about the atmosphere she created in the office. “It is a very emotional place. It is all about the people, and that is what makes it special in the morning to work there and be part of this incredible UIA family.”
Perlstein concluded by reminding her that the relationship will not end with her departure. “We will miss you dearly, but we know we will see you soon in Israel,” he said. “Once you join this family, you cannot get out.”
