The Queen’s Birthday Awards – The 2018 Jewish honorees

An icon in the medical world, already an AO, contracted a fatal disease a few months before he was due  to have been awarded Australia’s highest award. This year’s recipients of the Queen’s Birthday awards.

COMPANION [AC] IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

The late Professor David Albert COOPER AO, deceased  Late of Sydney NSW 2052

For eminent service to medicine, particularly in the area of HIV/AIDS research, as a clinician, scientist and administrator, to the development of treatment therapies, and to health programs in South East Asia and the Pacific.

Service includes:

University of New South Wales:

Director, Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity in Society (formerly the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research), since 1986.

Scientia Professor, 2005, 2011, and 2013.

Assisted with the foundation of the HIV Future Fund, in conjunction with the St Vincent’s Curran Foundation, 2014.

Advocated for reimbursement of Hepatitis C treatment within Australia.

Established effectiveness of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis treatment for those at substantial risk of contracting HIV in clinical trials.

Led ENCORE1 Clinical Trial, beginning in 2010 into use of a reduced dosage of efavirenz (supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and NHMRC), with two-year results published in 2015 resulting in changes to WHO Treatment Guidelines.

Established partnership with the National AIDS Programme in Cambodia, 2003, through the Global Fund, with a purpose-built clinic constructed in Phnom Penh.

International Network for Strategic Initiatives in Global HIV Trials:

Executive Committee Member, current.

Led SMART (2006) and START (2015) clinical trials into HIV Antiretroviral Therapy treatments.

World Health Organization:

Member, WHO Strategic and Technical Advisory Committee for HIV/AIDS, since 2006.

Chair, WHO-UNAIDS HIV Vaccine Advisory Committee, 2004-2012.

Advisor, Global Consultation on Potential Endpoints of HIV Vaccine Efficacy, 2007.

Co-Editor, ‘Current Opinion in HIV and AIDS’, since 2007.

Advisory Board Member, ‘Journal of HIV Therapy: Current Trends’, since 2005.

Author of more than 800 peer-reviewed scientific papers and publications, since 2003.

Australian Academy of Science:

Fellow, since 2007.

Member, Sectional Committee 13 (Microbiology and Immunology), since 2017.

Member, Sectional Committee 9, 2006-2009.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, James Cook Medal, Royal Society of New South Wales, 2016.

Recipient, John Yu Medal, George Institute for Global Health, 2016.

Inaugural Fellow, Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, since 2014.

Life Member, International AIDS Society.

Life Member, International Association of Physicians in AIDS Care.

Recipient, Officer of the Order of Sahametrei, Cambodia.

Honorary Fellow, College of Physicians of Thailand.

When Dorrie Cooper found her husband had been awarded the highest honour, it was a gut-wrenching moment.

“He was a modest and humble person and would be the first to say that his work was done in collaboration with others. He would have wanted to share it with his colleagues” she said.

As its inaugural director, he took the Kirby Institute from its origins in 1986 to a leading global research institute dedicated to the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

“He was such a quiet and modest man but he had such an impact on so many lives. The outpourings and tributes from patients, friends and colleagues has been almost like group grief.

“He was loved and the grief people have shown has been extraordinary. He worked hard and engaged life and was an amazing character” she said.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday June 14 at Sydney Town Hall 12.30-2.00pm

Contact The Kirby Institute for more details

A David Cooper Memorial Fund has been established to carry forward David’s vision for research

 

OFFICER [AO] IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Maxwell John BECK AM, Vic

For distinguished service to the community through philanthropic and fundraising support for medical, sporting, social welfare and cultural organisations, and to urban revitalisation.

Service includes:

Becton Property Group:

Co-founder, since 1976.

Chairman, until 2009.

Chairman, Beck Family Foundation.

Joint Partner, Beck Corporation and Linfox Group, Essendon Airport and Essendon Fields development, current.

The Women’s and The Royal Children’s Hospital:

Deputy Chair, Royal Children’s Hospital, circa 2004-2005.

Chairman, Redevelopment Committee, Royal Women’s Hospital, circa 2003-2005.

Past Director, The Women’s and The Royal Children’s Hospital.

Victorian Olympic Committee:

Life Member, 2009.

Chairman, Prime Minister’s Olympic Dinner, 2001-2008.

Executive Committee Member, 1996-2008.

Personal supporter, 2012 and 2016.

Member, 1996 Melbourne Olympic Bid, for 3 years.

Past Chairman, Accommodation and Venue Commission.

Philanthropic supporter of a range of organisations including:

Major Benefactor, Expansion Funding Partners, Lighthouse Foundation, 2012.

Founding Patron, Peter Mac Endowment Fund, 2003-2010.

Sacred Heart Mission, since 1998.

National Gallery of Victoria Foundation.

Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.

Western Chances.

ANZAC Centenary Public Fund.

Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Very Special Kids.

MS Australia.

St Vincent De Paul Society.

The Alfred Foundation.

Portsea Surf Life Saving Club.

Beyond Blue.

Whitelion.

Open Family Australia.

Max Beck said that he was “very very very honoured” to be receiving the award. He explained that he will be overseas playing golf in France on the long weekend to celebrate.

 

Paula Ruth NATHAN, Claremont WA 6010

For distinguished service to community health as a psychologist, particularly to understanding mental health disorders, and to establishing specialised treatment and support services.

Service includes:

Centre for Clinical Intervention, Western Australian Department of Health:

Director, 2002-2014

Founder, 2002.

Established community-based eating disorder service for youths and adults, 2005.

 

Royal Perth Hospital:

Head of Psychology Unit, 1998-2001.

Research Director, Western Australian Institute for Psychotherapy Research, 1998-2002.

 

University of Western Australia:

Lecturer, Psychology Department, 1986-2001.

Senior Research Officer, Psychology Department, 1983-1985.

 

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Ian Campbell Memorial Prize, Australian Psychological Society, 2014.

Recipient, Service Above Self Award, Rotary WA, 2013.

Recipient, National Award, Australian Clinical Psychology Association, 2014.

Recipient, National Award, Australian Psychological Society, College of Clinical Psychology, 2012

Paula Nathan does not see herself as worthy of such an accolade.

“I am amazed and embarrassed” she said.

As the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, she has been able to translate her idealism, based on humanist and social values, into a service that benefits patients in the public hospital system.

Paula’s experience as a psychologist and a teacher led her become the founding director of the Centre for Clinical Intervention in 2002. It now provides a world class clinical service for patients with a wide range of problems.

 

Professor Halina RUBINSZTEIN-DUNLOP, Kenmore Qld 4069

For distinguished service to laser physics and nano-optics as a researcher, mentor and academic, to the promotion of educational programs, and to women in science.

Service includes:

University of Queensland:

Professor of Physics, School of Mathematics and Physics, since 2000.

Director, Quantum Science Laboratory, current.

Past Director, Centre for Biophotonics and Laser Science.

Member, various school, departmental, faculty and central committees.

Head, School of Mathematics and Physics, 2010-2014.

Head, School of Physical Sciences, 2006-2009.

Head, Department of Physics, 2000-2005.

Professor of Physics, since 2000; Staff member, since 1989.

Initiated the “BrisScience” science outreach program, and “Physics Demo Troupe”, undergraduate students that present physics to schools and the general public.

 

Affiliate Professor, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, current.

Member, Advisory Board of Laser Beckmann Institute, University of California, Irvine, USA, current.

Member, Scientific Advisory Board, NTT Basic Research Laboratories, Japan, current.

Affiliated Professor, Biotechnology Laboratory, Gteborg, Sweden, current.

Member, various research grant review committees, Australia, Europe, and North America; including the German Excellence Initiative boards, and the Swedish Research Foundation.

 

Australian Research Council:

Program Manager/Chief Investigator, Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQuS), current.

Program Manager/Chief Investigator, Centre of Excellence in Quantum Computer Technology, 2003-2010.

Member, College of Experts, current.

 

SPIE – the International Society for Optics and Photonics:

Director, since 2017.

Member, Strategic Planning Committee, since 2017.

Chair, Symposia Committee, 2016.

Member, Gender Equity and Diversity Committee, since 2017.

 

Inaugurated and Chaired:

Annual Complex Light and Optical Forces Conference, Photonics West, since 2007.

Biennial Nano-photonics Conference, Photonics Europe, since 2006.

 

Chair, Nanotechnology Technical Group, 2002-2007.

Member, Fellowship Committee, 2006-2009.

Member, Publication Committee, since 2013 and 2004-2009.

Member, Editorial Board, ‘Journal of Biophotonics’, current.

Member, Editorial Board, ‘SPIE Newsroom’ website, 2006-2009.

 

Optical Society of America:

International Councillor, 2000-2003.

Editorial Board Member, ‘Optica’, since 2014.

Member, Awards Committee, 2012-2015.

Member, Fellows Committee, 2014-2015.

President, Optics Within Life Sciences, 2009-2010.

Member, Membership and Education Council, 2006-2008.

 

Australian Institute of Physics:

Special Projects Officer, and Co-Chair, 13th Asian Pacific Physics Conference and 22nd Australian Institute of Physics Congress, 2016.

Editorial Board Member, ‘Australian Physics’ journal;

Fellow, since 2016.

Australian Optical Society:

Councillor, current.

Fellow, since 2012.

Member.

Fellow.

Members Committee, since circa 2002.

Fellow, Australian Academy of Science, since 2016.

Member, Editorial Board, ‘IOP Journal of Optics’, current.

Awards and recognition include:

Fellow, Australian Academy of Science, since 2016.

Award ‘for Excellence in Research Higher Degree Supervision’, UQ, 2008.

‘Women in Physics Lecturer’, AIP, 2003.

Fellow of SPIE

Fellow of OSA

Halina Rubinszein-Dunlop says she is grateful to the people who put her forward and is proud to be recognised for her contribution to science and her mentorship of women scientists.

Her work in nano-optics and optics and involvement in mentorship and gender equity and diversity are what drives her.

“It is important to encourage and promote gifted women to pursue a career in science” she said.

Since the Queen’s Birthday holiday is not a holiday in Queensland she is not sure when and how she will celebrate, but is sure her sons will want mark the occasion.

Julie SINGER SCANLAN, Toorak Vic 3142

For distinguished service to Australia-America relations through the promotion and facilitation of dialogue and information exchange across government, business and community sectors.

 

Service includes:

Australian American Leadership Dialogue (a private diplomatic initiative bringing together Australian and American leaders from government, enterprise, media, education and the community to help review and refine the parameters of the Australian-American bilateral relationship).

Co-Founder, 1992.

Vice-Chairman, since 2013.

President, Singer Scanlan Group Pty Ltd, since 1997.

Chief Executive, Australian Image Makers, 1985-1993.

President, Broadcast Operations, Dorf and Stanton Communications, 1984-1985.

Vice President, Hill and Knowlton, 1980-1985.

 

 

Professor Sever STERNHELL, Naremburn NSW 2065

For distinguished service to education in the field of organic chemistry, specifically to nuclear magnetic resonance, as an academic and researcher, and to scientific institutions.

Service includes:

 

Sydney University:

Emeritus Professor, since 1998.

Founding Chair, Committee for Graduate Studies, 1984 – 1987.

Chair, PhD Awards Committee, 1978 – 1984 and Member, 1976-1977.

Professor, Organic Chemistry, 1977-1998.

Member, PhD Awards Committee, 1976 – 1984.

Reader, Organic Chemistry, 1967 – 1976.

Senior Lecturer, 1964.

 

Australian Research Council:

Chair, Interdisciplinary Panel, 1992.

Chair, Chemistry Panel, 1991 – 1992.

Member, Materials Science Priority Panel, 1989 – 1992.

Member, Australian Research Council, 1988 – 1992.

Australian Academy of Science:

Former Member, National Committee for Chemistry.

Fellow, 1992.

Involved with the introduction of NMR Spectroscopy to Australia.

Member, several editorial boards with national and international publications including: ‘Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Abstracts’, 1964-1976.

Research Officer, Division of Coal Research, CSIRO, 1955 – 1964.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Centenary Medal, 2001.

Fellow, Royal Australian Chemical Institute.

 

 

Professor Frank John VAJDA AM, Kew Vic 3101

For distinguished service to medical education in the field of clinical pharmacology and the genetics of epilepsy, and to the promotion of humanitarian values.

Continuing service includes:

Founding Director, Raoul Wallenberg Centre of Clinical Neuropharmacology, since 1997.

Founding Principal Investigator, Australian Epilepsy Pregnancy Register, since 1999.

Founding Member, International European Registry of Antiepileptic Drugs and Pregnancy, International League Against Epilepsy, since 1999.

Honorary Consultant Neurologist, Royal Melbourne Hospital, current.

Professorial Fellow, Department of Medicine and Radiology, University of Melbourne, current.

Fellow, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, since 1972.

Editor of numerous books on epilepsy including ‘Antiepileptic Drugs and Pregnancy Springer-Adis’, Switzerland, 2015.

Head, Free Wallenberg Australian Committee, current.

Supporter, Holocaust Museum and Research Centre in Melbourne.

Awards and recognition includes:

Officer, Polar Star, from Sweden, 2002.

Appointed a Member of the Order of Australia, 2012.

Recipient, Ambassador for Epilepsy Award, International League Against Epilepsy and the International Bureau for Epilepsy, Istanbul, 2015.

“I am humbled, extremely grateful and overwhelmed. It is almost like matriculating”, Frank Vadja said.

He particularly likes the reasons for his award and the citation which recognises his efforts in honouring Raoul Wallenberg, work in medical education and research in antiepileptic drugs for pregnant women.

He paid tribute to” two extremely good co-ordinators” – Janet Graham and Allison Hitchcock – and many “wonderful collaborators”, both in Australia and overseas.

His book “Saved to Remember”, published in 2016, detailed how he was saved as a young boy by Raoul Wallenberg and how he survived the war and its aftermath. He is presently working on a second book.

 

MEMBER [AM] IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

 

Danielle Eva BLAIN, Peppermint Grove WA 6011

For significant service to business and commerce, to politics in Western Australia, and to women.

Service includes:

Non-Executive Director, Schaffer Corporation, since 1987.

Director, Howe Automotive Limited, 1993-2005.

Managing Director (furniture division), GOSH Leather, 1993-2001.

Board Member, EON Foundation, since 2014 (not-for-profit organisation, working to reduce poor health and disease in remote Aboriginal communities by improving nutrition)

Member, Finance Committee, Western Australian Institute of Child Health Research, 2001-2004 (now the Telethon Kids Institute)

Chair, Major Gifts Capital Campaign, Association for The Blind of Western Australia, 2003-2004 (now VisAbility)

Member, WA Government Premier’s Treasury Advisory Group, 1996-2001.

Chairperson, WA Department of Commerce and Trade Advisory Board, 1999-2001.

 

Centenary Trust for Women, University of Western Australia:

Member, Board of Advisors, since 2015.

Founding Member and Patron, since 2002.

 

Edith Cowan University:

Pro-Chancellor, 2004-2006.

Council Member, 1998-2004

 

St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls:

Council Member, 1983-1995.

Inaugural Chairperson, School’s Foundation, 1991-1992.

 

Liberal Party of Australia:

Chair, Leader’s Forum of Western Australia, since 2006.

Federal Vice-President, 2009-2014.

State President, WA Division, 2003-2008.

Honorary Life Membership, WA Division, 2015.

 

Awards and recognition includes:

Inductee, Inaugural WA Women’s Hall of Fame, 2010.

Recipient, Federal Distinguished Award, Liberal Party of Australia, 2009.

 

 

Morry FRAID, Vic

For significant service to the community through philanthropic support for a range of charitable organisations and foundations.

Service includes:

Spotlight Group Holdings:

Executive Chair, current.

Co-Founder, 1976.

Founder, YES Employment Program.

Spotlight Charitable Foundation:

Executive Trustee, since, 2004.

Co-Founder, 2004.

 

Lighthouse Foundation:

Supporter, since 1992.

Sponsor, Breaking the Cycle program, 1992.

National Gallery of Victoria Foundation:

Board Member, since 2010.

Donor, current.

Jewish Museum of Australia:

Trustee, Jewish Museum Foundation, 2006-2012.

Past Director’s Chair.

Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation:

Inaugural Patron, RCH1000, 2007-2010.

Supporter, current.

Stitch in Time (Centres for women in Siam Reap, Cambodia, and Hoi An, Vietnam) to produce fair trade products sold through Australian Spotlight stores. In conjunction with Lifestart Foundation and Together for Cambodia):

Founder, Sewing Centres, 2010.

Founder, Stitch in Time Program in conjunction with World Vision Australia, 2005.

Philanthropic support:

Melbourne Jewish Charity Fund

Lamm Library and Resource Centre

Yeshivah Beth Rivkah Colleges

Yavneh College

Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation

Murdoch Research Institute

Austin Hospital

 

Colin Denis GOLVAN QC, Southbank Vic 3006

For significant service to the law, to legal education, particularly support for Indigenous students, and to the arts through governance and philanthropy.

Service includes:

Victorian Bar Barrister, Intellectual Property and Trade Practices, since 1988.

Founding Chairman of Trustees, Indigenous Barristers’ Fund, since 2007.

Former Chairman, Indigenous Barrister’s Committee.

Appointed Senior Queen’s Counsel,2002.

Museums Victoria:

Chair, Fundraising Committee, 2015-2017.

Member, Audit and Risk Committee, since 2017.

Member, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee, since 2010.

Member, Nominations, Remuneration and Governance Committee, since 2010.

Board Member, since 2010.

Arts Centre Melbourne:

Member, President’s Club, since 2006.

Governor, ACM Foundation, 2014-2016.

Australian Book Review:

Chair, since 2015.

Board Member, since 2005.

Board Member, Malthouse Theatre, 2015-2018.

Chair, Malthouse Foundation, 2015-2018.

Supporter, Australian Chamber Orchestra, current.

Director, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, current.

Member, Law Institute of Victoria, 1985-1988.

Director and Founding Chair, Viscopy, 1995-2000.

Board Member, Arts Law Centre of Australia, 1995-1997.

Former Visiting Fellow, Master of Law program, University of Melbourne.

Author of numerous books including ‘Copyright – Law and Practice’, 2007.

Trustee, Namatjira Legacy Trust, since 2017.

 

It means a lot to me” Colin Golvan told J-Wire.

“I was really surprised and am most grateful and excited to receive it” he said.

His efforts in connection in arts philanthropy and support to a number of arts companies are something he enjoys doing.  However it is his connection with Indigenous communities and Indigenous law students, mentoring them through their degrees and beyond that give him a lot of satisfaction.

As a trustee of the Namatjira Legacy Trust, he is glad of the 2017 settlement of the copyright matter with the family of Albert Namatjira.

 

Joe KRAMPEL, Melbourne Vic 3004

For significant service to the Jewish community of Victoria, particularly in the area of aged care, and to sports administration.

Service includes:

Emmy Monash Aged Care:

Honorary Life Member, since 2013.

President, since 2009.

Board Member, current.

Former Treasurer.

Former Vice-President.

Maccabi Victoria:

Inaugural Committee Member, the Friends of Maccabi Group, 2007-2012.

Inductee, Hall of Fame, 2006.

Life Member, since 1991.

Carnival Manager, 1991.

Treasurer, 1985-1991.

Victorian Representative, Maccabi Australia Council, 1986-1991.

Board Member, 1985-1992.

Former Board Member and Treasurer, The Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA).

Trustee of fund, Manuel Gelman Bequest Fund, 2007-2013.

“I am sincerely touched” Joseph Krampel told J-Wire.

“It is not something that one expects to get. I find it touching and satisfying that people have considered my contribution worthy of being recognised” he said.

He is in awe at the large number of people who give so much of their time to all kinds of communal work and who also deserve to be recognised.

“I did not do this on my own.  An award like this actually belongs to a whole lot of people working together” he said.

Professor Jeannette MILGROM, Research Vic 3095

For significant service to psychology as a researcher, advisor and administrator, to education, and to professional organisations.

Service includes:

University of Melbourne:

Professor of Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, current.

 

Austin Health, Melbourne:

Executive Director, Parent-Infant Research Institute, current.

Director of Clinical and Health Psychology, current.

Establishment of the Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI), 2001.

 

International Marce Society for Perinatal Mental Health, USA:

Immediate Past President, since 2016.

President, 2014-2016.

President Elect, 2012-2014.

Conference Chair, Melbourne Conference, 2016.

 

Australian Psychological Society:

Member and previous Chair, National Executive Committee of the College of Health Psychologists, 2006-2014.

Member, Health Care Initiatives Advisory Group, 2003-2006.

Chair, National Executive of the College of Health Psychologists, 2002-2006.

Member, Directorate of Professional Affairs Advisory Group, 2002-2006.

Elected Fellow, 1999.

Member, since 1976.

 

BeyondBlue:

Member, Editorial Board, 2004-2012.

Member, Steering Committee, 2006-2014.

Involvement in National Perinatal Depression Program, current.

Researcher, National Postnatal Depression Program, 2002-2006.

Chair, beyondblue Workforce, Training and Development Committee (WTC), National Perinatal Depression Initiative (NPDI), 2009-2011.

Project Reference Group (PRG) Health Professional Advisor, 2009-2013.

Member, Expert Working Group, 2007-2009.

 

Expert Advisory Group Member on Perinatal Mental Health, Department of Health Services, since 2008.

Committee Member, Victorian Cooperative Oncology Group, since 2006.

Former Advisory role, National Perinatal Depression Initiative.

Member, Child Mental Health Stakeholder Forum, Department of Health and Ageing, 2009-2011.

Representative, Tweddle Child and Family Health Service, 2002-2004.

 

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Award of Distinction, Australian Psychological Society College of Health Psychologists, 2006.

As the Queen’s Birthday holiday coincides with the day of her late mother’s consecration it is a bittersweet occasion for Jeannette Milgrom.

“My mother always told us to use take what was beneath our shoulders and do the best with it. She would have been so proud I have been able to contribute” she told J-Wire.

As a child of a Holocaust survivor she has been driven to make a difference.

“In the past, the issue of perinatal depression was not seen as something that affected the whole family and I am proud that I have been part of the move to recognise that it does” she said.

Paying tribute to the wonderful team and great people she has worked with at the Parent-Infant Institute for the past 15 years and the Australian Psychological Society, she hopes to go on making a difference to the lives of people who are struggling.

 

Adjunct Associate Professor Leslie Lewis RETI, Toorak Vic 3142

For significant service to medicine in the field of gynaecology and women’s health as a clinician and educator, and to the community.

Service includes:

The Royal Women’s Hospital:

Clinical Director of Gynaecology, Perioperative Services and Women’s Cancer, 2009-2017.

Unit Head, General Gynaecology, 1989-2009.

Chair, Clinical Ethics Committee, since 1999.

Chairman, Gynaecology, 1994-1995.

Quality Assurance Coordinator/Director, since 1989.

Board Member, Royal Women’s Foundation, over 8 years.

Chairman, Senior Medical Staff, 2006-2009.

Recipient, Woodward Medal of Excellence, 2003.

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre:

Board Member, since 2013.

Chair, Quality Committee, current.

Member, Finance Committee, current.

Ambassador, White Ribbon Australia, since 2011.

Senior Lecturer, University of Melbourne, 2000-2009; Honorary Clinical Teacher, 1994-2000; Lecturer, 1985-1994.

La Trobe University:

Adjunct Associate Professor, School of Psychology and Public Health, 2012-2015.

Adjunct Associate Professor, 2000-2009.

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists:

Member, Continuing Professional Development Committee, 2002-2012.

Chair, Practice Improvement Committee, 2000-2003.

Chair, Quality Assurance and Effectiveness Committee, 1999-2000.

Chair, Quality Assurance Committee, 1993-1998.

Member, Continuing Education Committee, 1993-2002.

Victorian State Committee Member, 1987, and 1991-1993.

Recipient, Distinguished Service Medal, 2013.

Fellow, since 1980.

Past Executive Member, Victorian Council on Safety and Quality in Health.

Past Chair, Clinical Leadership Group, Victorian Quality Council.

Chair, Casemix Quality Committee, Department of Health, Victoria, 1993-1994.

Recipient, Lifetime Achievement Award, Victorian Public Healthcare Awards, 2013.

Jewish Care Victoria:

Director, 2004-2013.

Past Chair, Quality and Service Review Board Sub-Committee.

Recipient, Life Governor Award, 2016.

Recipient, Leo and Mina Fink Community Service Award, 2014.

Centre Against Sexual Assault – CASA House:

Co-Founder, 1986.

Chair, 1987-1989.

Member, Board of Management

Like many recipients, Leslie Reti was both shocked and humbled to receive the letter informing him of his nomination.

“There is no way that you can achieve things on your own, and there are many people for me thank” he said.

He thought it is an acknowledgement of all the different endeavours he has been involved with over many years.

As a clinician he has given care on a one-to-one basis and finds it most rewarding to extend care to a group of people.

“You can do so much to help an individual person but to be able to extend that care to a larger group in the area of public health is a way of helping.

“To live a good and healthy life, there needs to be an improvement in the social conditions people live in order to encompass that. Effecting the greatest change for the greatest number of people is the goal” he said.

 

Emeritus Professor David Harry SONNABEND, Rose Bay NSW 2029

For significant service to medicine in the field of orthopaedics, as a clinician and administrator, and to medical education.

Service includes:

Royal North Shore Hospital:

Orthopaedic Surgeon, 1984-1993 and 2001-2016.

Founder, Royal North Shore Shoulder Symposium.

 

Wolper Jewish Hospital:

Member, Board of Directors, since 2012.

Member, Medical Executive Committee, current.

Shoulder and Elbow Society of Australia:

Founder, 1988.

Inaugural President, 1988-1998.

Life Member, since 2012.

Royal Australasian College of Surgeons:

Member, Court of Examiners, 1998-2006.

Past Member, International Committee.

Fellow, since 1979.

International Board of Shoulder Surgery:

Member, 2000-2010.

Co-Chair, Seventh International Conference of Shoulder Surgery, 1998.

Australian Regional Editor, ‘Journal of shoulder and elbow surgery’, 1992-2001.

Australian Orthopaedic Association:

Past Chair, Sydney Conjoint Board of Studies.

Scientific Secretary, 1988-1990.

Secretary, New South Wales Branch, 1984-1985.

Chair, New South Wales Board of Studies training program, 1991-1993.

Co-Chair, Orthopaedic Outreach, 2000-2003.

Fellow, since 1982.

Associate, 1979-1982.

Emeritus Professor, University of Sydney, since 2017.

Professor of Orthopaedics and Traumatic Surgery, University of Sydney, 2001-2016.

Chair, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Prince Henry and Prince of Wales Hospital, 1993-2001.

Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of New South Wales, 1993-2001.

Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dubbo Base Hospital, 2002-2006.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, LO Betts Medal, Australian Orthopaedic Association, 2013.

Recipient, Teaching Award, Australian Orthopaedic Association, 2011.

Recipient, Research Award, Australian Orthopaedic Association, 2007.

David Sonnabend was surprised to be nominated.

“It is very nice to get recognition from peers and colleagues” he told J-Wire.

“I was lucky that I got into the field of shoulder surgery by default when it wasn’t yet a speciality.

“After studying overseas I returned to Australia and ended up a full time shoulder surgeon before I started teaching it.

“Over the years I have taught 60-70 young surgeons who came here from all over the world and have worked on projects with some of them.

“That has given me much satisfaction” he said.

He plans to celebrate with a family luncheon.

 

MEDAL [OAM] OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA IN THE GENERAL DIVISION

 

Dr Peter Chester ARNOLD, Edgecliff NSW 2027

For service to medicine through a range of roles with professional organisations, and as a general practitioner.

Service includes:

Australian Medical Association (AMA):

Federal Council Chairman, 1995-1999.

Executive Councillor, 1991-1995.

Councillor, 1987-1999.

Chairman, Constitution and Policy Review Committee, 1991-1996.

Chairman, Medico-Legal Committee, 1996-1999.

Member, several other committees including Women and Medicine, Ethics and Public Health, and Competition Policy.

Australian Medical Association New South Wales (AMA NSW):

President, 1992-1993.

Councillor, 1987-1999.

Member, Ethics Committee, 1987-1999.

Trustee, Professional Freedom Fund, 1992-1993.

AMA Representative, NSW Council of Professions, 1995-1996.

The Doctors’ Health Fund:

Chairman, 2005-2008.

Director, 2005-2012.

Chairman (AMA Health Fund), 2001-2005

Director, 1993-2005.

NSW Medical Board:

Deputy President, 1993-2000.

Member, 1987-2000.

Member, Medical Tribunals, District Court, 1987-2003.

Chairman, Professional Standards Committee, 1987-2003, Impaired Registrants Panel, 1993-2003, Medical Practitioners’ Act Review Committee, 1989-1990.

Medico-Legal Society of NSW:

Committee Member, 1998-2011.

Life Member.

Australasian Medical Publishing Company:

Deputy Chairman, 1996-2000.

Director, 1987-2000.

Member, Editorial Advisory Panel, Medical Journal of Australia, 1988-2001.

Honorary Editor, Medical Directory of Australia, 20-22nd editions.

Vice-President, Society of Editors NSW, 2005.

NSW Doctors’ Health Advisory Service:

Honorary Secretary, 2002-2010.

Distinguished Service Award.

Board Member, Sydney Jewish Museum, 2012.

Member, Doctors’ Mental Health Program Advisory Committee, Beyond Blue, 2009-2010.

Peter Arnold told J-Wire: “I feel very privileged that somebody thought I was worth it”.

Peter mentions that in particular the most important thing he accomplished was when he pushed for coronary ambulances, and as a result intense care ambulances, which ultimately become an established practice in Sydney for emergencies. Peter said: “I feel that this is the biggest achievement that relates to me directly that is still foregoing today”.

 

The late Johnny BAKER

Late of Caulfield North Vic 3161

For service to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

President, Mount Scopus Memorial College, 1994-2004.

Foundation President, Australian Friends of Yad Vashem, 2004-2014.

Chair, Jewish Museum Australia, 2005-2008.

President, Zionist Council of Victoria, 1988-1994.

Editorial Board Member, Australia / Israel Review, 2006-2017.

Former Representative, Ameinu Australia, Friends of the Israeli Labour Party.

Mark Baker says his brother did not know he was getting an award although he did know he had been nominated and recognised for his communal activities.

“He was a worthy recipient and it is a tragedy that he is not around to receive it. He lived for ten months after his diagnosis with cancer” he said.

Mark said that even after Johnny was virtually immobilised near the end, he attended an important function and held one in his own home.

“He gave a great speech, albeit sitting down.

“ I know that his wife, five children and parents, while suffering, will feel really proud that he is receiving this honour posthumously” he said.

 

Rony BOGNAR, Rose Bay NSW 2029

For service to women, and to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

Women’s International Zionist Organisation Australia:

National President, 1998-2004.

NSW State President, 1992-1997.

Member, NSW Management Committee, current.

Sydney Jewish Museum:

Volunteer Manager, current.

Co-Facilitator, Survivor Focus Group, since 2006; Co-Founder, 2006.

JewishCare:

Volunteer Coordinator, Aged Services, 1995-2002.

Awards and recognition includes:

Honorary Life Member, World Women’s International Zionist Organisation (WIZO) Conference, 2004.

Rony Bognar is both grateful and overwhelmed.

“My thoughts are fragmented because I really believe that so many others I have worked with are involved and this is not just for me, but somehow shared” she said.

“When I think about all the wonderful women of WIZO who received an honour in the past, I am excited and honoured to be following in the footsteps of my mentors.

“It is hard to separate myself from all the challenges, joys and heartbreak of volunteering and leadership” she said.

 

Phyllis Olivia DOREY, Melbourne Vic 3004

For service to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

World Union for Progressive Judaism:

Co-Chair and Management Committee Member, since 2015.

Chair, Education Committee, 2011-2015.

Executive Board Member, since 2010.

Co-Chair, International Biennial Conventions, Rio de Janeiro, 2014-2015; San Francisco, 2010-2011.

President, Union for Progressive Judaism, 2004-2008.

Temple Beth Israel, St Kilda:

Chair, Rabbinic Search Committee, 2012.

President, 1999-2001.

The King David School:

Council Member, 2009-2014.

Chair, Education Committee, 2007-2014.

Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre:

Part-time Assessor, Special Entry Admissions Scheme, since 2012.

Assistant Director Admissions, 1990-1996.

Various administrative roles, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, 1997-2004.

Principal, Careers and Educational Consultant, Alexander & Regan Consultants for Change, 1990-2000.

Public Relations Manager, Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, 1985-1990.

Teacher, Careers Counsellor and Work Experience Coordinator, Richmond Girls High School, 1975-1984.

“It’s a bizarre and humbling feeling” Phyllis Dorey told J-Wire.

“There are other people who are more deserving of this honour, but I accept it on behalf of the community”.

Ms Dorey says her parents taught her the importance of active participation and doing what you can.  She believes that she is fortunate to be part of a strong Progressive Jewish community which encourages diversity – both in Melbourne and worldwide.

 “I have been able to work with and encourage women to take on leadership positions and to be a role model for them.

“To make so many worldwide connections within the Progressive Movement means that no matter where you travel, or the differences between congregations, that we are all still Jews and family. There is a real strength in that” she said.

 

Yvonne ENGELMAN, NSW

For service to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

Sydney Jewish Museum:

Volunteer guide, speaker and presenter, since 1992.

Australian Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Descendants:

Past Board Member.

Member, since 1970s.

Board of Jewish Education:

Volunteer, current

Yvonne Engelman told J-Wire that she believes it is her obligation as a survivor to continue her volunteer guiding at the Sydney Jewish Museum.

“It is a great honour for me and I feel very humble. I do the guiding because I want to and receiving an honour for it is something I could never have imagined.” she said.

She said that nobody knows about it  and imagines her family will want to celebrate when they find out.

“I am strong-minded and disciplined enough to let them find out along with everyone else” she said.

 

Ephraim FINCH, St Kilda East Vic 3183

For service to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

Executive Director, Melbourne Chevra Kadisha, 1990-2015 (Jewish Burial Society).

Volunteer, Chevra Hatzolah Melbourne Inc, five years (free Emergency Medical Responder service for Melbourne’s Jewish community).

Ephraim Finch told J-Wire: “The award is recognition of over 30 years of my position as the executive director of the Melbourne Chevra Kadisha and working with the Jewish ambulance group… It just makes me feel that I’ve been recognised for the work I have done”.

Ephraim told J-wire that it is his and his wife’s 52rd wedding anniversary over the long weekend, so they will be celebrating together.

Ephraim added: “It is so nice to have good friends who put me in to get the award… I’m touched by the way people thought about me”.

 

Bruce FINK, Vaucluse NSW 2030

For service to the community through charitable organisations.

Service includes:

Children’s Medical Research Institute:

Board Member, since 2013.

Member, Finance and Investment Committee, since 2013.

Member, Audit and Risk Committee Member, since 2013.

Supporter and Donor, Sydney Children’s Hospital, since 2006.

Supporter and Donor, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 2004-2012.

United Israel Appeal NSW:

Immediate Past President, 2012-2016.

President, 2008-2012.

Executive Member, Young Leadership, 1990-2002.

Financial contributor and volunteer, since 1990.

Board Member, Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council.

Committee Member, Lay Board of Enquiry, Kashrut Commission, since 2014.

Financial contributor and supporter of various organisations including; Jewish House Crisis Centre;

Jewish Communal Appeal;

Sydney Jewish Museum;

Central Synagogue, Bondi Junction; and

Zionist Federation of Australia.

Member, President’s Council, Art Gallery of New South Wales, 2007-2010.

Supporter, National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA).

Member, Chairman’s Council, Australian Chamber Orchestra, current.

Moriah College, Sydney

Non-Executive Director, Moriah College Foundation, since 2013.

Member, Bursaries and Scholarships Committee, current.

Member, Finance Committee, current.

Governor, Moriah College Capital Appeal, 2011.

Supporter and Donor, since 1997.

Financial contributor and supporter of various organisations including Mount Scopus Memorial College, Melbourne, 2005.

Mount Sinai College, Sydney, since 2007.

Masada College, Sydney, since 1999.

Emanuel School, Randwick, 2006.

Chairman, Bickham Court Group of Companies, since 2002.

Co-founder and Executive Chairman, Executive Channel International (ECI), current.

Co-founder, Media i. 2008.

General Manager, Hoyts Television, 1988-2002.

Director, Hoyts Cinemas, 1985-1993.

Awards and recognition includes:

Co-Recipient, Foundation Award, Moriah College, for ‘demonstrating outstanding commitment to Jewish education’, 2016.

Recipient, Baden-Powell World Fellowship, (awarded by His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden), for ‘generosity and support of the Scouting movement in Australia’, 2016.

Recipient, Louis Klein Award for ‘outstanding leadership on behalf of Israel and the Jewish people’, United Israel Appeal NSW, 2012.

Awarded, Key of Jerusalem, Keren Hayesod Award, for ‘outstanding leadership of the United Israel Appeal’, 1999.

Bruce Fink is  honoured and humbled by his award. He just wishes his parents were around to share in the occasion.

“Australia has been a great country for my family. I am pleased to be of assistance, especially to those in need” he said.

His long involvement with UIA, working with the Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) and support for Jewish day schools all come from his philanthropic passion for health, education and Israel.

“The work the researchers at CMRI are doing is fantastic.

“To see what a difference Oasis College can make in helping disadvantaged youth to complete Years 11 and 12 and graduate from high school is amazing.  Helping to provide funds for those who could not otherwise afford a Moriah education is so worthwhile” he said.

“I look forward to doing more for many years to come” he said.

 

Shirley GLANCE, Brighton Vic 3186

For service to the community.

Service includes:

National Council of Jewish Women of Australia

Board Member, since 2015.

Honorary Secretary, 2011-2015.

President, National Council of Jewish Women of Victoria, 2014-2016.

National Chair, ILAN (Israel Foundation for Handicapped Children).

Office Manager, Jewish National Fund.

Member, Polio National Day Committee, Polio Network Victoria, ongoing.

Co-convenor, Bayside Polio Group, 2008-2014 and Member, since 2008.

Shirley Glance said: “It’s an absolute honour and privilege to have received the award in recognition for the community work that I’ve done for the National Council of Jewish Women of Australia and for raising awareness of polio survivorsin Victoria and the community

Shirley told J-wire that once the award becomes public she plans to have a low-key celebration with family and friends.

She added: “I am only sorry that my parents who were Holocaust survivors are no longer with us and unable to share this significant moment in my life . I dedicate this award to them and I would like to thank my husband, family and friends for their ongoing support.”

 

Alan GOLDSTONE, Toorak Vic 3142

For service to Jewish education, and to the law.

Service includes:

Co-Chair, Australian Council of Jewish Schools, since 2008.

Law Institute of Victoria:

Member of a range of committees since 1985 including the Property and Environmental Law Committee, since 2005.

Involved in giving lectures, making submission to government and organising conferences.

Partner, Tisher Liner FC Law, since 1979.

Bialik College Council:

Senior Council Member, since 2009.

President, 2002 – 2009.

Vice President, 1985 – 2002.

Member, since 1985.

Awards and recognition include:

Recipient, Certificate of Service, Law Institute of Victoria, 2011.

Recipient, Community Recognition Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2010.

 

Dorothy Madge GRAFF, Vic

For service to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

Temple Beth Israel:

Board Member, since 2008.

Vice President, 2013-2015.

Executive Member, 2010-2015.

Chair of the Board, 2010-2013.

Convenor, Governance Committee, 2011-2015.

Founding Manager, Social Justice Group, 2001-2006.

The Tipping Foundation:

Member, Community Relations Advisory Group, since 2001.

Board Member, 2001-2012.

Deputy Chair 2006-2011.

Life Member, 2016.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Alwynne and Walter Jona Leadership Award, Temple Beth Israel, 2015.

Dorothy Graff admits that keeping the news secret was difficult and that process has been overwhelming.

“You do the best you can and don’t expect to be rewarded.

“Since I was a child, making a difference has been my philosophy. I suppose that’s what I would like to be remembered for.  It’s as simple as that” she said.

Improving the lives of people with disabilities was part of her involvement with The Tipping Foundation (now amalgamated with The House with No Steps).

In her work with Temple Beth Israel she has worked on a social justice group running programs for migrants, prisoners and asylum seekers as well as helping females in detention and homeless children.

 

Dianne KUCHAR, NSW

For service to the Jewish community.

Service includes:

World Emunah (acharity catering for the welfare of disadvantaged groups in Israel):

Sydney President, since 2011.

Member, since 2005.

Volunteer, Sydney Chevra Kadisha – Jewish Funeral Directors, since 2002.

Co-Founder, Gittels List (an interactive online community noticeboard), 2008.

Writer and Co-Producer, ‘Chocolate, change and a skim flat white’, 2011-2012.

Co-Founder and Member, Sydney Branch, Women’s International Zionist Organisation, 1981-1990.

Dianne Kuchar told J-Wire: “It means to me that volunteering and doing things for other people is important, and what it really means to me is that my parents came here after the Holocaust and they always felt blessed that they chose Australia to come to and they were so happy here, and were able to live freely and happy here. Because of that I’m proud that I’ve accomplished something that Australia is happy for. I’m proud because my parents] are ageing, and they will be very proud of this. I’m glad that I can do something for the community in a worthwhile way.

Initially I was a bit taken back because I thought they got something wrong, I had no idea why I was nominated for what I do, because I just thought ‘oh this is just something I do’, things need to get done and you do them.”

Jonathan Michael LEIGHTON, Wahroonga NSW 2076

For service to cycling

Service includes:

Bicycle New South Wales:

President, since 2011.

Board Member, since 2007.

Member, 20 years.

Board Member, Cycling Australia, 2013-2015.

Sport Commission, Cycling Australia, current.

President and Club Captain, Harlequin Wheelmen, since 2015.

Founder, JML Racing Team, current.

Founder, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Gorgeous Gorges Cycling Group, 2017.

Former Member, Easy Riders.

Union Cycliste Internationale:

Member, Global Cycling Bodies Mass Participation Commission, current.

World Championships Competitor, Time Trial and Road Race events, since 2012.

Founder, Peloton Charity Events, (PAAP), current.

Involved with a range of charity rides including Cancer Tour of California (United States), Bikes for NetCam (Cambodia).

Jon Leighton told J-Wire: “I will actively assist all who need it.”

His award is services to cycling to create a better environment for all bicycle riders, advocacy for greater road user respect and safety and a positive change to the law requiring minimum passing distances and safe road sharing.

Scott Victor LEVI, Gosford NSW 2250

For service to the broadcast media industry, and to the community.Scott 

Service includes:

Presenter, ABC Radio Central Coast, since 2003.

Former Presenter, 2WG Wagga Wagga.

Community:

Volunteer, Central Coast Cancer Council, since 2002.

Patrol Member, Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Premier’s Award for Community Service, 1990.

Scott Levi told J-Wire he wasn’t raised Jewish or is practicing. However, his father had written a history of the family following their discovery of their Jewish ancestry this year. For 26 years his family’s forebear, Rabbi Aaron Alexander Levi, was the rabbi in the York St and Great Synagogue in Sydney.

Scott Levi said: “It’s a lovely boost. It’s a lovely endorsement of the simple philosophy that I tried to work under in radio and the community – just giving people a platform. Along the way, I met a lot of great people in the communities where I work – really true philanthropists or community workers. I basically gave them the platform, whether in commercial radio or the ABC… It’s been a fantastic journey, really. It’s been a simple philosophy, or service to just give local communities a platform to talk about what they are doing… Over the years we’ve been able to raise money for people for different things, and help people in different ways…”

 

Professor Stephen Andrew MARGOLIS, Qld

For service to rural medicine, and to medical education.

Service includes:

Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM):

Inaugural Director of Assessments, current.

Exam Writer/Examiner/Medical Educator, since 2005.

Fellow, 2000.

 

Royal Flying Doctor Service, Queensland (RFDS):

Medical Officer, Cairns, Kowanyama and Mount Isa, since 2005.

Head of Research, 2006-2009.

Senior Medical Editor, ‘Australian Family Physician’ Journal, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), since 2013.

Chief Investigator, Grants, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), 2013 and 2007.

Fellow, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 1991.

Research Professor, School of Medicine, Griffith University, since 2013.

James Cook University:

Researcher Professor, 2011-2013.

Researcher, 2005-2012.

Associate Professor of Rural and Remote Medicine, University of Queensland, 2004-2005.

Author of 48 peer-reviewed articles and two book chapters.

Academic/Medical Educator/Researcher, Al-Ain Medical School, United Arab Emirates, 1999-2004.

General Practitioner, Gympie, Queensland and Corowa, New South Wales, 1980s and 1990s.

 

 

Victoria Sophie NADEL, Bondi NSW 2026

For service to the community, particularly to women.

Service includes:

Acting National Co-President, National Council of Jewish Women of Australia, since 2017.

National Council of Jewish Women of Australia, New South Wales:

President, 2011-2015.

Vice-President, 2009-2011.

Member, Steering Committee, since 2015.

Member, Board of Directors, ‘Mum for Mum’, (parenting support service), 2011-2015.

Chair, Bondi’s Best Bargains (Op shop), 2009-2011.

Chair, Israel Advocacy, 2009-2011.

Founding Member, Jewish Vegetarian Society, Sydney.

Member, New South Wales Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and Women, since 2014.

Member, Board of Governors, Jewish Communal Appeal, 2011-2014.

Member, Board of Directors, Wolper Jewish Hospital, 2011-2014.

Teacher, New South Wales Department of Education, 1975-2001.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, recognition award for dedication to advancing the status of women, National Council of Women (NSW), 2015.

Recipient, Woman of the Year, National Council of Jewish Women of Australia (NSW), 2017.

Dr Fanny Reading Scholar, 2011.

Recipient, The Susan Cohen Community Services Award, 2010.

Recipient, Dr Fanny Reading Certificate of Honour, 2009.

Viki Nadel said: “I’m really honoured to receive it and I think that it’s a recognition of the work I’ve been able to do within an organisation that allows me to pursue many of the ideals and goals that I’ve always had”.

She adds: “I really am honoured and I really am taken back. I’ve been really happy to have been able to contribute to the community, the Jewish and wider community, through my work, particularly through a number of leadership roles and National Council of Jewish Women of Australia. I’m passionate about social justice issues and I’ve been able to work on advocacy and events relating to those issues.”

 

Adjunct Clinical Professor John Graham ROSENTHAL, South Perth WA 6951

For service to medicine, and to the community of Western Australia.

Service includes:

Honorary Medico-Legal Consultant and Physician, Department of Pain Management, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, 1990s-2012.

Rehabilitation Physician, since 1970.

Consultant, Legal and Rehabilitation Medicine, 25 years.

Former Senior Medico-Legal Advisor and Assessor, Insurance Commission of Western Australia.

Fellow, Australasian College of Legal Medicine.

Fellow, American Society of Legal and Industrial Medicine.

Fellow, American College of Forensic Medicine.

Fellow, American College of Forensic Examiners.

Former Member, Australian Pain Society and the American Pain Society and Australian Musculoskeletal Medicine.

US Board Certified Forensic Examiner of Personal Injury, ongoing.

Perth Zoological Gardens:

Board Member, 1984-1988.

Founding Chairman, Great Zoo Appeal Committee.

Western Australian Turf Club (WATC):

Committee Member, 1983-1990.

Former Chairman, Marketing Sub-Committee.

Former WATC Nominee Director, Western Broadcasting Pty Ltd.

Former WATC Alternative Nominee Director, Totalisator Agency Board.

RAAF Reserve Medical Officer, 1970-2000.

Former Part-Time Instructor, Air Training Corps.

National Service Medal 1951-1972.

Honorary Treasurer, Perth Hebrew Congregation, 1986-1989.

Member, Sir John Monash Sub-Branch, Returned and Services League of Australia, current.

“I have tried to make a difference in my work and by all the things I do” John Rosenthal told J-Wire.

Through his involvement with Perth Hebrew Congregation he treasures his close relationship with Rabbi David Freilich, who recently retired from the shul.

For the past 30 years he has specialised in legal medicine, something he has enjoyed enormously.

“I am an advocate of a multi-disciplinary approach to complex medical problems” he said.

While not planning any special celebration, John said he would invite any well-wishers to come over for a l’chaim.  He sees the award as a legacy for his grandchildren.

“I am humbled but appreciative” he said.

 

Moshe Rafael ROSENZVEIG, Bronte NSW 2024

For service to the visual arts, particularly to photography.

Service includes:

Founder and Artistic Director, Head On Photo Festival, since 2004.

Lecturer, Photojournalism, University of Technology Sydney, 2006-2017.

Lecturer, Western Sydney University, 2001-2006.

Lecturer, Australian Film and Television and Radio School, 1998.

 

Jury Member, Feature Shoot Emerging Photography Awards, current.

Jury Member, Walkley Prize for Photojournalism, current.

Jury Member, Tokyo International Photography competition, current.

Jury Member, City of Sydney – City Life, current.

Owner, 4D Photography, since 1985.

Producer/Director, SBS Television, 1990-2001.

The concept of appearing on the Honours List is a new one to Moshe Rosenzveig and he is just getting used to the idea.

“I migrated to Australia 35 years ago and it is good to receive acknowledgement for the work I have done here to promote the art of photography” he said.

The Head On Photo Festival gives photographers, both well-known and budding, a chance to exhibit to the public. The judges of the competition are highly qualified, coming from both Australia and overseas. Within a three-week period 150 exhibitions are held, along with workshops and seminars.

He describes the festival as a way of celebrating photography and promoting the known and unknown by allowing photographers to explore important issues through their work.

 

Michael Joel SOLOMON, Clayfield Qld 4011

For service to the community through a range of organisations.

Service includes:

Brisbane Chevra Kadisha:

Life Member, since 2015.

Past Secretary, 40 years.

Brisbane Hebrew Congregation:

Past Member, Management Committee.

Member, 50 years.

Rotary Club of Albion:

President, 1983-1984.

Member, 1977-2007.

Paul Harris Fellow.

Building and Management Committee Member, Jewish Communal Centre Retirement Village, since 2012.

Volunteer, Maccabi Queensland, 60 years and Life Member.

Volunteer Pilot, Angel Flight, since 2006.

Justice of the Peace, since 1978.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Australian Sports Medal, 2000.

Michael Solomon told J-Wire: “I’m very surprised and humbled… I was quite chuffed about it when I heard. I’m very honoured by the fact, and the first thing I thought of when I heard about it was ‘wow!’, because my father received an OAM for his services in the community in Brisbane. I think that it must be the only time, certainly in the Brisbane Jewish community anyway, that a son of a father who also has an award, gets an award as well.”

 

Peter WINDHOLZ, Brighton East Vic 3187

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria. 

Service includes:

 

Former Victorian State Director, Jewish National Fund of Australia.

Blake Street Hebrew Congregation:

Coordinator, Blake Bridge Club, current.

Volunteer and Member, current.

Theodor Herzl Social Club:

Vice-President, 1998-2000.

Deputy Chairman, 1982-1997.

Director of Bridge, 1980-2000.

Member, Building Committee, 1982-1986.

Life Member, since 1991.

B’nai B’rith Victoria:

Former Master, Shalom Unit Bridge Club.

Member, 2006-2008.

Bridge Director, Victorian Bridge Association, current.

Peter Windholz told J-Wire said that he expects his children will want to celebrate when they find out.

For his part, he enjoyed his time working with JNF and later involvement in organising bequests to JNF.

“Now I live in a retirement village where I am taking it one day at a time. I am content with that” he said.

 

Leonard Judah YAFFE, Caulfield South Vic 3162

For service to the Jewish community of Melbourne.

Service includes:

Melbourne Hebrew Congregation:

President, 1981-1983, 2002-2004.

Member, Board of Management, since 1971.

Chair, Religious Services Sub Committee, since 1971.

Life Member, since 2013.

Life Governor, since 1981.

Former Delegate/Representative, Jewish Community Council of Victoria Plenum Council.

Former Representative, Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria.

Former Representative, Victorian Association of Jewish Ex Servicemen.

Former Volunteer, Meals on Wheels.

Former Volunteer, Montefiore Homes.

Awards and recognition includes:

Recipient, Community Service Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2010.

Leonard Yaffe told J-Wire:  “I undertook this voluntary work, after witnessing the arrival of Holocaust survivors in the late 1940’s and into the1950’s, remembering my own family’s escape from the pogroms in the Ukraine, before and at the time of the revolution. Acknowledging how lucky I was to be born here, imposed upon me the obligation of giving back.

Now, after 47 years of continuing active participation in congregational matters, and having had differing and varying responsibilities, and still being able to serve in one form or another, is a blessing from the Almighty.

My involvement in volunteering would not have been possible without the blessing of my wife Ruth and my children Sharona, Jeremy and my son-in-law Mark Ruttner.”

 

Roz Tarszisz and Hila Tsor contributed to this report.