Dr Erica FRYDENBERG, VIC

Erica Frydenberg

For significant service to psychology as a researcher, educator and adviser.

Australian Psychological Society

• Director, 2006-2009, 20211-2012, and 2013-2014.
• Vice-President, 2012-2013.
• Psychology in Schools Reference Group, 2014-2015.
• Student Recruitment Retention Advisory Group, 2014-2015.
• Institute Advisory Committee, 2012-2018.
• Finance Committee, 2012-2013.
• National Scientific Committee Annual Conference, 2012-2014.
• Fellowship Advisory Committee, 2005-2008, and 2010-2018.
• Indigenous Bursary Selection Committee, 2008-2009.
• Chair, Membership Recruitment and Retention Advisory Committee, 2007-2010.
• Governance Committee, 2007-2010.

Melbourne Graduate School of Education, The University of Melbourne

·       Principal Research Fellow.

·       Associate Professor.

·       University Representative, Monash University Faculty of Education Board, 1996-2000.

King David School

• School Council, 2014-2018.
• Education Committee, 2013-2014.

OzChild

• President, 2014-2015.
• Vice-President, 2013-2014.
• Director, six years.

Other

·       Positive Education Research Advisory Group, Geelong Grammar School.

·       Veterans’ Children’s Education Board.

·       School Psychologist, Victorian Department of Education.

·       Trust for Young Australians Advisory Group, Transitional Housing Project, Options for Work and Education Program, 1996-1997.

·       Executive Committee, Political Psychology, Committee of the International Association of Applied Psychology, 1993-1997.

Professional Memberships

• American Education Research Association.
• Australian Psychological Society.
• Colleges of Clinical, Educational and Developmental, Organisational and Counselling Psychology.
• International Association of Applied Psychology.
• Stress Anxiety Research Society.

Editorial roles

• Editorial Board, School of Psychology Quarterly, 2012.
• Editorial Board, Australian Educational and Developmental Psychologist, 2007.
• Editorial Board, Anxiety Stress and Coping, 2006.
• Editorial Board, Peace and Conflict: Journal of Peace.
• Associate Editor, Australian Psychology, 1993-1996.
• Joint Editor, Psychology and You, 1993-1994.
• Publications include 22 authored and editec books, 4 psychological tests, 35 book chapters, 43 papers in refereed international journals, 66 refereed papers in Australian journals, 26 published conference proceedings, 28 articles in professional journals.

Conferences

• Presented at 154 National and International Conferences, including 17 keynoted addresses.

Consultancy roles

• Social Emotional Learning Assessment Literature Review, Victorian Assessment and Curriculum Authority, 2014.
• Promoting mental health in schools, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, 2012.
• Smarter Schools National Partnerships: Low SES Schools Communities Project. Social and Emotional Learning: Capacity building in schools. 2011-2013.
• Ethical issues considered by Human Research Ethics Committees, Department of Health an Aging, 2006.
• National Evaluation of the Season for Growth Program, 2003-2005.

Awards and recognition includes:

• Lifetime Career Award, Stress Anxiety Research Society, 2013.
• Knowledge Transfer Award, University of Melbourne, 2008.
• University of Melbourne Medal for Research Excellence, 2003.
• Distinguished Scholar Award, American Education Research Association, SIG Stress and Coping.

Erica Frydenberg told J-Wire: “I suppose the award is a recognition of the research and practice work that I do and its benefit to others, individuals, families or communities. I have always thought that whatever sphere one is in, one can do good. We are minor players in a big system” said Erica Frydenberg.

She said that so many distinguished people before her have received awards but also many worthy individuals are not recognised in this way.

“In the professional space I am most proud of the sustained work in the field of coping. Along with others, we have developed coping measures and teaching tools that can be used across the life-span.

This resulted in the recent publication of Promoting Well-Being in the Pre-school Years.

”This work contributes to our focus on what we can do to facilitate well-being, capacity and healthy growth and development in children, adolescents and adults. Parents and teachers play an important part.

“In the communal sphere, I have been very active member of the Australian Psychological Society for many decades. In the Jewish community I have been involved with Jewish education – most recently with the King David School, a wonderful educational establishment” she said.

Emeritus Professor Anthony John GUTTMANN, VIC

Emeritus Prof Anthony Guttman

For significant service to the mathematical sciences, and to education.

The University of Melbourne

Faculty of Science

• Chair, Advisory Board, MATRIX Research Institute, since 2016.
• Former Deputy Dean.

School of Mathematics and Statistics

• Professor of Mathematics, 1988-2017.
• Former Head of Department.
• Reader in Mathematics, 1987-1988.

Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute

• Member, External Advisory Board, current.
• Former Chair, Scientific Committee.
• Founding Director, 2002.
• Co-Founder, 2001-2002.
• Recipient, Distinguished Service Award, 2012.

Australian Research Council

• Distinguished Associate Investigator and Member, Governance Board, ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers, since 2014.
• Founding Director, ARC Centre for Mathematics and Statistics of Complex Systems (MASCOS), 2003-2016.

The University of Newcastle

Faculty of Mathematics

• Advisory Board Member, CARMA (Computed-Assisted Research Mathematics and its Applications), since 2011.
• Dean and Professor, 1984-1987.
• Associate Professor, 1975-1983.
• Senior Lecturer, 1973-1975.
• Lecturer, 1971-1973.

Other University Appointments

• Advisory Board Member, Mathematical Sciences Laboratory, Flinders University, since 2012.
• Chair, Advisory Board, Centre for Research in Mathematics, Western Sydney University, since 2014.

Australian Academy of Science

• Member, SC1-Mathematical Sciences Committee, since 2017.
• Member, Awards and Prizes Nominations Working Group, 2012-2013.
• Recipient, Hannan Medal, 1998.

Australian Mathematical Society

• President, 2002-2004.
• Vice-President, 2005-2006.
• Recipient, Gavin Brown Prize, 2018.
• Recipient, George Szekeres Medal, 2006.

Other

• Inaugural Chair, Organising Committee, Simon Marais Mathematics Competition, 2017-2018.

John Guttman said: “I am pleased that mathematical sciences are receiving recognition. I see this as a gong for mathematical sciences. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of supervising young men and women, as well as two of the youngest PhD students in Melbourne.

I look forward to going to work and it doesn’t stop there. I wake up thinking of possible answers to problems. I am a keen runner, which keeps me mentally alert. I attribute my longevity to maintaining my physical and mental state. I have led a fortunate life.”

Mr Guttman will be running in the Boston Marathon this April.

Bella HIRSHORN, Toorak VIC 3142

Bella Hirshorn

For significant service to the Jewish community, and to women.

World Women’s International Zionist Organisation (WIZO)

• President (now Co-President), Eilat Group, since 1958.
• Member, since 1949.
• Volunteer Award, 2012.
• Life Governor, Ahusat Yeladim, 1972 and Patron, 1971.

WIZO Australia

• Honorary Life Member, since 2004.

WIZO Victoria

• State Executive Member, since 1970.
• Chairman of Tourism, since 1970.
• Chairman of Overseas Jewry, since 1973.

Jewish Museum of Australia

• Volunteer Guide, since 2005.

Awards and recognition include:

• Community Recognition award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2013.
• Rebecca Sieff Award, Women’s International Zionist Organisation, 1982.
• Ann Zablud OAM Community Service Award, 2015.

Bella Hirshorn told J-Wire: “I am greatly honoured to receive this award in recognition of my contribution to the Jewish community and to women over so many years.

I have been very fortunate in my life in Australia and it has been very rewarding to be able to give back and to help others.”

David Harley JACOBS, Newport NSW 2106

David Jacobs

For significant service to Australia-Japan relations, and to business.

Australia Japan Business Co-operation Committee

• Chief Executive Officer, since 2015.

The Australia-Japan Link (advisory)

• Chief Executive Officer and Founder, since 1989.

Hunter Phillip Japan Limited

• Director, 2004-2014.

Australia-Japan Economic Institute

• Director/Head, 1979-1989.

BIS Shrapnel

• Consultant, 1976-1979.

Australia Japan Society of NSW

• Past President.
• Past Vice President.
• Non-executive Director, 2001-2015.

University of Sydney Business School

• Founding Executive Committee Member, Business Alumni Network.

Awards and recognition includes:

• Japan Foreign Minister’s Commendation, Government of Japan, 2016, ‘To those who have contributed to strengthening the friendship between Japan and Australia and deepening the bilateral relationship’.

David Jacobs said that receiving the award “really culminates a 50 year journey when I made my first independent visit to Japan 50 years ago. Basically, it speaks recolonization that I saw Japan is becoming really important to Australia and so my whole career direction was aimed at promoting Australia-Japan economic relations”.

Rabbi Zalman KASTEL, St Ives NSW 2075

Rabbi Zalman Kastel

For significant service to interfaith and intercultural understanding and acceptance.

Together for Humanity Foundation (formerly the Goodness and Kindness Project)

• National Director, current.
• Co-Founder, 2002.
• Contributor, Doing Diversity, Intercultural Understanding in Primary and Secondary Schools Project, Deakin University, 2015

Kesser Torah College

• Vice-President, current.

Rabbi Kastel told J-Wire: “This came as a surprise.  I wasn’t expecting it but I am very touched. It is a validation of an approach to a pressing communal challenge as to how we deal with tensions. I have been working on this since 2001. It evidences that what have I been doing has hit the mark.”

Professor Martin Evald KRYGIER, University of New South Wales NSW 2052

Martin Krygier

For significant service to legal education, and to professional associations.

University of New South Wales

• Gordon Samuels Professor of Law and Social Theory, Faculty of Law, since 2009.
• Professor of Law, 1996-2009, Associate Professor, 1987-1995, Senior Lecturer, 1981-1986.
• Co-Director, Australia Myanmar Constitutional Democracy Project, current, Member, since 2013.
• Co-Director, Network for Interdisciplinary Studies of Law, since 2011, Co-Director, Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of Law, 2008-2011.
• Co-Director, European Law Centre, 2002-2007.

Australian National University

• Honorary Adjunct Professor, Regulatory Institutions Network (RegNet), School of Regulation and Global Governance, since 2009.
• Visiting Fellow, Department of Law, Research School of Social Sciences, Institute of Advanced Studies, 1988-1989.
• Tutor and Research Scholar, 1975-1977.

Visiting Professor, Fellow or Scholar, includes:

• Recurrent Visiting Professor, Centre for Social Studies/Graduate School for Social Research, Institute for Philosophy and Sociology, Polish Academy of Sciences, since 2005.
• Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellow, National Endowment for Democracy, Washington DC, USA, 2019.
• Visiting Fellow/Professor at Media, Democracy and the Rule of Law project, St Antony’s College, Oxford University, UK, 2012.
• Visiting Professor, Central European University, Budapest, Hungary, 2011 and 2002, Visiting Fellow, Humanities Centre, 2003, Visiting Fellow, Collegium Budapest/Institute for Advanced Study, 1995-1996.
• Distinguished Visiting Fellow, New Zealand Law Foundation, 2008.
• Fellow, Centre for Advanced Studies in the Behavioral Sciences, Stanford, USA, 2005-2006.
• Visiting Professor, Jurisprudence and Social Policy Program, School of Law, Boalt Hall, University of California, Berkeley, USA, 1989-1990, Visiting Scholar Jurisprudence and Social Policy Program, 1985.
• Visiting Professor, Department of Sociology, Nicholas Copernicus University, University of Torun, Poland, 1989.
• Visiting Scholar, Centre for Criminology and the Social and Philosophical Study of Law, Faculty of Law, University of Edinburgh, UK, 1985-1986.

International Association for the Philosophy of Law and Social Philosophy

• Co-Vice President, 2015-2019.
• Vice President, 2002.
• Secretary, and Bulletin Editor, 1979-1981.

Professional Associations

• Fellow, Academy of Social Sciences in Australia.
• President, Australian Institute of Polish Affairs, 1997-2001, Founding Member, since 1991.
• Member, Australian Universities Law Schools Association.
• Member, International Sociological Association
• Member, Polish Sociological Association.

Editorial Boards

• Contributing Editor, Jotwell, since 2009.
• Member, Editorial Board, Hague Journal on the Rule of Law, since 2009.
• Societas/Communitas, since 2012.
• Polish Sociological Review, since 2012.
• Annual Review of Law and Social Science, since 2012.
• Ratio Juris, Bologna and Oxford, since 1988.
• Ius et Lex (Poland), 2001-2010.
• Quadrant Magazine, Australia, 1975-1997, Member, Editorial Board and Committee of Management, 1990-1997.

Publications include

• Book, Philip Selznick: ideals in the world, Original, Stanford Law Books, Stanford, 2012.
• Book, Civil Passions: Selected Writings, a collection of essays, 1, Black Inc. Books, Melbourne, 2005.
• Book, Between Fear and Hope: Hybrid Thoughts on Public Values, Original, ABC Books, Sydney, 1997.
• Various edited and co-edited books, book chapters, conference papers, journal articles.

Awards and recognition include:

• Signature Lecture, The Dickson Poon Transnational Law Institute, Kings College London, UK, 2017.
• Dennis Leslie Mahoney Prize in Legal Theory, the Julius Stone Institute of Jurisprudence, University of Sydney, 2016.
• Cavalier’s Cross, Order of Merit (5th Class), Republic of Poland,
• Boyer Lectures, ABC, 1997.

Rose LEW, Toorak VIC 3142

Rosie Lew

For significant service to the community, and to philanthropy.

Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation

• Board Member, 2002-2012.
• Donor and Fundraiser, since 1992.
• Former Inaugural Appeal Chair.

Opera Australia

• Governor Patron, since 1997.
• Donor, since 1989.

Arts Centre Melbourne

• Principal Patron, current.
• Donor, since 1991.

Philanthropy – Other

• Donor and Fundraiser, Mount Scopus Memorial College Foundation, since 1987.
• Board Member and Donor, Creativity Australia, current.
• Board Member and Donor, With One Voice, current.
• Director, Lew Family Charitable Trust, current.

Awards and recognition includes:

• Life Member, Melbourne Arts Centre.

Rosie Lew commented: “My service to the community and philanthropy has always been driven by the desire to share my good fortune and show my appreciation by trying to ease and enrich the lives of others.

Whether it being through medical advancements, education, the arts or welfare both within the Jewish community or the general community, here in Australia and overseas, thus allowing those less fortunate gain a sense of inclusion in our society and an improvement in their lives.

”I’m both humbled and honoured to receive this recognition.”

Robin (Bobbi) MAHLAB, Birchgrove NSW 2041

For significant service to women, to publishing, and to philanthropy.

Bobbi Mahlab

Community

• Co-Founder, Mentor Walks Australia, since 2016.
• Co-Founder, In-Kind Project, since 2016.
• Board Member, Detour House Women and Girls Refuge, 2013-2018.
• Advisory Council Member, Sydney Women’s Fund, Sydney Community Foundation, 2012-2019.

Inner Sydney Montessori School

• Chair, Principal Selection Committee, 2011.
• Vice-President, 2007-2012.

Publishers Australia

• Chair, Custom Publishing Leadership Team, 2012-2013.
• Board Member, 2008-2013.

Mahlab Media

• Founder and Managing Director, since 1997.

Awards and recognition include:

• Small Publisher of the Year, Mumbrella Publish Awards, 2017 and 2018.
• Client Content Marketing Partnership, Content Marketing Institute USA, 2017.
• Best Content-Driven Website, Content Marketing Institute USA, 2017.
• EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women Asia-Pacific Class of 2015, Ernst & Young, 2015.
• Global Content Marketing Agency of the Year Finalist, Content Marketing Institute USA, 2013, 2014 and 2019.

Bobbi Mahlab told J-Wire: “I am deeply honoured to be acknowledged at a national level and to be in such fine company. I deeply appreciate the efforts of the people who put me forward for this award. Thanks!”

David Philip PARATZ, Paddington QLD 4064

For significant service to the Jewish community of Queensland, and to the law.

David Paratz

Executive Council of Australian Jewry

• Vice-President, 1998-2009.

Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies

• Life Governor, since 2017.
• Immediate Past President, 2013-2017.
• President, 1998-2009.
• Vice President, 2009-2013.
• Board Member, 1980-2017.
• Member, Interfaith Committee, since 2008.

Brisbane Hebrew Congregation

• Vice President, since 2016.
• Honorary Legal Advisor, current.
• Past Sunday School Teacher.

Other Jewish Organisations

• Founding Board Member, Gani Gani Kindergarten.
• Honorary Legal Advisor, Jewish Communal Centre of Queensland.
• Member, Jewish Help in Need Society.
• Member, Maccabi Queensland.
• Member, Queensland Jewish Community Services.

Interfaith

• Founding Member, Forum of Jews, Christians and Muslims.
• Member, Advisory Council, Centre for Interfaith and Cultural Dialogue, Griffith University.
• Foundation Advisor and delegate, Queensland Faith Communities Council.

Community other

• President, Brisbane Grammar School Parents and Friends Association, 2011-2012, Vice President, 2009-2010.
• President, Indooroopilly State School, Parents and Citizens Association, 2001-2002.
• Justice of the Peace, since 1980.

Professional

• Member, Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, since 2012.
• Barrister, private practice, 2010-2012, and 1981-1988.
• Mediator, 1994-2003.
• Manager, Australian Commercial Disputes Centre (Qld) Ltd. 1988-1994.

Publications

• Mediation – A User’s Guide, Paratz, Brisbane, ISBN 0646114808, 1992.
• Representative Actions, Cashman, Baston, Paratz, LAAMS, ISBN 9781875263202, 1992.
• Courts Introduce ADR, Paratz & Spegel, The Queensland Lawyer, Vol.16, 1995.
• The History of Mediation in Queensland. Paratz, Hearsay, Issue 53, Bar Association of Qld, 2011.

David Paratz told J-Wire: “I certainly honoured to get the award which is in relation to the two things which occupied me most of my personal and professional life…the Jewish community in Queensland and my practice in law mainly in alternative dispute resolution and mediation. I have been involved in the Brisbane and Queensland Jewish community in every aspect, including helping up setting up the kindergarten. My main work was with the Queensland Board of Deputies with whom I have been associated since my early 20s. I have enjoyed my interfaith work too as it has as I have established relationships with a cross-section of people.”  David Paratz is particularly proud of the work he has done in spearheading the mediation and dispute resolution.

The late Mr Jeremy Mark SPINAK

Late of NSW

For significant service to the Jewish community, to multicultural relations, and to interfaith dialogue.

Jeremy Spinak

New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies

• President, 2014-2018
• Former Vice-President
• Chair, Community Relations Committee, 2011-2013
• Collaborator, Keep New South Wales Safe Campaign.

Community

• Former New South Wales Vice-President, Executive Council of Australian Jewry, 2014-2018
• Former President, New South Wales Jewish War Memorial
• Former Board Member, Shalom Institute
• Former Board Member, Community Security Group
• Member, Jewish Communal Appeal Executive Committee and Board of Governors, 2017
• Trustee and Custodian, Australian Museum

NSW Jewish Board of Deputies president Lesli Berger commented: “As a well-loved and highly-regarded president of the Board of Deputies, we were pleased to nominate Jeremy Spinak of blessed memory for an Australia Day honour and we are delighted that that honour has been conferred. Jeremy’s passion was the well-being of the Jewish community, and he worked tirelessly to this end throughout his tenure as president. He was wise beyond his years, kind and humorous, and brought astute political acumen to the enormous benefit of our community. We extend our warmest congratulations to his wife Rhiannon and the Spinak family on this honour and thank them for the love and support they always gave him.”

Julie Anne STEINER, NSW

Julie Steiner

For significant service to business through a range of roles.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

• General Manager/Divisional Director, ABC Enterprises, ten years.
• Host, Music Show, ABC Radio National, 1993-1995.

Business

• Founding Director, Braithwaite Steiner Pretty, 1997-2013 – (merged with Odgers Berndtson in 2013).
• Former Chief Executive Officer, IMAX Australia.
• Chief Executive Director, Pay Television Consortium.

Odgers Berndtson

• Global Head, Education Practice, current.
• Former Joint Managing Director.
• Partner, since 2013.

Arts Organisations

• Board Member, Australian Chamber Orchestra, since 2016.
• Board Member, Sydney Film Festival, 2000-2005.
• Inaugural Board Member, Australia Council for Business and the Arts, 1996-2000.
• Member, Crafts Council of Australia, 1981-1983.

Education

• Member, Nominations Committee, Australian National University, since 2015.
• Member, New South Wales Rhodes Scholarship Selection Committee, 2012-2016.

Julie Steiner told J-Wire: “As the daughter of Jewish migrants to Australia this is a great honour.

I have been privileged to make a contribution to leadership in major public institutions such as the cultural, science, health and Higher Education sectors in a country I love.

None of this would have been possible without the support of committed, smart and creative colleagues and my family.”

Dr Robert Jeffrey SWARD, Malvern VIC 3144

For significant service to primary industry, to genetech­­­nology, and to the Jewish community.

Dr Robert Sward

Australian Government Gene Technology Regulator

• Member, Gene Technology Ethics and Community Consultative Committee, since 2015.
• Member, Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee, since 2017.

Department of Primary Industries Victoria

• Manager, Biotechnology Policy Portfolio, 2003-2012.
• Former Executive Officer, DPI’s Gene Technology Standing Committee.
• Former Plant Virologist.

Other

• Private Consultant, BioBotanicals Consulting, current.
• Reviewer, ‘Gene Technology Act 2001′, Queensland Parliament/Foursight Associates, 2013.
• Former Chair, Industry Development Committee, GM Taskforce, Commonwealth Primary Industry.
• Former Member, Victorian Gene Technology Ethics Committee.
• Former Member, National Agricultural, Environmental and Industrial Biotechnology Advisory Group, AusBiotech.
• Former Experimental Officer, Division of Horticulture, CSIRO.

Temple Beth Israel

• President, 2015-2016.
• Vice-President, 2010-2012 and 2013-2015.
• Board Member, 2007-2017.
• Founding Director/Trustee, L’dor Va’dor Foundation, current.
• Former Member, Finance Committee.
• Former Chair, Fundraising Committee.
• Member, Vision 100 Committee, current
• Chair, Organising Committee, UPJ Biennial, 2018.

Community

• Volunteer, Sacred Heart Mission, since 2008.
• Former Member, Scouts Victoria.

Freemasons Victoria

• Master, 1985-1986.
• Freemason, 1978-2012.

Robert Sward says that pitching in and volunteering within the Jewish community and beyond is something he loves doing. 

“I feel deeply moved and honoured by this award and to be recognised in this way.

“For me it’s a key way of connecting with others, sharing my skills and experience and giving back to the community,” he said.

”A passion for the biological sciences has been part of my DNA from my earliest memories. My early career work in crop pathology and later focus on biotechnology and gene technology have provided me with wonderful opportunities to assist our farming communities and primary industries.

“I’m quite sure that this award would not have been possible but for the many remarkable scientists, colleagues and friends who have been part of my career journey and I acknowledge and thank them from the bottom of my heart,” he said.

He hopes he has contributed to making life better for many people by way of his volunteering and by the outcomes of his professional career. He is particularly proud of his work across the State and Commonwealth Governments that has helped ensure that biotechnology and gene technology are being used safely and reliably to the benefit of Australian primary industries.

“I’m particularly proud of the results of my work on the Temple Beth Israel (TBI) Board and numerous committees across more than a decade, along with a number of milestone events I’ve organised across the Progressive Jewish Community. I’m also proud to have helped initiate and be a founding trustee director of the TBI L’dor Va’dor Foundation.

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

Yossi Aron

Joseph (Yossi) ARON, Caulfield VIC 3161

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

United Jewish Education Board (UJEB)

• Manager, Education, 1998-2009.
• Board Member, since 2002.

South Caulfield Hebrew Congregation

• Cantor and Assistant Minister, since 1978.

Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria

• Executive Director, 1996-2016.
• Board Member, Melbourne Eruv, since 2016.

The Australian Jewish News

• Columnist, since 1998.
• Religious Affairs Editor, 1988.

Education

• Principal, South Caulfield Centre, 1985-2001.
• Principal, North Eastern (Doncaster) Centre, 1979-1984.
• Principal, Kew Centre, 1969-1978.
• Bar Mitzvah Teacher and Religious Education Teacher, Kew, 1968.

Yossi Aron told J-Wire: “I am flattered.  I hope it encourages people to devote at least part of their time to bettering the community. I hope that when people think of me that will be my legacy. And I hope that I have been of benefit to individuals and the community as a whole.”

Charles Albert ARONSON, Bellevue Hill NSW 2023

Charles Aronson

For service to the Jewish community of New South Wales.

National Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and Women

• President, 2011-2016.

Shalom Institute

• Treasurer, 2006-2011.

Jewish Communal Appeal

• Treasurer, 1992-1996.

Masada College

• President, 1986-1991.
  Board Member, 1983-1992.

B’nai B’rith Intermediates

• President, 1970-1973.

NSW Antique Dealers’ Association

• President, 1976-1981 and 1986-1994.

Australian Antique and Art Dealers’ Association

• President, 1996-2001.
  Honorary Life Member, current.

Sydney Jewish Museum

• Board Member since 2014.
  Vice-President since 2018.

New South Wales Jewish War Memorial

• Board Member since 2010.
  Chairman since 2015.

Australian Jewish Historical Society

• Board Member since 2016.
  Vice-President since 2016.

Charles Aronson said: “I am humbled and honoured to receive this award which I dedicate to my late parents, who were Dutch holocaust survivors. They bought (brought) our family to Australia in search of a safe and non-threatening environment for their children. “I felt that my parents were here for a reason and I wanted to honour that reason.”

“This country has provided a real home for the Jewish community. It has flourished to become an integral multi-cultured Australia. I am proud to be part of a well organised, caring, and Jewish community.”

Joel BECKER, Fairfield VIC 3078

Joel Becker

For service to literary organisations.

Writers Victoria (formerly known as Victorian Writer’s Centre)

• Life Member, since 2018.
• Chief Executive Officer, 2002-2010.

Australian Booksellers Association

• Chief Executive Officer, 2010-2018.
• Life Member, since 2019.

Going Down Swinging (literary journal)

• Deputy Chair, 2012-2018.

Awards Administration

• Chair, Fiction and Poetry Judging Panels for Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, 2012-2013.
• Chair, New South Wales Premier’s Literacy Award Judging Panel for Douglas Stewart Prize for non-fiction, 2019.

Community

• President, Fairfield Primary School Council, 2006-2011.
• Board Member, Fairfield Primary School Council, 2005.
• Board Member, Alfred Nuttall Kindergarten, 2003.
• Secretary, Perry Street Childcare Centre, 2001-2002.
• President, Far North Queensland Film Society, 1991-1993.
• President, Community Radio Station 4CCR-FM89, 1991-1992.

Joel Becker said that it is an honour and meaningful for him to receive the award. He feels that it is a privilege to be honoured for the work that he has done his whole life, which is working around books and the associated culture  

He will be host a dinner with his family on Sunday to celebrate and will catch up with friends from the industry over the long weekend. 

Albert BENSIMON, Malvern SA 5061

Albert Bensimon

For service to business, and to the community.

Professional Appointments

• Managing Director, Shiels Jewellers.
  President, Retail Traders Association, 1996-2005, and Board Member.
  Board Member, Jewellers Association of Australia, 1985-2004.
  Member, Australian Institute of Company Directors, since 1997.

The Arts

• Board Member, Festival Theatre Foundation, since 2010.
  Chair, State Library of South Australia Foundation, 2015-2016, and Board Member, 2011-2016.
  Board Member, State Opera of South Australia, 1994-2000.
  Founding Chairman, Helpmann Foundation, Helpmann Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, 1994-2004.

Community

• Member, Rotary Club of Adelaide, since 1993.
  Foundation Member, Scotch College Foundation, and Trustee.
  Member, Fundraising Committee, Masada School.
  President and Board Member, Hutt Street Charitable Foundation, 2003-2010.
  Fundraiser, UNICEF, 2005-2010.
  President, Refugee Relief Fund Australia, 1987-1995.

Albert Bensimon says it is great to be included in the Australia Day Honours Awards.

“I suppose it is a nice recognition of all the long hours I have put in over the years with various causes.

I am on several Boards where I have helped raise a lot of money.  When I established the Helpmann Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, I was able to get the right people to raise a lot of money and establish a mentorship program. That’s something of which I am particularly proud” he said.

He is now President of the Adelaide Hebrew Congregation and looks forward to a quiet celebration with his wife he told J-Wire.

Harry Herman BETTER, Caulfield North VIC 3161

Harry Better

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

Courage to Care, B’nai B’rith Victoria

• Board Member, since 1994.
  Lecturer.
  Educator.
  Volunteer of the year award for long-standing commitment, 2018.

North Eastern Jewish War Memorial Centre

• Foundation and Board Member, 1972-1994.

Other

• Principal Engineer, HRL Technology Group, since 2016.
  Principal Engineer, HRL Technology, 2005-2016.
  Principal Engineer, ETRS (part of HRL Group Companies), 1997-2005.
  Director and Principal Engineer, Engineering Testing and Research Service (ETRS), 1985-1997.
  Director and Principal Engineer, Engineering Audits, 1983-1985.
  Head, Engineering Systems Section, Research and Development Department, State Electricity Commission of Victoria, 1978-1983.

Harry Better told J-Wire: “I came out here [to Australia] as a young lad after the war, I was an extremely lucky person saved by a rigorous person. I always felt that I had to retire a little bit, or a heck of a lot, to Australia for the home that it has given me for the last however many years. Getting this award has given me the feeling that I have achieved that.”

Paulette Dell CHERNY, VIC

Paulette Cherny

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

Women’s International Zionist Organisation (WIZO) Australia

• National President, since 2016.
• Former Founder, Masada Branch.

Women’s International Zionism Organisation (WIZO) Victoria

• President, 2002-2008.
• Executive Member, 1974-2016.
• Former Founder, WIZO Masada Branch.

Other

• Member, National Council of Jewish Women of Australia (Victoria), current.
• Volunteer, Temple Bath Israel Kindergarten, St Kilda, 1960-1972.

Paulette Cherny told J-Wire: “I feel very privileged to have been chosen to receive this. Both my father and brother have received Orders of Australia for services to the Jewish community and I feel as if I am carrying on the tradition. I admire my father greatly.

Anthony David CLIFFORD, USA

Anthony Clifford with his wife

For service to the Jewish community of Sydney.

Jewish House, Sydney

• Co-President, 1984-1995.
• Co-Founder, 1984.

Jewish House Recovery, Los Angeles

• Co-Founder, since circa 1995.

“To me it is more the symbol of what this represents than the Award itself. It is nice to be part of a country where all people can be recognized, whatever their beliefs”, said Anthony Clifford.

Many countries around the world would not contemplate honouring a member of a minority and it is a testimony to the inclusiveness of Australia and its government that it does so.”

Roger Alexander CLIFFORD, Bellevue Hill NSW 2023

Roger Clifford

For service to the Jewish community of Sydney.

Jewish House, Sydney

• Co-Founder, since 1983.
• President/Co-President, since 1983.

Other

• Founded the Double Bay Synagogue, 1993.
• Served on the Board of the Central Synagogue.
• Proprietor, Arc Fashion Group.
• Non-Executive Director, Invigor Group (IVO).

Roger Clifford said: “I’m honoured and humbled to receive the award because it particularly recognised the work that the Jewish House does and the community. I’m very honoured if the award gives a greater voice to all the people that need help throughout the community, that they know that they can come to Jewish house”.

Rabbi Jeffrey Cohen

Rabbi Dr Jeffrey COHEN, Vaucluse NSW 2030

For service to community health, and to interfaith organisations.

Community

• Treasurer, Phoebe House (drug rehabilitation house for women with children), 2017-2018. Board member, 2016-2018.
• Treasurer, Spiritual Care Australia, 2012-2013; Board Member, 2009-2013.
• Board Member, Australian Health and Welfare Chaplains Association (now Spiritual Care Australia), 2008-2010.
• Vice-President, Congress in Ministry in Special Settings Board, 1991-1993; Chair, International Pastoral Care Week, 1990-1993; Member, 1989-1993.

Ethics

• Member, NSW Clinical Research Ethics Committee, 2014-2015.
• Member, NSW Human Research Ethics Committee, 2009-2013.
• Member, Gene Technology Ethics and Community Consultation Committee, 2011-2014.
• Member, NSW Health Ethics Committee, 2002-2007.

Council of Christians and Jews New South Wales

• Committee of Management, 1999-2015.
• President, 2003-2005.
• Vice-President, 2001-2003.

Jewish Other

• Vice-President, Australian Jewish Historical Society, 2014-2016.
• Literary Editor, J-Wire, since 2018.
• Literary Editor, Australian Jewish News, 1999-2004.

Education

• Associate Professor (Adjunct), School of Medicine (Sydney Campus), University of Notre Dame Australia, since 2016.
• Senior Visiting Research Fellow, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, 2002-2014.
• Supervisor, Master of Ministries Program, Melbourne College of Divinity, 2005-2008.
• Senior Lecturer, School of IT and Mathematical Sciences, University of Ballarat (now Federation University), 2007-2010.
• Academic Advisor and Counsellor, Sydney Campus, Melbourne Institute of Technology, 2007-2010.
• Visiting Professor, De Montford University, United Kingdom, 2006-2009.
• Senior Research Associate, Department of Semitic Studies, University of Sydney, 2001.

Museums

• Senior Consultant, Museum Planning Services Australia, 2001-2010.
• Chief Executive Officer, Sydney Jewish Museum/Jewish Cultural Centre, 1996-2001.

Professional Associations

• Spiritual Care Australia, since 2009.
• Australian Health and Welfare Chaplains Association, 2008-2010.
• Association of Professional Chaplains, 1996-2005.
• Association of Mental Health Clergy, 1986-1997.
• Association of Mental Health Administrators, 1991-1996.
• College of Chaplains, 1986-1997. 

Fellowships

• Royal Society for Arts, Manufacturing and Commerce
• Leo Baeck College, London

Other

• Member, Editorial Board, Health and Social Care Chaplaincy, since 2015.
• Consultant, Multicultural Health, South Eastern Sydney Health Authority, 2001-2005.

Rabbi Jeffrey Cohen told J-Wire: “In the nearly 25 years since I returned to Australia and Sydney I can think of 2 significant achievements that stand out [many other minor ones].

First. When I began at the Sydney Jewish Museum in 1996 it became obvious that while it was necessary to turn the dream of its founder the late John Saunders AO z”l from being a private individual’s dream into an institution owned and managed as part of the Sydney Jewish community as well as being part of the JCA. In my five years as CEO we built the infrastructure but also reduced to the operating deficit from over $1 million to around $300,00 which was covered by a donation by the founder.

Second. My involvement in Spiritual Care in Health both as an academic and researcher as well as being involved in the establishment of Spiritual Care Australia which moved the professional association for being primarily Protestant to being a multifaith organisation and in which I served not only as a founding director but an officer for its first 2 years. At Notre Dame Australia I have been involved in the working group, with St, Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, on the intergration of Spirituality into the Health Care System. This also parallels my involvement for some 15 years with the Council of Christians and Jews.”

Marlis COHEN, Balwyn North VIC 3104

Marlis Cohen

For service to the Jewish community.

Women’s International Zionist Organization Australia

• Vice President, 1983-1989.
  Treasurer, 2004-2010, 1989-1998, and 1981-1983.
  Secretary, 1970-1981 or 1973-1977.
  Federal Member for Victoria, 1964-1970.
  Life Member, since 2004.

Women’s International Zionist Organization Victoria

• Treasurer, 1992-1998, Co-Treasurer, 1971-1981.
  President, 1981-1989, Vice President, 1974-1981.
  Secretary, 1973-1977 and 1968-1971.
  Chair, Tourism, and Wills and Bequests, 1961-1967.
  President, Nathanya Group, 1964, Founding Member, 1954.
  Marlis Cohen Zionist Youth Award, named in her honour, since 2005.
• Zionist Federation of Australia
• Past Vice-President, Zionist Council of Victoria.
  WIZO representative, Executive Committee, circa 1981-1986.
  Executive Council of Australian Jewry
• WIZO Representative, Executive Committee, 1986-1989.
  Leo Baeck Centre (synagogue and community centre)
• Co-Treasurer, since 2018, 2016-2017, 2007-2013, 2005, 2003, and 1998-1999.
  Treasurer, 2014-2015, 2004.
  Assistant Treasurer, 2000-2002.
  Life Member, since 2012.
  Committee Member or volunteer, since 1993.
  Union of Progressive Judaism, Australia
• Executive Member, circa 1994-2000.
  Treasurer, Treasure Trove Opportunity Shop, Progressive Judaism Victoria, 1992-1997.
  B’nai B’rith Australia – R.W. Unit of B’nai B’rith Melbourne
• Treasurer, Action Wallenberg Committee, current.
  Jewish Community Council of Victoria
• WIZO Representative, up until 2004.
  United Israel Appeal
• Chair, Victorian Women’s Division, 1967.

• Awards and recognition include:
• Menorah Award, B’nai B’rith Victoria, 2011.
  Community Recognition Award, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, 2006
  Ner Tamid (Everlasting Light) Award, Union for Progressive Judaism, 1999.
  Rebecca Sieff Award, WIZO, 1975.

Marlis Cohen said: “I am delighted and feel very honoured to receive the OAM, but frankly I am amazed to be awarded this Medal, as what I have done is much the same as countless other members of our community are doing or have done.

As someone who had the good fortune to be able to leave Germany together with her parents in the very last days of 1938, I am deeply grateful for the very fortunate life I have had.

My parents were both actively involved in the community and encouraged me to be likewise, so this award really belongs in a great part to them. My communal involvement has given me the satisfaction of being able to make just a very small contribution to the life of our community and thus to Jewish continuity.”

Thomas Frank DANOS, Toorak VIC 3142

Tom Danos

For service to the law, and to the community.

Victorian Bar

• Member, Victorian Bar Pro-Bono Committee, 2009-2018.
• Deputy Chairman, Victorian Bar Pro-Bono Committee, 2011-2017.
• Treasurer, Criminal Bar Association, 2005-2013.
• Member, Legal Assistance Committee, 2003-2007.
• Member, Criminal Bar Association Committee, 2002-2012.
• Legal Aid Liaison, 1988-2000.
• Member, Young Barristers’ Committee, 1977-1980.

Svenson Barristers

Barrister, current.

Maccabi Australia

• Executive, Panel Member Protection Policy, since 2015.
• Member, Board of Trustees, Maccabi World Union, since 2009.
• Member, Court of Honour, Maccabi World Union, since 2009.
• Member, Maccabi World Union Executive, since 2001.
• Chair, Grievance Tribunal, Maccabiah Games, 2017.
• President, 1998-2001.
• Vice-President, 1996-1998.

Victoria Maccabi

• Inducted into the Victoria Maccabi Hall of Fame, 2011.
• President, 1982-1987.
• President, Maccabi Athletic Club, 1981-1982.

Community

• Member, Victorian State Committee of JusticeConnect, 2013-2015.
• President, Victorian Friends of Hebrew University, 1981-1987 and 1992-1994.
• Member, Australian Academic Selection Board of Golda Meir Fellowships since 1990.
• As the son of migrants, Tom Danos appreciates what Australia has given him and his family.
• His mother was a Holocaust survivor and his father suffered in Hungary in 1944.

“We came here in 1950 and this country has given us so much. The community work I have done, and continue to do, is simply my way of repaying.

“The hardest part has been keeping a secret for so long” he said.

Judy Feiglin

Judith FEIGLIN, Caulfield VIC 3161

For service to the Jewish community.

Mitzvah Day Australia

• Founder, 2010.
• Chair, 2010-2017.
• Volunteer, 2010-2019.

Kehilat Nitzan Synagogue

• President, 2006-2009.
• Board Member, 2002-2011.
• Former Gabbai.
• Choir Founder and Member, current.
• Founder, Women’s Group.
• Educator, Conversion Program, 2008-2016.

Other Service

• Volunteer Guide, Jewish Museum of Australia, 30 years.
• Volunteer Driver, South Port Day Links, since 2016.
• Former Volunteer, Jewish National Fund.
• Former Volunteer, Kosher Meals on Wheels.

National Council of Jewish Women

Senior Citizen’s Day Care Centre Caulfield

• Coordinator, 1989-1991.
• Assistant, 1982-1988.

Awards and recognition includes:

• Recipient, Menorah Award, B’nai B’rith, 2014.

Judy Feiglin said: “From an early age I have always been involved in voluntary work. This was a core value in my parents’ home.

Judith Ferber

Judith FERBER, Carrara QLD 4211For service to the performing arts.

Gold Coast Eisteddfod

• General Manager, since 2000.
• Founder, 1982, as part of the Gold Coast’s first-ever Festival, Tropicarnival.

The Arts Centre Gold Coast

• Former Board Member, seven years.

Awards and recognition includes:

• Recipient, Key to the City, City of Gold Coast, 2011.

Judith Ferber commented: “I have been on the Gold Coast for 55 years but I was born in Melbourne. Thrilled to have contributed to the Arts Community and have headed the Gold Coast Eisteddfod as it approaches its 39th year. The competition attracts around 66 thousand competitors and is staged from late July to mid-September every day. I am deeply honoured and proud having already received The Key to the City of Gold Coast.”

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Dr Hazel Fern GOLDBERG, NSW

Dr Hazel Goldberg

For service to respiratory medicine.

NSW Health

South Eastern Sydney Local Health District

• Visiting Medical Officer, Prince of Wales Hospital, since 1992.
• Visiting Medical Officer, St George Hospital, since 1986.
• Visiting Medical Officer, Sydney/Sydney Eye Hospital, since 2009.

South Eastern Sydney Tuberculosis Advisory Group

• Inaugural Chair, 1994.
• Member, current.

Sydney Local Health District

• Visiting Medical Officer, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, since 1986.
• Member, Sydney Local Health District Tuberculosis Advisory Committee.

Other NSW Health

• Member, Tuberculosis Advisory Committee of New South Wales, 1992-2003.
• Member, NSW Expert Panel on Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis, since 1998.

National Health and Medical Research Council

• Participant and contributor, Tuberculosis Research Symposia, NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Tuberculosis Control.
• Member, NHMRC Working Party on Tuberculosis, 1992-1994.

Professional

• Respiratory Physician, since 1986.
• Fellow, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, current.

·       Member, Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand, current.

·       Member, Australian Respiratory Council, current.

·       Member, European Respiratory Society, current.

·       Member, The Union (International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases), current.

Research

• Co-author, several medical research publications on respiratory disease and tuberculosis.
• Current Chair, Expert Clinical Panel for Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis prevention study in Vietnam.
• Current Co-Investigator, new Tuberculosis prevention regimens in Sydney.

Dr Hazel Goldberg told J-Wire: “The fact that I became a Dr, is thanks to my parents who stressed education and caring for people. It is my passion which motivated me, and I chose a field with a broad spectrum of patients. An interest got me into TB (tuberculosis) and the more you put into it, the more you get out. As a result, I have dealt with various public issues and social issues with patients from all walks of life. I also credit my career to a fantastic network of nurses.

I thought that I would accept this award on behalf of all the people whose shoulders I have stood on. It is my aim to help raise awareness of respiratory issues as well as tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is still a major issue and concern in other parts of the world.

My grandparents migrated to and from different countries to get us here. Australia has been generous and good to me, as a Jew and as an Australian. It is an honour and I will give back to that.”

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Peter Charles KAHN, Clovelly NSW 2031

Peter Kahn

For service to community history.

Sydney Tramway Museum

• • • Public Relations Officer, current.
    • Historian, current.
    • Volunteer, since 1960.
    • Member, since 1958.

Sutherland Shire Citizens’ Heritage Festival

• • • Treasurer, current.
    • Committee Member, since early-1990s.

Other History

• • • President, Randwick and District Historical Society, current.
    • Member, Sydney Bus Museum, 45 years.

 

Friends of the Royal National Park

• • • Committee Member, current.
    • Member, Visitor Amenities Sub-Committee, current.

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Ronald ROSENBERG, Belfield NSW 2191

For service to veterans, and to the community.

Ron Rosenberg

Naval Association of Australia

• • • Vice-President, New South Wales Branch, since 2002.
    • Trustee, current.
    • Former Secretary.
    • Former Member, Management Committee, White Ensign Magazine.
    • Member, since 1992.

Naval Health Services Sub-Section, Naval Association of Australia

• • • Vice-President, since 2017.
    • President, 2000-2016.
    • Secretary, 2007-2017.
    • Treasurer, 2007-2008.
    • Committee Member, 1992-1998.
    • Foundation Member, Royal Australian Navy Sickbaymen’s Association (now the Naval Health Services Sub-Section), 1979.

Community

• • • Former Volunteer Driver for disadvantaged and elderly people to attend appointments.
    • Assistant Manager, New South Wales Baseball Team, 1984-1988.
    • Committee Member, Canterbury-Bankstown Baseball Club, 1982-1988.
    • President, Belmore Soccer Club, 1978-1986 and Life Member, 1988.
    • Awards and recognition include:

National President’s Commendation and Diploma of Merit, Naval Association of Australia, 2006.

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Brian Stephen ROSENGARTEN, Brighton East VIC 3187

For service to community health.

Myeloma Foundation of Australia

• • • President, since 2008.
    • Vice-President, 1998-2008.
    • Board Member, since 1998.
    • Co-Founder.

Glen Eira-McKinnon Bowls Club

• • • President, 10 years.
    • Board Member, since 2006.
    • Greens Director.
    • Former Selection Panel Member.
    • Honorary Life Membership.

Awards and recognition includes:

• • • Menorah Award, B’nai B’rith Victoria.
    • Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary Club of Camberwell.

Brian Rosengarten said that “you don’t do the work for acknowledgement, you do it because you see that something needs to be done… and so you go and do it. But, it’s nice to be acknowledged, that what you’ve done has been worthwhile”.

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Timmy Rubin

Tamara Eve (Timmy) RUBIN, St Kilda East VIC 3183

For service to the Jewish community of Melbourne.

• • • Provides regular Chaplaincy services to inmates at Port Phillip Prison, ongoing.
    • Supporter of a range of Jewish community organisations in Melbourne, ongoing.

Timmy Rubin commented: “I feel a bit embarrassed because the award should have gone to my mother. The late Marion Lippmann who was the head social worker at Jewish Care many years ago… She did more in a day then most people do in a year, including myself. She helped many, many people in the Jewish community. My father, Hans Friend, was also a very kind soul who had never had a negative thought about anyone.

Her husband and children will host a party for her on Sunday night to celebrate. 

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Robert Peter SELINGER, Eastwood NSW 2122

Bob Selinger

For service to the community, and to education.

Rotary Club of Chatswood Sunrise

• • • Treasurer, 2015-2019.
    • President, 2001-2002, 2011-2012, 2012-2013.
    • Secretary, 2009-2013.
    • Director, 1998-2019.
    • Involved with the GroTrees Project, Hippo Roller and Milch Cows programs.
    • Member, Rotary International, since 1998.

New South Wales Department of Education

• • • Casual Teacher, since 2005.
    • Principal, Chatswood High, 2000.
    • Deputy Principal, Chatswood High School, 1998, 2001-2004 and Head Teacher, 1985-2004.
    • Head Teacher, Drummoyne Boys High School, 1983-1984.
    • Head Teacher, Ashfield Boys High School, 1977-1982.
    • Social Education Materials Project, 1975-1976.
    • Head Teacher, St Marys High School, 1974.
    • Classroom Teacher, 1967-1973.

Bob Selinger commented: It’s a recognition of all the things I enjoy doing. I am a bit taken aback as I don’t think I have done anything other than enjoy myself in Rotary and teaching.”

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Sam Michal SHARMAN, Toorak VIC 3142

Sam Sharman

For service to the Jewish community of Melbourne.

Temple Beth Israel

• • • Trustee, Temple Beth Israel Foundation, current.
      Patron, Pesach Appeal, 2000.
      President, 2010-2012.
      Member, Board of Governance, 2008-2015.
      Member, Education Committee, 2008-2015.

Member, since 1984.

Other

• • • Trustee, Progressive Jewish Cultural Fund, since 2014.
      Deputy Chair, The King David School Foundation.
      Member, Alfred Foundation Committee, Alfred Hospital.
      Society Member, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research.
      Board Member, Camp Quality, 2 years.
      Research Ethics Committee and Donation Committee, Cabrini Foundation.

Sam Sharman admits to mixed feelings about receiving her Award. She says there are plenty of other people who deserve one and she is just one of many.

“I don’t feel I am someone special. To quote the old cliché, you get back what you put in” she told J-Wire.

“I am fortunate to be in a position when I can give my time and expertise to help others. I believe we owe it to the wider community, to use our skills for the greater good” she said.

Looking back at over 30 years of community service, she says she used her skills as a teacher and social worker to benefit as many people as she could. She remembers the days when Russian immigrants arrived in Melbourne and how she worked with others to help them settle.

“I firmly believe that education is the key.  I work now with outstanding people at Camp Quality.

“We should all reach out to help others where we can. It is so rewarding she said.

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Adira Yael WERDIGER, Caulfield North VIC 3161

Adira Werdiger

For service to the Jewish community of Victoria.

Jewish Care (formerly Montefiore Homes for the Aged and Jewish Community Services)

• • • Volunteer, since 1990.
    • Involved with the fundraising for, and refurbishment of, the on-site beauty salon, 2006.
    • Volunteer organiser and driver of residents to monthly afternoon gatherings, ongoing.

Melbourne Jewish Charity Fund

• • • Organiser, kosher communal freezer supporting families in crisis, since approx 2001.

Yeshivah-Beth Rivkah Colleges

• • • President/Vice-President, Parents Association, 1994-2011; Member, current;
    • Manager, School Uniform Shop, 1996-2007.

Shifra Inc – Science with Halachic Infertility Authority

• • • Chief Coordinator, Mashgichot teams (trained volunteers that supervise various fertility procedures), 2013-2018.
    • Involved with fundraising activities, ongoing.

Other

• • • Member, American Women’s Auxiliary, Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, 12 years.

Adira Werdiger told J-Wire: “I am really, really humbled … Australia is a beautiful country, I feel very lucky. I don’t know if I am as deserving as others, but I am very excited about receiving it.”

Adira was born in America but is an Australian citizen and feels very lucky.

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If we have made omissions, please email us the details at [email protected]

Report prepared by Roz Tarszisz, Elana Bowman, Hila Tsor and Henry Benjamin