Celebrating Rabbi Pinchus Feldman’s 80th birthday
A special gathering of some of Sydney’s Jewish community was held on Thursday November 7 to honour Rabbi Pinchus Feldman, the head Shliach (emissary) to Sydney and New South Wales, as he celebrated his 80th birthday at Chabad Double Bay.
Rabbi Feldman enjoys his birthday
The celebration, held on Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan, recognised Rabbi Feldman’s decades-long dedication to Jewish life and growth across Australia.
Rabbi Feldman and his wife, Rebbetzin Pnina, arrived in Australia in 1968, sent by the Lubavitcher Rebbe. For over five decades, the couple has worked tirelessly to build the Chabad movement in Sydney. Their contributions include establishing the Yeshiva Centre and schools, Chabad Houses, and a host of educational and support services, impacting generations of Jewish families.
During the event, Rabbi Feldman’s eldest son, Rabbi Yossi Feldman, described his father’s perseverance and deep faith, recalling the Rebbe’s assurance that his livelihood would be “like manna from heaven.” Other speakers, including Justice Marcus Enfield and family members, shared reflections on Rabbi Feldman’s kindness and dedication.
In his time in Australia, Rabbi Feldman has received numerous honours for his contributions, including the Community Service Award from Premier John Fahey in 1995 and the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2002. He was named Honorary Life President by the Rabbinic Council of NSW in 2006 and awarded the title of Patron of ORA by the Organisation of Rabbis of Australia in 2008.
Family members, including Rabbi Nochum Schapiro, Rabbi Motty Feldman, and Rabbi Eli Feldman, paid tribute to Rabbi Feldman’s legacy. Rabbi Schapiro noted the parallel between Noach’s achievements and Rabbi Feldman’s impact, while Rabbi Motty spoke of his father’s dedication to community service. Rabbi Eli highlighted his father’s influence on Shluchim (emissaries) globally, recounting an inspiring act of generosity toward other communities.
The evening concluded with more heartfelt words from friends and leaders, celebrating a lifetime of leadership. Rabbi Feldman’s 80th birthday marked not just a milestone for him but a testament to a legacy that will continue to shape Sydney’s Jewish community for years to come.
