Changing the guard
VAJEX Australia Incorporated recently held its Annual General Meeting in the presence of patrons patrons Patron in Chief, Major-General Jeffrey Rosenfeld and Patron Jack Smorgon.
Even though it was a public holiday weekend, members and guests filled the hall at Blake Street Hebrew Congregation.
Mr Ben Hirsh, Victorian Association of Jewish Ex-servicemen and Women President, welcomed the gathering and began the meeting with the Australian National Anthem and followed with the recital of the ‘Ode to the Memory of Fallen Comrades.’ The meeting proceeded quickly through the ‘normal’ meeting agenda during which Ben offered his President’s Report which covered his past year’s heavy load of activities.
Next came the election of Office Bearers, which most present saw as a item of interest, thanks much to the publication of misleading information.
Ben, having previously notified the Committee of his intention, because of health, to accept another position on the committee, stood aside and moved the nomination of Dr Judy Landau to take his place as VAJEX President. The acceptance by all members present was unanimous. The remainder of elections for positions was carried out with all candidates, except one, elected unanimously.
The formation of the incoming committee is as follows:
Ben Hirsh receiving a Life Membership from Judy Landau
President: Judy Landau
Spokesperson & Vice President: Ben Hirsh
Second Vice President: Harold Karpin
Hon Secretary: Harry Engel
Hon Treasurer: Ian Mansfield
Public Officer: Stephen Tusak
Welfare Officers: Hilton Meinrath & Pearl Crafti
Committee: Julie Leder (Ceremonial Portfolio)
Committee: David Zimmerman (Schools Education Portfolio)
In her acceptance speech, Judy Landau acknowledged the incredible contribution that Ben Hirsh has made to the ongoing operation of VAJEX and the important role he has almost single handedly played in keeping VAJEX respected in the community at large. In recognition of his importance to the Association, Dr Landau expressed her delight in advising those present that the special ambassadorial portfolio of ‘Spokesperson of VAJEX Aust Inc’, a role usually reserved for the President, had been established especially for Ben.
Following on in the same vein, a motion of special resolution was passed unanimously to appoint Mr Ben Hirsh as a Life Member of VAJEX. Ben responded by admitting that he was humbled by the honour bestowed upon him. He emphasised that “Service Before Self'” has always been his motto and he would continue to do his best to help keep our (VAJEX) flag flying high and also to maintain our good image in the community.
In General Business the incoming Committee was encouraged by Maj pr General Rosenfield to make all endeavors in resolving any differences VAJEX may have with the Federal Body of FAJEX. Dr Landau gave her assurance that the matter would be on the agenda for the May Committee meeting.
The meeting ended with the singing of HaTikvah.
