NSW Maccabiah contingent farewelled
Team Australia’s NSW-based contingent has been given an official farewell by the State Government at their Governor Macquarie Tower offices in Sydney.
Ready – steady – All photos: Henry Benjamin
Mick Vasin, Gabrielle Upton, Graham Annesley and Moriah president Gior Friede
NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hon. Graham Annesley MP, and the NSW Minister for Citizenship, Community and Aboriginal Affairs, Hon. Victor Dominello MP, hosted the event, attended by team members, management and communal leaders.
“By any calculation, this is a massive international event – so to be a part of that, is very significant. I’m sure everyone here is not only looking forward to competing, but the wonderful cultural exchange and fellowship that will result from this event,” Mr Annesley told the audience.
Annesley, a former senior executive with the National Rugby League, was also taken aback by the diversity and range of personalities that will make up Australia’s 400-strong touring party.
“(This is) a great story that probably isn’t well enough told,” he enthused. “We need to yell that as much as possible and let people know about this wonderful team.”
Ready to compete
Minister Dominello took the opportunity to pay tribute to the effort that goes into getting a team of this magnitude organised.
Harry Procel, Graham Annesley, Barry Smorgon, Victor Dominello and Lisa Borowick
“You are not just great athletes, but great citizens,” he said. “We comment on the volunteering, and how many hours go into getting you to the position you’re in now; countless hours parents spend taking kids to training … time that no one really understands or recognises, but, no doubt when you hold up your gold medal you’ll have a thought for those who assisted you in your journey.”
“You’re also great ambassadors for our great country and out state.”
MP Member for Vaucluse Gabrielle Upton, the President of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Israel, added that she put on the record in Hansard, the official record of the parliament, that the state government “wishes you well”.
MAI president Lisa Borowick couldn’t hide her anticipation ahead of the Games.
“Over 9,000 participants and athletes. Over 70 countries marching into Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem … it’s something very special so we are absolutely delighted that the state government has recognised us.”
