76Th ANNUAL REPORT MIZRACHI MELBOURNE

76th ANNUAL REPORT

MIZRACHI MELBOURNE

AUSTRALIA

(Affiliated with World Mizrachi)

תשע"ט - תש"פ 2019-2020

EUGEN YAACOV WEISS MIZRACHI CENTRE

81 Balaclava Rd, Tel: (03) 8317 2555 CAULFIELD NORTH, VIC. 3161 Fax: (03) 9527 5665

Email: [email protected]

CONTENTS

Key positions – Mizrachi Organisation ...... Page 5 Mizrachi Organisation Past Presidents ...... Page 5 Rabbanim of the Mizrachi Organisation ...... Page 5 Mizrachi Organisation Executive Directors ...... Page 5 Mizrachi Organisation Executive & Committee 2019-2020 ...... Page 5 Mizrachi Honorary Life Members ...... Page 6 Key positions – Leibler Yavneh College ...... Page 6 Leibler Yavneh College Foundation ...... Page 6 Leibler Yavneh College YPO Representatives ...... Page 6 Leibler Yavneh College Past Chairmen ...... Page 7 Mizrachi Committees, Sub-Committees & Convenors Kosher Australia Board & Staff ...... Page 7 Beit Haroeh Committee ...... Page 7 Bnei Akiva Liaison ...... Page 8 Elsternwick Jewish Community (EJC) ...... Page 8 Eruv Committee ...... Page 8 Kehillat Ohr David Committee ...... Page 8 Mizrachi Building Chairman ...... Page 8 Mizrachi Hospitality Committee ...... Page 8 Mizrachi Charity Funds ...... Page 9 Mizrachi Sick Visiting Society ...... Page 9 Mizrachi Synagogue Sub-Committee ...... Page 9 Mizrachi Delegates ...... Page 9 Notice of Annual General Meeting ...... Page 10 Minutes of 2019 Annual General Meeting ...... Page 11 Message from R’ Danny Mirvis, Senior Rabbi, Mizrachi Organisation ...... Page 16

REPORTS

President ...... Danny Lamm AM ...... Page 18

Seudah Shlishit – A Year in Review ...... Page 25

Treasurers’ Report ...... David Brykman ...... Page 26

MIZRACHI ORGANISATION 2019-20

President ...... Dr Danny Lamm AM Religious Programmes Director ...... Senior Rabbi ...... Rabbi Danny Mirvis ...... Rabbi Mark Steiner Chief Financial Officer ...... Mr Daniel Solomon Office Manager...... Ms Rae Bower

Mizrachi Organisation Past Presidents

1980-1985 ...... ע " ה Mr Manfred Levy 1943-1948 ...... ע " ה Rev Chaim Joffe 1985-1988 ...... ע " ה Mr Bernie Pushett 1948-1949 ...... ע " ה Mr David Feiglin Mr Ben Slonim OAM ...... 1988-1991 1949-1951 ...... ע " ה Mr Avraham Samuel Leibler Mr Robert Fixler ...... 1991-1992 1951-1956 ...... ע " ה Mr David Feiglin Dr Danny Lamm ...... 1992-1996 1956-1959 ...... ע " ה Mr Joseph Feiglin Mr Warren Zauer ...... 1996-1998 1959-1964 ...... ע " ה Mr Mordechai Rich Dr Danny Lamm ...... 1998-2003 1964-1968 ...... ע " ה Mr Jacob Rich 2003-2004 ...... ע " ה Mr Malcolm Slonim 1968-1970 ...... ע " ה Mr Simon Lowinger Mr Ben Slonim OAM ...... 1970-1972 Mr Sam Seigel ...... 2004-2008 Dr Shlomi Menahem ...... 2008-2011 1972-1975 ...... ע " ה Mr Julius Kraus Mr Ian Waller QC ...... 2011-2016 1975-1978 ...... ע " ה Mr Bernie Pushett 1978-1980 ...... ע " ה Mr David Apfelbaum

Mizrachi Organisation Rabbanim

1996-2003 ...... ז"ל Rabbi Simcha J Cohen 1950-1959 ...... ז"ל Rabbi Abraham First Rabbi Yaakov Zelig Sprung ...... 2005-2015 1961-1986 ...... ז"ל Rabbi Boruch Abaranok Rabbi Boruch Zaichyk ...... 1986-1994 Rabbi Daniel Mirvis ...... 2016 1994-1996 ...... ז"ל Rabbi Boruch Abaranok

Mizrachi Organisation Executive Directors

Rabbi Ian Goodhardt ...... 2003-2005 1964-1983 ...... ע " ה Mr Michael Neuhauser 2005-2006 ...... ע " ה Dr Peter Kloot 1983-1984 ...... ע " ה Mr Jacob Cook Mr Len Hain ...... 1984-1986 Rabbi Ronnie Figdor ...... 2008 - Jan 2012 Mr Ari Morris ...... June 2012 – December 2013 1987-2003 ...... ע " ה Dr Peter Kloot

Mizrachi Organisation Executive & Committee 2019-2020

Executive President ...... Dr Danny Lamm AM LYC Treasurer ...... Mr Andrew Davis Vice President ...... Mr Yehuda Gottlieb Building Chairman ...... Mr Robert Nossbaum Mizrachi Treasurer ...... Mr David Brykman Kosher Australia Chairman .... Mr Stephen Shnider Hon. Secretary ...... Mr David Lindell Beit Midrash Chairman ...... Mr Jeremy Herz Immediate Past President ...... Mr Ian Waller QC Bnei Akiva Liaison ...... Mr Benji Jotkowitz LYC Co Chairman ...... Mr Ari Schachna Beit Yehuda Representative ...... Mrs Keren Zelwer LYC Co Chairman ...... Mr Gerard Max Life Member ...... Mr Sam Seigel

Committee (In addition to those listed above on the Executive) BA Merakez 2019 (ex-officio) Committee Member ...... Mrs Sharona Jotkowitz ...... Ms Cohava Rubinstein Sturgess Committee Member ...... Mr David Lamm BA Merakezet 2020 (ex-officio) Committee Member ...... Mr Raphael Lamm ...... Ms Tali Borowick Committee Member ...... Mrs Keren Zelwer Committee Member ...... Dr Pnina Adler Beit HaRoeh Rep ...... Ms Abigail Cooper Committee Member ...... Mr Sooly Balter ...... Mr Anthony Gosling Committee Member ...... Mr Avi Cohen Emunah Representative ...... Mrs Naomi Bloch Committee Member ...... Mrs Eva Goldberg EJC (ex officio) ...... Mr Robert Wyner Committee Member ...... Mr Michael Granek Kehillat Ohr David Chairman ...... Mr Jeremy Gold Committee Member ...... Mr Benji Jones ...... Mr Oren Smith (from Feb 2020) Committee Member ...... Mr Benji Jotkowitz Life Member ...... Mr Ben Slonim OAM Committee Member ...... Dr Max Jotkowitz

Mizrachi Honorary Life Members

Dr Danny Lamm Mr Sam Seigel Mr Isi Leibler AO, CBE Mr Ben Slonim OAM ע " ה Mr Michael Neuhauser

LEIBLER YAVNEH COLLEGE 2019-20 (Incorporating Abrahamovits Yavneh Primary School & Abeles Liberman Early Learning Centre)

Co Chairmen ...... Mr Ari Schachna Head of General Studies (Prim) Ms Hailey Joubert ...... Mr Gerard Max Head of Jewish Studies (Prim) .. Mrs Pnina Landau Deputy Chairperson ...... Mr Jeremy Leibler Head of Early Learning Centre ...... Principal ...... Ms Cherylyn Skewes ...... Mrs Charlene Orwin Head of Jewish Studies (Sec) Rabbi Chaim Cowen

Executive President - Mizrachi Org...... Dr Danny Lamm Member ...... Mr Ben Kave Treasurer – Mizrachi Org… ...... Mr David Brykman LYC Chief Financial Officer ..... Mr. Daniel Solomon LYC Principal ...... Ms Cherylyn Skewes Immediate Past Chairman ...... Mr Avi Gilboa LYC Treasurer ...... Mr Andrew Davis Member ...... Ms Talia Boltin Chief Financial Officer ...... Mr Daniel Solomon

Yavneh Foundation

Chairmen ...... Mr Benji Jotkowitz Member ...... Mrs Aviva Paluch ...... Mr Reuben Zelwer ...... Mrs Ilana Wald Executive Director ...... Mrs Tanya Shaltiel ...... Mr Daniel Parasol

Yavneh Parents’ Organisation Representatives

Mrs Candice Katz Mrs Nicole Kohn 6

Leibler Yavneh College Past Chairmen

Mr Alex Moss ...... 1993-1994 1963-1967 ...... ע " ה Mr Judah Feiglin Mr Harold Wise...... 1967-1971 Mr Harry Grynberg ...... 1994-1996 Mr David Fisher ...... 1996-1999 1971-1975 ...... ע " ה Mr Bernie Pushett Mr Les Feiglin ...... 1975-1980 Mr John Kraus ...... 1999-2002 Mr Robert Reisner ...... 2002-2003 1980-1985 ...... ע " ה Mr Ian Rockman Rabbi Hillel Bick ...... 1985-1987 Mr Mark Joel ...... 2003-2009 Mr Leon Duval ...... 1987-1990 Ms Ilana Wald & Mr Jonathan Wenig ... 2009-2013 Mr Ronny Goldschlager ...... 1990-1993 Mr Avi Gilboa ...... 2013-2019 MIZRACHI COMMITTEES, SUB-COMMITTEES & CONVENORS

Kosher Australia Board

Chairman ...... Mr Stephen Shnider General Manager ...... Mr Yankel Wajsbort

Board of Management Dr Danny Lamm ...... Mizrachi President Rabbi Michael Lewis ...... Mr Robert Lebovits Mr David Brykman ...... Mrs Sue Korbl Mr Ben Slonim OAM ...... Mr Ezra May

Rabbinic Advisory Board Rabbinic Administrator .. Rabbi Mordechai Gutnick Rabbinic Board Member ... Rabbi Yonason Johnson Rabbinic Board Member ...... Rabbi Arieh Berlin Rabbinic Board Member ...... Rabbi Danny Mirvis

Kosher Australia Staff Chief Chemist ...... Mr Kasriel Oliver, B.App.Sc. Audit Analyst ...... Mr. Pesachya Adelist Chemist ...... Mrs Rose Mehlman, B.Sc. Administration ...... Mrs Chaya Ash Chemist ...... Mr Mordy Hoenders M.Chem Eng ...... Mr Eli Paneth Associate Rabbi ...... Mr Adam Rushinek B.Bc ...... Mrs Dina Rosenbaum Rabbinic Field Representative ...... Mr Yossi Herbst ...... Ms Nechama Ruschinek Operations Manager...... Mr Mordi Joseph

Beit Haroeh Committee

Chairperson ...... Mr Anthony Gosling Shule Environment ...... Mrs Andrea Esterman Communications ...... Ms Abigail Cooper Shule Environment ...... Mr Anthony Gosling Tzedakah project ...... Mr Bruce Esterman Ex-Officio ...... Mr Ian Symons Gabbai ...... Dr Lawrence Cher ...... Mr Ashley Tugendhaft Gabbai ...... Mr David Greenberger Social Committee ...... Ms Julie Cohen Hospitality & Welfare ...... Mrs Sara Garfield Social Committee ...... Mrs Janie Fixler ...... Mrs Sheila Esterman Social Committee ...... Mrs Aviva Greenberger

Bnei Akiva Parent Liaison Committee

Mr Benji Jotkowitz Mr Andrew Davis

Elsternwick Jewish Community Committee

Chairman ...... Mr Robert Wyner Committee ...... Mr Stephen Barton Rabbi ...... Rabbi Mark Steiner Security Liaison ...... Mr Ken Shapiro Immediate Past Chairman & Assistant Gabbai Committee ...... Ms Helen Silberg ...... Mr Mark Kras Security Roster ...... Mr Tom Slomovic Treasurer ...... Mrs Lorraine Fantl Gabbai ...... Dr Bryan Winthrope Membership ...... Mr Dennis Max Secretary (Employed) ...... Mrs Sally-Ann Jaye

Melbourne Eruv Committee

Chairperson & Director ...... Dr Danny Lamm AM Marketing ...... Mr Paul Sor Board Member ...... Hechaver Yossi Aron COSV Treasurer ...... Mr Moshe Trebish Director & Head Mashgiach ...... Mr Jeff Herz COSV President ...... Mr Mark Cohen Honorary Solicitor ...... Mr Tom May OAM Halachic Adviser ...... Rabbi Danny Mirvis Administrator ...... Mr David Prins

Kehillat Ohr David Committee

Chairperson ...... Mr Oren Smith Kiddushim ...... Mr Jonathan Smith Treasurer ...... Ms Davina Tugendhaft ...... Mr David Smith Secretary ...... Mr Gabe Casper Youth Services ...... Ms Dafna Morvay Public Relations (PR) ...... Mr Caelen MacBeth ...... Mrs Hayley Rosenbaum Gabbai ...... Mr Yonatan Rubinstein ...... Ms Tzena Ajzenszmidt Gabbai ...... Mr Gabby Lefkovits Committee Member ...... Mr Yoel Rosenbaum Hospitality ...... Ms. Chavi Lazarus Events ...... Ms Naomi Cohen

Mizrachi Building Chairman

Mr Robert Nossbaum

Mizrachi Hospitality Committee

Mrs Karen Franks

Mizrachi Charity Fund Committee

Convenor & Administrator ...... Mrs Karen Franks Treasurer …………………………………Mr David Brykman Mizrachi President ...... Dr Danny Lamm

Mizrachi Sick Visiting Society

Convenor ...... Mrs Talilah May

Mizrachi Synagogue Sub-Committee

Chairman ...... Mr Robert Nossbaum Beit Yehuda ...... Dr Michael Bruce Mizrachi President (ex officio) ...... Dr Danny Lamm Beit Yehuda ...... Mrs Keren Zelwer Mizrachi Treasurer (ex officio) . Mr David Brykman Beit HaRoeh ...... Dr Lawrence Cher Senior Rabbi ...... R’ Danny Mirvis Beit HaRoeh ...... Mr David Greenberger Hashcama ...... Mr David Lindell Kehillat Ohr David ...... Mr Yonatan Rubinstein Hashcama ...... Mr Jack Feldman ...... Mr Gabby Lefkovitz

MIZRACHI DELEGATES Council of Orthodox Synagogues Jewish Community Council of Victoria (COSV) of Victoria (JCCV) Dr Danny Lamm AM Mr Sam Seigel

Directors Melbourne Zionism Eruv Pty Ltd Victoria Mr Jeff Herz & Dr Danny Lamm AM Dr Danny Lamm & Mr Sam Seigel

Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA) Dr. Danny Lamm AM

Members are advised that the

76th Annual General Meeting of the Mizrachi Organisation

will take place at 8:00pm on Wednesday 06 May 2020, at Weiss Mizrachi Centre 81 Balaclava Rd, Caulfield North

The Agenda appears below. A complete set of Annual Reports will be circulated via email prior to the AGM. It will also be available for collection in hard copy from the Mizrachi Office. A nomination form is attached at the end of the newsletter.

Persons entitled to vote or stand for election at that meeting are required to have been financial members at 31st December, 2019.

 AGENDA 

1. Opening of Annual General Meeting 2. Dvar Torah 3. Apologies 4. Minutes of the 75th Annual General Meeting 5. Matters arising out of the Minutes 6. Adoption of Annual Reports 7. Elections: a. Mizrachi President b. Mizrachi Vice President c. Mizrachi Treasurer d. Mizrachi Secretary e. Leibler Yavneh College Chairman f. Leibler Yavneh College Deputy Chairman g. Leibler Yavneh College Treasurer h. Kosher Australia Board Chairman i. Building Chairman j. Bet Midrash Committee Chairman k. Twelve (12) Committee Members 8. Address by incoming President 9. General business David Lindell Hon. Secretary

MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE MIZRACHI ORGANISATION HELD AT 8.00 PM, WEDNESDAY, 13 MARCH, 2019 IN THE GOLDBERGER HALL, 81 BALACLAVA RD, CAULFIELD NORTH

Present Danny Lamm, Sam Seigel, Stephen Shnider, Benji Jotkowitz, Sharona Jotkowitz, Rae Bower, Penina Tepper Adler, Mark Steiner, Jeremy Herz, Ian Waller, David Lindell, Avi Cohen, Abigail Cooper, Eva Goldberg, David Brykman, Daniel Solomon, Naomi Bloch, Sooly Balter, Max Jotkowitz, Bruce Esterman, Robert Nossbaum, Michael Granek, Yehuda Gottlieb, Jeff Morrison, Aaron Judah, Ben Slonim, Oren Smith, Jeff Herz, Ashley Tugendhaft, Jeremy Leibler, Avi Gilboa, Dion Epstein, Michael Bruce, Andrew Davis, Harry Wenig, Hanna Baum, Theo Tempelhof, Sue Tempelhof, Daniel Bierenkrant, Rolene Lamm, Tom Berkovits, Michael Lewis, Ilse Lamm,Gilda Moss, Alex Moss,, Doron Paluch, Jeremy Gold, DL Gold, Carolyn Brykman, Terry Brykman, Mary Feldman, Jack Feldman, Andrea Esterman, Aliza Lamm, Daniel Adler, Brian Weiner, Jerrold Lichtig, Benjamin Jones, Leon Tugendhaft, Lauren Weiner, Romy prins, Philip Rubinstein, Robert Epstein, Gerard Max, Ruth Epstein, Stephen Moss, Geoff Bloch, David Lamm, Isaac Berkovits, Shoshana Berkovits, Sara Garfield, Allan Garfield, Daniel Saddik, Ilana Max, Karen Franks, Sharona Lindell, Barry Kras, Matti Borowski, Harry Gelber, Robert Reisner, Harry Eisenberg, Kovi Paneth, Lawrence Cher, Michael Dodge, Judy Seigel, Rafi Lamm,

Apologies Michael Neuhauser, Robert Wyner, Nathan Cher, Jacob Weinmann

Chairman Danny Lamm assumed the Chair.

Danny Lamm acknowledged the passing of Andrew Wyman a long standing member of Mizrachi, passing on condolences to his wife, Helena and children.

Danny Lamm noted omissions from the Annual Report and acknowledged the work of - Benji Jotkowitz, a member of the executive, is also the Bnei Akiva liaison - Keren Zelwer and Yehudah Gotlieb who were elected to the Synagogue subcommittee in February 2020 - Reb Yirmi Goldschmeidt who gives the daf yomi shiur - all the Rabbanim who give shiurim and Divrei Torah to the many minyanim and on both campuses

Dvar Torah Danny Lamm introduced Rabbi Mirvis who gave a Dvar Torah to the AGM.

Rabbi Mirvis Danny Lamm advised the meeting that Rabbi Mirvis and his wife, Althea, have agreed to extend their tenure by one year to mid year 2021. The meeting congratulated Danny Lamm on this achievement.

Minutes The Minutes of the last annual general meeting were tabled and adopted. Moved: Sam Seigel, Seconded: Ben Slonim. Accepted

No Matters Arising

Reports to Danny Lamm apologised for the lateness of the preparation and the AGM distribution of the Annual Report.

Danny Lamm asked if there were any matters arising from the Annual Report.

Leon Tugendhaft asked about the increase in the Beth Midrash budget last year and the year before that. Danny Lamm responded that in the prior year there was no Rosh Kollel, there were less bachurim and no bat midrasha.

Hanna Baum asked about gender equality on the committee and executive of Mizrachi. Jeremy Leibler asked what can be done to encourage greater female participation. Danny Lamm responded that nominations and participation from women is encouraged and welcome.

Bruce Esterman asked a number of questions - the charity fund account holds a significant amount of money at year end and noted that a much smaller amount of money was actually distributed. Karen Franks and Daniel Solomon explained that the fund tries to distribute all the funds collected in a year and the anomaly noted is a timing difference. - has there been any progress on questions raised at last year’s AGM and cited the example of welcoming people to shule. Danny Lamm responded that a Membership Subcommittee has been created and one of its objectives was to address this issue. Danny Lamm also noted that the gabbaim of each of the minyanim make extra effort to welcome people who come to shule. Danny Lamm added that there has been an increase in the number of smachot at Mizrachi - a sign of us doing things better. (Danny Lamm acknowledged the passing of Gary Esterman a”h and the

contribution he had made to the Organisation, especially in his endeavours to welcome people to Mizrachi.) - how are we promoting Mizrachi to the community at large. Danny Lamm responded that it is not always easy to get articles in the AJN - electronic notice board in the lobby - Danny Lamm responded that this is being looked at - website improvements. David Lindell responded that there would be improvemetns with consultation and participation of the members - succession planning. Danny Lamm responded that the elections to be held tonight indicated interest and a view to planning for the future. Danny Lamm described the immense effort and work load that members of the executive and committee take on (on a daily basis) to contribute to the Organisation. - Appointment of a CEO. Danny Lamm responded that the committee will be considering this option.

Danny Lamm moved that the reports be accepted Sam Seigel seconded the motion. Accepted

Elections Sooly Balter raised a point of order with regard to the position of Chairman of Committees that appeared on the original nomination form sent out to members and removed subsequently. Danny Lamm explained that 3 years ago, in line with other communal organisations, Mizrachi had unanimously passed a motion at the 2016 AGM to remove the position of Chairman. Unfortunately this was not followed up by an amendment to the Constitution. Danny Lamm acknowledged that a handwritten amended nomination form had been received for the position of Chairman.

Ian Waller said that in view of the unsettled state of affairs, and in particular the uncertainty surrounding the position of Chairman, he proposed that a Special General Meeting be convened to consider amending the Constitution to formally remove the position of Chairman. He also proposed that the AGM be adjourned at the completion of all business (other than the election of a Chairman) to be resumed following the SGM.

At the same time, people should be allowed to nominate for the Position of Chairman if the resolution did not pass at the SGM.

Michael Bruce asked if a special resolution vote could be taken now. Ian Waller responded that the Constitution requires 4 weeks notice be given for any amendment to the Constitution.

Geoff Bloch asked whether there are any provisions for abridgement of notice. Ian Waller responded that there are not.

There was general discussion about how amendments to the constitution can be made.

Ian Waller moved that the meeting instruct the incoming committee to convene a Special General Meeting with a view to amending the Constitution to formally remove the position of Chairman. Seconded by Danny Lamm. Carried by majority.

Sooly Balter moved that all elections at this meeting be postponed until after the special general meeting. There was no seconder. Motion was defeated.

Danny Lamm advised that there would be only one vote taken for the contested position of Honorary Secretary. Danny Lamm invited Sam Siegel to conduct the election.

Sam Seigel declared that the following nominees were therefore duly elected to the positions they stood for, as follows:

President: Danny Lamm Vice President: Yehuda Gottlieb Mizrachi Treasurer: David Brykman Chairman Beth Midrash: Jeremy Herz Chairman Kosher Australia: Stephen Shnider Chairman Building: Robert Nossbaum Co-Chairmen LYC: Ari Schachna, Gerard Max Deputy Chairman LYC: Jeremy Leibler LYC Treasurer: Andrew Davis

Committee Members: Peninah Tepper Adler, Sooly Balter, Avi Cohen, Eva Goldberg, Michael Granek, Benjamin Jones, Max Jotkowitz, Benji Jotkowitz, Sharona Jotkowitz, David Lamm, Rafi Lamm & Keren Zelwer

A secret ballot was held and David Lindell was duly elected as Mizrachi Honorary Secretary.

Michael Bruce moved a vote of thanks to Sam Seigel for his many years of service on the Mizrachi Committee and Executive, most recently as Vice President.

Incoming Danny Lamm welcomed all attendees to the meeting and gave President special thanks to all those who worked for the Organisation in the Address many different areas of activity.

Danny Lamm reviewed the key highlights of the reports that were presented in the annual report.

Danny Lamm welcomed the new members of the Committee, the Executive and LYC Council.

Danny Lamm gave thanks to outgoing LYC Chairman Avi Gilboa for his contribution as Chairman.

Danny Lamm gave thanks to Matti and Michal Borowski for their contribution to Bnei Akiva for the period when there was no shaliach, together with Benji Jotkowitz and Andrew Davis

Danny Lamm reported on - Building program for 81 Balaclava Rd - Child Protection policy and implementation - Web site development and the work done by Abigail Cooper

General Rafi Lamm moved that the meeting endorse the extension of the Business: Rabbi’s term without a kehilla vote being required. Ashley Tugendhaft seconded. The motion was carried unanimously.

Michael Lewis raised his concern about safety and scooters being used in the grounds on shabbat.

Lauren Weiner raised her concern about safety and prams that are blocking the exits of the building.

Danny Lamm agreed with both points and asked all members to ask children not to use scooters on the premises and parents to properly “park” their prams so as not to block exits

Danny Levy raised his concern about Israel shnat young adults travelling to Israel without appropriate supervision, advising that there was an incident on the plane itself and in Bangkok airport they were left without any supervision. Matti Borowski explained that there was a cost issue involved but recognized that there was a need and Bnei Akvia would look into this moving forward.

Abigail Cooper moved a vote of thanks to R’ Mark Steiner and Rae Bower for the work in the office coordinating activities at Mizrachi. Hanna Baum raised her concern that the passcode had not been changed on the gates to 81 Balaclava Rd. Danny Lamm agreed and advised that the matter will be investigated.

Meeting 9.45 pm

Adjourned:

MESSAGE FROM Rav Danny Mirvis, Senior Rabbi Mizrachi Organisation

“There is nothing more beloved before Hashem than a Shaliach who is sent to perform a Mitzva, and gives of himself in order to succeed in his mission” (Bemidbar Rabba, Shelach Lecha, Parsha 16).

While the term “Shaliach Tzibbur” usually refers to a representative for communal prayer, our community and organisation are blessed to have numerous “Shlichei Tzibbur” in the broader sense, who work with exceptional dedication, skill, and a “give of themselves in order to succeed in their missions”.

The contents of this AGM report are a testament to the achievements of our lay leaders, professional staff and volunteers, who have worked under some of the most trying conditions to enable Mizrachi not only to survive recent challenges, but to thrive.

Every single branch of our organisation has had to respond to the challenges of Covid-19 in different ways. Leibler Yavneh College and Bnei Akiva have shown great educational innovation. Kosher Australia and the Melbourne Eruv have made exceptional efforts to protect key communal infrastructure and services. Our minyanim worked together between periods of lockdown to model social distancing and set an example for all Shules, many of whom have sought our advice or requested to share our materials and resources with their communities.

The Elsternwick Jewish Community has taken trips down memory lane and been forward thinking with their creative communal engagement. The new generation of Emunah leadership can be proud of their results this year, both in terms of engaging programming and fundraising success. Our Beit Midrash and Midrasha have brought Torah to the homes of hundreds of people each week, and our significant output of material, whether written, on Zoom or through social media, has reached thousands of individuals and families.

Mizrachi CARES and the Mizrachi Charity Fund have been there for those in our community and beyond, responding to an unfortunate but expected increase in requests for support. Our partnership with Mizrachi Sydney and Mizrachi Perth has added a meaningful dimension to our provisions and programming, which have been greatly enhanced by the world-class resources from World Mizrachi in Yerushalayim, such as HaMizrachi magazine and much of the material for Yom HaAtzmaut, Yom Yerushalayim, the Three Weeks and Tisha B’Av.

Behind every single one of these successes are professionals, leaders and volunteers, giving of themselves for the benefit of Am Yisrael. Uniting every one of these successes is a proud Religious Zionist ideology, and a shared vision for Mizrachi Melbourne.

Leading all of these efforts is our head “Shaliach Tzibbur” – Dr Danny Lamm AM. The hours he invests in his role and the detailed level of his involvement cannot be over-estimated. I could not ask for a more supportive or dedicated President.

Alongside the many successes to celebrate, it is important to acknowledge the genuine difficulty facing many of our members at this time, whether financial, social or emotional. There is a long road ahead of us and while our office and leadership is doing its best, the more people view themselves as “Shlichei Tzibbur” in reaching out to fellow community members, the stronger our communal effort will be. We should never take a single member for granted, and every single member can play a role in helping our community come through these challenges together.

Althea, Raphael, Liora, Eliana, Talia and I look forward to another year working with you so that together we can bring Mizrachi to even greater heights.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Dr Danny Lamm AM – August 2020

The past year has again been important for Mizrachi during which the many arms of the Organisation have continued to provide a full range of services to our members and the Jewish community at large.

R’ Danny Mirvis, Senior Rabbi of our Organisation, provides leadership, enthusiasm, empathy and generous full-time commitment and has overseen a very inclusive atmosphere at Mizrachi, which is reflected in increased membership and larger attendances at services and at all Mizrachi events. It should be noted that R’ Danny’s shiurim given on Monday’s, Tuesday’s and Thursday’s are extremely well attended by Mizrachi members and the wider community. Particularly appreciated and valued, is the wonderful support for the Rabbi by his wife, Althea, with her Chachnasat Orchim in their home and her contribution as a speaker at shule events. Most gratifying has been the Rav’s continued interest and leadership in Kehillat Ohr David, which having outgrown the Beit Midrash, transferred to the area formally occupied by Beit Haroeh, over a year ago and packs it out with its ever-increasing membership.

In recent years particular attention has been given to the future of the 20–35 year-old demographic within Mizrachi. Many of these young adults have graduated from Leibler Yavneh College and/or been actively involved in Bnei Akiva. Those who do not make aliyah represent the future of the Mizrachi community in Melbourne and it is vital that their needs are adequately catered for. It is a primary focus of Mizrachi.

Unfortunately, the restrictions imposed on the community through the coronavirus pandemic have created havoc for tefillot b’tzibur. For a brief period between lockdowns Rav Danny, Rav Mark and I worked daily on the permutations that enabled minyanim to be conducted at Mizrachi. There was tremendous participation and cooperation from our members and much appreciation from many members of the wider Jewish community who joined us over this period. Mizrachi led by example for orthodox kehillot country wide and always adhered to state law. Yavneh and Bnei Akiva have faced the same stress and their lay and professional leadership have conducted themselves admiringly. Notwithstanding the closure of Mizrachi physically at 81 Balaclava Road, the number of shiurim and attendances has skyrocketed with the use of Zoom remote learning.

This annual report covers every aspect of our Organisation which looks after its membership but also contributes to the Jewish wellbeing of the entire Melbourne community and further provides support for both Sydney and Perth’s Mizrachi Kehillot. Mizrachi Australia is internationally represented on the World Mizrachi Executive through my role as Deputy World Chairman. I sit on the extended executive of the World Zionist Organisation and serve on the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency of Israel as Chairman of the Aliyah and Rescue Committee. World Mizrachi has been rejuvenated under the direction of its CEO, Rav Doron Perez and we have benefitted from his leadership and innovation. One example is the Hamizrachi, a high-quality magazine, bringing Torat Eretz Yisrael periodically. Similarly, World Mizrachi has reached out to the diaspora with remote learning options. During the forthcoming year we will see further consolidation of the many important activities of our Mizrachi and its continued growth and innovation. 18

We have also been very fortunate to have the continued involvement of Reb Leor Broh. His dedication to Mizrachi particularly as Manhig Ruchani of Beit Haroeh is deeply appreciated. Rav Chezy Deren has also continued to provide valuable spiritual leadership particularly within Kehillat Ohr David as has Rav Yehoshua Asulin, our Rosh Kollel, and Rav Mark Steiner, as Rabbi of Elsternwick Jewish Community and our Religious Programmes Director, substantially improving the delivery of our ever-increasing activities. We much appreciate the Divrei Torah delivered each Erev Shabbos in Beit Yehuda by Rav Mottel Krasnjanski and the four shiurim tended weekly by Rabbi James Kennard.

Professional Staff Ms. Rae Bower has continued to ensure that the Organisation runs smoothly and has done so with characteristic efficiency and good humour even while dealing with significant health issues. Rae has been of enormous assistance to me as President and I wish her good health and happiness. The Mizrachi Charity Fund is capably and professionally managed by Mrs. Karen Franks in a voluntary capacity and has distributed large sums of money to an ever growing need.

Mr. Daniel Solomon manages a small team in his role as Chief Financial Officer. Together with the honorary treasurer and the professional staff, Daniel has ably managed the finances of the Organisation. We acknowledge the overall comprehensive support by Mr. David Fisher for both Building and Administration purposes, in the College and Mizrachi.

Mr. Jim Moustos continues to provide outstanding service as our groundsman and facilities manager assisting in many and varied ways and always doing so with a positive and helpful attitude. We are also grateful for the services of Mrs. Eva Sarkissian, and the rest of her team for their professionalism and dedication to our needs throughout the year.

Mr. Robert Lowinger continues to give of his time to help where needed and it is greatly appreciated.

Minyanim All of our minyanim both at Balaclava Road and Elsternwick continue to thrive, offering mitpallelim a wide choice of tefillah options.

Elsternwick Jewish Community is led by Rabbi Mark Steiner and President Mr. Robert Wyner. They too were beset by Covid restrictions causing closure during lockdown phases.

The Hashkama minyan continues to grow in size and popularity and benefits from its enthusiastic gabbaim Mr. David Lindell and Mr. Jack Feldman and the leadership provided by Rabbi James Kennard.

Ms. Abigail Cooper who provided energetic leadership in Beit Haroeh has passed on the mantle to Mr. Anthony Gosling after four years sterling service, as has Mr. Jeremy Gold in Kehillat Ohr David who is succeeded by Mr. Oren Smith. We wish Anthony and Oren every success.

I would like especially thank the gabbaim of all our minyanim who give their time to ensure that the tefillot run smoothly: Mr. Robbie Nossbaum, Dr. Michael Bruce (Beit Yehudah) and Mr. David Brykman; Dr. Lawrence Cher and Mr. David Greenberger (Beit Haroeh); Mr. Yoni Rubinstein & Mr.

Gaby Lefkovits (Kehillat Ohr David); Mr. Jack Feldman also in the daily second Shacharit Minyan and Mr. Ronnie Judah daily at Mincha/Ma’ariv.

Leibler Yavneh College Principal, Ms. Cherylyn Skewes, Rabbi Chaim Cowen and the Senior Management and academic and professional team work extremely productively in the college and they have been ably supported by the energetic lay leadership provided by Co-Chairman Mr. Ari Schachna and Mr. Gerard Max ,Treasurer Mr. Andrew Davis and the College Executive. This year has been particularly challenging with the requirements for school closure and remote learning. I would like to acknowledge the fundraising achievements of Mr. Reuben Zelwer and Mr. Benji Jotkowitz and Mrs. Tanya Shaltiel from the Yavneh Foundation.

Beit Midrash The Kollel Torah Mitzion, comprising the Beit Midrash and the Midrasha, is the very heart and soul of the Mizrachi Organisation. Since its establishment in 1998, the Beit Midrash has been, and continues to be, a place of learning, of teaching, of Torah and of tefillah. Mizrachi’s Beit Midrash is unique in our community. It offers a learning experience similar to that enjoyed by our young people in yeshivot and midrashot in Israel and provides a familiar haven for them to continue their studies and their involvement with Torah learning once they return home to Melbourne.

The past year has been a particularly exciting time for our Beit Midrash under the leadership of Rosh Kollel, Rav Yehoshua & Malki Asulin. Rav Asulin is also a capable darsham speaking at all pulpits in Mizrachi.

Torah Mitzion under the leadership of Mr. Zeev Schwartz, successfully recruited our bachurim; Avichai Mishnayot, Avishai Abboudi, Hillel Hammer and Amitai Berkowitz and Bat Ami with our Sherut Leumi girls, Meital Lustman and Talia Frohlinger. It has been a pleasure to welcome them. Their presence is felt not only within the Beit Midrash, but also at Leibler Yavneh College, in Bnei Akiva and around Mizrachi generally. At Yavneh and in Bnei Akiva, they serve as role models for our children who we hope will emulate their commitment to learning and love of Israel. And in the Beit Midrash, in giving shiurim, participating in chevrutot and organising special events, they add a vibrant dimension to its programs and activities. Of course, their programs were also Covid constrained but they managed to operate remotely. We farewell them after an outstanding year. On account of there being no access to visit Australia from non-citizens, we discontinued the shlichut of the bachurim for the year ahead and are examining local alternatives, including the additional shiurim by our rabbinic team.

In her role as Rosh Midrasha, Dr Michal Kaufman continues to develop innovative and engaging learning programs for women. Her own shiurim are very popular characterized by her learning, enthusiasm and imagination. I also note the very successful batmitzvah program managed by Dr. Michal Kaufman under the leadership of Mrs. Avital Seifman.

I am confident that the Beit Midrash and Midrasha leadership will continue to build and reinforce the foundations of Torah and learning that underpin all that Mizrachi stands for. I encourage all members to take advantage of the wide range of shiurim, chaburot and other programs offered by our Kollel Torah Mitzion in the Beit Midrash.

An exciting complement to the program has been the Daf Yomi, initiated by Mr Brian Wiener and taught by Reb Yirmi Goldschmiedt to a group of up to 20 strong.

The Annual Mizrachi & Beit Midrash dinner was a very successful event held once again at Yavneh’s Lamm Hall. Our guest and scholar in residence was Rav Binny Freedman, Rosh Yeshivah of Orayta in Jerusalem. In addition to raising much needed funds, the dinner showcases the important role played by the Beit Midrash and Midrasha and brings the Mizrachi kehilla together.

I also thank the host families of the bachurim and bachurot; Shoshi & Isaac Berkovits (Avichai Mishnayot), Shoshi & Menachem Vorchheimer (Hillel Hammer), Deanne & Danny Segman (Avishai Abboudi), Lanie & Adam Goldberger (Amitai Berkowitz), Daniella & Ryan Levin (Talia Frohlinger) and Helen & Farrel Savitz (Meital Lustman) together with Rav Noam Sendor and Rae Bower who have made their time in Melbourne so much easier.

Finally, I express my appreciation to the Beit Midrash Committee ably led by Mr. Jeremy Herz.

Kosher Australia As the peak kashrut authority within Australia, Kosher Australia continues to provide the Australian Jewish community with a range of vital services. Guided by its Rabbinic and professional staff (capably led by Rabbi Mordechai Gutnick and Yankel Wajsbort) and under the leadership of the Kosher Australia Board Chairman Stephen Shnider, Kosher Australia has significantly enhanced the range and quality of its services in the last twelve months. Stephen has provided dedicated service to Kosher Australia and to Mizrachi for 19 years. He has demonstrated outstanding commitment and Australian Jewry is the beneficiary. Additionally, Stephen provides excellent counsel to the executive and me, for which I’m most appreciative.

Stephen reports ‘A year ago we decided to make a major change in the way KA interacts with the community and we were hoping that the change would bring positive results. With the very generous support of a benefactor, for the first time Kosher Australia was able to offer its Guides and the App free of charge to the Community. The initiative was designed to make the kashrut list available to as many Jewish homes as possible. The results of this programme have been outstanding. In 2020 Kosher Australia distributed 9900 copies of the annual Kosher Guide, this is compared with 2300 copies in 2019, an increase of 450%. At Pesach this year, 4650 copies of the Pesach Guide were distributed with 2200 in 2019, an increase of 211%. Kosher Australia signed up 5406 new users of the Kosher App compared with 2805 in 2019, an increase of 92.69%. App engaged sessions increased from 6382 in 2019 to 23,384 in 2020. All of this is in addition to the hundreds of factory audits and thousands of products which are certified annually. In late December 2019, Rabbi Mordechai Gutnick attended the annual meeting of the most respected and accepted international kashrut agencies in New York, of which Kosher Australia is a long-time member. At the request of the organisers Rabbi Gutnick was asked to lead one of the sessions at that conference. There is a relatively small number of people who work with great dedication to ensure that Kosher Australia continues to provide kashrut to the community. Kashrut is a shining example of Mizrachi serving the whole Australian Jewish community.”

Mizrachi Australia This year’s conference was hosted by Melbourne Mizrachi with the outstanding scholar in residence Rav Yosef Zvi Rimon. It brought together the Rashei Kollel from Perth, Sydney and

Melbourne, Bnei Shlichim from each Snif in Australia; merakzim from each city, all hesder bachurim and bnot sherut from Carmel School, Moriah College, Leibler Yavneh College.

Building and Maintenance Whilst we still hope to extend the main building and security wall as planned, it has been delayed by planning and legal issues, similarly for the extension of the blast proof wall on Balaclava and down Fosbery. Various maintenance matters have been managed as always under the capable hands of Robert Nossbaum and executed by David Fisher, Jim Moustos and Rae Bower.

Melbourne Eruv After many years of preparation, we are almost ready to extend the eruv across Dandenong Road to include Cabrini Hospital, Malvern Chabad and hopefully the new Daryl Cohen Building of Jewish Care. The Eruv is managed by a board, which meets monthly. On a professional level ,the Eruv is administered by Mr David Prins and Mr Jeff Herz . They supervise the weekly inspections conducted by trained mashgichim from Mizrachi, Adass and Kollel Bet hatalmud. We have interim Halachic approval for the extension and subject to approval from the electricity companies, our contractor will commence construction. A highlight since the last report was the annual making of the eruv between Rabbi Mirvis and the then new Rav of Adass Yisroel, Rav Shlomo Kohn. The box of matzot being the food owned by the community, is in the display cabinet in the Mizrachi foyer. Also significant was the meeting between several Board members and the Federal Minister of Communications, Paul Fletcher who indicated his strong support of the Eruv. Several challenges to be overcome include Optus agreement to retain relevant overhead cables, approval from Yarra Trams to utilise its infrastructure in order to extend to the new Jewish Care facility in St Kilda Rd, and the Stage4 Covid19 pandemic restrictions just introduced .

Emunah We worked very cooperatively with Mrs Debby Schachna & Mrs Jude Fass, as Director. We have provided free office space to Emunah which it shares with the Mizrachi Charity Fund. Congratulations to Co-Presidents Mrs. Susan Boltin and Mrs. Debbie Nossbaum who have now concluded their terms of office. We wish their successors hatzlacha raba.

Bnei Akiva Bnei Akiva continues to play a central role in the lives of our children. The largest Zionist youth movement in Australia continues to grow and has benefitted from strong leadership from successive leaders. We thank Shlichim, Motti and Yisca Goodman and the Hanhala of Tali Borowick (Merekezet), Reuel Pizmony (Gizbar), Ziggy Josefberg (Gan Merezkezet) for their leadership and contribution to Bnei Akiva since their arrival a year ago. Thanks to Mr. Benji Jotkowitz and Mr. Andrew Davis for all their efforts as Parents & Friends leaders.

Security Security of the campus is under the chairmanship of VP Yehuda Gottlieb, to ensure the safety and security of members and guests attending Mizrachi premises.

Guest speakers and scholars in residence During the past year Mizrachi has hosted many interesting guest speakers and welcomed scholars in residence and visiting dignitaries who have provided a range of fascinating shiurim and presentations. Particular mention should be made of:

Rav Moshe Aberman Rabbi Prof. Avraham Steinberg Rav Gideon & Rebbetzin Rivka Weitzman Rav Yosef Tzvi Rimon Rav Moshe Taragin Rav Elchanan Samet Col. (Res) Hanni Caspi Rav Doron Podlashuk Rabbi Prof. Daniel Sinclair

The visits of many of our scholars in residence have been made possible thanks to the RSVP – the Rabbinic Scholars Visiting Program and supported by a number of generous families. All arrangements are made in consultation with R’ Danny Mirvis, R’ Mark Steiner and Rae Bower and the visits so far have been very successful.

Tishrei Yamim Tovim The Yamim Tovim were enhanced by inspirational drashot combined with meaningful tefillot led by our accomplished Ba’alei Tefillah, Ba’alei Kriyah and Ba’alei Tokeah. The chagim culminated in a range of activities during Simcha Torah including the highly successful Womens’ Learning Forum organised by Rav Danny Mirvis and Dr. Michal Kaufman.

Chatanim in our various minyanim were:

Beit Yehuda/Beit Haroeh Hashcama Minyan: Chatan Torah: Tom Berkovits ע"ה Chatan Torah: Dr. Jeff Lefkovits in honour of Bennie Gershov Chatan Bereshit: Anthony Gosling Chatan Bereshit: Michael Paneth Chatan Kol Hanearim: Danny Segman

Bnei Akiva: Kehilat Ohr David: Chatan Torah: Nathaniel Pizmony Chatan Torah: Darren Katz Chatan Bereshit: David Rubin Chatan Bereshit: Saul Finberg Chatan Kol Hanearim: Mikey Teller

Executive and Committee I thank all members of the Executive and Committee for the commitment they have shown and the time they have devoted to our Organisation. In particular, I pay thanks to Stephen Shnider, of Goldhirsh Shnider who has played a large role servicing the legal requirements of the organisation. I am grateful for the total support of Immediate Past President, Ian Waller QC, who has been available for my every call; Building Chairman Robbie Nossbaum, a man who leads by example; Hon Sec David Lindell who has brought order to our meetings and our records, Treasurer David Brykman for much behind the scenes activity for both Mizrachi and Yavneh, Beit Midrash Chairman Jeremy Herz for his contribution, Sam Seigel who represents Mizrachi at the communal organisations and College Co Chairs Ari Schachna and Gerard Max, Treasurer Andrew Davis, Vice President Yehuda Gottlieb, Bnei Akiva Liaison Benji Jotkowitz and Keren Zelwer for her enthusiasm and commitment.

Conclusion It has been a privilege and an honour to serve again as President of the Mizrachi Organisation. We strive to involve more people in our activities and encourage more people to attend our minyanim and shiurim. We hope to attract more students to our College while maintaining and enhancing the quality of limudei kodesh and general studies and the panoply of co-curricular activities. We should involve ourselves and others in the activities of the Beit Midrash. We must support Bnei Akiva and encourage it

to grow while maintaining the high standards on which the movement is based. There is always more that we can do and we can always do things better.

Finally, I record my deepest thanks to my wife Rolene and our children – Rafi & Aliza, David & Penina and Yonatan & Kara, who have supported me in everything I have done and provided me with much needed advice and encouragement throughout the past year and during my term as President.

SEUDAH SHLISHIT A Year in Review

March 2019 September 2019 16 March Kate Ashmore, Liberal Candidate, 7 September Aharon Poupko Melb Ports 14 September R’ Prof Avraham Steinberg 23 March Josh Burns, Labour Candidate, Melb 21 September Welcome to the Hesder Bachurim 28 September Ports & Adam Segal, Tzohar R’ Yehoshua Asulin

30 March Gabe Lefkovits October 2019

1 October R’ Chaim Cowen April 2019 5 October Nathan Joel 6 April Aharon Karov (Fuerenstein Institute) 12 October R’ Danny Mirvis 13 April Dr. Peter Wein 26 October Motty Goodman, Bnei Akiva Shaliach 20 April R' Reuven Klein

21 April R' Alex Tsykin November 2019 27 April R’ Yehoshua Asulin 2 November Dr. Michael Gordon

9 November Geoff Bloch May 2019 16 November Judge Eli Brand 05 May Chassida Pinchuk 23 November R’ Yosef Zvi Rimon 11 May R’ James Kennard 30 November Emunah Women’s Program 18 May Welcome to Motty & Yisca Goodman,

Bnei Akiva Shlichim December 2019 25 May Professor Efraim Inbar 7 December Tamara Bruce and Rabbi James Kennard

14 December Zvi Klein June 2019 21 December Dr. Danny Barr 1 June Ron Raab 28 December R' Reuven Wolf 9 June Tadhg Seamus Cleary

10 June Rav Weitzman January 2020 15 June Rav Mordechai Gutnick, Yankel Wajsbort & 4 January Nir Sherwinter Stephen Shnider 11 January Dr Lawrence Cher 22 June Rav Aviad Tabory 18 Janaury David Waysman 29 June Prof David Newman OBE 25 January Siyum Hashas with R’ Yirmi

Goldschmiedt July 2019

6 July R' Aron Rubin February 2020 13 July Noa Bloch 1 February R' Dovid Gutnick 20 July Bat Mitzvah Program 8 Feburary ShabbaTTogether with Keren Zelwer 27 July R’ Marcus Rosenberg 15 February Reuven Magnagey & Elozor Raichick,

ZDVO August 2019 22 February Yedidya Slonim 3 August Farewell to Hesder Bachurim and Banot 29 February Mark Cohen 17 August R’ Binny Freedman

24 August R’ Danny Sinclair March 2020 31 August Ido Lazan, ZDVO 7 March Farewell to Haya & Bert Mond

TREASURERS’ REPORT - YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2019 by David Brykman, Honorary Treasurer, Mizrachi

The Treasurer of Mizrachi Organisation presents this report on the consolidated financial activities for the year ended 31st December 2019. Whilst the organisation operates several “divisions”, the consolidated results are most relevant.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL RESULTS 2019 2018 Surplus from Operations $596,461 ($494,316) General Donations $806,745 $614,984 Donations for Capital Works (quarantined) $305,000 $826,000 Total Comprehensive Income for the year $1,708,206 $946,668

Each division of the Organisation has its own independent financial requirements, and the various contributions to the 2019 results are shown in the separate revenue and expense statements included as schedules to the financial statements. Set out below is a summary of the divisional results. These figures are indicative of relative contribution of each arm of the organisation. There are minor differences between these figures and the formal accounts due to the treatment of interest and donations.

ACTIVITY BY OPERATING UNIT College 2019 2018 Operating Deficit $408,491 ($435,600)

Synagogues & Bnei Akiva Operating Deficit ($357,728) ($392,444)

Kosher Australia Operating Surplus $437,395 $265,672

Beit Midrash Operating Deficit ($49,687) ($98,861)

The Mizrachi Organisation is a substantial financial entity, with total assets now exceeding $72 million and accumulated funds (total assets less total liabilities) of $63.3 million. However, the major assets of the Organisation are its land and buildings which are non-income producing and therefore do not contribute to the operating cash flow requirements of the Organisation year to year.

BALANCE SHEET – KEY ITEMS 2019 2018 College Debtors – net $3,437,461 $2,651,077 Funds on hand $1,065,502 $3,020,681 Investments $1,432,679 $ - Land & Buildings $64,304,688 $62,986,241 Total Assets $72,053,368 $70,960,827 Borrowings $4,960,000 $5,609,000 Accumulated Funds $63,348,856 $61,640,650

The 2019 financial results reflect the cumulative efforts of both senior management and the various committees of the Organisation over the last few years in particular. The Executive is committed to building on this momentum but anticipates a continued challenging environment. Some of the key features of the 2019 landscape include:

• Commitment to balancing service delivery needs across all divisions with the need to maintain strong financial disciplines • Continuing focus on resourcing and driving Leibler Yavneh College’s Foundation • Continuing Leibler Yavneh College’s balanced approach in providing an education to the children of families in financial need whilst ensuring the ongoing viability of operations

The Organisation continues to deliver a broad spectrum of quality services, however our budget is not unlimited. We must again provide our deepest thanks to our many donors in the community. Your increased financial support remains critical to ensuring our ability to maintain the broad spectrum of community services that we currently provide.

Finally, we extend our thanks to the members of the Mizrachi and Leibler Yavneh College committees, and to the staff and management of the Organisation who contribute daily to its effective operation.