Happy birthday Israel!
IT was a sea of solidarity as around 1000 people braved the wet weather and descended on Moriah College to wish the State of Israel a happy 67th birthday on Sunday.
From the young members of our community to the elderly, there was something for everyone at the Zionist Council of NSW’s (ZCNSW’s) Yom Ha’atzmaut solidarity concert and carnival: children’s activities, amusement rides, a petting zoo, Israeli dancers, market stalls, Israeli food, live music including local talent and the IDF band, and more.
The AJN had its own stall at the carnival, led by community liaison manager Myrna Kangisser, giving away free copies of the newspaper and running a guessing competition for children.
Bondi’s Nathan Abrahams was the lucky winner and took home an Israeli Ice-Watch for his 10th birthday.
ZCNSW president Richard Balkin said he was pleased with the turnout this year.
“Given the shocking weather we have had all week and most of the day on Sunday, I think it was an excellent turnout,” Balkin said.
“It certainly shows that the Sydney community will not be deterred from showing their support for Israel.”
Balkin added it is “so important for the community to have opportunities to come out and show their support” for the Jewish State.
“My hope, as the State of Israel begins its 68th year of statehood, is for peace, security and prosperity for all its people,” he said.
ZCNSW executive director Belinda Levy said: “The atmosphere was wonderful and the kids had a wonderful time on the rides, having their face painted and holding various pets from the petting zoo. We were entertained by the IDF band and it was wonderful to see them sing and interact so beautifully with the many children in attendance. Hylton Chilchik and his band sang all of our favourite songs, and the crowd danced and sang along.”
Musician Sam Weiss, who performed with his band 33 Degrees, said it was the “first time I can remember that bad weather didn’t affect a Jewish event”.
“It was great to see our community out in such numbers and reaffirm how strong our connection is to Israel,” Weiss said.
Full Yom Ha’atzmaut coverage in this week’s AJN.
EVAN ZLATKIS
The IDF band entertaining the crowds in Sydney. Photo: Noel Kessel
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