New president for Central Synagogue

DR Robert Rosen was elected as the new president of Central Synagogue on Monday night, after Danny Taibel stepped down from the role.

“I’m excited about this great opportunity to be a part of and lead a wonderful community,” Rosen said.

When he spoke to The AJN on Tuesday, he wanted to pay tribute to those who came before him.

“There is an old staying that you stand on the shoulders of giants and the synagogue has a reputation of over 100 years and a legacy of outstanding rabbinical and executive leadership. I come after great leaders, including Danny Taibel, Joseph Brender, Paul Keen and others. I would like to maintain the standard of excellence they set.”

The new president said he wants to see Central Synagogue and its services used for the community, noting Studio Central’s recent dinner with federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott, the upcoming concert in August that will include American composer Marvin Hamlisch and Shavuot. “We want everyone to be a part of the congregation and we want our shul to be used by the community, for the community.”

One of the biggest changes at the shul recently has been the departure of youth Rabbi Yossi Friedman after more than two years with the synagogue.

Rosen said that Rabbi Friedman had grown through Central Synagogue and he was proud to see him move to Cremorne Synagogue to take a more senior role and his own congregation.

“I think this opens up an opportunity for another rabbi and we are currently having a look at a number of different people.”

The new president is surrounded by a new leadership team.

Robert Kaye was elected vice-president, Stanley Kalinko is the new treasurer and several new members have joined the board. “The strength of any executive is the ability of its members and they are all capable and energetic.”

JOSHUA LEVI

Former president Danny Taibel

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