Searle-ong, farewell, auf wiedersehen, goodbye …
AFTER three years as president of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV), John Searle said he had mixed emotions about stepping down at tonight’s AGM.
The barrister revealed that while he had enjoyed his role immensely, he felt it was critical the leadership didn’t become staid and said he was confident the incoming executive, Nina Bassat, would take the organisation forward.
“I don’t think an organisation like the JCCV, which is a roof body, can never really sit still, it needs to look at ways to perform,” said Searle.
Looking back on his tenure, he added: “I think the organisation has done wonderful work during the term of my presidency. One of the indications of that achievement is when there have been major issues affecting our community, like the Mavi Marmara flotilla boats or Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) issues. I have had members of government, the opposition and senior members of police initiating calls with me to see how the Jewish community is coping and to see what advice or assistance they can provide. When they are ringing you you know there’s a very solid relationship there.
President of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Dr Danny Lamm, echoed this sentiment. “The JCCV was indeed fortunate to have a leader of your calibre and commitment, as was recognised by the Victorian
government in August when it appointed you as chair of the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission,” he wrote in a letter to Searle.
Meanwhile, Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu hailed the JCCV’s contribution to interfaith and multicultural progress during Searle’s incumbency. “Communication between different faiths and cultures is an important tool in engendering social cohesion, respect and understanding in our diverse state. Community organisations like the JCCV play an important part in promoting understanding and acceptance throughout Victoria,” he said.
Searle was also widely praised by various community leaders.
“I thank John Searle and the members of the executive for the genuine service they have rendered,” said the Archbishop of Melbourne Denis Hart.
“I have been aware of the energetic way that John has applied himself to this role and the personal interest he has in building community harmony in Victoria,” said The Most Reverend Dr Philip Freier on behalf of the Anglican Church in Melbourne.
President of the Islamic Council of Victoria Hyder Gulam said the outgoing president and his team had lived up to the very highest ideals, while the Israeli ambassador said Searle’s legacy would be long lasting. “John Searle’s successful three years of service as president of the JCCV are testimony to his leadership and representative of his dedication and devotion to the Jewish community.
“He, and the proud advocates of the JCCV, continue to serve, develop and contribute to the community in countless ways, presenting an image of unity and cohesiveness while facilitating diversity and debate,” Yuval Rotem said.
LIVIA ALBECK-RIPKA
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