Limmud Oz Melbourne 2025: Full Schedule

Welcome to the program for Limmud Oz Melbourne 2025!

Join us for an immersive weekend festival of Jewish ideas and culture, with >100 presenters and sessions to choose from.
From Ben-Gurion to bagels, Yentl to yoga, we always have something for everyone. Limmud is an opportunity for you to cultivate a personal Jewish experience and learn from presenters you might never come across otherwise.

Tickets are available here

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9:30am AEST

Facing forgiveness: an experiential encounter for the soul

Monday June 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am AEST

M1.02 - Rm 10

We have all said, done and even thought things that are hurtful to others. In a time when personal and political conflicts rage, saying sorry is often one of the hardest steps of repair to enact. Combining psychodrama with Jewish wisdom, this session will bring you and your soul to the edges of what it means to request and be granted forgiveness. NOTE: participants will work in pairs throughout this carefully curated and facilitated session.

Speakers

Brandon Srot

Brandon is a Sydney-based psychotherapist who specialises in working with trauma, grief and loss, personal discovery and relationship therapy. He also facilitates leadership development journeys for individuals and teams across Australia and abroad.

Monday June 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am AEST
M1.02 - Rm 10

Mind body and soul

9:30am AEST

From the Jerusalem Talmud to the Babylonian Talmud: the reworking of stories and the Talmudic ethic of shame

Monday June 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am AEST

MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Many rabbinic stories appear in multiple versions in different rabbinic compilations, sometimes with significant variations. Comparing parallel versions in the two Talmuds reveals differences in the values, cultures, and beliefs of the two rabbinic centers. In this session we will study stories from the Jerusalem Talmud that have little to do with shame and dignity and explore how the Babylonian Talmudic storytellers reworked them to emphasise this value.

Speakers

Jeffrey Rubenstein

Professor, New York University

Dr. Jeffrey L. Rubenstein is Professor of Talmud at New York University. He received his B.A. from Oberlin College, his M.A. from the Jewish Theological Seminary, and his Ph.D. from the Columbia University. His scholarship focuses on Talmudic stories, the development of Jewish law... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am AEST
MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Text and Philosophy

9:30am AEST

The world we knew: a Torah of loss and grief

Monday June 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am AEST

M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

In the past eighteen months, the world we feel we knew of the past fifty years feels shattered. Besides for the countless deaths, we’ve lost friendships and sureties, anchors and assumptions. In this session we shall explore a range of texts as we consider the ‘Torah of loss and grief’ and look to wisdom from our tradition to navigate the current brokenness.

Speakers

Adina Roth

Adina Roth is Director of Jewish Life at Emanuel school and a clinical psychologist. She received semicha from Yeshivat Maharat and is passionate about b’nei mitzvah and teaching girls to lein. She also loves teaching texts using Midrash, literature, psychoanalysis. Adina’s married... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am AEST
M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

Text and Philosophy

10:45am AEST

Dreaming of Jerusalem

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

SG.08 - Rm 4

Jerusalem has always been much more than the holiest site for Jews. It has a place in our imagination and our unspoken longing for home. With this in mind, join Gabrielle in a discussion of the depiction of Jerusalem in Adolescent and Children's English language literature. Join her to discuss the different ways that Jerusalem has been portrayed.

Speakers

Gabrielle Shroot

Gabrielle is a long-standing collector of books, ideas and arguments. She has strong opinions about what makes a great Seder, what makes a great story, and how to deliver both to engage the audience and build identity.

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
SG.08 - Rm 4

Arts and culture

10:45am AEST

A region in flux: explaining the changes and challengers in the Middle East

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

RG.04 - Rm 11

Israel remains at war. Syria was overthrown. Iran is on the backfoot, but is rushing toward the bomb. Turkey has replaced Iran as Syria’s patron. Qatar continues its influence-buying campaign. Are Islamists on the ascendant or is their influence receding? Where does Israel fit in all of this? Will the Abraham Accords expand? This session will make sense of the recent history of the Middle East, and assist in predicting its future.

Speakers

Bren Carlill

Dr Bren Carlill is the director of special projects at the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council. He has previously worked at the ZFA, the Departments of Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs and Trade, and for a federal politician. His PhD examined the intractability of the Israeli-Palestinian... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
RG.04 - Rm 11

Everything Israel

10:45am AEST

Engaging with Israel in the era of Smotrich and Ben-Gvir: a guide for the perplexed, the despairing, and the petrified

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

"Loving the real Israel" means grappling with Israel's wonders and warts, its appeals and abominations. Politicians like Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir belong, for many Diaspora Jews, to the second half of those dichotomies: their fundamentalist, messianic worldviews, if they come to fruition, will make it hard to like, let alone love, the Israel of the future. What could be the role of Diaspora Jews in this struggle for the soul of the Jewish people?

Speakers

Alex Sinclair

Alex Sinclair is an educational consultant and adjunct lecturer at Hebrew University. His first book, Loving the Real Israel, was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award, and his debut novel, Perfect Enemy, was published in 2023. Undergraduate and graduate degrees from Balliol... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Everything Israel

10:45am AEST

Jews, Greeks and the Letter to Aristeas

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

M1.02 - Rm 10

The letter to Aristeas written around 250BCE is an example of Jewish literature written in Greek from the intertestamental period. We discuss the background, context and parallels with other literature.

Speakers

Geoff Jenkins

Geoff Jenkins is an expert on Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, and Latin texts.He was formerly Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Melbourne.

Leon Sterling

Leon Sterling is a Computer Science academic with a long standing interest in Jewish issues. He has had many fruitful discussions with Geoff on Jewish v Christian perspectives of Helenistic Judaism and early Christinaity. They previously co-presented at LimmudOz on the topic 'Emergence... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
M1.02 - Rm 10

History and memory

10:45am AEST

Not in our community: addressing Melbourne’s Jewish youth homelessness

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Many young people are struggling with their religious Jewish identity, leading to an increase in mental health issues and the risk of homelessness. Pathways is initiating programs for vulnerable religious teenagers, as well as religious parents with ‘questioning’ teens. Pathways has undertaken an independent Needs Analysis study into the mental health risks amongst Melbourne’s vulnerable Jewish youth and their families. Leah and Dassi will share the study outcomes and stories of our overlooked teens.

Speakers

Leah Boulton

Leah is the Founder and CEO of Pathways Melbourne. Educated at RMIT and Harvard University (USA), Leah’s professional background is in advertising and PR. It was a young Heredi woman who wanted to rollerblade, attend university and avoid re-marrying, who inspired Leah to create... Read More →

Dassi Erlich

Dassi Erlich, Pathways Melbourne’s Youth & Family Programs Manager and Board Secretary, is a dedicated child safety advocate. Drawing from lived experience, she develops support programs for families and youth. As founder of the campaign against Malka Leifer, she has raised awareness... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Modern Jewish world

10:45am AEST

Some thoughts on the writing of “Everything Goes to The Dogs”: the ethics of fiction and the telling of tales

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

SG.10 - Rm 5

Using the pen name Billy Albert I wrote a satire titled “Everything Goes to The Dogs.” In the book I satirised a once rich South African Jewish family where to evade the prevailing currency regulations their wealth was illegally transferred to a Swiss bank. But once there one member of the family betrayed the others by running off with everything. And the others were powerless as that Swiss account was illegal. But vengeance trumps all.

Speakers

Michael Schwartz

I am a retired academic who was the longtime editor of a leading UK ethics journal. I was also an AAPAE President. I was a prolific ethics researcher. Now, under the pen name Billy Albert, my outrageous satire “Everything Goes to The Dogs,” researches ethics at a whole new le... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
SG.10 - Rm 5

Modern Jewish world

10:45am AEST

What’s new under the sun? Past, present and future explorations

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Nearly twenty years ago, over thirty prominent Jewish Australians were asked to contribute an essay to a volume entitled New Under the Sun: Jewish Australians on Religion, Politics and Culture. The questions, themes and concerns explored around belonging, politics, seeking, memory and responsibility are as compelling now as they were then. Perhaps more so. Join a few of the original contributors as they look back, reflect on the present moment and project into the future.

Speakers

Sidra Moshinsky

Sidra Kranz Moshinsky is the newly appointed Director & CEO of the Jewish Museum of Australia. She is also a writer, researcher and educational leader, having taught and led at Jewish schools, and is a founder of the Jewish Educators Network. Sidra is a contributor to The Jewish Independent... Read More →

Julie Szego

Julie Szego is a freelance writer and an independent journalist who publishes on Substack.

Melissa Castan

Professor Melissa Castan is Director of the Castan Centre for Human Rights Law, at Monash University. She has over 25 years experience teaching, researching and publishing in Australian Public Law, Constitutional law, Human Rights Law, Indigenous Legal Issues and Legal Education... Read More →

Ralph Genende

Rabbi Ralph Genende OAM is the Interfaith and Community Liaison at the Australia Israel and Jewish Affairs Council. He is also Senior Rabbi to Jewish Care Victoria.

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Modern Jewish world

10:45am AEST

Putting your case to the media

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

SG.11 - Rm 6

This session will focus on building skills to help members of the community put their views in the Australian media more successfully. It will provide tips for writing letters to the editor and successfully getting them published, how and when to make formal and informal complaints about biased reporting, writing and submission of opinion pieces, and appearing in electronic media.

Speakers

Jamie Hyams

Jamie Hyams OAM is Director of Public Affairs at the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC). Previously, he served three terms as Mayor of Glen Eira.

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
SG.11 - Rm 6

Society and politics

10:45am AEST

The changing Australian Jewish population: findings of the 2021 Census

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

SG.12 - Rm 7

This session considers changes in the Jewish population over the last decades. It discusses age distribution, the relative proportion of immigrant communities and Australia born, language use, the proportion attending government and Jewish schools, geographic concentration, and the extent of intermarriage. The second part of the presentation compares the Jewish population with other population segments, the relative size and demographic profile of religious groups, and political influence.

Speakers

Andrew Markus

Andrew Markus AO FASSA is Emeritus Professor in Monash University’s Faculty of Arts and is past-Director of the University’s Australian Centre for Jewish Civilisation. He was a leading researcher on the Gen08 and Gen17 Jewish community surveys and between 2007 and 2021 on the... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
SG.12 - Rm 7

Society and politics

10:45am AEST

The intimacies of friendship — what have we learned from Shavuot?

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

This session will examine very closely the text of Megillat Ruth through the lens of friendship and then explore the concept of friendship as described by the Mishnah, Talmud and the Rambam (Maimonides). I will ask what friendship can achieve and how female friendship is considered by some as a solace, a refuge or even a religious imperative.

Speakers

Lindsay Simmonds

Dr Lindsay Simmonds is a Research Fellow at the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) where she has lectured for over 20 years. In 2024, she completed a three year project at the London School of Economics (LSE), UK, where she led research on Israeli and Palestinian women peaceb... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

Text and Philosophy

10:45am AEST

Whither the Jewish future? The wisdom of five daughters from Torah, Tevye and Jane Austen

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST

M1.03 - Rm 2

This session will explore generational change through narratives of five daughters. Though written in different times and places, the stories of B’not Zelophehad (Numbers 27, 36), Fiddler on the Roof, and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, portray families dealing with loss, change, shifting perspectives, and the ultimate question of who will marry whom. By reading these stories, we will consider what is lost and what is gained in the transition from generation to generation.

Speakers

Esther Jilovsky

Esther is a Melbourne-born and based Rabbi who loves teaching Torah to people of all ages. Ordained by Hebrew Union College in 2021, she is the author of Remembering the Holocaust: Generations, Witnessing and Place, and co-editor of In the Shadows of Memory: The Third Generation and... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am AEST
M1.03 - Rm 2

Text and Philosophy

12:00pm AEST

A collective voice: Ha`Lev`s musical response

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

RG Hall - Rm 12

Join us for a moving one-hour session exploring the Ha’lev Choir’s formation and impact, especially in light of October 7. Through powerful visuals, personal reflections, live music, and a communal sing-along, we’ll celebrate resilience, hope, and the healing power of community. Featuring footage from Koolulam and the Ride to Bring Them Home rally, this heartfelt experience shows how music can unite and inspire.

Speakers

Tonia Plack Barolsky

Ha’Lev is a Melbourne community choir formed after the 7 October 2023 tragedy. It unites over 40 voices and hearts every Tuesday evening at Beth Weizmann. Led by Corey Fooks and Tonia Plack Barolsky, the choir blends music and healing. Ha’Lev performances include Federation Square... Read More →

Ha'Lev choir

Corey Fooks

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
RG Hall - Rm 12

Arts and culture

12:00pm AEST

Challenges and triumphs: boundaries, chesed and the practicalities of working with elders, students, and women on parole, in very remote Aboriginal communities

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Esther's 'Challenges & Triumphs' (with some humour too) comes from recently returning to Melbourne for a break from seven years of working in Aboriginal communities. Partly inspired by Spiritgrow.

Speakers

Esther Oliver

Esther, a teacher and published writer of poetry, songs for community choirs, and a children's book, is currently back in Melbourne taking a break from being 'out bush', to upgrade her studies in special needs.

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Arts and culture

12:00pm AEST

Different responses to crises- post Oct 7

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

M1.02 - Rm 10

Through examining a curated selection of artworks by Israeli artists post Oct 7 and a close reading of a selection of Classic Jewish Texts at key transition moments in Jewish history, we will explore a range of 'Jewish responses' to crises throughout the ages. Prepare to be both troubled and soothed.

Speakers

Amanda Castelan-Starr

Assistant Principal- Director of Jewish life at Bialik College. Amanda has taught Jewish Studies for 25 years and completed the Senior Educators Program at Hebrew University, focusing on integrating Art in the teaching of Tanach. She continues to be passionate about integrating the... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
M1.02 - Rm 10

Arts and culture

12:00pm AEST

Linda Gradstein: in conversation

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

SG.08 - Rm 4

Linda Gradstein has been a journalist for three decades but covering the Gaza war has been different from any previous conflict, not least because Linda had three sons serving in the army in the early months of the war. Join Linda in conversation as she discusses the emotional whiplash of being an independent observer of events and a desperately worried mother at the same time.

Speakers

Linda Gradstein

Linda Gradstein is the correspondent for Voice of America which is an international broadcasting network funded by the US government which reaches more than 320 million people around the world in dozens of languages. She is also the Israel correspondent for CBS Radio in the US. In... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
SG.08 - Rm 4

Everything Israel

12:00pm AEST

Ransoming hostages: an halachic perspective

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

M1.03 - Rm 2

Since the very first exchange, in recent history, of over 1000 terrorists for the release of Gilad Shalit, the Jewish world has grappled with the issue of ransoming of hostages. Since November 2023, the issue of how traditional Jewish texts speak to the issue, has resurfaced. Are there traditional Jewish texts on ransoming of captives? Are they instructive on the current negotiations with Hamas?

Speakers

Ronnie Figdor

Rabbi Figdor has worked in medical research, computing, education, emergency management and Not-For-Profits. He runs an IT and management consultancy while volunteering on several Alfred Hospital committees, on Deakin University Human Research Ethics committee and as a judge on Tournament... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
M1.03 - Rm 2

Everything Israel

12:00pm AEST

Michael John Davies (Me'ir ben Ya'akov): new information on a notorious Jewish convict

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

RG.04 - Rm 11

Michael John Davies ( 1788–1873) was the patriarch of a family of Jewish convicts and scallywags sent out to Australia. Remarkable evidence of his Hebrew and Jewish literacy is evident from different sources that have become available. Court records and press coverage in the UK and the colonies also reveal his pugnacious style as well antisemitism. His life provides tantalising evidence about the life of the Jewish underclass in the Regency and then in the colonies.

Speakers

Larry Stillman

Larry Stillman is an Honorary Senior Research Fellow at Monash, Faculty of IT. Also has degrees in Assyriology (Hebrew U, Harvard). Active on social justice issues and blogs a lot. Plays the Anglo Concertina, is a bookbinder and collects ancient coins

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
RG.04 - Rm 11

History and memory

12:00pm AEST

The Lessons my Holocaust survivor mother taught me about overcoming difficult times

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

SG.11 - Rm 6

Rachelle's mother survived four concentration camps and a death march at 17, but even more puzzling than her survival was the way she lived - with so much positivity and joy. Hear Rachelle speak about what her mother taught her about overcoming difficult times, and how her lessons are still relevant today.

Speakers

Rachelle Unreich

Rachelle Unreich has been a journalist for 40 years, contributing for publications including The Age, The Australian and Harper’s Bazaar. Her memoir, A Brilliant Life: My Mother’s Story of Surviving the Holocaust has been published in ten countries and was shortlisted for four... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
SG.11 - Rm 6

History and memory

12:00pm AEST

“I was not living until the day I began teaching”: A medieval Jewish woman explains to Moses Maimonides why she became a Bible teacher

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

While living in Egypt, Maimonides received two letters: one from a disgruntled husband who wanted his wife to give up her job, and the other from his wife, who wanted Maimonides to understand how she became a Bible teacher and why the job meant so much to her. We will discuss what these letters tell us about Jewish daily life, including women and children’s experiences, and changing ideas about marriage and divorce.

Speakers

Alan Verskin

Alan Verskin is the Samuel J. Zacks Chair of Jewish History at the University of Toronto. He has held academic positions at Columbia University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Rhode Island. He researches the history of the Jews of the Islamic world, Ashkenazi-Sephardi... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

History and memory

12:00pm AEST

Orthodox politics and religious identity in the 21st century

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

In 2024, the vast majority of non-Orthodox Jews - perhaps as high as 80% or more - once against voted against Donald Trump while the vast majority of Orthodox Jews - including over 90% of Haredim - voted for him. Why do the Orthodox support Trump so strongly, what is the history of Orthodox politics and identity that might account for it, and what does that say about the current nature and future of Orthodoxy itself?

Speakers

Joshua Shanes

Joshua Shanes is Professor of Jewish Studies and Director of the Center for Israel Studies at the College of Charleston. He has published widely on modern Jewish politics and religion - as well as antisemitism and contemporary American politics - in a wide range of academic and popular... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Modern Jewish world

12:00pm AEST

Can the centre hold?

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

SG.10 - Rm 5

It feels like political discourse is more polarised than ever, and that the Jewish world is no different with increasing and more strident division in Israel and in diaspora communities. Join a discussion on whether this trend is as pervasive and severe as it feels and the impacts of polarisation through perspectives of news, politics and Jewish community engagement and activism.

Speakers

Josh Burns

Josh Burns is an Australian politician. Representing the Australian Labor Party, he was elected as the member for the division of Macnamara in Melbourne at the 2019 Australian federal election. He was re-elected in 2022 and 2025.

Deborah Stone

Deborah Stone is Editor-in-Chief of The Jewish Independent. She is a former Editor of ArtsHub and the Australian Jewish News and has worked as a reporter and feature writer on The Age, The Sunday Age and The Australian.

Naomi Levin

Naomi Levin is Chief Executive Officer at the Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV). She has previously held a number of roles in Jewish organisations in Australia, including Senior Policy Analyst at the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) and Deputy Editor at... Read More →

Mandi Katz

Mandi Katz is a Melbourne-based governance professional in the financial services industry by day, and a Jewish community activist the rest of the time

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
SG.10 - Rm 5

Society and politics

12:00pm AEST

The maid of R’ Judah the Prince: knowledge, power and privilege in the Jewish community

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST

M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

In a patriarchal world of intellectual elitism, one unnamed working-class woman in the Talmud stands out as a person of unusual intelligence and wit. She was a maid in the house of R’ Judah the Prince, editor of the Mishnah and leader of the generation. This session explores her story through textual fragments, asking critical questions about knowledge, power and privilege in the Jewish community.

Speakers

Sarah Charak

Sarah is a lawyer, history nerd and Jewish educator in Sydney. Her Honours thesis analysed the impact of the white Australia policy on Australian Jewish identity. She has studied at Midreshet Lindenbaum, Nishmat and Drisha and worked in educational and communal roles for Bnei... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm AEST
M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

Text and Philosophy

1:15pm AEST

Jewish filmmakers: Jewish films

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST

M1.02 - Rm 10

A session with three or four Jewish filmmakers exploring their motivations to make films on Jewish themes/topics and the way they go about making those films in terms of concept creation, development, financing, production, and distribution and marketing.

Speakers

Shaun Miller

Shaun Miller is a film and entertainment lawyer based in Melbourne. He is the principal of Shaun Miller Lawyers. Shaun has been the production lawyer on over 300 feature films, documentaries, animations web series.

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST
M1.02 - Rm 10

Arts and culture

1:15pm AEST

Jews and musical theatre

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST

RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Jews have been engaged with musical theatre in America for over 100 years. As creators, producers, presenters and artists, Jews have made many contributions. This session will present the early influence of Jews in American theatre with Show Boat and Oklahoma and then show how Jewish topics are part of Broadway from Fiddler on the Roof to Falsettos.

Speakers

Mark Kligman

Mark Kligman is the Mickey Katz Endowed Chair in Jewish Music at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. He is Professor of Ethnomusicology, Musicology and Humanities. In 2020l he was appointed Director of the Lowell Milken Center for Music of American Jewish Experience.

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST
RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Arts and culture

1:15pm AEST

The Jewish married life of a straight, religious homosexual

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST

RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

This is a session on Jewish continuity. But it’s not old-school. It’s a musical(ish) performance about how God made me gay, but Torah (sort of) made me straight (sort of). Not in a homophobic way. It’s about love, intimacy, and how I went from the Closet to the Chuppah. Not in a hippie way. Really, it’s a Kabbalistic journey through the divine masculine and feminine, and finding wholeness in contradiction. Or something like that.

Speakers

Ari Jacob

Ari Jacob is a writer and musician. He made Aliyah at the age of 22 and moved back to Melbourne 8 years later, where he now lives with his wife and step-son. Ari has released 6 albums and an original Kabbalah inspired musical, "Son Called Moon".

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST
RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Arts and culture

1:15pm AEST

Why what happens in the West Bank never stays in the West Bank

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST

MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Israel is conducting another post-October 7 warfront in the West Bank with military operations in refugee camps, cutting electricity and water lines, and launching air strikes, part of its “Iron Wall” campaign which has displaced some 40,000 people. Largely unchecked, settler violence has become routine against Palestinians. And for the first time, far-right settler figures hold powerful positions in the Cabinet, driving decision making that is impacting all Israelis, their security, and the country’s reputation around the world.

Speakers

Dina Kraft

Dina Kraft is a journalist and co-author of the best-seller, "My Friend Anne Frank". She is Israel Correspondent for The Christian Science Monitor, former opinion editor at Haaretz English, and co-hosts the podcast, Groundwork, about Israeli and Palestinian activists. She writes about... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST
MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Everything Israel

1:15pm AEST

Every Body: dissecting body image in the Jewish community

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST

RG Hall - Rm 12

A culture of feasting and fasting. Double portions for shabbat. A habit of anxious food hoarding passed down the generations. Religious injunctions to modesty. A Jewish nose. A Jewish tuchas. 'Body image' is already a minefield – but in Jewish spaces, it comes with its own set of complexities. From cultural expectations to communal pressures, how do these factors shape the way we see ourselves? Join a dynamic conversation about the unique challenges of body image in Australian Jewish communities and get an exclusive look into how The Jewish Independent's 2025 Every Body series dared to tackle the taboo.

Speakers

Ruby Kraner-Tucci

Ruby Kraner-Tucci is a journalist and assistant editor of The Jewish Independent. Her writing has appeared in The Age, Australian Jewish News and Broadsheet, among others. Ruby was awarded Multicultural NSW’s Best Report in Multicultural Media 2025, and named a Top 36 Under 36 Jewish... Read More →

Elon Gersh

Elon is a clinical psychologist who completed his Masters and PhD in clinical psychology at the University of Melbourne, where he also worked as a lecturer. He completed a postdoctoral research fellowship in Seattle, Washington. Elon is currently a therapist and clinical director... Read More →

Jaimee Krawitz

At the age of 12, Jaimee personally struggled with an eating disorder. This journey inspired her to become a registered counsellor, psychologist and founder and CEO of Hide N Seek, a NFP dedicated to changing the language around eating disorders.

Tami Sussman

Tami is a Sydney-based creative with a background in comedy. She's the writer behind TJI's 'Sex and the Shtetl' column and co-host of the podcast Ashamed to Admit. Tami is the author of the Tiny Tradies series and So That Happened, plus a festival moderator, consultant, editor & workshop... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST
RG Hall - Rm 12

Mind body and soul

1:15pm AEST

The October 7 2023 progrom was neither new or unexpected: what is unique is how it has affected the Melbourne Jewish community 2

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST

RG.04 - Rm 11

The Holocaust and the Yom Kippur Wars were progroms that had diabolical effects on the Jewish world. The former had the potential to obliterate the Jewish World while the latter threatened to extinguish. But observations show that Jewry has been heavily traumatised by the events of October 7, even though Israel was never under the potential of obliteration. It is important to analyse why this is so!

Speakers

John Zeleznikow

John Zeleznikow is a Professor of Law and Technology who is a pioneer in using Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence and Law. He has conducted research and written about the4 Israeli-Palestinian dispute and the Holocaust. His parents ran Cafe Scheherazade

Monday June 9, 2025 1:15pm - 2:15pm AEST
RG.04 - Rm 11

Society and politics

1:30pm AEST

Education for pluralism in Israel today

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST

M1.03 - Rm 2

In this session Peri will share some thoughts and best practices in education which encourage learners to engage with questions of diverse Jewish identities. This is based on the work we do at TALI with schools and educators to bridge the gaps which undermine the foundations of Israel as a Jewish and democratic society.

Speakers

Peri Sinclair

Dr. Peri Sinclair directs the TALI Center, promoting pluralistic Jewish education and diverse expressions of Jewish and Israeli identity. With a doctorate in Midrash and an MA in Jewish Education, she brings over 25 years of experience in the field, spanning both Israel and the United... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST
M1.03 - Rm 2

Everything Israel

1:30pm AEST

Synagogues of Melbourne: the diversity of our Jewish community

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST

SG.11 - Rm 6

For two years (2023-24), Alex Kats attempted to visit every synagogue and service in Melbourne on Shabbat morning. He ended up visiting 71 services, plus a few abroad and interstate. During that time, he met many intriguing characters and developed some fascinating insights about the diversity and unity within the Melbourne Jewish community. Join him as he brings these insights to life and shares his experience.

Speakers

Alex Kats

Alex Kats has been a volunteer in the Jewish community for many years. Currently he is Chair of the Council of Christians and Jews, a board member of March of the Living Australia, and a long term volunteer with Jewish Care. He is also a member of numerous interfaith and multicultural... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST
SG.11 - Rm 6

Modern Jewish world

1:30pm AEST

Upstander education for an anxious community

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST

SG.12 - Rm 7

Transform bystander behaviour to upstander action through a workshop offering insight into how discrimination cascades and normalises unacceptable behaviours, understanding the impact of bystander behaviour, and developing practical, effective and safe upstander strategies.

Speakers

Zoi Juvris

Zoi has worked with Courage to Care since 2010 as program manager, education manager and training manager, focusing on the development of the Upstander programs and on training the facilitators who deliver these to school students from Years 5 - 11, teachers, community groups and... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST
SG.12 - Rm 7

Modern Jewish world

1:30pm AEST

Lawfare

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST

SG.08 - Rm 4

What does lawfare mean? It combines ‘law’ and ‘warfare’ and is weapon in armed conflict in the courtroom. Lawfare is highly relevant to Israel, which is constantly targeted in lawfare attacks conducted multiple legal forums and from many points of attack. Can Israel defend itself against lawfare? Come to this session if you are interested in understanding the threat environment and discussing possible defences.

Speakers

Gregory Rose

Greg Rose is a Professor of Law at the University of Wollongong, Australia, and a Senior Fellow at The Hague Initiative for International Cooperation in The Netherlands. His expertise is in international law and his areas of research include international law relating to marine environmental... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST
SG.08 - Rm 4

Society and politics

1:30pm AEST

The last Jew in Labor

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST

SG.10 - Rm 5

For decades, Australian Jews found a natural home in Labor, united by progressive ideals. Today, that bond is shattered, replaced by selective solidarity that demonises Israel and sidelines Jewish voices. Antisemitism, disguised as anti-Zionism, thrives globally—from Corbyn’s UK to America’s campuses—echoed here by Greens activism and Labor silence. Unless Labor confronts this dangerous drift, we risk arriving at a tragic reality: the last Jew in Labor, left isolated and unwanted.

Speakers

Adam Slonim

Adjunct Fellow, Sir Zelman Cowen Centre, Victoria University, AustraliaFounder & Director, Blended Learning GroupDirector, Vestia.AIANZ partner, Celemi InternationalBoard Member, John Curtin Research CentreCo-Convenor, Australia-Israel Labor DialogueAuthor of Artificial Intelligence... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST
SG.10 - Rm 5

Society and politics

1:30pm AEST

Humans in the image of God: a transformational idea

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST

M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

In the very opening narrative of the Torah, we read that human beings are created in the image of God. But what does this mean? In this session we will explore the idea in its literary and historical context, and trace its interpretation through the millennia. We will emerge with a fresh appreciation for the sheer radicalism, subversiveness, and transformational power of this concept.

Speakers

Raphael Dascalu

Raphael Dascalu is a Melbourne-based researcher, translator, and educator. In addition to yeshiva studies, he studied at the Hebrew University (MA) and the University of Chicago (PhD). He is an Adjunct Research Associate at Monash University, and founder of Beit Midrash Oz.

Monday June 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm AEST
M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

Text and Philosophy

2:45pm AEST

Shira b'tsibur

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Enjoy the uplifting experience of singing beautiful songs together.

Speakers

Simon Starr

Simon Starr is a Melbourne musician who is passionate about Jewish music.

Adam Starr

The MKS was created in 2024 to expand the knowledge and enjoyment of Klezmer music in the Melbourne community and Australia, and to make a global contribution to the Klezmer world.

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Arts and culture

2:45pm AEST

Israel uncovered

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

SG.12 - Rm 7

In these challenging times, our hearts turn to the land of Israel. Learn the cultivate compassion, strength, and a profound understanding of the enduring connection between the Jewish people and their beloved homeland. This session is ideal for those who have travelled to Israel and yearn to know more, for those who are planning a trip to Israel, or for those who just want to learn more from an inspiring eighth generation Yerushalmi.

Speakers

Erez Feinberg

Passionate Educator. Expert Storyteller. Proud 8th-Generation Yerushalmi.Born and raised in the heart of Jerusalem, I bring eight generations of deep-rooted connection to the city’s history, culture, and spirit. With an MA in School Leadership, a BA in International Relations, and... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
SG.12 - Rm 7

Everything Israel

2:45pm AEST

The 'next step' on the long road to peace in Israel-Palestine

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

SG.10 - Rm 5

“The situation is hopeless. We must TAKE THE NEXT STEP.” Pablo Casals. The Israel-Palestine conflict looks hopeless. There are ongoing calls for diplomacy to produce a two state solution. But diplomacy cannot deliver when human hearts are so hardened. The next step, that any individual can take, is to embrace a well thought out virtue ethic. Then their own heart can be a positive example. I present such an ethic, based on Abrahamic wisdom.

Speakers

David Cohan

David is a humanistic/progressive Jew. Member of TBI Progressive Synagogue since 2006. Treasures the Tanach as great literature and a source of wisdom, but of wholly human origin. Retired engineer. Slowly working on a book on Ethics, based mainly on wisdom from the Abrahamic text... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
SG.10 - Rm 5

Everything Israel

2:45pm AEST

The effect of the Gaza war on the Middle East

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

RG.04 - Rm 11

The Middle East has been changed fundamentally by the war in Gaza and the ascension of President Trump. What are the scenarios for the future of the Iranian nuclear program, US-Israel relations, Israel and the Palestinians, Israel and Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the Abraham accords? Is there a chance for a new, different Middle East.

Speakers

Linda Gradstein

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
RG.04 - Rm 11

Everything Israel

2:45pm AEST

A Black Jewish Prince and his quest to save the Jews

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

SG.08 - Rm 4

Who was David Reubeni, the charismatic Black Jewish warrior, who appeared in 16th-Century Venice with a desperate plan to restore Jewish pride and political independence? Why did Kings, bishops, rabbis, and bankers open their homes and wallets for him? Some answers from one of the weirdest documents of Jewish history, Reubeni's personal diary.

Speakers

Alan Verskin

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
SG.08 - Rm 4

History and memory

2:45pm AEST

Joy as resistance: reclaiming light in a darkened world

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

M1.03 - Rm 2

In times of collective grief and personal challenge, choosing joy is not frivolous - it’s a powerful act of resilience. This inspiring session draws on positive psychology and the science of laughter to explore how joy can uplift, unite and heal. Ros Ben-Moshe offers practical strategies to cultivate lightness, humour and connection - reminding us that joy, even in the darkest times, is both a Jewish value and profoundly human way to reclaim hope and restore wellbeing.

Speakers

Ros Ben-Moshe

Ros Ben-Moshe is a wellbeing author, academic and speaker passionate about uplifting lives through laughter and positivity. She developed a world-first course in Laughter, Resilience and Wellbeing and is an Adjunct lecturer at La Trobe University. Her books include The Laughter Effect... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
M1.03 - Rm 2

Mind body and soul

2:45pm AEST

Understanding anti-zionism

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

SG.11 - Rm 6

A number of Jewish public figures across the Western world have declared themselves to be anti-zionist and appear to be working against the interests of Israel. The idea of a watermelon on the seder plate evokes the intellectual conundrum in which these Jews find themselves. Deconstructing the phenomena of the anti-zionist seders and anti-haggadot and anti-seders provides an interesting insight into this group of Jews.

Speakers

Melinda Jones

Melinda Jones is a human rights lawyer and the immediate past president of National Council of Jewish Women Australia. She is widely recognised as a thought leader and is the author of 11 books and over 50 academic articles. She's currently working on a book - weaponising words against... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
SG.11 - Rm 6

Modern Jewish world

2:45pm AEST

What are the core innovations of Kabbalah and how have they changed Judaism?

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

We know today that Kabbalistic ideas have totally remade Judaism and yet most Jews have only a cursory knowledge of what they teach. In this lecture, we will encounter the key theological innovations of the Kabbalah from the 13th century Zohar through 16th century Safed, including key insights on the nature of God, the soul, the Torah, and the purpose of mitzvot.

Speakers

Joshua Shanes

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Modern Jewish world

2:45pm AEST

Jillian Segal in conversation

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Join Jillian Segal, Special Envoy on antisemitism, in conversation.

Speakers

Jillian Segal

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Society and politics

2:45pm AEST

The Shapira scroll: a modern forgery or the most ancient Biblical manuscript ever discovered?

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

The Shapira Scroll is one of the most controversial biblical manuscripts of all time — and it is now lost. But what exactly is it? Many have dismissed it as a worthless forgery from the 1800s, while a few have proposed that it is a 2,000-year-old abridgement of Deuteronomy. Idan will make the case that it actually contains an incredibly early edition of Deuteronomy — one that differs fundamentally from the canonical text.

Speakers

Idan Dorshav Dershowitz

Idan Dorshav Dershowitz joined the Australian Centre for Jewish Civilisation (ACJC) at Monash University in 2024. He was previously Director of the School of Jewish Theology at the University of Potsdam. He is the author of "The Dismembered Bible" and "The Valediction of Moses."

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

Text and Philosophy

2:45pm AEST

The story-cycle in the Talmud

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST

M1.02 - Rm 10

There are about 25 examples of “story-cycles” in the Talmud where three stories or more appear in sequence. These cycles have a distinctive impact on the audience, functioning almost philosophically to explore and reflect on a given topic from multiple perspectives. In this session, we will examine a story-cycle about astrology, which grapples with the tension between the fatalistic astrological worldview and rabbinic theology.

Speakers

Jeffrey Rubenstein

Professor, New York University

Monday June 9, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm AEST
M1.02 - Rm 10

Text and Philosophy

4:00pm AEST

Golem girls of the 21st century

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

RG.04 - Rm 11

What is going on with the resurgence of the Golem legend, and why are so many young people utterly obsessed with it? Shoshana takes you on a deep dive through Golem literature, memes and theory.

Speakers

Shoshana Gottlieb

Shoshana is a writer and Jewish educator from Sydney who makes jokes on the internet. When not thinking of new ways to (lovingly) make fun of Judaism, she's watching romantic comedies. You can find her on Instagram @JewishMemesOnly and Twitter @TheTonightSho. Her mother thinks she... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
RG.04 - Rm 11

Arts and culture

4:00pm AEST

Popular Jewish music

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Since the 1970s Jewish music has changed significantly. Cantorial, klezmer and Yiddish songs were no longer the music for American-born Jews. Throughout the Jewish community, music developed creating an American sound to Jewish music. Orthodox, Reform (Debbie Friedman), Conservative (Safam) Jews created music expressing their Jewish experiences. The Klezmer revival of the 1970s covered new terrain with artists recording with a blend of styles. This session will show the creation of American popular Jewish music.

Speakers

Mark Kligman

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
RG.03 (theatrette) - Rm 9

Arts and culture

4:00pm AEST

Changing tactics in Gaza: Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir's new approach

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

M1.02 - Rm 10

On March 5, Lt. Gen, Eyal Zamir replaced Herzi Halevi as the IDF Chief of Staff, bringing with him different ideas about how the Gaza war should be fought. This session looks at some of the changes that Lt. Gen. Zamir has introduced and brings us up to date with the latest developments on the ground.

Speakers

Ahron Shapiro

Ahron Shapiro is a senior policy analyst with the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council. His opinions and analysis have appeared in Australia’s major newspapers, television and on radio. He is a former editor at the Jerusalem Post and the Australian Jewish News and served in... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
M1.02 - Rm 10

Everything Israel

4:00pm AEST

Postcard from Israel’s protest frontlines: the agony and fight of the hostage families and a nation

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Israel has been a nation in an almost constant state of mass protest for over two years. It began with the unprecedented wave of street demonstrations in wake of Netanyahu’s government plan to overhaul the country’s courts and after the October 7 attack, transitioned into emotional vigils and rage-filled marches demanding the return of the hostages in Gaza. After the second cease-fire collapsed, anti-war protests gained steam. What do these protests look and feel like from the ground? What have they accomplished and where are they going?

Speakers

Dina Kraft

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
MG.04 - Rm 1 (MPR)

Everything Israel

4:00pm AEST

History of Jewish surnames – their origins, types and etymologies

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

M1.03 - Rm 2

The history of Jewish surnames – their origins, types, and etymologies. Learn when they were first used in various countries, how they developed, and their transformation upon immigration. This presentation will dispel several myths about Jewish surnames. Classifications of surnames: patronymic/matronymic, toponymic, occupational, artificial, religious, and acronyms. Discover which Jewish surnames are the most common in the U.S., Eastern Europe and Israel. Sources for learning more about your surnames and how they may be accessed.

Speakers

Bernie Kuran

Bernie is the Vice-President of the Australian Jewish Genealogical Society has been a committee member for the past 16 years. He has presented talks to society members, and he also volunteers annually assisting Jewish high school students with their Roots Projects. He has attended... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
M1.03 - Rm 2

History and memory

4:00pm AEST

So you want to write your family story? An author tells you why you should

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

SG.11 - Rm 6

Many Jews feel they already know their family history - or else, they don't know where to start. Why getting it down is so important, and how to go about it if you're starting from scratch.

Speakers

Rachelle Unreich

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
SG.11 - Rm 6

History and memory

4:00pm AEST

Why interfaith dialogue is more important in a post October 7 world

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

SG.12 - Rm 7

Many Jewish people who have been involved in dialogue with Christians, Muslims and others have become very disillusioned by the responses of their interlocuters post October 7. Yet the Jewish community still has many friends and it is more important now than ever before to maintain the relationships and continue the dialogue. Alex has been involved in interfaith dialogue for many year and will explain why he and others are still involved.

Speakers

Alex Kats

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
SG.12 - Rm 7

Modern Jewish world

4:00pm AEST

Schools, religion and the law: an unholy alliance

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

What is the state of ‘religious freedom’ in Australian schools? For example, may Jewish schools exclude non-Jewish students/staff? May an Anglican school force a Jewish student to attend chapel? How do religious schools deal with sexuality and dress codes? Religious schools juggle complicated questions – trying to avoid unlawful discrimination while also transmitting religious identity. We’ll explore what Australian Jewish schools can/can’t do compared to some other countries, and what the Religious Freedom Review (2018) had to say about these issues. We'll also look at some examples of allegations of antisemitism in Australian schools, and what has happened to them.

Speakers

Jacquie Seemann Charak

Jacquie is a lawyer at Thomson Geer in Sydney. She enjoys bringing her experience in employment/discrimination/sports/education law to Jewish contexts. Jacquie is currently Chair of Integrity at Maccabi Australia; a committee member of the NSW Jewish Educators of Tomorrow project... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
RG1.17 (ensemble room) - Rm 8

Society and politics

4:00pm AEST

The story of self

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

SG.08 - Rm 4

Project Shema came to Australia and changed the landscape of antisemitic advocacy. Part of their engagement funnel is building trust through the story of self. Come and work on your personal story to help you deal with antisemitism.

Speakers

Danielle Jones-Resnik

A professional public speaker having given over 350 speeches and run numerous speech training programs over a prodigious decade with Toastmasters International. Daniellee has been involved with the Jewish community and been a passionate reader of Jewish books her whole life.A psychologist... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
SG.08 - Rm 4

Society and politics

4:00pm AEST

Speaking truth to power - how Jewish leaders are encouraged to hold authority to account

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

This session will analyse the multiple occasions in which Biblical characters question the actions of political and religious leadership as well as God. In so doing they often shift both the narrative story and innovate Jewish Law. Examples include: Abraham, Elijah, Miriam, the Daughters of Tzlofchad and Esther.

Speakers

Lindsay Simmonds

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
M1.05 (Informal) - Rm 3

Text and Philosophy

4:00pm AEST

When are Jewish texts not relevant?

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST

SG.10 - Rm 5

We often mine Jewish texts for meaning and relevance. But when studying Jewish texts about specific topics, we sometimes don't ask ourselves the broader question of whether these texts actually apply in our given context. Let's look at some examples and ask the broader questions together!

Speakers

Shamir Caplan

Shamir serves as Rabbi at Mount Scopus Memorial College, as well as Rabbi of Beit Aharon Congregation on Mayfield Street, East St Kilda. He has a Masters in Family Therapy, and is particularly interested in interfaith dialogue. He is married and has three children.

Monday June 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm AEST
SG.10 - Rm 5

Text and Philosophy

5:15pm AEST

Tryptich I: next generation musicians

Monday June 9, 2025 5:15pm - 5:45pm AEST

RG Hall - Rm 12

Vocal students doing VCE Music at Bialik, King David, Mount Scopus and Yavneh will each be performing a song from their VCE repertoire, supported by a band consisting of Harley Kaufman (saxophone), Leo Sachs (guitar), Adam Sachs (bass), Osha Rubenstein Slesenger (keybaords) and Zach Banner (drums) led by Adam Starr (Music Director).

Speakers

Anouchka Starr

Anouchka Starr is in her final year at Mount Scopus. She has been singing and dancing for many years, loving performing in school musicals, concerts and community events.

Reuben Goldfarb

Reuben Goldfarb is a grade 11 student at the King David School, as well as an enthusiastic musician in over five musical ensembles. He also is lead singer in his own band, 'Funky Sediment'.

Shira Vorcheimer

Shira Vorcheimer is 18 years old, and a VCE Music student at Yavneh College. She has enjoyed singing since a young age and has had lessons for the past 5 years. Shira has a soulful style, finding her voice in R&B and Jazz genres.

Adam Starr

The MKS was created in 2024 to expand the knowledge and enjoyment of Klezmer music in the Melbourne community and Australia, and to make a global contribution to the Klezmer world.

Monday June 9, 2025 5:15pm - 5:45pm AEST
RG Hall - Rm 12

Arts and culture

5:45pm AEST

Tryptich II: Tisch!

Monday June 9, 2025 5:45pm - 6:15pm AEST

RG Hall - Rm 12

Join Noam Sendor and Adam Starr for a powerful, participatory Tisch where everyone is invited to sing together. Traditional niggunim come alive with the backing of an extraordinary jazz band, creating a shared musical experience that blends soul, rhythm, and community in perfect harmony.

Speakers

Adam Starr

Noam Sendor

Noam Sendor is a rabbi at Blake Street Hebrew Congregation, high school teacher at Leibler Yavneh College, jazz singer and novelist.

Monday June 9, 2025 5:45pm - 6:15pm AEST
RG Hall - Rm 12

Arts and culture

6:15pm AEST

Tryptich III: Fifth of Nisan

Monday June 9, 2025 6:15pm - 6:45pm AEST

RG Hall - Rm 12

Adam Starr to organise - playing as part of the concert

Speakers

Rachel Moshel

Fifth of Nisan

Step into the world of Fifth of Nisan, where klezmer collides with jazz inan electrifying fusion of old and new. Led by Rachel Moshel and featuring some of Melbourne’s finest musicians, Fifth of Nisan channels the spirit of Eastern European folk traditions while infusing them with... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 6:15pm - 6:45pm AEST
RG Hall - Rm 12

Arts and culture