A truly model citizen
THE Glen Eira City Council has recognised one of its finest residents in its Citizen of the Year awards.
THE Glen Eira City Council has recognised one of its finest residents in its Citizen of the Year awards.
Holocaust survivor and co-founder of the Jewish Holocaust Centre (JHC) Abram Goldberg said he was very proud to be the recipient of the council’s top honour, awarded this week by Glen Eira Mayor Margaret Esakoff.
“I do what I have to do, not to be awarded, but it is nice to be recognised,” the 86-year-old told The AJN. “Awards don’t come so easily, maybe only once in a lifetime.”
After surviving the horrors of Auschwitz, Goldberg eventually immigrated to Australia at the age of 26, where he dedicated his life to community service.
In addition to his efforts at the JHC, where he continues to volunteer weekly as a guide, the father and grandfather was a tireless volunteer at Kadimah Jewish Cultural Centre and assisted with the establishment of Sholem Aleichem College, where his daughter Helen Greenberg continues to serve as principal.
“From the war years and from being a youngster, I was always involved in lots of political, cultural and also sporting groups,” he said.
While he began his life in another country, Australia is well and truly Goldberg’s home.
“I am proud that we chose Australia above other countries. I was not only accepted to work in Australia, I was accepted to do what I do and be who I am as well.”
While he may be in his mid-80s, Goldberg has the enthusiasm and energy of a man half his age.
He has dedicated more than 7000 hours to guiding at the JHC, where he has spoken to “many thousands of children from across Victoria”. This year, he will also return to Poland on March of the Living for the second time.
As thrilled as he is of the recognition, Goldberg’s proudest achievements to date are his children and grandchildren.
And the feeling is mutual. His greatest fan, wife of almost 64 years, Cesia, did not hesitate when asked how she feels about her husband’s award.
“I am very proud, very, very proud,” she said. “He really deserved it.”
DALIA SABLE
Caption: Cesia and Abram Goldberg. Photo: Melanie Faith Dove.
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