Bnei Akiva Winter Camp

During the school holidays many children participated in youth movement winter camps, braving the cold for fun-filled times.

Bnei Akiva Melbourne’s winter camp was attended by around 400 chanichim (kids) and madrichim (leaders), and it was filled with meaningful learning, fun activities and ruach (spirit).

“This year’s camp, ‘Machanetzach’, was focused on our pride in Judaism, Torah and Israel, Jewish people and our values, and the privilege and responsibility to lead and shape the Jewish future,” Roshei Machane Gabe Jotkowitz and Shoval Cohen told The AJN.

They said highlights of the camp included dynamic programs, colour war, a night hike and bonfire, Torah learning in the Beit Midrash, dancing at meals, silent discos, a bar mitzvah celebrated on camp, a challah bake in the merit of the return of Israel’s hostages and a special atmosphere over Shabbat.

Bnei Akiva camp dedicated an entire day to the memory of madrich Gil Kras z”l who tragically passed away late last year, with programs and activities connected to themes that were close to his heart.

“Gil was a kind, inclusive, dynamic and passionate madrich who was known for his love of Israel, pride in his Jewish identity and for bringing people together,” said Bnei Akiva shlichah Mihal Epstein.

“In his honour, all chanichim and madrichim competed in a series of sports competitions as part of the Gil Kras Memorial Cup. Chanichim also learnt Torah in his memory, prepared Shabbat candles packages for distribution in the community, made tzitzit, and danced the night away at a whole-camp Israel party full of pride and ruach.”

The children all wore T-shirts that said “Just Gil it”.

Epstein said, “A huge thank you to our incredible, dedicated madrichim, parent volunteers and sponsors who enabled our chanichim to have such a meaningful and memorable experience. Kadimah Bnei Akiva!”