Melbourne set for Maccabi carnival magic

FINAL preparations are being made in Melbourne to host the biggest Maccabi Junior Carnival since Sydney 2016.

Organisers have confirmed that more than 350 Jewish schoolchildren from years 6 to 9 will represent their Maccabi state at the 36th Carnival from January 14-21 – up by about 150 participants from last year’s event held in Perth.

The host state will naturally field the largest team of 180, but NSW will not be far behind with a 120-strong squad, followed by Western Australia and Queensland.

All teams are set to continue their friendly interstate rivalry in a revamped competitive sport program, particularly in basketball, football, futsal, netball and tennis.

Victoria’s team manager Danny Klinger said this is his third year in the role “and while the last two carnivals were great, I really think this one will be a step above”.

“We’re very excited about the new concepts introduced this year – particularly the first two days which will be dedicated to competitive sport,” he said.

“It marks a return to that competitive stream, which is what Carnival needs.”

Carnival manager Julia Hofbauer said the renewed focus on state-versus-state competition will be balanced by a massive social component including a chill-out zone, themed parties and visits to fun parks.

A new “Colour Games” format will see teams of 20 boys and girls, from a mix of different states and ages, competing in activities from tug-of-war and an Amazing Race to go-karting and barefoot bowls.

“The program is designed to be action-packed, to make sure all the kids are kept busy from the first minute of every day.

“They will be exhausted at the end, but in the best possible way.

“I’d like to thank the whole organising committee, especially the efforts of sports director Paul Platus and social director Simone Cohen.”

Klinger said the Colour Games will be “something I know the kids from all four states will enjoy doing together – it will be full of fun and laughter”.

“That social side is part of what has made Carnival so unique for decades. All members of our organising committee met each other for the first time at Carnival and we’ve all stayed connected since.”

“I think the Colour Games will be a great way to bridge all the kids from different states.”

NSW team manager Lynne Berson said the feedback received from the NSW participants about this year’s Carnival program was simple – “the kids have said just bring it on – we are going to have fun, fun, fun!”

SHANE DESIATNIK