Pollies pay tribute on Israel’s birthday
VICTORIAN Premier Daniel Andrews and Liberal leader Matthew Guy spearheaded a long list of state MPs who gathered with Jewish communal leaders at the Hotel Windsor to raise a glass to Israel’s 67th birthday.
The June 10 celebration coincided with a three-day medical technology fair reflecting Israel’s know-how in the health field, staged by the Zionist Council of Victoria (ZCV), just across Spring Street – at Queens Hall in Parliament House.
At the Yom Ha’atzmaut reception, Andrews described the night as “a great celebration of all Israel has achieved, all Israel stands for”.
He said Israel was “the only true democracy in the region” and now also a “modern economic miracle; the transition from effectively a command economy to the great centre of innovation, endeavour, risk taking and commensurate reward” that Israel’s technology culture presented today.
Andrews recounted his trip to Israel with his wife Catherine a few years ago, describing it as “a profound experience for both of us”.
“It’s only if you’re taking risks, it’s only if you’re pushing the boundaries, it’s only if you’re making a contribution not just for yourself and your enterprise, but indeed you’re adding to the total sum of human knowledge … it’s only then that you’re being a true Israeli,” he said.
Guy said: “The Middle East’s most stable and successful democracy should be supported unconditionally.
“Israel continues to be an opportunity for the Jewish community throughout the world to celebrate shared unity and deep spiritual connection with the land. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of Israel’s people that over the past 67 years, the nation has grown to boast a powerful economy and a thriving culture that radiates throughout the world,” he said.
ZCV president Sam Tatarka said: “I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the fortune we have all enjoyed since the foundation of the State of Israel in 1948 as the nation state and homeland of the Jewish people.”
He paid tribute to Israel’s humanitarian missions around the world, from first-aid after the Nepal earthquakes and the Philippines typhoons, to treating wounded civilians from war-ravaged Syria and Iraq. Meanwhile, technology start-ups have transformed Israel into “silicon wadi”.
Jewish Community Council of Victoria president Jennifer Huppert said Israel had managed to overcome enormous threats to its existence to become “a vibrant, democratic and multicultural society offering opportunity to all”.
PETER KOHN
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews raising a toast to Israel. Photo: Peter Haskin
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