Tatarka honoured at yeshivah
“Through the generosity of many community donors and especially the Tatarka family, the new wing will enable the great work of the college to grow' - Caulfield MP David Southwick
AROUND 200 dignitaries, staff, students, alumni and well-wishers attended the official opening and dedication of the Ronny Tatarka Wing of Melbourne’s Yeshivah Gedolah, the Rabbinical College of Australia and New Zealand, in St Kilda East last Sunday.
The new wing incorporates an expanded study hall, dormitory accomodation for 15 students, a shiur room and new offices.
Representing the family at the ceremony, Sarahle Tatarka spoke of her late husband’s devotion to the Yeshivah Gedolah and the community.
Caulfield MP David Southwick praised the role of the Yeshivah Gedolah.
“It was my pleasure to return two-and-a-half years after we broke ground for the sod turning to open the building,” he said.
“Since then, we have had years of home-schooling due to lockdowns which has made us appreciate just how important our schools and facilities are and the importance to upgrade and maintain them to support quality learning.
“Through the generosity of many community donors and especially the Tatarka family, the new wing will enable the great work of the college to grow.”
Southwick added that it was fitting to name the building after Ronny Tatarka who “was passionate about developing future leaders and youth”.
“His legacy will live on for generations thanks to the generosity of his family and other community donors,” he said.
Federal Labor MP Josh Burns said, “Friends of Ronny Tatarka told me of his giving nature. He gave his time, his resources, his kindness and he gave his wisdom.
“The Yeshiva Gedolah is also a place of giving. It gives education, Torah and wisdom to its students who then give on to others.
“It was an honour to be at the opening of a place that gives so much, named after Ronny Tatarka – who gave everything he had. Chazak, chazak V’nitchazek.”
After the speeches, the Tatarka family gathered at the entrance of the new building for the cutting of the ribbon, followed by a catered reception in the newly-landscaped grounds.
Heritage status prevented replacement of the once grand Alexandra Gardens building that dominates the property, which was acquired in 1971.
It was decided to expand and refurbish the building with funds raised under the management of Rabbi Shmuel Gurewicz.
The key benefactor was the Tatarka family in memory of Ronny Tatarka OBM, a long standing college supporter and executive member of its board.
Completion of this first stage of the project had been delayed due to COVID.