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EVENTS AND PROJECTS
The Zionist Federation of Australia Israel office is active throughout the whole year. Catering for the Aussie Olim, Aussie travellers, tour groups, Israel programs, new Olim and other activities with which the ZFA is involved in.
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"Celebrating Australian Aliyah"
[Picture 1] Hundreds at Aussie picnic in Jerusalem
On the evening of Thursday June 30th, hundreds of Australians living in Israel were joined by Shnat programme participants and Australians visiting Israel for a celebration of Australian Aliyah.
In perfect early summer weather they gathered from all parts of Israel and all ages - from babies to great-grandparents at Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem. Olim who came in the 1940's to those who arrived the day before! Sponsored by the Zionist Federation of Australia, the picnic was the continuation of a tradition started some years ago of doing a major event every couple of years for Australian Olim, as an opportunity for those from the "old country" to renew friendships from years past, and for them to meet Australians visiting.
Everyone enjoyed the massive barbeque of authentic Israeli "al haesh" as well as enjoying the company of old friends. Australian folk music played in the background as people took the opportunity to relax in good company.
Dr Ron Weiser, the President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, welcomed all the guests and expressed his admiration for the Australians living in Israel, who have integrated so well.
Tony Pobjie, the Australian Consul in Israel, also welcomed all the guests, speaking of the continuing connection of ex pat Aussies with Australia, as well as bringing greetings from his Excellency Mr Tim George, Ambassador of Australia to Israel.
Frank Stein, the Israel office Director of the Zionist Federation spoke of the special calm and easy going manner of Australians, and how this calm will be so much needed in Israel in the coming few months. He called on the programme participants to also consider making Israel their home in the future – following the lead of those who came in the 1950's and 1960's.
Many of the participants expressed their appreciation to the Federation for the picnic, noting how much they had enjoyed themselves. |
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