To our dear Perth Jewish Community,

As we approach Rosh Hashana this year, we are filled with sadness and angst for the events in Israel over the past year. Having been in Israel twice this year, I can testify to the remarkable strength and resilience of our people. Israelis not only carry on - they carry on in a constructive and positive way. Nevertheless, it is tough – tough beyond words.

As Diaspora Jews, we have felt their pain, and our own pain, as the plague of antisemitism has reared its ugly head once again. The unprovoked attacks against Israel, together with the horrific upsurge of anti-Semitism worldwide, has reminded us of the need for us as Jews to unite and keep faith with all that we know to be true.

We Jews are hopeful, thankful people and at this time of year, we thank Hashem for what we have been blessed with and look forward to better, brighter times ahead.

Our thoughts and prayers are with people of Israel after the horrific year that it and its people have endured. Our prayer is for a better, happier and healthier year for all. ÌýWe pray for the return of all hostages, the safety of the soldiers and people of Israel and of the entire region and that all those displaced from their homes will return home speedily.

As we head towards Rosh Hashana and approach October 7^th, Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, consider taking on an extra mitzvah or learning some Torah in memory of someone lost on that terrible day. Perhaps fundraise for widows and orphans and/or learn Torah in the memory of soldiers and victims of terror - there are many projects out there to help us make a difference.

Through our good deeds and actions, may the coming year be peaceful for the world, harmonious for society, bonding for our communities, loving for our families, connected to our God and true to ourselves.

May this new year 5785, be one of health, strength and happiness for all.

Let each and every one of us move forward to action those things that need change, improvement or development in our own family, community, country and in this beautiful but sometimes fragile world.

Wishing a Shana Tova to the President, Board, Governors, Trustees, Principal, Staff, Parents and Students of AVѧԺ and to the entire Jewish Community of Perth and Am Yisrael.

Kativa ve’chatima tova!

Shana Tova! AM YISRAEL CHAI!