More ways than ever to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut 63!
2011 sees a total revamp of Yom Ha’atzmaut communal celebrations and the Zionist Council of Victoria is thrilled to announce a series of new and different events that will surely appeal to all.
As is tradition, the festivity of Yom Ha’atzmaut is preceded by the grief of Yom Hazikaron. The Yom Hazikaron Community Commemoration for Israel’s Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror will take place on Sunday May 8, 7.30pm at Monash University’s Robert Blackwood Hall. Coordinated by the ZCV, the Tekes includes participation from 15 community organisations and the Embassy of Israel. In a year that has been fraught with an escalation of hostility against Israelis, particularly recently with the murder of the Fogel family in Itamar and the first terror attack in Jerusalem for a number of years, the Tekes is our community’s chance to express solidarity and collectively mourn the men, women and children whose lives have been cut short by violence.
The anguish of Yom Hazikaron will then give way to the excitement of Yom Ha’atzmaut.
“We are really excited that Yom Ha’atzmaut this year is going local and vibrant St Kilda will set the scene for no less than 3 Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations” says ZCV executive director Ginette Searle.
First up: the Yom Ha’atzmaut carnival for young families and youth at the iconic Luna Park on Monday May 9 from 5.00 to 8.00pm. All Luna Park rides will be open and complemented by an Israeli BBQ, live music and entertainment, showbags and giveaways. Affiliate organisations of the ZCV will be running stalls and activities such as face painting, a matcot tournament, belly dancing and badge making. At the indoor Luna Palace the program will cater to toddlers, children and youth with a children’s show featuring popular character Barney the Dinosaur; young, local DJ Benny B and the final of the Kochav Nolad youth talent competition judged by well known musical and dance personalities Bram Presser, Troy Sussman and Kim Factor.
Following Luna Park: “L’Chayim Israel”, a Gala show at the St Kilda Town Hall. Says Searle “A fun mood will be set with themed cocktails, mocktails and Israeli wines served in the foyer. The audience will then be treated to Israeli fashion and music, entertainment as well as a few surprises.” Yom Ha’atzmaut musical director Adam Starr and local singers will entertain with popular Israeli music and the hosting duo of Jack Felman and Lena Fiszman will ensure the comedy flows!
People are encouraged to book early for “L’Chayim Israel” as seating is limited. Pre booked family packages are available for Yom Ha’atzmaut @ Luna Park so call the ZCV office or come into Beth Weizmann to get your discount.
For the over 18’s, the ZCV together with Hagshama, AUJS and the Zionist Youth Council (ZYC) will once again present “Out of the Blue” at the Prince Bandroom on Fitzroy Street, St Kilda from 9.00pm.
Tickets for all events are now on sale. Book at in person at the Beth Weizmann Community Centre – 306 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield South, call the ZCV office on 9272 5544 or email zcv@zionismvictoria.org.au Coming soon…Facebook events to keep you connected.
(Note Yom Hazikaron tickets are complimentary at the door)
For more information contact:
Ginette Searle – Executive Director, Zionist Council of Victoria 9272 5544
Elly Shalev – Director Public Affairs, Zionist Council of Victoria 9272 5519
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The Zionist Council of Victoria leads and encourages Jewish and Zionist activity and expression within Victoria, to represent the Jewish community, to promote and communicate Israel’s interests within the broader Victorian community and to promote Victoria’s relationship with Israel. For more information, visit the Zionist Council of Victoria website www.zionismvictoria.org.au