Following the attack on Progressive and Masorti Jews at the Kotel last week by a mob of Ultra-Orthodox boys and men, a letter was sent to Prime Minister Yair Lapid from David Knoll AM and Brian Samuel OAM, Co-Presidents of the Union for Progressive Judaism, Helen Shardey OAM, President of the Australian Reform/Progressive Zionist Association and Vice-President of the Union for Progressive Judaism, and Eric Lundberg, President of Mercaz-Masorti Australasia, asking for the Prime Minister’s continued support of the Kotel agreement, ensuring that all streams of Judaism can pray with safety and security at this most sacred place. CLICK HERE to read the letter.

Participants from 10 different countries - including day school teachers, rabbis, religious school directors, community leaders and community directors - began their Bergman and Beutel Seminar experiences last week in Israel. The UPJ was proud to sponsor the attendance of two members from the UPJ region: Cassie Barrett (Beutel) and Asher Myerson (Bergman). CLICK HERE to read the full story and see more photos, and if you are interested in taking part in the 2023 seminars, contact the UPJ at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Carol Ratnam (centre), wife of the late Kelvin Ratnam z"l, received the 2021 UPJ Vatik Award on behalf of her late husband, from UPJ Treasurer Sally Castle (pictured left) last Shabbat at Temple Sinai in Wellington NZ. Joining in attendance were His Excellency Ran Jaakoby (pictured second from left), Israel Ambassador to NZ , and Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand GNZM, QSO, former Governor General of NZ (pictured right).  

Winter has arrived, and it's soup season! During June, July and August, Mazon will be distributing Soup Bags full of fresh ingredients and a recipe to make a delicious soup. If you are part of an organisation that would like to help with packing the bags (in Melbourne) or if you know of clients who would appreciate receiving a bag, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to contact Mazon. You can also make a tax-deductible donation on Mazon's website: CLICK HERE.