Kelly O'Dwyer (Higgins, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Sunday, 14 September, I was pleased to visit Chabad Malvern for the dedication of its new purpose-built youth and early learning centre. Chabad Malvern has been wonderfully led by Rabbi Shimshon and Rivka Yurkowicz over the past 27 years. They have built a strong and supportive community within the Higgins electorate.

Chabad Malvern provides religious education, pastoral and social services to over 1,800 families in Malvern, Toorak, Armadale and surrounding suburbs. The opening of the new youth and early learning centre on Glenferrie Road adds to their existing synagogue. Chabad Malvern's Early Learning Centre has been running for more than 20 years and has helped to nurture youngsters who are proud citizens of Australia while also developing their Jewishness to create strong and responsible members of our community. The new purpose-built centre, which started being used in January, provides cutting-edge indoor facilities and a playground for the younger members of the community. The modern facilities now combine perfectly with the warm and caring staff.

I know the community of Chabad Malvern is very thankful to the many donors to the wonderful new centre and especially to the three major local benefactors and residents within the Higgins electorate: the families of Solomon and Rosie Lew, Marc and Eva Besen, and Shaya and Ziva Kramer.

Finally, at this time I would also like to wish all members of the Jewish community a happy New Year. Shanah Tovah.