On Monday 15 May 2023, after a long hiatus due to Covid, the Friends of Maccabi community gathered once again for their highly anticipated luncheon. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as 102 guests reunited, sharing stories, laughter, and a common passion for sports. The event, held at Caulfield Park Sports Club, proved to be a resounding success, with a delightful menu and captivating interviews leaving everyone in high spirits.
As the guests filtered into the venue, there was an unmistakable sense of camaraderie in the air. Friends who hadn’t seen each other in years embraced warmly, eagerly engaging in conversations to catch up on missed memories. The joy of reuniting after a prolonged separation was palpable, fostering a strong sense of the Victoria Maccabi community and unity among the attendees.
One of the highlights of the luncheon was the opportunity to hear from esteemed members of the community in two engaging interview sessions. The panel consisted of Len Bogartin OAM, Narene Ignace, Alida Lipton, Lenny Gross OAM, Judy Kohn, and Michael Klinger. Each interviewee shared their unique experiences, reflecting on their involvement with Maccabi and the impact it had on their lives. Their insightful anecdotes and words of wisdom resonated with the audience, reaffirming the significance of Jewish sport as a unifying force. Another highlight was the presentation made to Howard and Michelle Keil for their long-time service to Friends of Maccabi.
No community gathering is complete without delicious food, and the luncheon delivered in abundance. The main sponsor, Sharon Hamilton from Fella Hamilton, played a significant role in ensuring that the culinary experience was nothing short of exceptional. I’d also like to thank Judy Kohn, Annette Wester, Nancy Wicks and all those who donated towards the raffle.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that Victoria Maccabi’s spirit of unity and passion for sports continues to thrive within this remarkable community. With shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a delectable feast, the luncheon reminded everyone of the profound bonds that can be formed through a shared love for sports and community.
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