The last night of Chanukah brightened the city of Brisbane, capital city of the State of Queensland, Australia, with the magnificent celebration of Chanukah in the City, which has, over the years, evolved into an iconic communal expression of Jewish pride.
The event attracted over 1000 people, from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds, to experience and learn about the Chanukah story, the celebration of the miracles performed by the Almighty, to preserve our religious beliefs, and the universal message of Chanukah, the prevailing of light over darkness and illuminating the world with light, goodness and kindness.
The event, which is organised by Chabad Brisbane, and supported by the local Brisbane City Council and the Queensland Government, was attended by various politicians and dignitaries, who addressed the crowd and expressed their appreciation and pride for such an event to be hosted in the heart of Brisbane, Australia’s New World City.
Rabbi Levi Jaffe of Chabad Brisbane and the Brisbane Synagogue welcomed everyone and shared the unique message of the number eight, representing the concept of transcending the mundane, which is associated with the number seven, the cycle of nature and the seven days of the week.
Among the event attractions, were lively music by Yitzhak Yedid and his Con Klezmer band, ‘Uncle Velvel’ and his amazing kids show, recital of the 12 Pesukim (special Torah verses) by children of the community, kids activities, delicious Kosher food stalls, and an explosive drumming performance by Soundstruck. The highlight of the event, was the lighting of the majestic 6-metre Menorah by Rabbi Levi Jaffe of Chabad Brisbane and of the Brisbane Synagogue, assisted by the Honourable Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe MP, Queensland’s Minister of Multicultural affairs.
Multicultural Affairs Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said he was pleased to be part of the Chanukah in the City celebrations.
“Chanukah gave Queensland’s wider non-Jewish community the chance to share in the message of the triumph of light over darkness,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“It was terrific to see so many people getting involved in this great tradition which dates back more than 2,000 years.
The Palaszczuk Government values the contribution of Queensland’s Jewish community, and that’s why we provided a $8,000 grant to the Jewish Educational Institute Chabad House Brisbane for this celebration.”
The evening was emceed by Jason Steinberg, Vice President of the Qld Jewish Board of Deputies, who congratulated Chabad Brisbane for their great contribution towards the community.
Chabad Brisbane extends its sincere thanks and deep appreciation to the many communal volunteers and, in particular, Antonia Krivo, Roland Balassa, Mendel Jaffe and Itzhak Bahloul, for their unstinting commitment and efforts towards the success of the event.
Special thanks and appreciation are extended to the Queensland Police and the Community Security Group for their great security help and support for the event.
This yearly event is loved by all. Kol Hakavod to the Shluchim of Brisbane for what they do. Keep it up!
Go, Menachem and Zak and Chabad! So proud! Shepping nachas!
Nice pic Menachem! You guys are the best!!
Thank you JEMs Bochurim who flew In for the day to help out.
Menachem and Zak you guys are awesome!