John Monash (Monasch) born in Melbourne, Australia on 27 June 1865, the son of German Polish Jewish migrants, can be researched in any military history encyclopaedia or in fact by just ‘Googling’ his name on the internet. His history and list of achievements are long and far too many to detail in this brief summary. However, might I say that reading his history is well worth the effort and I can assure you that his deeds will amaze you. I have found that the deeds are better labelled on more than one man and in more than one lifetime.
An announcement was made in the weeks leading up to the Centenary of ANZAC by Judy Landau, President VAJEX Aust. She stated that it gave her great delight to announce that VAJEX Aust (Victorian Association of Jewish Ex & Servicemen & Women Australia Inc) has successfully raised the required funds to build a new Victorian Jewish Memorial after the style of the historic Memorial located in the Jewish section of the Melbourne General Cemetery. After an extensive two year process, Judy has single-handedly sought letters of support, raised the funds, and obtained approval from the City of Port Phillip.
As Vice President and Ceremonial Manager of VAJEX Australia, Julie Leder is a highly respected and well-liked board member. She is recognised and admired by the wider Jewish and Military Communities as well as other ex-service organisations with whom we have close ties. She is a great ambassador with a sunny smile.
She is a valued assistant to the President and Julie cheerfully rolls her sleeves up to do many behind the scenes tasks.
When she takes the microphone as MC for our commemorative services, we all know that the event will be handled with sensitivity and warmth. Participants are welcomed to the microphone with Julie encouragingly standing by. Each segment flows seamlessly to the next with Julie’s capable guidance.
Julie’s happy disposition is contagious and we look forward to many more years of Julie volunteering with VAJEX Australia.