B’nai B’rith Australia/New Zealand Charts Bold Future

B’nai B’rith Australia/New Zealand Charts Bold Future at Triennial Convention in Canberra 

The B’nai B’rith Australia/New Zealand Triennial Convention on 1 September 2025 brought together 80 members and guests in Canberra to shape the organisation’s strategic vision for the next three years.  

The Convention drew strong support from high profile speakers, including Mark Leach (Never Again is Now), The Hon. Dr. Mike Kelly AM, Tahli Blicblau (CEO, The Dor Foundation), and Tom Curtis (Chair, Courage to Care Australia). Together, they sparked vital conversations about B’nai B’rith’s role in combating antisemitism and fostering community resilience. Their insights galvanised attendees to explore innovative strategies for engagement and advocacy. 

The convention concluded with a Gala Dinner at the ACT Community Centre, attended by distinguished guests, including Amir Meron, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Israeli Embassy, and Athol Morris, President of the ACT Jewish Community. The evening saw Janine Zimbler inaugurated as the newly elected President of B’nai B’rith ANZ, succeeding Dr. Benny Monheit, who concluded his three-year term during a complex and challenging period for Jewish organisations globally.  

In her inspiring acceptance speech, Janine outlined her vision:  

“I am committed to taking a fresh look at how people engage with B’nai B’rith and encouraging new ways for members to participate in our wide-ranging projects and activities, both in Australia and internationally.”  

Having spearheaded significant revitalisation efforts in B’nai B’rith NSW over the past four years, Janine is poised to lead the district with dynamic vision and innovation throughout her coming three-year presidency. 

The new executive of BBANZ consists of President Janine Zimbler, Secretary Iain Messer, Treasurer John Szabo, Anna Marks OAM and Vera Cranston representing B’nai B’rith NSW, Associate Professor Dr Peter Schattner and Professor Emeritus Andrew Markus AO representing BB Victoria, Dr Jim Salinger CRSNZ representing BB New Zealand, with Anna Marks OAM retaining the position of Vice President of B’nai B’rith International. 

The Convention concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, as members left Canberra equipped with a clear strategic direction and inspired to contribute to B’nai B’rith’s mission over the coming three years. 

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