Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister, The Hon. Michael McCormack MP, paid a visit to the future home of the Jewish Arts Quarter (JAQ), located in the heart of the Elsternwick Cultural Precinct.
When the Deputy Prime Minister and The Hon Kate Allen MP dropped by 7 Selwyn Street, they were warmly welcomed and presented with the plans for the community’s iconic multi-use cultural centre – an architectural landmark designed by local architects McIldowie Partners.
JAQ will emerge as the new revitalised home for the Jewish Museum of Australia – Gandel Centre of Judaica and Kadimah Jewish Cultural Centre & National Library – supporting their missions to illuminate Jewish Life and provide education, performance and social programs.
The transformation of the newly developed building and cultural centre also extends support to the wider community, attracting a range of community organisations to deliver cultural programs through exhibitions, education, events, co-working and communal collaboration spaces.
The visit from the highest level of Federal Government was a boost in confidence and welcomed by the community with Ben Mand, JAQ Co-Chair saying: “It’s a huge lift in realising this wonderful community project.”
“We were honoured to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister together with Katie Allen MP to share our vision.”
Joe Tigel, JAQ Co-Chair added: “We had a wonderful and engaging conversation about preserving and celebrating our rich Jewish culture and heritage that is so much part of Elsternwick.”
The Deputy Prime Minister McCormack enthused: “The new Jewish Arts Quarter will be a cultural hub in Melbourne and help to preserve the rich Jewish heritage in Elsternwick.”
Barry Fradkin OAM, JAQ Co-Chair said: “JAQ is of great significance to our State of Victoria and the broader community, and it will enable inclusive contribution through a myriad of experiences that will enrich livelihoods – becoming a catalyst for arts and culture.”
John Gandel AC, Chair of Gandel Foundation, said: “I am proud to support the JAQ vision since its foundation.”
“JAQ is once in a lifetime opportunity that will contribute to brining the future of Jewish and multicultural Melbourne to life and be celebrated by many generations to come.”
Kate Allen MP highlighted: “Melbourne and Australia will benefit greatly from the redevelopment of the Jewish Arts Quarter.”
“The new Arts Quarter will act as a great facilitator of Jewish history, which will further educate and highlight Australia’s greatly successful multicultural society.”
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