Mission
To meaningfully care for and represent the Shevet, the Jewish community and family living in Northern NSW.
Vision
The NRJCA envisions a vibrant and united Jewish and
Israeli community, the Shevet, flourishing in the Northern Rivers. Each member thrives, contributes and feels deeply connected, cultivating a safe and supportive environment. We cherish and celebrate our heritage, language/s, customs and traditions, ensuring the preservation of our Culture for future generations.
The Northern Rivers Jewish Community locally known as Shevet שֵׁבֶט welcomes you to this site. As a community and association we extend our deep respects to the traditional custodians of the lands and waters, the Arakwal, the Minjungbal, Widjabul Wia-bal, Ngandowal and Minyungbal, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl and clans of the the Bundjalung Nation, to Elders past and present and to Country, where we work, live and play.
The NRJCA extends our open arms in respect and support to First Nations across the lands of modern day Australia, Custodians whose Culture has nurtured and continues to nurture the earth for over 65,000 years. We acknowledge that the sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders was never ceded and recognise their culture, connection to land, skies and waters. The wellbeing of First Nations Peoples across Australia and globally, are matters of current and vital importance.
About
The Northern Rivers Jewish Community Association is a registered nonprofit incorporated association, caring for and representing the Shevet on Bundjalung Country.
The Jewish community in Northern NSW (Shevet as we lovingly call it) comprises around 3,000 people, is one of the largest progressive whole-Jewish-community in Australia, with a strong mix of creatives, families and small business owners who have been living in rural and regional Northern NSW for decades. Community members, like many who have moved to the region are progressive, many uphold traditional Jewish values, and care deeply for the environment and our local community.
The NRJCA holds, develops and supports dozens of cultural, social, education and community events, gatherings and programs throughout the year, as well as extensive, ongoing engagement with our community and stakeholders.
Meet the team
NRJCA Committee and support
The Northern Rivers Jewish Community Association has a committed management committee, advisory board and several volunteer sub-committees, project management and support groups, with over 80 volunteers, all working to support our local Shevet. Below are some of the individuals involved.
President, Engagement Officer
Annalee Atia
Annalee is a Tiberian mother, doda, sister and daughter. She is an independent Producer of over 22 years, consultant and facilitator and has spent over a decade in community advocacy and representation.
She is deeply dedicated to her work with the Jewish community in Northern NSW nourishing the 'roots and earth', tending to and protecting the 'Garden' we all benefit from and wish to enjoy as a Community.
Vice President
Adam Kellerman
Adam Kellerman has lived in the Northern Rivers for eight years and is passionate about nurturing connection, belonging, and Jewish life in the region. As a Paralympian, motivational speaker, and wellness coach, he brings experience in leadership, resilience, and service to others. Adam is dedicated to helping the community grow in vitality and spirit, honouring tradition while building a warm, inclusive, and thriving community
Members Coordinator, Committee Member
Jana Green
Jana has dedicated her career to working with some of Australia’s most disadvantaged communities and is passionate about empowering people to create positive change.
She loves living in the Northern Rivers and values being part of the diverse Jewish community. Jana is committed to fostering opportunities for our beautiful and vibrant tribe to come together in meaningful connection.
Secretary & Volunteers Coordinator
Marianne Fabri
A mother of four and proud ’Nonni' of five, I bring over 40 years of experience working with young people, families, and foster parents affected by trauma.
With a deep love for both my own family and the broader Jewish community, I am committed to fostering unity, compassion, and healing. I strive to serve with integrity, embracing all voices and beliefs and believe that our unity and common values bring healing, resilience and strength.
Treasurer
Colin Cussal
Colin has lived in the region for more than 40 years, he is proudly Jewish and in his role at the NRJCA and beyond, supports and helps the local Jewish Community. Colin is retired and ran his own business for 40 years.
Committee Member
Dr Larisa Barnes
I work and live in Lismore and have been part of the Northern Rivers Jewish community since 1997, regularly organising, attending and enjoying Jewish events, volunteering as a Jewish Book in Lismore's Human Library, and doing voluntary Jewish educational outreach to preschools, primary and high schools. I love being part of and celebrating our vibrant, diverse, and strong Jewish cultures.
Committee Member
Dr Gilad Bino
Dr. Gilad Bino is a Senior Lecturer at the University of NSW, specialising in freshwater ecology and conservation biology, and leads the Platypus Conservation Initiative.
Committee Member
Ness Coles
I'm Ness, born to Hungarian Jewish migrants in Bondi, grew up between alternative communities in northern NSW, studied History (Hons) at Sydney Uni and completing a Master of Education. I taught History for 18 years and raised my twins and moved back to Mullumbimby in recent years. I’ve been incredibly grateful to have found — and been embraced by — the Jewish community here. It’s given me a sense of belonging I didn’t know I was missing.
Committee Member
Lily Robbins
Bio coming soon
Admin
Judy Rose
Newsletter Coordinator, Volunteers and admin support
Areas of responsibility
Community Care
Cultural, Social, Wellbeing and Education - Caring for our Shevet Community is the heart of our operations.
Shevet Board
Provides legal support, advice on community matters, financial, engagement & more
Governance & Admin
Dedicated admin and governance teams and frameworks are in place to ensure sustainability and growth
Engagement
Extensive Community & Stakeholder Engagement is a key pillar of our work at the NRJCA
Volunteers
Volunteers are at the heart of our community organisation, holding up every pillar of our operation!
Shevet Newsletter
The Shevet Newsletter team delivers a stellar monthly installment of news, happenings, updates and Culture
Antisemitism
We record antisemitism
& local Incidents, and support the community in relevant reporting.
Security
Community security
& risk assessment
Expression
Website, design & tech support teams work to bring the Shevet community and NRJCA to life online.