From Australia with Pride
As part of its journey across the globe, the Maccabiah Torch joined Maccabi Australia’s centenary celebrations
- 27 April, 2025
After traveling over 15,000 kilometres, the iconic Maccabiah torch - a symbol of solidarity and strength - arrived in Australia. It took center stage in Melbourne at a symbolic cricket match in Caulfield Park, recreating the historic 1924 game at Fitzroy Cricket Ground. That original match, held a century ago, marked the first Jewish interstate sports tour in Australia and planted the seed for today’s 54-club, 9,000-member Maccabi Australia organization.
The event brought together Jewish cricketers from the 1950s to today, including Maccabiah Games participants from across the generations.
Credit: David Goldman, MAI
The torch made another meaningful stop at Bondi Beach—one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks – where it was welcomed by volunteer lifesavers, Jewish youth, and hundreds of smiling faces.
Reflecting the deep bond between Australia’s Jewish community and Israel, the torch will visit the country's most iconic locations, including Jewish day schools, Maccabi clubs, and other Jewish organizations, spreading its message of unity and community.
Following its journey through Australia and an appearance at Festival Aviv in Mexico, the torch will continue to the annual Israel Parade in New York on May 18 (livestream details coming soon!), as well as FACCMA Mega Israel festival In Argentina, before returning home for the Maccabiah 2025 opening ceremony this July in Israel. Stay tuned as the journey continues!
