The following is taken from an article by Dr Alon Liel, Director General of Israel’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs in 2000-01and Ambassador to South Africa from 1992-94, ‘In the global power game, the Jewish diaspora is not an important player. It has no sovereignty, no government, no air force or navy, and no seat at the UN. However, the situation is different when it comes to the Jewish world and the Jewish state. The diaspora still contains the majority of world Jewry; more

The peloton’s entry into Paris last night reignited the emotion of 2003. The day started at 6am with 10,000 cyclists lining up for a unique ride around the route the cyclists had to negotiate later in the day. This was a special event to celebrate 100 years of Le Tour. People clapped, some shouted encouragement as I pedalled two circuits on a saddle that swivelled menacingly, and a chain that preferred to be free of the sprockets. Nevertheless, my heart raced as I bounced ove

One factor common to both the launch of Wall of Tears at Kiama library yesterday and the Wallabies win over the French last night was - team work. While my name appears on the cover, behind the scenes lies the skills of my editor, Tahlia Newland, the creativity of Rose with the cover, constructive feedback from Nick Hartgerink and other readers of my first draft, and the support of my wife, Chris who has stood patiently beside me on the journey. The interest and support of a

One factor common to both the launch of Wall of Tears at Kiama library yesterday and the Wallabies win over the French last night was - team work. While my name appears on the cover, behind the scenes lies the skills of my editor, Tahlia Newland, the creativity of Rose with the cover, constructive feedback from Nick Hartgerink and other readers of my first draft, and the support of my wife, Chris who has stood patiently beside me on the journey. The interest and support of a

The buzz of this year’s Le Tour recalled memories of 2003, the Centenary, when I covered the Great Race for Macquarie radio in Sydney. One unforgettable moment - meeting Bernard Thevenet, winner 1975, 76 who brought an end to Eddy Merckx’s reign who finished five times in Paris in yellow. I met Merckx in Paris and many other Tour royalty in three crazy weeks of non-stop action. Le Tour is like a travelling Olympics. Many cyclists rank participation in the Race ahead of compet

Lori Banov Kaufmann’s, ‘Rebel Daughter’, breathes life into a slice of antiquity, familiar from my studies in ancient history. She caught my attention online of the launch of this, her first novel earlier this year. Vivid descriptions of a Jewish family surviving the Roman occupation of the first Century and a mysterious Roman’s interest in Esther, the protagonist, held my interest to the final chapter. Lori’s careful research is reflected in the rich descriptions of rituals,