Dear Old Boys,

As we reach the end of 2025, I am writing to you with a heart that is both heavy and deeply reflective. The tragic events at Bondi Beach earlier this month, a targeted attack on a Jewish community gathering during Hanukkah, have shaken us all. Many in our High community are part of Sydney's Jewish community. We also have deep ties to the Bondi and North Bondi Surf Life Saving Clubs, with generations of Old Boys serving as members, officials and volunteers. For me, this is deeply personal. Growing up in Bondi’s Russian-speaking Jewish community, being a surf lifesaver at Bondi and having attended the Hanukkah event, I have felt the impact of this tragedy firsthand.

In times of such darkness, the strength of community becomes our greatest light. I’m grateful and proud of our Old Boys who have been at the forefront of the healing process. In particular, the leadership shown by Rabbi Yossi Friedman (2003), Alex Ryvchin (2000) and Peter Wertheim AM (1971), among many others who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, has been a testament to the character our school instils. We are proud to have them, and all those providing support to our communities.

We stand united against antisemitism, racism, hatred, and violence in all forms. Our thoughts are with all those impacted: the victims and their families, the first responders, and everyone in the Bondi, Jewish and wider communities who has been shaken by this attack.

At this difficult time, please reach out to your mates, check in on those who may be struggling, and offer support where you can. These events affect people in different ways, and sometimes the impact takes time to emerge.

Despite the darkness of the past weeks, 2025 was a landmark year for the OBU:

• We launched the High History and Heritage website, a digital archive providing access to over 100 years of school legacy.
• We began our $4 million fundraise journey to rebuild the pavilion in order to retain the McKay sporting fields. Our launch event, featuring High sporting legends, captains and supporters, reminded us of the unique opportunities we get at High.
• We hosted over 20 reunions, highlighted by an amazing 75-year reunion for the Class of 1950, which is believed to be the oldest school reunion in Australia.
• Our new Sponsorship Program financially supported 4 talented Old Boys across sports and the arts
• We launched our cricket pre-season training program, where talented cricketers travelled interstate in readiness for the GPS season. We will continue to nurture High’s future cricket talent.
• For the first time, the OBU served on the Years 8-12 enrolment selection committee, ensuring our traditions and values continue to influence the school's future.

As we look toward 2026, we will continue to focus giving back to Old Boys to enable us to give back to our school. We will continue to foster connection amongst Old Boys of all generations.

Thank you to the OBU Executive Council and to all of our Old Boys for your support and engagement during the year.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous, safe and restful holiday season and a happy new year.

Jacob Ezrakhovich (2003)

President

Sydney High School Old Boys Union