Vera Rosenwax z'l

Vera Rosenwax was a stalwart of the Perth Jewish community. Born in Fremantle WA to the Breckler family in 1898, Vera soon learned hardship as a young girl due to the untimely death of her father when she supported her mother with the care of her younger siblings.

Vera became involved in social welfare with warmth and devotion. She was the first driver for the Almoners at Royal Perth Hospital and during World War II she volunteered as a Red Cross ambulance driver and was a Red Cross Canteen worker. After the War Vera extended help and hospitality to many Jewish migrant families. She was a member of the Jewish Welfare Society and the Ladies Benevolent Society.

Vera was a founding member of WIZO when, in 1937, Ida Ben Sion visited Perth and formed WIZO in Western Australia. Vera formed a group with like-minded ladies which became WIZO Sharon. Vera attended the first national WIZO conference in Sydney in 1949. Vera led not by fine speeches but by deeds and remained committed to WIZO’s work. She had high standing in the community but was not afraid to work hard to support WIZO’s needs in (then) Palestine. There were many tales of Vera’s car being affected by the smell of gefilte fish which she happily transported for various WIZO functions. Her Charlotte Russe was legendary. Vera led by example.

As State President, Vera supported and encouraged others to take leadership roles in WIZQ and was delighted with their success. A wonderful matriarch of WIZO who was sadly missed.