Who we are Our team Our staff Chief Executive OfficerRachel Tanny [email protected]A capable, collaborative leader with a passion for making a difference, Rachel Tanny brings wisdom and consideration that belie her years. She is a social advocate and changemaking force to be reckoned with.Since her appointment in 2018, Rachel has established a reputation for delivery, leaving an indelible mark on the present and the future of the organisation. Professionally, a reputation for passion, drive, and delivery. On a personal level warm, caring, and, according to COA’s staff, incredibly funny. In short, Rachel is a dynamic leader with experience and reliable results.Chief Operations OfficerSabina Kovadlo[email protected]It is immensely rewarding to make a difference on a daily basis as COA operations manager. I feel privileged to witness the joy and the happiness brought to our members through the efforts of our staff and volunteers, be it through social events, educational program, Hannah Meyer Project or providing nutritional meals and home support.Development OfficerSandy Matrai[email protected]I have been with COA on and off, as a volunteer and paid worker, since 1986. I come from a teaching and IT background, and use my skills to produce grant submissions, policy and procedure, the COA newsletter, advertising, editorial, and this website. I love people, and my favorite part of the job is presenting the Sunday Movie so I can schmooze with our members.Chief Provisioning OfficerDavid Politzer[email protected]After working in concert touring and music events, David has turned his sights back to the community and the COA. Working in the Provisions department, and the COA as a whole, is fantastic and incredibly fulfilling. It allows me to interact with some incredible people and ensure that we assist in providing nutritious and delicious meals to those who need it most.Office ManagerSharon Monty[email protected]I have been at COA since 2002. Sitting in the reception for our office I love meeting new people and schmoozing with our regulars.Social WorkerSuzanne Itzkovitz[email protected]I have come from a teaching and administration background even though I am a trained social worker. I am glad to be able to use my social work skills for the benefit of COA members.Social WorkerMordechai Levin[email protected]I have a sincere passion for establishing close rapport with individuals and ensuring our community’s needs are being met. My other interests include singing and painting and I try to carry those talents with me no matter where I am or what I am doing. COA has granted me this amazing opportunity incorporating both my psychology and counselling studies in conjunction with my genuine desire to bring about positive change within the Jewish community. Kosher Meals AdministrationEdwin Garth[email protected]I came to COA on a work placement over 15 years ago and have been here ever since handling the computer side of meals deliveries and reporting meals statistics to the government each quarterVolunteer ManagerSamantha Peirson[email protected]I am an enthusiastic people person with a passion for supporting our members in their independence. While I am training to be a social worker at university, I am taking on the challenge of coordinating COA’s vast team of volunteers. I am so looking forward to working with this amazing team who honestly COA would be nowhere without.Member Engagement ManagerRuth Sitver[email protected]I am at COA on Mondays and Wednesdays working with our members and presenting large group activities, including live music and dancing.Transport CoordinatorDorrit Mahemoff[email protected]I worked for many years with Burger Centre organising transport until retirement. But when COA required some help organising their transport I came in to help and stayedAccountantDavid Nathan[email protected]I worked full time for many years, in and out of the Jewish community, and when my time came I retired. But retirement was too dull, so when COA was looking for a part time accountant, I threw my hat in the ring.Events Booking & AccountsJackie Ryker[email protected]I joined COA in 2017 as a volunteer 1 day a week. This has now evolved into a 4 day week, doing general accounts, administration, and taking bookings for events and functions. I’m so happy to be giving back to the community and interacting with our members.Administration and PA to CEOBenita Weinberg[email protected]After working for AJN for 35 years I then came to COA as a volunteer delivering meals and then as staff. I love COA and all the people here so much so that I was made office Mummy. I love how we look after our elderly and all we can do for them.DriverDavid Brem[email protected]I work at COA as the main driver for COA’s Mystery Bus Outings on Tuesday and Thursday. I also help in the kitchen and with anything that needs to be done in the centre. I also volunteer at the local Men’s Shed and enjoy making things with my own hands.Chef and DriverRami HarelI had worked occasionally for COA as a driver for about 10 years. A couple of years ago Rachel asked me to come in permanently to drive and to help in the kitchen. I decided to improve the offerings for lunch by making hot lunches at least once weekly. I also shop for fruit and vegetables in Flemington markets for our COA Fresh service.Centre Handy Man and DriverPaul SkerwiderskiI have worked with COA for over 20 years as a driver, a maintenance man, and setting up the COA Krygier centre for various activities. I enjoy spending time with our clients and have grown to know them very well over the years.