New Friends of Monte Annual Lunch 2026
The Event
Successfully running for 43 years, the New Friends of Monte lunch supports Jewish Care's social services, while also providing a great opportunity to meet friends and hear from engaging guest speakers.
Guest Speaker - Jelena Dokic
The former world no. 4 tennis player, Jelena Dokic is a living testament to resilience, triumph, and the unyielding spirit of a true champion.
Beyond the world of grand slams and stadium lights lies a narrative of unparalleled courage and perseverance. A two-time refugee, Jelena bore the weight of adversity early in life, navigating a path fraught with bullying and racism. Yet, her most daunting battle unfolded within the confines of her own home, a harrowing ordeal of abuse endured at the hands of her father for over 15 agonising years, starting at the tender age of 6.
The scars of this traumatic past manifested in the shadows of her success, casting a long, silent shadow on her mental health. Yet, it was this very darkness that ignited a resilient flame within her, a resolve to not only survive but to transcend and thrive.
Jelena emerged as a beacon of hope, bravely sharing her story through the pages of two bestselling books, Unbreakable and Fearless. These powerful narratives unmask the raw realities of her childhood abuse, the labyrinth of mental health struggles, diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and the profound journey of reclaiming one’s voice and strength, unshackling from the chains of the past.
Jelena’s story is a tapestry woven from threads of adversity, courage, and unwavering resilience, a testament to the unbreakable human spirit and the power of finding one's voice, transcending the past, and thriving against all odds.
Venue
Will be advised to guests attending, prior to the event date
Date: Thursday 14 May 2026
Time: 12.30pm-2.30pm
The Event Committee
Debra Kiven (Chair), Emma Carp, Vicki Gordon OAM, Natalie Hershan, Tanya Lewis, Rochelle Mendel
Registration
Please fill in the form below to register your support and/or attendance at what will be a fabulous event.
Your information will be shared with CSG for vetting and security purposes, and your information may be retained and stored by CSG for these ongoing purposes.
Even if you are unable to attend the event, you may still purchase a ticket (note on the form that you are not attending) and it will be deemed a donation and therefore fully tax deductible.