A Final Act of Honour: Kalgoorlie Community Unites for Jewish Doctor’s Burial
In October 2022, the Goldfields community farewelled one of its most respected figures, Dr. Avron Moffson — a devoted physician who served Kalgoorlie for many years with compassion, dignity, and quiet dedication. Deeply loved by his patients and widely regarded as a pillar of the local community, his passing left a profound void.
Just three months prior, Chabad of RARA volunteers had been in Kalgoorlie, and had actually spent half a day trying to track down Dr. Moffson, but as fate would have it, they were unsuccessful in getting ahold of him. A short time later, Avron returned his soul to his maker.
In the absence of a local Jewish infrastructure to conduct a full traditional burial, the responsibility was taken up by Perth’s Jewish community. The Jewish Burial Society of Perth, together with Chabad Of Western Australia, mobilised swiftly to ensure that Dr Moffson would receive the dignity of a proper Jewish farewell.
A group of volunteers undertook the seven-hour journey from Perth to Kalgoorlie, carrying with them not only the practical necessities but also a deep sense of responsibility. Upon arrival, they performed the tahara — the sacred ritual purification — and conducted the funeral in accordance with Jewish law and tradition.
However, one essential element was missing. Without a minyan — a quorum of ten Jewish men — the mourners’ Kaddish, the prayer that affirms faith and honours the deceased, could not be recited.
Determined to complete this final obligation, a decision was made: they would return.
This past Sunday, May 3rd, that commitment was fulfilled. Ten men once again made the long journey to Kalgoorlie, ensuring that a minyan would be present. At the gravesite, prayers were recited, and the Kaddish was finally said — not only for D.r Moffson, but for all those buried in the Jewish section of the cemetery whose voices may no longer have anyone to speak on their behalf.
The consecration of the headstone, generously sponsored by the Jewish Burial Society under the leadership of Jonathan Silbert, marked a poignant and meaningful conclusion to the process. The ceremony was led by Rabbi Shalom White of Chabad, bringing both spiritual closure and communal solidarity to the moment.
Gratitude is extended to the volunteers — Ryan, Noah, Ilan, David, Omri, Daniel, Benjie, and Sam — who gave their time and energy to undertake the 14-hour round trip. Their efforts ensured that honour, tradition, and respect were upheld.
In a place far from large Jewish population centres, this act of devotion stands as a powerful reminder: no Jew is ever truly alone. Even across vast distances, community endures — and dignity, even in death, is never forgotten.
A big thank you to Rabbi Shalom White, The Jewish Burial Society of Perth – Perth Chevra Kadisha, as well as members of the Freemason Lodge that made the tremendous trip to be there for a man that had given to so many.
