The Mayor of Campbelltown, Paul Hawker, has hosted an iftar dinner for members of the local Muslim community.
It was the first time Campbelltown City Council had hosted an Iftar event.
Iftar is the meal served at sunset during Ramadan, as Muslims break the daily fast.
Muslims traditionally first break the fast with dates and either water or a yogurt drink.
After prayer they have a full-course meal, usually consisting of soup, salad, appetizers and main dishes.
“I am proud to be involved in this formal acknowledgement and celebration of the observance of Ramadan by so many of our city’s residents,’’ Mr Hawker said at the dinner last week.
“Our local Islamic community continues to grow, with more than 8,000 residents identifying as being of Islamic faith in the 2011 census – representing a 30 percent increase from 2006, and almost 6 percent of our city’s population.
“I have no doubt that this year’s census will confirm that these numbers have increased substantially since then.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The growing Muslim population is reflective of the diversity of the Campbelltown community – a community that has also proven itself to be welcoming, supportive and appreciative of the benefits that a variety of cultures and religions bring,” Cr Hawker said.[/social_quote]
As part of the dinner, the Mayor presented a Community Service Award to the President of the Australian Muslim Welfare Centre Incorporated, Dr Mohammad Ilyas.
“On behalf of Campbelltown City Council and the wider Campbelltown community, I’d like to present the Australian Muslim Welfare Centre Incorporated with this Community Service Award, in recognition of the organisation’s work in helping to foster community knowledge and understanding of the Muslim faith,’’ Mr Hawker said.
“We look forward to your continued involvement and participation in the Campbelltown community, and your ongoing commitment to joining Campbelltown City Council in highlighting the strengths and opportunities that make Campbelltown City a great place to live, work, play and invest.”
