A hugely successful Ramadan festival was held in Campbelltown over the past two years. The second one, in March this year, went over two nights, while the first Ramadan in 2023 was on for just one evening.
Thousands of people attended the two festivals, but earlier this year it became clear that there was no more state government grant funding for future Ramadan festivals in Campbelltown.
But a successful notice of motion at last week’s Campbelltown Council meeting could lead to Ramadan becoming a permanent fixture.
Councillor Masud Khalil told council that it took only two Ramadan festivals to make it an iconic event in Campbelltown.
“It was very successful, thousands of people attended,’’ he told the council.
Cr Khalil, pictured at right, said Ramadan was a cultural event open to everybody in the community.
“It is not a religious celebration, it’s a cultural event,’’ he said.
“Ramadan is an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together.
“This would strengthen our commitment to be an inclusive community.
“Ramadan would bring our community closer together,’’ Cr Khalil said.
The motion, which was supported by all councillors except Cr Adam Zahra, asked:
“That a report be presented to Council to provide an overview of Council’s events program and outline funding strategies to include the Ramadan Festival in 2026 as an ongoing part of the annual program, acknowledging its importance in promoting cultural diversity, fostering community engagement, and enhancing inclusion within the region.
“If an event application is submitted for a 2025 Ramadan event, that Council consider in kind support as part of the application.
“That Council continues to pursue funding opportunities through relevant government grants to support the ongoing costs of the Ramadan Festival, ensuring its long-term sustainability and future growth.
“That Council collaborates with business and community stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and support for the funding of Ramadan Festival, contributing to its success and expanding its reach within the community.
“That any Council involvement or support in the event ensures that promotion of the Ramadan Festival is for the whole of community and that the festival organisers are encouraged to ensure the event is inclusive to all people.’’
The Feast is a “cultural” event.
Ramadan on Q is a “religious” event.
Multiculturalism is for “culture” not religion. This is where some people are confusing the two. The are two very separate things.
Fishers ghost is for ALL cultures and brings in over 100k people. Ramadan on Q brought in 20k, the stall holders weren’t local shops either.
Winterfest is for ALL cultures.
First, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Campbelltown City Council for organizing the Christmas lighting event, which was reintroduced last year. This celebration is not only a religious observance but also a source of pride for our region. It brings together people from all backgrounds, regardless of belief, color, or race, to unite on a common platform. This spirit of unity is our greatest strength and a true reflection of Australia’s multicultural values.
I would also like to highlight the Ramadan Festival, which I initiated, with funding support from the NSW Multicultural Ministry and a small contribution from the Council. It is important to recognize that all of this is made possible through the taxes and rates paid by residents, as the government believes in supporting all Australians. These initiatives strengthen our community and contribute to building a powerful, unified society that can play a key role on the global stage, boosting our economy.
Unfortunately, there are those who may seek to divide us, either out of ignorance or for political or personal gain. They fail to understand that the strength of our democracy lies in our unity. As a community, Campbelltown stands strong and united—there is no place for hatred here. If anyone attempts to spread division, Campbelltown will raise its voice in defiance.
Let us continue to celebrate all events that bring us together, and work towards creating a harmonious and thriving Campbelltown. A special thanks to the First Nations people, who have warmly welcomed multiculturalism and allowed us to settle here. Let us be vigilant against the forces of hatred that seek to divide us.
Cr Khalil has completely gone over the top in his reply to the first comment. The woman is not attempting to divide anyone or any society, she is simply making an observation…it is called free speech.
Cr Khalil needs to mind his manners.
I, too, do not understand how he can possibly call Ramadan a cultural event.