Campbelltown’s Civic Centre was filled to capacity as community leaders, faith representatives and residents gathered for Campbelltown City Council’s annual Iftar Dinner marking the holy month of Ramadan, a celebration that continues to grow each year.
Federal MP for Hughes David Moncrieff and NSW Minister and Member for Macquarie Fields Anoulack Chanthivong joined councillors and community figures including Suzie Brandstater representing Wollondilly Mayor Matt Gould, alongside Campbelltown councillors Masood Choudhury, Masud Khalil, Khaled Halabi and Seta Barbari.
Guests shared a generous feast prepared by Alkalizer, with the halwa quickly becoming the talk of the evening.
But beyond the food, the night reflected something deeper: the warmth of a community coming together in unity and mutual respect.
As families, leaders and neighbours gathered around the same tables, the spirit of Ramadan’s message of compassion, reflection and generosity was felt throughout the room.
Mayor Darcy Lound said the gathering highlighted the strength of Campbelltown’s diverse community.
“Council remains committed to supporting local culture and creating events that celebrate the diversity of our city each year,” he said.
“Ramadan is a time of blessing, reflection and spiritual cleansing, when acts of charity and good deeds are encouraged.”
He added that faith can inspire communities to look beyond differences.
“It’s also a time that faith inspires us to care for our neighbours and build a stronger community,” Lound said.
Earlier in the evening, Sheikh Riedwaan Raffie opened proceedings with a message drawn from the Quran, urging compassion and unity, especially throughout Macarthur.
“Let our grief not cause division in the hearts. Let our emotion not cause harm. Let our emotion not stir harm,” he said.
The Sheikh’s words resonated with the crowd, a reminder that gatherings like this are more than a meal. They are moments where understanding grows, friendships form and communities strengthen.
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