Wollongong's Islamic community began Ramadan celebrations on Saturday, marking the start of a month of communal fasting and prayer.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Omar Mosque in Gwynneville is hosting Ramadan gatherings in the evening, attracting around 40 observers each night.
Chairman of the Omar Mosque, Dr Munir Hussain, said this year's religious observation is especially significant, as the community can gather in-person again after COVID-19 restrictions disrupted usual practices last year.
He said these community interactions are key during Ramadan.
"Unity is very important to us," Dr Munir said.
"Our community breaks the fast together. There are Muslims here from 18 different nationalities and we all get along together."
Read more: Ramadan begins in much of Middle East
During the holiest month of the Muslim calendar, Ramadan observers must abstain from activities, such as eating and drinking, from sunrise to sunset.
After sundown, many in the Islamic community come together for prayer and to share Iftar meals.
Ramadan finishes on 1 May with the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, involving prayer, feasts, games and gifts.
The Illawarra Mercury newsroom is funded by our readers. You can subscribe to support our journalism here.
