Nearly 5,000 Muslims gathered in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Hunter Valley over the weekend to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. At Foreshore Park, hundreds of residents and visitors participated in early-morning prayers and community festivities.
Rizwaan Rasheed, who moved to the Hunter three years ago, described the initial challenges of fasting. 'The rats are running around in your stomach,' he said, but noted that the discipline of Ramadan fosters gratitude and generosity. 'This month reinforces how easy it is to give,' he added.
The event featured pony and camel rides, a petting pen, and other activities for children. Adults shared meals prepared by vendors, with many noting that the food was provided free of charge. Sophia and Asad Ali, visiting from New Zealand, remarked that such generosity exemplified the true spirit of Islam.
Naushad Ali, a local resident, spoke about the misconceptions surrounding his faith. 'Islam is portrayed very differently in the media... The message of Eid is one of love and peace,' he said. He emphasized that the phrase 'Allahu Akbar' is a declaration of peace, not violence.
Kanij Fatema Alpoma, who moved from Bangladesh in 2020, was reunited with her family for the first time in six years, including her young daughter Amyrah. 'It is very special for me,' she said.
Ramadan concluded on Thursday, March 19, with the weekend's celebration marking the end of the holy month. The next major Islamic festival, Eid al-Adha, is expected in May.
