I note recent reports of the arrest of a man for bomb hoax, trespass and obstructing police at the Arundel Mosque on the Gold Coast.
Earlier this year, I was honoured to attend the opening of the Arundel Mosque Community Centre. Community leaders from across the Gold Coast and Queensland came together to celebrate the milestone of opening the community centre. At the opening, I heard of the support provided by the Islamic Society of the Gold Coast to those in need.
During Cyclone Alfred, the Islamic Society of the Gold Coast reached out to those needing meals and other support. I have met members of the mosque who have suffered great trauma overseas but who tirelessly prepare meals for the homeless here in Australia. Their generosity of spirit has moved me deeply.
During my time as a Senator, I have seen firsthand how the Queensland Muslim community supports those in need, both in Australia and overseas. I have seen the assistance provided to Queensland communities suffering from drought and bushfire and floods. I have seen the support provided to the homeless and the disadvantaged. I have seen the community reach out to Australians of all faiths and backgrounds.
Now is the time for the community to provide support to members of the Queensland Muslim community – support which reflects how the Queensland Muslim community supports their fellow Queenslanders in need.
This is the second time in three days I have been moved to issue a statement supporting the Queensland Muslim community. It underlines the importance of the work being undertaken by Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.
