Muslim community's search continues

The South West Muslim community is searching for a place to pray after a failed bid to build a mosque and agreements with the Bunbury Returned and Services League fell through.

The Islamic Association of Bunbury had an agreement to use the RSL hall when available, but other commitments ruled it out.

Earlier this year the association made a bid to the Dardanup Shire Council to build a 640sq m mosque on a vacant block on Coleman Turn in Picton East.

But a delay by the council to further inform surrounding residents meant the contract the association had with the owners of the land expired before a decision was made.

Islamic Association of Bunbury spokesman Dr Fahad Ashraf said about 50 to 70 people attended the prayer sessions.

“In the region we have about 150 families living in Bunbury and about another 150 living around Bunbury, ” he said.

“Most of them are now praying wherever they can, but there is no particular location.

“We are looking for a facility we can use on a Friday at about lunchtime which is easily commutable and accessible.”

Dr Ashraf said the association would again make a bid for a mosque in the Dardanup shire.

“I believe we will go through the Dardanup Shire Council again because they have been helpful and the land which is suitable is falling in their shire, ” he said.

“I find it entrusting the council were so positive towards the proposal of the mosque, they were accessible and honest. They guided as a lot through the process.”