Surau Kita — Indonesian Muslim Community of Victoria

History

A Journey of Faith and Community: Our Coburg Center

In 2009, we embarked on a significant journey by renting a small property in Coburg. Little did we know that this humble space would become a stepping stone for numerous initiatives and activities in the years to come. However, the property’s design was not open-plan, which limited the available space for gatherings.

Undeterred, we pressed forward and organized several activities within those walls. From Fajr Prayer (weekends only) to Islamic lectures (Sundays only), Ramadan activities, and Quran teaching for kids, our community came together. And the response was heartwarming
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We understood that every journey begins with a single step, and we entrusted Allah to guide us. In 2011, after 2 years of renting, we took another leap. With a loan, we purchased a warehouse in Coburg North.

The challenges multiplied—loan installments, utility bills, and funds to support our various activities. Yet, we remained committed to maximizing the property’s usage. Our vision included:

Ramadan activities

Friday prayers

Fajr prayer (weekends only)

Regular or ad-hoc Islamic lectures

Quran teaching for kids

Islamic lectures for sisters

Arabic classes

Quran memorization

Sports

We even obtained approval from the local council to use the place as a Place of Assembly. Alhamdulillah.

The picture captures our initial condition—the beginning of our journey. But it didn’t end there. Volunteers and charities rallied around our new center (soon to be a mosque). The space, however, felt cramped during significant events like Ramadan. Still, we persevered.

In 2018, we achieved a significant milestone—paying off the loan. Alhamdulillah.

The image from the last Ramadan before Covid-19 shows our bustling center. But it’s clear: our center is too small. Expansion seems impossible.

Our journey continues, guided by faith and community. May Allah bless our efforts and grant us the means to grow beyond our limitations.