The event, held in partnership with Benevolence Australia at the UMMA Centre in Doncaster, brought together more than 240 community members, including young people from local and neighbouring schools and mosques.
In the lead up to the event, Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton expressed his honour in being able to take part in the special event and deliver a keynote address on the night.
“Victoria Police is proud to have hosted Iftar dinners since 2005 to promote a harmonious and multi-faith society and strengthen relationships with the Muslim community,” CCP Ashton said.
On the night, CCP Ashton thanked the VPMA for their dedication and excellent leadership, highlighting the recent shoulder to shoulder walk they organised to show support for their Muslim colleagues following the Christchurch mosque terror attacks.
Among this year’s special attendees included representatives from New Zealand’s Muslim community and police. Inspector Peter Copper from Canterbury Police, and Anthony (Jamal) Green from the Al-Noor Mosque in New Zealand each delivered keynote speeches at the Iftar dinner.
Established in September 2013, the VPMA was formed to promote social harmony and cohesion, and raise the profile of Muslims working in Victoria Police. Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton is the proud patron.
VPMA President Sergeant Maha Sukkar said she felt humbled at the great turnout at this year’s dinner.
“We are lucky in Victoria to have many vibrant and diverse communities but in order to do a good job, we must have good relationships with our community,” Sergeant Sukkar said.
