'There's no mosque': How this Filipina practised Ramadan and Muslim faith in remote Western Australia

When Maricel Morica’s family arrived in Australia in 2018, they first settled in Balgo and later in Kununurra, Kimberley Region. Observing Ramadan was challenging they were the only ones wearing hijab and abaya, with no nearby mosque or Muslim community for support.

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Key Points

• Maricel Morica reverted to Islam after marrying a Muslim man in the Philippines; however, they later separated. They have three children.
• In 2015, she married an Australian in the Philippines. They were blessed with a child and spent six years living in the Kimberley Region, in an area with a significant Aboriginal community.
• The family moved to Perth in 2025, the capital of Western Australia, and purchased a home to continue and strengthen their faith.

In Perth, where Maricel Morica’s family moved in 2025, they are now blessed with large mosques close to their home, nurturing their faith and bringing their family closer to their spiritual roots. Credit: Maricel Morica

We moved to Perth because observing Ramadan was difficult in Balgo and Kununurra, with no mosque nearby and only our room for prayers. I wanted my children, especially my youngest, to truly experience what it means to live as a Muslim.

Maricel Morica, Balik-Islam

Maricel with her son, who is still living in the Philippines. She hopes to bring him to Australia soon. Credit: Maricel Morica

Maricel Morica’s family moved from Balgo and Kununurra to Perth so she could strengthen the faith of her entire family, especially her youngest child. Credit: Maricel Morica

Maricel Morica is overjoyed to have found a welcoming Muslim community in their new home in Perth. Credit: Maricel Morica

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