Dee Why Masjid: 30 years and going strong!

On Saturday night 5 August, I had the privilege of visiting the Islamic Society of Manly Warringah’s Dee Why Masjid for the first time.

Nestled amidst leafy surroundings at 12 South Creek Rd, Dee Why, on Sydney’s beautiful northern beaches, ISMW Dee Why mosque holds a unique place within the network of almost 150 masjids in New South Wales.

These places of worship, spread principally throughout Greater Sydney and in large to medium-sized regional centres, form an integral part of the NSW Muslim community’s spiritual life.

While the vast majority of mosques have been built in southwestern and western Sydney, the ISMW Dee Why Masjid stands as a beacon of devotion on the northern edge of the city.

Established three decades ago, the ISMW Dee Why Masjid has remained steadfast in its commitment to fostering a devoted and enthusiastic community.

Its journey began when the site, once occupied by a Uniting Church, was taken over by the Islamic Society of Manly Warringah (ISMW) in 1993.

The present-day building, erected in 2000, serves as a symbol of faith and unity among worshippers.

The masjid truly comes alive on Fridays, drawing hundreds of worshippers for the Jumu’ah khutbah; most of them work within the district but reside outside the immediate area.

Spearheaded by the dedicated Faris Bawazier, who has been overseeing the masjid since 2011, the mosque’s team diligently ensures its smooth operation.

Faris and his colleagues not only manage the regular affairs of the mosque but also organise enriching community events, which play a pivotal role in strengthening the bond among worshippers.

One such event led to me visiting the masjid on the night above-mentioned.

The evening’s focal point was a captivating lecture on “The Hijarah of the Prophet,” a topic that was masterfully presented over a span of an hour and a half.

The lecture was delivered by a very knowledgeable three-man panel, comprising Sheikh Bassam Alamaddine, Sheikh Mahmoud Zohbi and Sheikh Emad Alameddin, all long-time, ardent supporters of the Dee Why Masjid.

The event drew an audience of over 80 attendees along with many of their children.

Following the lecture, an enjoyable family barbecue was held – a tradition that has become almost synonymous with gatherings of this kind.

The ISMW Dee Why Masjid stands as a living testament to unity, knowledge and devotion.

Its enduring presence for three decades in an area not generally associated with Muslims signifies its importance as a cornerstone of our community.

With a commitment to faith and community spirit, the masjid remains steadfast in its mission, promising many more years of service and enrichment to come.