Thousands joins Eid celebrations across the State

• More than 40,000 Western Australian Muslims are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr and the end of Ramadan
• The McGowan Government has supported Eid-ul-Fitr events with $25,000 via the Office of Multicultural Interests

Thousands of people across Western Australia are celebrating the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid-ul-Fitr - one of the most important times in the Islamic calendar.

Eid-ul-Fitr, which translates into 'festival of breaking the fast', is marked by spending time with family and friends and doing charitable deeds.

Eid events are now some of the biggest community festivals in this State and are enjoyed by Western Australia's Muslim communities as well as by increasing numbers from the wider community.

This year, the McGowan Government is supporting Eid events, via the Office of Multicultural Interests' Community Grants Program, including:

•  the Australian Arab Association's Multicultural Eid Carnival with a grant of $12,500; and
• the Islamic Centre of WA's Eid festivals at Kings Park and Whiteman Park, and Australian Islamic College in Kewdale with a grant of $12,500.

These events, together with many others happening across the State, enliven and contribute significantly to Western Australia's rich cultural diversity.

For more information, visit http://www.omi.wa.gov.au

Comments attributed to Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia:

"Our cultural diversity - of which Western Australian Muslims are a vital part - creates innovation, energy and momentum that benefits every one of us.

"The events happening across the State to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr are bringing communities together and enabling us to work towards a harmonious and cohesive society.

"It's a great pleasure to wish Western Australia's Muslim communities Eid Mubarak during this important and joyful time."

Minister's office - 6552 5600