On Saturday, 27 September 2025, the Adelaide Convention Centre’s Panorama Ballroom was filled with history, community spirit, and celebration as the Islamic Association of South Australia (ISSA) marked its 70th Anniversary Dinner & Networking Celebration. This historic milestone honoured the journey of the oldest registered Islamic organisation in Australia, established in 1955, which has stood as a pillar of service, unity, and faith for seven decades.
The evening opened with a powerful video presentation that reflected on ISSA’s seventy year journey, charting its humble beginnings, its challenges, and the many milestones that have defined its growth. The audience was reminded of the sacrifices and dedication of generations who helped build a strong and thriving Muslim community in South Australia, while also strengthening interfaith understanding and contributing to wider Australian society.
This year’s anniversary was not only about looking back, but also about standing in solidarity with those suffering today. All proceeds from the event are being directed to support Gaza, and guests were deeply moved by the news that Dr. Waleed Alkhazrajy, ISSA Treasurer and a respected anaesthetist, has personally travelled into Gaza on a medical mission. For the next three weeks, inshAllah, he will be providing urgent care for the injured and those in desperate need, embodying ISSA’s values of service and compassion.
The keynote address was delivered by Bob Carr, journalist and former Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, who spoke with great passion about the ongoing Palestine–Gaza crisis, urging awareness, empathy, and collective responsibility. The evening also featured thought-provoking speeches from Professor Mohammad Abdalla AM and Professor Talal Yassine AM, both of whom offered wisdom and inspiration, reminding the audience of the importance of resilience, unity, and moral courage in challenging times.
The dinner also welcomed the presence of distinguished guests including The Hon. Zoe Bettison MP and The Hon. Jing Lee MLC, who joined community leaders, professionals, and policy makers in celebrating this important milestone. Their attendance reflected the strong ties ISSA has built across South Australia’s broader social and political landscape, as well as the recognition of the community’s contributions to the state.
Among the other special invitees were Fayaad Hamid and Aakyl Haniffa from the Sri Lankan Muslim Association of South Australia (SLMASA). This recognition holds great significance for SLMASA, as it highlights the growing acknowledgement of the association by larger organisations and its inclusion in major community milestones. It represents an exciting step forward for SLMASA, which is committed to building stronger partnerships, engaging in important events, and continuing its growth to reach greater achievements.
As the night drew to a close, there was a strong sense that the celebration was about more than just a milestone. It was a reflection of seventy years of dedication and service, a heartfelt show of solidarity with the people of Gaza, and a renewed commitment to building a stronger future. The 70th Anniversary Dinner was not only a tribute to ISSA’s legacy, but also an inspiring reminder of the values that will carry the community forward for generations to come.
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