Wednesday 26th March 2025
Open Mon-Fri, 10am to 4pm.
In November 2024 we set out on our first Boundless Plains Retreat, taking a small group of Muslim and non-Muslim creatives to explore Australia's Muslim history through visual arts like photography, painting, and videography. The retreat aimed to deepen understanding of Muslims' contributions to Australian society over the centuries.
Our journey took us to South Australia, where we delved into the legacy of the Afghan Cameleers. Highlights included a walking tour in Adelaide with historian Pamela Rajkowski, visits to the Adelaide City Mosque, North Terrace Cemetery, and the home of Afghan Cameleer herbalist Mahomet Allum. We had Sheikh Helmi Bakhour share insights on the positive societal contributions of Islam and how, as community members continue to be of service to those around us.
On the way to Port Augusta to meet descendants of Afghan Cameleers we stopped at Camel Treks Australia to connect with camels, vital to Australia's historical development. We were then warmly welcomed by the Dadleh family in Port Augusta and learned about their personal histories. At the Standpipe Hotel, once a rest stop for cameleers, we reflected on this rich heritage, also meeting cameleer descendants Rosalind Fulwoord and Clinton Dadleh.
On our return, we visited Janice Mahomed, who shared invaluable relics, including a book published by Mahomet Allum and a translated Quran from the late 19th or early 20th century. We concluded with workshops by Dr. Mehmet and David Purcell on community building and leadership.
This unique journey has inspired our participants, and we look forward to seeing their creative reflections.