
MELBOURNE, 13 January, 2025: The Wyndham Central College, Werribee, will soon open its doors for the ‘Guruji Mandir’ (Hindu temple), to do temple activities, i.e., gather, worship, and heal while the original temple at Syers Road, Hoppers Crossing , is restored, after being destroyed by an devastating electrical fire on 4 January, 2025.
The announcement was made by Acting Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll and John Lister Labor Candidate for Werribee that the Wyndham Central College’s community hall will be made available as a temporary space for the affected Hindu community to gather, worship, and heal while the mandir is being restored for the short term.
Acting Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said, “I am immensely proud of the rich and proud history of multiculturalism we have here in Victoria. Our Hindu Victorian community is a huge contributor to that.”
“During times of devastation it’s so important that we can come together to support and care for each other. The fire has left many in shock and I want to thank Wyndham Central College for swiftly acting to provide a safe place to gather while the temple is rebuilt.”
Access to the community hall will be outside of school hours on weekends only, allowing minimal disruption to the existing school community.
John Lister Labor Candidate for Werribee said, ” I know how important it is for our Hindu community to be able to continue practicing their faith and I thank Wyndham Central College for opening their doors following the tragic fire at Guruji Mandir.”
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt said, “We are ensuring the Hindu community have every opportunity to come together and celebrate their culture here in Werribee and across Wyndham.”
“We’re proud to continue our work to support Victoria’s Hindu community and ensure that all Victorians have spaces where they can feel proud and safe to express who they are.”