General News
26 February, 2026
Worshipers left concerned: Police probe vandalism at Horsham Mosque
Worshippers at the Horsham Mosque say they feel shaken and insecure about attending prayers after graffiti was sprayed on the Stawell Street premises on Tuesday, February 24.
Worshipers said the attack has left them worried about safety at prayer times and concerned it could happen again.
They are calling for stronger protection for all places of worship in Horsham.
"I'm feeling a bit insecure while going to the mosque now," a worshiper said.
"It raised some safety concerns in my mind, especially during this month of Ramadan, when we go to the mosque more than any other month."
Horsham Rural City Council mayor Brian Klowss condemned the act and asked the community to call it out.
"This behaviour is ridiculous; I do not know what people doing this hope to achieve," he said.
"There is no place for this in our community.
"It costs ratepayers money to clean up council-owned and managed buildings.
"If it is a privately owned building, it costs the owners too, so there is always a cost to this behaviour.
"I want community members who see this happening or know who is involved in this behaviour to call it out."
Muhammed, a regular worshiper at the Mosque, condemned the vandalism and called for swift action and stronger security protections for all faith communities.
“I condemn this act of graffiti that happened overnight, and I want authorities to act quickly on this incident,” he said.
“I also want authorities to make sure that all worship places in Horsham are secure and everyone, including Muslims, feels safe in our peaceful town.
“I appreciate the efforts of neighbours who let the mosque committee know about it and the local police to act on it quickly.”
The vandalism was discovered about 8.20am on February 25 and was washed off by mosque committee members on the advice of the police.
A Horsham police spokesperson said the incident was being treated as serious.
Investigators are appealing for witnesses and any CCTV, doorbell camera or dashcam footage from the Stawell Street area during the night.
Anyone who witnessed the incident and has footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppers.com.au.