MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, February 17, 2015 (Herald Sun): An investigation has been launched into whether a Craigieburn house is being used as a Hindu temple. But the home’s owner denied the claims when approached by Hume Leader, despite running a Facebook page promoting prayer sessions and taking donations.
Craigieburn Mata Mandir is listed on Facebook as a Hindu temple in Hanson Rd. operating from 8am-8pm. It has almost 500 likes and posts photos, reviews and event details. A post on November 23 said a new temple was being constructed at the address with a “grand opening” advertised for January 17. There have also been posts encouraging donations with bank account details listed.
After being contacted by Hume Leader, all these posts were removed. City sustainability director Kelvin Walsh said Hume Council was investigating. According to the council, having a place of worship at a residential property could be within the owner’s rights. While residential zones are primarily for housing, they can, in some instances, allow for educational, religious, recreational, community and other uses.