A Sydney Anglican minister says the Cronulla that gave birth to Sydney's 2005 race riots no longer exists.
The rector of St Andrew's, Cronulla, the Rev Richard Humphrey says that in the brief space of eighteen months he has seen significant changes that are knitting the community back together.
"There have been a number of activities to bring people of Middle Eastern origin down to Cronulla, such as having Islamic surf life savers," he says.
"The things that were going on at North Cronulla don't appear to be going on any more, which is a positive in human terms."
Mr Humphrey's observations were delivered at a Sydney University study day which aimed to understand the realities of religious diversity in Australia's largest city.
The event was hosted by the Women's College Alumni.
Mr Humphrey's take on the challenges and successes facing religious groups was placed alongside that of contributions from Justice Jane Matthews, Professor of Sociology Gary Bouma and ABC Compass presenter Geraldine Doogue.
Other community leaders included Acting Principal of Punchbowl Boys’ High School Jihad Dib, Surf Life Saving Australia's National Diversity Manager Lee Howell and NSW Police Superintendent Rod Smith.
Peace " for now
Mr Humphrey believes it is possible for people of different faiths and no faith at all to co-exist, but only to a certain degree.
"They can co-exist but only at a social level and only if it is desired on all sides.”
He says the riots revealed a current of racism and prejudice that simmered in the heart of Sydney.
"On the night of the revenge attacks I felt angry and sad as I stood in the church grounds watching the violence," he remembers.
"I don't think I have ever felt sadder about humanity."
Mr Humphrey believes residents of Cronulla were right to feel angered by the events of December 2005 but a permanent solution will require more than the courts can deliver.
"Christianity affirms the human desire for justice but also for repentance and forgiveness. It looks forward to a future not of social cohesion but community which is an outworking of the gospel," he told the forum.
Mr Humphrey told the audience Sydneysiders had to aim for more than just the ability to live together.
"Social cohesion should allow room for debate but ultimately true community is to be found in Christ."
