Greater Shepparton proudly welcomed Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, for a two-day visit last week, celebrating the people, organisations and communities that contribute to the vibrancy and strength of our region.
The visit culminated on Friday 9 October, with the Governor General officially opening the 150th Shepparton Show, a significant milestone which recognised the Show's long-standing contribution to the region and its strong agricultural heritage.
The Governor-General's visit followed an invitation extended by Mayor, Councillor Geoff Akers, and former Mayor Shane Sali during the Australian Local Government Association conference in Canberra earlier this year. The milestone 150th Shepparton Show provided the perfect opportunity to welcome Her Excellency to the region to celebrate the people and communities that make Greater Shepparton truly special.
Cr Akers said the visit provided an invaluable opportunity to showcase the people, projects and organisations helping shape Greater Shepparton's future.
"We were honoured to welcome the Governor-General to our region and share the stories of those making a positive difference across our community," he said.
"Throughout her visit, the Governor-General met people from all walks of life and gained a firsthand understanding of the strength, diversity and community spirit that defines Greater Shepparton."
During her time in Greater Shepparton, the Governor-General visited CFA District 22 Headquarters to meet emergency service personnel and volunteers who have supported communities through significant emergency events, including the 2022 floods and more recent bushfire response.
As Chief Scout of Australia, the Governor-General also spent time with members of the 1st North Scouts Shepparton, recognising young people and volunteers for their achievements and contributions to Scouting.
The Governor-General also visited Gowrie Street Primary School to learn about the Hands on Learning program, meeting students and educators and seeing firsthand how innovative approaches are helping young people build confidence, engagement and life skills.
A civic reception hosted by Greater Shepparton City Council at the Shepparton Art Museum on Thursday evening, brought together community leaders and representatives to formally welcome the Governor-General in celebrating the region's achievements and aspirations. The reception also provided an opportunity to showcase SAM and the nationally significant Archibald Prize exhibition currently on display, which features a portrait of the Governor-General painted by artist James Powditch.
On Friday morning, the Governor-General joined representatives from Greater Shepparton's multicultural communities at a breakfast hosted by the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District, highlighting the diversity that continues to enrich the region. The Govenor-General also toured the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence, meeting First Nations leaders to learn about the centre's work in education, leadership and cultural development and key priorities for our First Nations community.
The visit concluded in Mooroopna, where the Governor-General viewed the completed Lenne Street Drainage Project, hearing about the region's flood recovery journey and the infrastructure investments helping build long-term community resilience following the 2022 floods.
Cr Akers said the visit was an opportunity to showcase both the challenges and successes of the region.
"One of the stories we wanted to share with the Governor-General was how our community responds when faced with adversity. Greater Shepparton has experienced significant challenges in recent years, but we are defined by how we come together, support one another and continue moving forward," he said.
"The visit also gave residents and community organisations a direct opportunity to share local experiences and priorities with the Governor-General, including Council's advocacy for a second Goulburn River crossing to help keep our communities connected during emergencies.
"We are proud of our volunteers, our young people, our multicultural communities, our First Nations leaders, our farmers and our community organisations. Together, they reflect the diversity, strength and character of Greater Shepparton, it was a privilege to share their stories with the Governor-General during her visit."
More photos from the civic reception available on request.
