An inspiring new exhibition celebrating the stories and faces of people from diverse cultural backgrounds will be showcased at Swan Hill Library and Robinvale Library throughout March.
Portraits of Many Paths brings together powerful photography and personal stories of local people who live and/or work across the municipality. The exhibition highlights the lived experiences of individuals from a range of cultural backgrounds and communities, sharing their journeys, challenges, hopes and contributions to the region.
The exhibition features photographic portraits accompanied by short written stories, offering a deeply personal insight into the lives of people who help shape the social and cultural fabric of the municipality. Participants have been selected from across Swan Hill, Robinvale and smaller surrounding communities.
The project aims to strengthen community cohesion, celebrate cultural diversity and help break down barriers between different cultural groups. By sharing personal stories, the exhibition encourages understanding, challenges assumptions and highlights both the differences and similarities that connect people across cultures.
The exhibition aligns with Harmony Day and Cultural Diversity Week in March, providing a meaningful opportunity for community members to engage with and learn from the diverse voices within the region.
Local storytelling and photography talent have been central to bringing the exhibition to life, with interviews and photography capturing the stories in an authentic and respectful way.
The exhibition will be held simultaneously at both Swan Hill Library and Robinvale Library from 2 to 31 March 2026, with official opening events planned at each location.
The Swan Hill Library exhibition will be officially opened at 7pm on Wednesday 4 March.
The Robinvale Library exhibition opening will be held at 6pm on Wednesday 11 March.
Library Manager Camille Cullinan said the project offers a powerful way to build understanding and connection within the community.
"This exhibition gives people the opportunity to share their own stories in their own words. It helps break down barriers, builds empathy and highlights the incredible diversity that enriches our community," Ms Cullinan said.
Director Community & Cultural Services Bruce Myers said the exhibition reflects Council's ongoing commitment to strengthening community connection and inclusion.
"Projects like Portraits of Many Paths create opportunities for people to better understand one another and to recognise the many strengths that diversity brings to our municipality," Mr Myers said.
The exhibition, along with several other programs delivered by Swan Hill Regional Library Service, has been made possible through successful Federal Government grant funding to support initiatives that strengthen community cohesion.
Community members are warmly invited to attend the exhibition openings and visit the displays throughout March.
