Month: December 2025

December 16 2025

On Wednesday evening, 10 December, the Ethnic Council of Shepparton & District board members were honoured to attend and support an inspiring gathering hosted by The Door Bells: Migrant Women’s Network

With close to 60 people from migrant and broader community circles in the room, the event was a clear success. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, filled with energy, meaningful conversations, and a shared commitment to celebrating migrant women and the doors they continue to open, often against the odds.

The evening highlighted the importance of connection and belonging. Women came together to share experiences, build new relationships, and connect with others who truly understood their journeys.

We commend The Door Bells: Migrant Women’s Network for creating such an empowering space and look forward to continuing to support and participate in initiatives that uplift, strengthen, and celebrate migrant women in our community.

December 12 2025

Leigh Johnson, Multicultural Liaison officer for the Greater Shepparton Police area was recently awarded the Police Annual Multicultural award at Government House by the Governor of Victoria Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC and the Chief Commissioner of Police, Mike Bush CNZM.

Leigh was humbled to receive the award and attributes the award to the community support and his colleagues. Leigh was honoured to meet the Chief who is also of Maori descent. Leigh enjoys working with our wonderful Multicultural communities in a variety of positive ways.

December 11 2025

Her visit provided a wonderful opportunity to share the work we do in supporting multicultural communities, discuss ongoing projects, and explore future collaborations. We appreciate her time, leadership, and commitment to strengthening community connections across our region.

Thank you, Cr Kaur, for taking the time to visit us while visiting Shepparton.

Goulburn Valley Volleyball Association Inc are excited to share that early bird registrations for Shepp Revival 2026 are officially live!

Grab your team and lock in the discounted entry rate available only for a limited time. Join in for an incredible weekend of volleyball at Shepparton Sports Stadium.

This year is extra special: volleyball will be played on the show courts for the first time ever in a full whole-stadium volleyball takeover!

Whether you’re returning or joining in for the first time, GVVA Inc can’t wait to welcome you to an epic weekend of competition, energy, and community.

Tag your teammates

Share with your club

Get registered early!

Let’s make Shepp Revival 2026 the biggest one yet!

November 25 2025

The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District is proud to support the Safety and Connection for Multicultural Women session.

Date: Tuesday, 2 December

Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm

Location: University of Melbourne – Shepparton Campus, Conference Rooms

The 16 Days of Activism is an international campaign running from 25 November to 10 December, calling for an end to violence against women and promoting human rights for all.

This session is a wonderful opportunity for multicultural women to connect, learn practical safety strategies, and build supportive networks.

November 20 2025

In partnership with Shepparton City Council and Asuria, the Ethnic Council hosted an Information Session for community members interested in starting their own business and we’re excited to share that it was a wonderful success!

We had a fantastic turnout, with strong interest in both Asuria and Damien’s presentations. Their insights were valuable, inspiring, and greatly appreciated by everyone who attended.

We’re proud to continue supporting our community in exploring new opportunities and building their futures.

November 17 2025

The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District is proud to be delivering the Empowered Voices – Understanding Rights and Respect program at Greater Shepparton Secondary College (GSSC).

This culturally responsive wellbeing and education initiative is designed to support young female students from multicultural backgrounds by strengthening their knowledge, confidence, and understanding of their rights in Australia.

Over the first two sessions in October, 49 young women from Afghani, Iraqi, Syrian, African, and other multicultural communities participated. Their enthusiasm has been inspiring, with many requesting that sessions be held weekly!

Through this program, students are learning how to recognise discrimination, understand their legal rights, and access support when needed. Multilingual resources in Dari, Arabic and Swahili ensure every young woman can fully engage in a safe, inclusive and empowering space.

Together with GSSC, we are helping build confidence, resilience, and strong advocacy skills in the next generation of young women in our community.

November 13 2025

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) recently hosted its End of Year Celebration at Broadmeadows Town Hall, drawing in hundreds of community members, leaders, and partners from across Victoria. The evening was a joyful reflection on the many cultures, connections, and achievements that continue to make our state such a vibrant place to live.

From captivating performances to heartfelt speeches, the event was a true showcase of the spirit of multicultural Victoria, honouring resilience, unity, and the power of community. Guests enjoyed cultural entertainment, meaningful discussions, and the opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for inclusion and diversity.

The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District proudly acknowledges the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) for over 40 years of support and dedication to strengthening multicultural communities and fostering understanding among people of all backgrounds across Victoria.

November 7 2025

We extend our sincere gratitude to The Hon. Jacinta Allan MP, Premier of Victoria, for her kind words and recognition of our work.

Since 1985, the Ethnic Council of Shepparton & District has been proudly supporting multicultural communities across the Shepparton region, advocating for inclusion and celebrating diversity for 40 years.

This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our board, staff, volunteers and the many community members who have contributed along the way. As we reflect on four decades of service, we remain committed to building a more connected, vibrant and inclusive community for all.

Thank you, Premier, for acknowledging our journey and for supporting our shared vision for a stronger, more inclusive Victoria.

October 29 2025

We’re proud that our newest Board Member, Mariola Nebiu, will be speaking in an upcoming national webinar on building inclusive and harmonious communities.

Mariola, Multicultural Engagement Officer at Greater Shepparton City Council, is a passionate advocate for social cohesion and the empowerment of diverse women.

Webinar highlights:

Giridharan Sivaraman – Race Discrimination Commissioner and architect of the National Anti-Racism Framework

Blaise Itabelo – National Community Engagement Manager, Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia

Mariola Nebiu – Multicultural Engagement Officer, Greater Shepparton City Council

Moderated by Lizzie Kuoth – Refugee Council of Australia Ambassador and Victorian Multicultural Commissioner