Once upon a time, there was an optimistic piece of global futurism situated in the northern end of Shepparton called International Village.
Planning commenced in the 1970s with much support from local businesses and ethnic leaders, with the theme for the village to “encourage international understanding, goodwill and peace.”
As visitors travelled around International Village, they were travelling around the globe, taking in the culture and stories from The Netherlands, South Korea, Japan, China, Philippines, Greece, Italy, and for Australia, the Aboriginal Keeping Place (now known as Bangerang Cultural Centre.)
Throughout the years, locals enjoyed the unique adventure park with its huge playground and many brilliant picnic spots. It was a great space to educate and to gain crucial understanding of the many cultures that make up the Goulburn Valley.
By the late 1990s, The International Village began to need costly renovation and in the early 2000s, most of the adventure park was demolished to make way for housing.
The only remnants of International Village are the Philippine House (the only of its kind in Australia) and Bangerang Cultural Centre.
Thanks to Shepparton Heritage Centre and Lost Shepparton for their assistance.
