By Deanne Jeffers
A MAJOR boost has been given to Shepparton’s cultural landscape with a $250,000 donation from the Zurcas family and the Sir Andrew & Lady Fairley Foundation. The contribution was announced at a public event on Friday, October 18, at the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), where representatives from both the Zurcas family and the Fairley Foundation acknowledged the museum’s vital role in supporting the region’s thriving economy.
Nick Zurcas, speaking on behalf of his family, highlighted the personal significance of their donation, honouring the legacy of his grandfather Bill Zurcas, who migrated from Greece to Shepparton more than 80 years ago. Bill became a prominent business figure in the Goulburn Valley, with successful ventures in agriculture, transport, hospitality, and accommodation.
“Our family is pleased to give this gift and partner with SAM, together with the Fairley Foundation,” Nick said. “By giving this gift to Shepparton, we feel that as a family we are honouring his memory and giving back to the community he called home.”
The $125,000 gift from the Zurcas family was matched by an equal contribution from the Sir Andrew and Lady Fairley Foundation, bringing the total to $250,000. This donation marks the conclusion of SAM’s capital campaign, which has now surpassed its original $5M target, raising a total of $7.4M.
“This is a really significant milestone for SAM, and we’re thrilled to celebrate the very generous gift,” said Clare Pullar, SAM Foundation chair.
“We can now celebrate this incredible gateway building to Shepparton, which houses a museum that is very significant for our region, our state, and the nation. We’re grateful to the Zurcas family, who set down roots here 80 years ago, for their donation, along with the support of the Fairley Foundation.”
