NORTHERN Victoria’s largest education, training and employment expo is taking place this Thursday, May 8, at the Multipurpose Pavilion, Shepparton Showgrounds – and this year’s event will see one of the biggest activations yet.
With 3,000 students registered and more than 90 local employers and education providers involved, this invite-only event offers a major opportunity to young people to explore hands-on career pathways in fields including trades, health, agriculture, defence, hospitality and more.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Shane Sali said the event was a highlight for students across North East Victoria.
“Careers Day Out is designed to cater to the unique needs of our region’s workforce and the next generation of employees,” Cr Sali said.
“What makes Careers Day Out truly special is its emphasis on regional collaboration. This collective effort ensures students have access to a wide range of career, education and training pathways which will set them up for a successful career, and enable them to positively contribute to the community.”
This year, Careers Day Out is proud to spotlight Koorie youth representation with more than 16 exhibitors featuring Koorie-led services, programs and staff. The Koorie Representation will offer support and guidance for career pathways and opportunities.
Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer Eric Egan from Victoria Police will be on-site, alongside Police Aboriginal Liaison Officers (Palos) and LGBTIQA+ Liaison Officers (LLOs), to connect with students and speak about culturally safe pathways into policing and public service.
GV Health will share their 2026 traineeship opportunities and career pathways, including roles identified specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
“The aim is to ensure young First Nations people feel represented and encouraged in their Career Journeys” said Bec Costa-Lowe, Goulburn Murray Local Learning & Employment Network Inc. (GMLLEN).
Snapshot of what to expect:
• Watters Electrical is offering hands-on tech challenges, including programming security systems and exploring trade-based career pathways
• The Health Hub will feature a high-energy mix of demonstrations including CPR races, vaping awareness displays, smoothie bikes, airway trainers, and interactive radiotherapy simulations by GenesisCare
• The ADF is rolling in with drones, field displays, and G-wagons, with Defence personnel available to speak to students about recruitment and lifestyle
• Careers Day Out has partnered with J Vella Builders for the Cubby Build Activation inviting students to get hands-on with tools and construction techniques as they help build a cubby house that will be donated to an organisation in need
• Goulburn Murray Water will bring fun and learning together with their popular “Skid Track”, jar testing demonstration and pipe activities to teach students about water quality and infrastructure in an engaging way.
• GOTAFE will be activating several of their departments across the event, giving students the chance to explore a wide range of training options and hands-on learning experiences. Staff will be available to talk about courses, pathways, and how students can get started on their career journey
The event is presented by the Goulburn Murray Local Learning & Employment Network Inc. (GMLLEN) in collaboration with the Greater Shepparton City Council, with support from local schools, industries and training providers.
