IN a timely and telling reminder of the importance of cultural diversity and the harmony in which Greater Shepparton’s rich ethnic tapestry co-exists, a very special tour took place on Wednesday, June 18, offering participants the opportunity to witness firsthand the vibrant traditions, shared values, and religious diversity of the region’s multicultural communities.
The Cultural Bus Tour was comprised of the Goulburn Murray Community Leadership (GMCL) 2025 Fairley Leadership cohort, alongside alumni, program sponsors and local stakeholders.
Proudly delivered in partnership with the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District, the tour visited:
Shepparton Heritage Centre
GV Turkish Islamic Cultural Centre & Mosque
Shepparton Albanian Society (Mosque)
Sikh Temple- Gurdwara Sahib
Nabi Akram Islamic Centre
An immersive experience that brought together current Leadership participants as well as community stakeholders, the Cultural Bus Tour was an opportunity for the group to hear directly from faith leaders about the unique histories, traditions, and contributions of each group, as well as the challenges faced by multicultural communities in the region.
“Seeing the Afghani Mosque beside the Sikh temple, where followers of both faiths peacefully practice their beliefs, is a powerful symbol of harmony. It reflects the beauty of coexistence in a diverse community. It was beautifully organised, and my heart is full witnessing the diversity and harmony within our community,” said one attendee.
For the GMCL, the tour was an exercise in working to fulfill its commitment to fostering inclusive leadership that reflects the voices and lived experiences of all regional and rural Victorians.
While not all communities were included in the tour, the GMCL acknowledges that there are, of course, many other communities that are equally important, and endorses the ongoing participation of all in local cultural events as well as ongoing dialogue with diverse community groups across the Goulburn Murray.
