The establishment of Greater Shepparton’s LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee in 2021 marked a significant step forward in advocacy and representation for the region’s queer community.
The committee plays a vital role in guiding Greater Shepparton City Council on inclusive policies and future planning, helping ensure decisions reflect the needs and voices of LGBTQIA+ people.
One standout achievement is the addition of a Pride Cow to the region’s iconic Mooving Art herd in November 2024. Created as part of the LGBTQIA+ Action Plan and developed in consultation with community members and endorsed by Council, the colourful cow symbolises visibility, celebration and pride.
The unveiling coincided with the raising of a permanent rainbow flag at Eastbank and launch of OUTintheOPEN 2024, aligned with the festival’s theme, ‘Colour my World’.
Artist Ruby Wyatt Carter said the artwork features 27 different pride flags hidden among its feathers.
“But that’s only the surface of the LGBTQIA+ community,” she said. “I hope when people see the cow and notice a flag/feather they are not familiar with; they would look it up to find out. Even myself, as deep in the community as I am, I’m still learning about new identities and ways of expression.”
