WHETHER it’s advanced surgery, new ways to deliver care in the community, or the breakthroughs emerging from the Goulburn Valley’s food and dairy sector, the message is clear: health innovation in the Goulburn Valley is leading the way at home and abroad, according to the Committee for Greater Shepparton’s (C4GS) first major event for 2026.
The event brought together leaders from across the Goulburn Valley to highlight how innovation in health, food manufacturing and digital technology is reshaping care in the region.
C4GS Chair Leigh Findlay said the event was designed to put a spotlight on local talent and new ideas.
“We wanted to demonstrate that some of the most exciting developments in health are happening right here – in our hospitals, clinics, factories and tech networks,” Leigh said.
The event featured two panel discussions and a lineup of speakers representing hospitals, primary care, education, digital infrastructure, food and grocery manufacturing, and specialist clinical services:
Matt Sharp – Chief Executive, Goulburn Valley Health
Neelu Kaur – Chief Information Officer, Hume Rural Health Alliance
Jacque Phillips – Chief Operations Officer, Murray Primary Health Network
Dr Kim Houghton – Regional Wellbeing Project, University of Canberra
Michelle Cobb – Regional Development and Engagement Manager, nbn Local
Janine Waller – Chief Executive Officer, Australian Dairy Products Federation
Noel Mitchell – Northern Victorian Orthotics and Prosthetics (NVOPs)
Dr Duncan Craig – Director, Nutrition and Regulation, Australian Food and Grocery Council
Tom Davey – Podiatrist and Director, GV Sportscare, Physio, Podiatry & Myotherapy
The evening opened with a video message from Dr Sandro Demaio, Director and Head of the World Health Organisation Asia Pacific Centre for Environment and Health, who has strong family links to Shepparton and spoke about the importance of regional leadership in health and wellbeing.
The first panel explored how better use of data, connectivity and digital tools is transforming the way services are planned and delivered, while the second panel focused on practical examples of innovation being led by local clinicians, manufacturers and allied health professionals.
“These conversations showed how technology, research and industry partnerships are giving people more options for treatment and recovery without leaving the region,” Leigh said.
