Shepparton’s vibrant event scene takes center stage

MAJOR EVENTS UPDATE... Businesses and partners were invited to a luncheon at the Arcadia Fish Hatchery to hear what Greater Shepparton City Council is planning to stimulate the economy and increase visitation to the region, including the new Goulburn Regional Tourism (GRT) Partnership, the 2024 events calendar, and exciting campaigns local businesses can leverage. Pictured is Greater Shepparton City Council's economical department manager Anthony Nicolaci, major events team leader Sharlene Putman, Shepparton Festival director Kristen Retallick, Council's team leader for visitor economy Ingrid Thomas, Victorian Fisheries Authority Arcadia program manager Ryan Burniston, and Council CEO Fiona Le Gassick. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

By Deanne Jeffers

LOCAL businesses joined Greater Shepparton City Council for the Shepparton & Goulburn Valley tourism and major events industry network luncheon. Held at the new Arcadia Fish Hatchery, the event buzzed with anticipation as attendees learned about the exciting lineup of events and activities set to captivate visitors throughout the year.

Arcadia Fish Hatchery, which opened its doors in December, is set to undergo a thrilling $10M expansion. This expansion promises to enhance its offerings, opening doors to a world of new possibilities across its sprawling 170-hectare site.

From community assets and events to exciting local offerings, the luncheon also showcased the region’s culinary delights, with Northend Bakehouse presenting their award-winning vanilla slices and hot cross buns, named the best in the country.

MAJOR EVENTS UPDATE… Businesses and partners were invited to a luncheon at the Arcadia Fish Hatchery to hear what Greater Shepparton City Council is planning to stimulate the economy and increase visitation to the region, including the new Goulburn Regional Tourism (GRT) Partnership, the 2024 events calendar, and exciting campaigns local businesses can leverage. Pictured is Greater Shepparton City Council’s economical department manager Anthony Nicolaci, major events team leader Sharlene Putman, Shepparton Festival director Kristen Retallick, Council’s team leader for visitor economy Ingrid Thomas, Victorian Fisheries Authority Arcadia program manager Ryan Burniston, and Council CEO Fiona Le Gassick. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Mayor Councillor Shane Sali expressed his pride in the region’s event expertise, declaring, “We do events better than any other regional city in Australia. Not Victoria, Australia.”

Ingrid Thomas, Greater Shepparton City Council’s team leader for visitor economy, provided updates on upcoming activations, including the establishment of the new Goulburn Regional Tourism (GRT) Partnership. This initiative is actively seeking new board members and offers collaborative campaigns aimed at bolstering the region’s visitor economy.

Endorsed by the Council in December, the GRT project represents a joint effort between Greater Shepparton City, Mitchell Shire, and Strathbogie Shire Councils. Its goal is to ensure equitable access to resources and funding for tourism projects across the region and the state.

Sharlene Putman, team leader of major events at the Council, shared insights into new and returning events slated for 2024, along with support available for businesses to maximise opportunities in tourism and events.

Shepparton Festival director Kristen Retallick also provided an exciting update on the 2024 program, outlining a diverse lineup catering to all ages and interests. The luncheon concluded with an opportunity for attendees to tour the Arcadia Fish Hatchery, leaving them eager to participate in the upcoming events.

Visit Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre to learn more about events and upcoming campaigns, or go to sheppandgv.com.au/

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