Think Multiculture: Regional Futures

Think Multiculture is a FREE community gathering celebrating the cultures, stories and strengths that make our region home.

Together, we will explore what belonging really looks like for multicultural communities living in Shepparton and surrounding areas, and what needs to change so everyone can feel safe, included and valued, no matter their background or postcode.

This is a day for community voices, shared learning and honest conversation  grounded in respect, dignity and hope for the future.

Program Schedule

Think Multiculture – Shepparton Museum - FREE EVENT

10:00

Museum doors open

11:15 – 12:00

Multicultural Activations
Dance, drumming and live cultural performances

Location: Amphitheatre (outdoors)
Presented by: Just Gold
Supported by: Victorian Government

12:00 – 1:30

Lunch and Networking

1:30 – 1:45

Official Proceedings

• Welcome

• Acknowledgement of Country

Speakers:

• Eric Egan, Mayor (or Representative), Greater Shepparton City Council, Maria Dimopoulos AM

Location: Museum, Level 4
Presented by: Just Gold
Supported by: Victorian Government

1:45 – 2:30

Think Multiculture Panel 1

Culture as Infrastructure: Who Builds, Sustains and Shapes Multicultural Futures in Our Region

Facilitator: Maria Dimopoulos AM

Panelists:

• Kim O’Keeffe MP, Member for Shepparton

• Mariola Nebiu, Multicultural Engagement Officer, Greater Shepparton City Council

• Sam Atukorala, CEO, Shepparton Ethnic Communities Council

Location: Museum, Level 4
Presented by: Just Gold
Supported by: Victorian Government

2:30 – 3:15

Think Multiculture Panel 2

Belonging Beyond the City: How Regional Systems Deliver (or Deny) Safety, Care and Inclusion

Facilitator: Georgia Prattis

Panelists:

• Dr Judy Tang, Commissioner, Victorian Multicultural Commission

• Sylvia Coombe, President, Fijian Community Association Victoria Inc. (FCAV)
  Board Member, United Pasifika Council of Victoria Inc. (UPCOV)

• Cecilia Ndala, Board Member, Shepparton Ethnic Council
  Mental Health Clinician, Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub

• Leigh Johnson, Multicultural Officer, Victoria Police

Location: Museum, Level 4
Presented by: Just Gold
Supported by: Victorian Government

3:15 – 3:45

Audience Q&A
Open forum involving all speakers and participants

Location: Museum, Level 4
Presented by: Just Gold
Supported by: Victorian Government

3:45

Event close