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This article was published on Thursday, 7 August, 2014. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Family donates funds to community for art museum and health services

Making the announcement at the Shepparton Art Museum the family have pledged $1.5m to the SAM Foundation towards the development of new SAM and $1.5m to health services.

Stephen Copulos, son of Peter Copulos, was recently appointed as a SAM Foundation Board Member and he said it was his aim for the new SAM to become a major tourist attraction for Shepparton and Central Victoria.

“It would be fantastic if we could establish a self-sustaining museum development within 10 years. It could be the first museum in the world that can pay its own way, right here in the heart of Victoria, something we can be proud of,” saidStephen Copulos.

To kick start the pledge, the Copulos Family donated $20,000 to the SAM Foundation in the form of a fundraising initiative, the Tree of Giving, for a new SAM. The Tree of Giving is displayed in the entrance of SAM, allowing the public to pledge their support by buying a Gold ($300), Silver ($200) or Bronze ($100) leaf, with their name inscribed, to be placed on the Tree of Giving.

“Our goal is to fill the tree within 12 months. When the Tree of Giving is filled with leaves, it has the potential to raise $500,000 dollars. It will make a stunning addition to the gallery as well as a great talking point for the community where we can all proudly show off our part in the involvement of a new SAM,” he said.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Jenny Houlihan said “The Copulos family have once again demonstrated their genuine commitment to the development of Greater Shepparton and the wellbeing of our community, with their pledge.”

“Their support has given the fundraising project huge momentum and is a solid base from which to build. I urge our community and all others who are interested in being part of this exciting new SAM project to visit the current museum and donate by purchasing a leaf to place on the Tree of Giving,” said Cr Houlihan.

Another $1.5m will be donated by the Copulos family to various local health services in the Goulburn Valley to assist with the much needed improvement of health services in the region.

“In making this commitment today, our family is humbled and showing our appreciation for the community in which we live. We try and play our part in giving better access to more services and facilities,” said Peter Copulos.

“I have always been passionate about health, and believe that we in regional Australia should be entitled to expect an equal standard of health services to those offered in the big cities. I trust that others in our community will share my vision, and I take this opportunity to encourage other local businesses and families to make a contribution for our community’s benefit. No matter how large or small, every bit helps,“ he said.

More information at www.sheppartonartmuseum.com.au