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This article was published on Thursday, 26 February, 2026. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate.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.

Celebrating International Women’s Day 2026 with flowers, food and community connection

The main Council event will take place on Sunday 8 March 2026 from 10.00am to 2.00pm at the McIntosh Centre, Thompson Street, Shepparton.

Delivered in partnership with Shepparton Culture Kitchen and Council’s Activities in the Park program, the event will celebrate the strength and diversity of women through the shared language of art and food.

Attendees can take part in two free workshop experiences:

Flower Arrangement Workshop: Learn contemporary floral design and create your own bouquet to take home. Limited supplies available.
Culture Kitchen Cooking Workshops: Six hands-on cooking stations featuring demonstrations, cultural stories and tastings from around the world.

No bookings required - simply turn up!

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali said International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to bring people together.

“International Women’s Day is about celebrating the contributions of women in our community while creating opportunities for connection,” he said.

“These events are a wonderful way for people of all ages to come together and recognise the diversity that strengthens Greater Shepparton.”

The McIntosh Centre event is jointly supported by Greater Shepparton City Council through the Activities in the Park program and the Victorian Government through the Multicultural Festivals and Events Program.

Council is also supporting additional events across the region as part of International Women’s Day 2026.

GV Afghan Women’s Association Iftar Celebration

Date: Wednesday 4 March 2026
Time: 7.00pm to 9.00pm
Location: Sir Ian McLennan Centre, Recreation Reserve, Echuca Road, Mooroopna

The evening will bring community members together to observe Iftar while celebrating the three-year milestone of the Goulburn Valley Afghan Women’s Association. The program will include a meet and greet, cultural performances and guest speakers.

Soroptimist International Women’s Day Breakfast

Date: Thursday 5 March 2026
Time: 7.00am to 9.00am
Location: Quality Inn Parklake, 481 Wyndham Street, Shepparton

Hosted by Soroptimist International of Shepparton and proudly supported by Greater Shepparton City Council, the breakfast will feature guest speakers, raffles, a trading table and lucky door prizes. The Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Annual Women’s Award will be announced during the event.

Tatura International Women’s Day Breakfast 2026

Date: Friday 6 March 2026
Time: 9.30am to 11.30am
Location: Hilltop Golf and Country Club, 71 Gowrie Street, Tatura

Hosted by Tatura Community House, the breakfast will feature guest speakers Jenny Hardy, a lawyer and advocate, and Loretta Lilford, founder of Smiling Hearts Uganda. Both speakers will share their personal and professional journeys with attendees.

These events aim to honour local women, celebrate their resilience and provide an opportunity for networking and connection in a supportive setting.

Council’s Acting Director Healthy Communities and Liveability, Karen Liversidge, said supporting local events is an important part in recognising and celebrating women in our community.

“International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength, leadership and contribution of women across our community,” she said.

“Through our Community Grants Program, Council is proud to support local organisations that create inclusive spaces for connection, cultural celebration and shared learning.”

The GV Afghan Women’s Association Iftar Celebration and the Tatura International Women’s Day Breakfast are supported through Greater Shepparton City Council’s International Women’s Day Community Grants Program, which provides up to $1,500 to eligible local organisations to deliver events that celebrate women’s achievements and promote equality within the municipality.

For more information about International Women’s Day events across Greater Shepparton, including RSVPs, bookings and costings, visit our Women's Day 2026 webpage here or contact Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au.