In Summary
- Council has awarded $6,775 in grants to seven small town community groups to support local Neighbour Day events across Greater Shepparton.
- Neighbour Day, held on Sunday 30 March 2025, celebrates belonging and social connection, with this year’s theme being "Create, Share, Grow Belonging."
- Funded events include markets, outdoor movies, community meals, sports activities, and open days across Mooroopna, Merrigum, Toolamba, Katandra West, Murchison, Dhurringile and Tatura.
- Mayor Cr Shane Sali congratulated the grant recipients and encouraged residents to take part in the Neighbour Day events to strengthen local connections and celebrate community spirit.
Neighbour Day, Australia’s annual celebration of community, will be held this year on Sunday 30 March 2025. The theme for Neighbour Day 2025 is “Create, Share, Grow Belonging,” with a focus on daily actions that nurture social connections and build stronger communities.
The grant program, offered through Council’s Community Wellbeing department, provided an opportunity for small town community groups to apply for funding to host Neighbour Day events. This year, seven small towns were successful in their applications, sharing a total funding pool of $6,775.
The successful communities and their events include:
- Mooroopna: Mooroopna Market with children’s outdoor movies and a free sausage sizzle on Sunday 30 March 2025.
- Merrigum: Easter celebration at Judd Park on Sunday 30 March 2025.
- Toolamba: Dinner Muster (community meal) on Thursday 20 March 2025.
- Katandra West: 'Come and Try' Pickleball event on Friday 14 March 2025.
- Murchison: Pool & Paint Party on Sunday 2 March 2025.
- Dhurringile: Community meal on Wednesday 5 March 2025.
- Tatura: Tatura Men's Shed Open Day on Saturday 15 March 2025.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulated the successful community groups on their funding awards.
“It is fantastic to see these local events bringing people together and creating opportunities for connection,” he said.
“This type of community funding supports community-led initiatives that foster inclusion and celebrate community spirit. I encourage everyone to get involved and enjoy these wonderful events.”
Neighbour Day events are a chance for residents to celebrate their local community, meet new people, and enjoy a day of fun activities. Details for all events will be available on the Neighbour Day website.
For further information tap here, call Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au
