Greater Shepparton to celebrate International Day of People with Disability 2025 with inclusive events

In Summary

Council to host free, inclusive events across Shepparton to celebrate IDPwD on 3 and 4 December 2025.
Activities include a drop-in Wooden Crafts Workshop at Queens Gardens and the ‘Inspiring Disability Inclusion’ speaker event at Parklake Hotel.
The events aim to promote awareness, inclusion and appreciation of people with disability in our community.
The celebrations mark the first event series led by the new Greater Shepparton Disability Advisory Committee.

International Day of People with Disability is held on 3 December each year. The United Nations-recognised day aims to promote understanding, acceptance and awareness of people with disability while celebrating their achievements and contributions within the community. The theme for IDPwD 2025 is “Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress”.

On Wednesday 3 December 2025, Council will host a Wooden Crafts Workshop at Queens Gardens, Wyndham Street, Shepparton from 10.00am to 4.00pm. The free, drop-in style workshop, facilitated by Furals will feature two themed wood and craft activities, Treehouse Adventures and Sealife Explorers. The event is designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities, with materials and guidance in a safe and welcoming environment. This event also represents a significant milestone, being the first community activity hosted for people with all abilities, following the formation of the new Greater Shepparton Disability Advisory Committee in August 2025.

Another standout event, hosted by members of the Disability Advisory Committee will be held on Thursday 4 December 2025. The Inspiring Disability Inclusion event will take place at the Parklake Hotel, Shepparton from 9.00am to 12.00pm. The event will feature keynote speaker Kody Bothwell and guest speaker Tom Cummins. Morning tea will be provided.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the events highlight the importance of inclusion and celebrating the contributions of people with a disability in the community.

“International Day of People with Disability is about recognising the creativity, talent and resilience of people within our community,” Cr Sali said.

“It is also a reminder that accessibility and inclusion are key to building a community where everyone feels valued and supported.”

Greater Shepparton Disability Advisory Committee Councillor representative, Cr Sam Spinks, said the events are a great way to celebrate the day while encouraging meaningful conversations about inclusion.

“These activities give our community a chance to come together, learn from one another and celebrate the incredible diversity that makes Greater Shepparton such a welcoming place,” Cr Spinks said.

All events are free and open to everyone. There will also be a variety of other events listed on Council’s website.

Community groups or organisations wishing to include their own event as part of the celebrations are encouraged to get in touch by contacting Council’s Access and Positive Ageing Officer on 5832 9700 or email positiveageing@shepparton.vic.gov.au.

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