In Summary
- Popup Hangout attracted around 860 attendees, transforming Maude Street into a colourful and creative community space.
- The event featured live music, street art, face painting, reptile shows and more, offering free, family-friendly fun for all ages.
- Delivered in partnership with the Greater Shepparton Youth Committee and the Victorian Government’s Amplify program, the event created a lively and welcoming vibe in the CBD.
- Local businesses benefited from increased foot traffic, with the event encouraging visitors to explore, connect and shop locally.
The free event, delivered in collaboration with the Greater Shepparton Youth Committee and the Victorian Government’s Amplify program, drew an enthusiastic turnout of approximately 860 people.
Families, young people and visitors came together for a jam-packed four hours of entertainment and activities. From live music and a hands-on street art workshop to henna, origami, face painting, a photo booth and reptile show, the precinct buzzed with colour and creativity.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the event brought great energy to the city centre and was a positive result for the community.
“It was really encouraging to see so many people spending time in the precinct. Families were enjoying the activities, people were catching up over coffee and plenty of visitors were popping into shops along the way,” he said.
“Events like this do more than bring people together. They support local businesses, create opportunities for people to connect and help shape a city centre that feels active and inviting.”
Council’s Place Manager Bonnie McIntosh said the event was a great result for the first Popup Hangout, bringing energy and people into the CBD.
“This is the first time we have undertaken this event and it was really pleasing to see so many people taking part,” she said.
“Everywhere you looked there were people. Some were sitting down and relaxing on the furniture with a donut in hand, others just taking a breather while their kids joined in the activities. It created such a welcoming and relaxed feel in the CBD.”
“The strong support from the community shows there is real interest in events like this.”
Stephen Schneider, President of the Greater Shepparton Business Network (GSBN), said events like Popup Hangout help keep shopping local top of mind.
“Popup Hangout created movement throughout the precinct and gave people a reason to explore the area. It became a place to spend time, bring the family, or catch up with friends,” he said.
“When there is activity happening around local businesses, it helps drive awareness and encourages people to step inside stores, browse and find some inspiration, even if they had not planned to.”
Council would like to thank the Greater Shepparton Youth Committee and the Victorian Government’s Amplify program, workshop facilitators and everyone who contributed to making the event a success. Council looks forward to bringing more events like this to the community in the future.
