Victorian Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the government was “absolutely open” to continuing White Night events in Shepparton, following this year’s success.
During his visit to Shepparton this week, strong hints were sent the way of Mr Dimopoulos about the desire for more major events locally, including White Night.
City of Greater Shepparton Deputy Mayor Anthony Brophy and Cr Greg James both spoke of the success of the event, the largest ever hosted in Greater Shepparton.
“Earlier this year, we had the absolute privilege of hosting the first White Night in Shepparton — and I say first because we’re hoping a lot more will come,” Cr Brophy said.
“Our diverse community came together with over 32,000 locals and visitors and 28 large-scale activations connecting the region's history, culture and environment.”
Cr James, also a Kaiela Arts board representative, said White Night was a “great bonding exercise” and brought the community out together after two years of COVID-19.
Kaiela Arts gifted Mr Dimopolous a piece of artwork, which Cr James jokingly said would remind him to “think of further funding for Shepparton”.
Mr Dimopolous wouldn’t commit to another White Night event but strongly hinted the event would return.
“Our commitment to regional Victoria and places like Shepparton, I think we’ve got a good track record on it,” he said.
“Given the outstanding success, we are absolutely open to looking at future White Nights in Shepparton.”
Mr Dimopolous also said the government had made note of Shepparton’s interest in being part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Shepparton missed out on becoming one of the four regional hubs for the Games, but is expected to get in on the action in some way.
“The Shepparton community’s desire to be more involved has been noted by us and we’re going to do everything we can to make that happen,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“Having said that, it is Victoria’s Games.
“Whether it be the cultural festivals or other legacy projects attached to the Commonwealth Games, including accommodation and tourism offerings, more than just the four regional hubs will benefit from those things.”