Still thriving: Shepparton Festival completes its 26th program

“This is my first festival in the three years as a creative director where we haven't had complications from the pandemic,” festival creative director Jamie Lea said.

In her first year in the role, COVID-19 cut the festival to only a week-long program.

“The second we completely pivoted, changed, evolved and delivered a program within COVID guidelines, which we were incredibly proud of, being one of the only festivals in the state to get across the line,” Mrs Lea said.

“And now this festival, so we’re really, really proud of everyone and everything that’s happened, it’s a really big deal and worthwhile celebrating those who have contributed in some way, shape or form to the 26th festival.”

The two-week program featured an array of events, staying true to its word in prioritising local talent and showcasing artists, with the youngest being just six.

Mrs Lea said one of the highlights of the 2022 program was a collaboration with Gowrie Street Primary School and the Lighthouse Project.

A group of Gowrie Street Primary School students wrote and recorded five songs, played at the Art In The Heart display as part of the festival.

“That was unbelievable, really incredibly it highlights the First Nations community and our young people in the region, their songwriting, their poetry, what they’ve produced at such a young age,” Mrs Lea said.

As it does every year, the festival leaves with it a trickling of art across the Goulburn Valley landscape.

Created by local names, the Biyula Country and Festival Wall murals are now permanent fixtures in Shepparton, along with collaborative piece UNEARTHED.

“We feel that post-COVID lethargic feeling, a lot of people are dealing with that, and I just want to acknowledge that it has certainly been an achievement and an effort, and I’m proud of every single human who has made the festival happen,” Mrs Lea said.