Shepparton History
Before Europeans settled in Australia, this area was inhabited primarily by the Yorta Yorta. This indigenous Australian group occupied the region between the Goulburn River and the Murray River, which is located today in northern Victoria and southern New South Wales. Shepparton, and its surrounding areas, are located on the land of the Kailtheban Clan of the Yorta Yorta Nation.
Thomas Mitchell, Surveyor General of the Darling River and its tributaries, returned to Sydney in 1836 after a surveying expedition. He crossed the Goulburn River on his way back. Mitchell recommended that Joseph Hawdon, Charles Bonney, and others follow. They camped on the Goulburn River site in 1838, while driving cattle from Albury to Adelaide.
In the early 1840s, the first permanent settlement was established at the “Tallygaroopna”, a sheep station. In 1843, Sherbourne Sheppard was running the sheep station. This man would later become the namesake of the town. The area was a popular river-crossing point for Victorian miners travelling east from Bendigo and Ballarat. Patrick Macguire, an Irish entrepreneur, set up a punt ferry service across the Goulburn River as there was no bridge. He also built the first building in the town, the penthouse, to accommodate travellers. Macguire sold his building to John Hill, who turned it into the Emu Bush Inn in 1853. Macguire Punt was the name given to this settlement in the 1870s. In February 1854, a post office was opened. It closed in July of the same year.
In 1855, Assistant Surveyor J.G.W. Wilmot. Sheppard Town was also known by this time as Shepparton and Shepparton. In May 1858 the post office was reopened, and on 24 September 1860, the Governor of Victoria declared Shepparton to be a township. The settlement remained small, with only a few buildings, until the 1870s, when it added a blacksmith shop, a general store, and the public hall, which is still the oldest building in the city. Shepparton’s bridge across the Goulburn River, named Dainton’s Bridge in honour of the chief engineer James Henry Dainton was built in 1878. St. Patrick’s Church, the first building, was opened in 1879.
Explore Shepparton
Shepparton, a vibrant town located in Australia’s Food Bowl, is a great place to visit any time of the year. This country haven, located on the Goulburn River, is perfect for the entire family. It has a temperate climate, a diverse community, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley are unsung heroes in the feeding and flavouring of the nation. They showcase a rich and diverse agricultural landscape that is home to people from all over the world. This region is vital not only for its agricultural contributions but also for the cultural tapestry that it weaves from its diverse heritage.
The Yorta Yorta are at the core of this community. Their ancestral home and present residence is in this stunning landscape. For thousands of years, they have lived harmoniously with the land and built vibrant communities that reflect their deep connection with the Country. Their customs, tales and practices reflect their enduring relationship to the land. They continue to flourish alongside the evolving culture in the region.
Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley are often considered the cultural capitals of regional Victoria. It is a place that celebrates diversity, transforms and connects with others. The region is rich in cultural experiences, from local festivals to community events.
Shepparton is a vibrant hub of activity that invites both residents and visitors to enjoy its warm atmosphere. It fosters connections across cultural boundaries. This unique blend of cultures and traditions creates an environment that honours both the past and the future. It is a special place to visit and live.
Diverse & inspiring cultural experiences
Victoria’s vibrant centre is waiting to welcome you. It offers a tapestry culture and experiences that will create lasting memories. This region is a melting pot where people of diverse cultures and traditions come together to create a unique atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and stories that First Nations peoples have to tell. Their connection with the land dates back thousands of years. Their art, wisdom, and traditions offer valuable insights into the heritage of the region, inviting you to explore and appreciate their enduring legacies.
You can also indulge in a culinary adventure that spans the world. The international cuisine on offer in Victoria is a reflection of the many waves of immigration since World War II. Each dish is a tale, showcasing the many cultures that live in this area.
You’ll find quirky characters, authentic experiences and unique places that make this place stand out from other parts of Victoria. There’s always a new experience around the corner, whether it’s meeting local artisans, taking part in community events or finding hidden gems.
Victoria’s vibrant centre is more than just a place to visit. It’s an invitation for you to learn, connect and celebrate this rich tapestry. Come join the stories and experiences that are waiting to be shared and told!
Unique and connected townships
Kaiela, the Goulburn River, connects diverse landscapes that showcase stories of immigration and innovation. For decades it has served as a lifeline to communities along its banks; shaping development plans and instilling resilience within residents who call this region home. Township histories alongside its banks offer captivating examples of residents adapting creatively and successfully to their environment through creativity and determination.
As you travel these townships, you will discover iconic landmarks that celebrate its cultural diversity. Aboriginal Street Art and Art Silos serve as powerful symbols of local artistic expression as well as its rich Indigenous heritage – beautifying landscapes while telling stories that link past to present while inviting meaningful interaction with local culture.
Beyond urban centres, Shepparton boasts an abundance of parks, wetlands and native forests that add natural charm. To celebrate and immerse yourself in these landscapes, visit the Australian Botanical Gardens Shepparton where you can wander scenic forest paths while admiring breathtaking views and taking pleasure in refreshing country air.
Every moment spent exploring this vibrant environment can add new layers to your understanding of its history and community. Nature and people come together here in fascinating ways that reveal incredible stories of resilience, unity, and innovation that await discovery.
All year long, there’s fun and festivities
Shepparton and Goulburn Valley are home to events as colourful and diverse as the people who live there. The cultural hubs of Shepparton Art Museum, and Museum of Vehicle Evolution are a must-do experience.
Feel the beats, hear the music and taste the produce. Here, people from all over the world and the state come together to share the best of music, sports, art, and produce.
