Cr Geoff Dobson has proposed creating an “avenue of flags” and at the April 2023 meeting sought a report on the merits of the proposal.
That report, which considered the purpose, initial community engagement, flag selection, potential locations, risks and whole-of-life cost estimates of an avenue of flags, was presented to council’s September 2023 meeting.
At that meeting, council agreed to write to relevant embassies to seek engagement and a financial co-contribution from them.
It also decided to hold further community consultation to consider alternative options for the public recognition of Greater Shepparton’s diverse communities.
Council has now launched that consultation process.
A survey has been established on council’s Shaping Greater Shepp website, which seeks feedback on the avenue of flags proposal, or whether an alternative option should be considered.
“Greater Shepparton has a proud multicultural community, with successive waves of migration seeing many overseas-born residents call our region home,” Mayor Shane Sali said.
“These community members make a significant contribution to the local culture and economy, which is what the notice of motion put forward by Cr Dobson seeks to recognise.
“While council does not have any current budget for an initiative like an avenue of flags, our first step will be to write to the relevant embassies to seek a financial co-contribution.”
The purpose of an avenue of flags is to provide a location for residents and visitors to celebrate identity and culture.
Council will also consider alternative options, which could include an artwork, mural, community flagpole, important events or a dedicated community space.
Cr Sali encouraged residents to share their thoughts via the survey to help inform council’s decision around what its next steps should be.
“This consultation is the perfect opportunity for council to understand what the community would like to see in way of recognising our diverse community,” he said.
“This may be through an avenue of flags or one of many other options which we can consider to best meet the community’s expectations.”
The survey closes on Wednesday, April 24.
To view the survey and submit feedback, visit https://shaping.greatershepparton.com.au/avenue-of-flags
For further information or for assistance with filling out the survey, phone council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au
