A report outlining the initial work undertaken by council to progress the idea, including community engagement, potential locations, risks and cost estimates, was noted at the council’s monthly meeting on September 19.
The report acknowledged Greater Shepparton’s diverse community, with just over 17 per cent of residents born overseas, and how the proposed avenue of flags could provide a location for residents and visitors to celebrate their identity and culture.
It also acknowledged the initial community consultation undertaken, which suggested there was some support for the recognition of multicultural communities.
Several councillors expressed their concern at the potential cost of the project when many community groups and issues needed funding, but Cr Geoff Dobson, who initially brought the concept to council, said it would depend on support from embassies.
“The intention of this is to get the support of the embassies and the countries from which our migrants have come from, get them to support the idea, and if the support is strong enough, then we go to the next step, but the steps would be fairly well set out,” Cr Dobson said.
The report presented to council’s September meeting stated that alternative options would also be considered, including an artwork or mural, a community flagpole or a dedicated community space, as a location for celebrating identity and culture.
Despite some concerns over the project’s costs and council staff spending time on the proposal, a majority of councillors supported council approaching relevant embassies to seek their interest in backing an avenue of flags, with Crs Sam Spinks and Fern Summer voting against it.
“Council will now write to the relevant embassies to seek engagement and financial support to achieve this project, as there is currently no (council) funding allocated,” Mayor Shane Sali said.
“The outcome of this will help us determine the next steps.”
