Games decision leads to event cancellation

By Murray Silby

Jul 23, 2023

**Falling flat:** Shepparton was to host BMX events for the Commonwealth Games in 2026, but those and business opportunities that would have come with them have fallen flat with the Victorian Government’s giving up its hosting rights. Photo by Megan Fisher

With the Victorian Government’s decision to withdraw from hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2026, the cancellations of business associated with the event has started.

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A seminar to help Greater Shepparton business owners access Commonwealth Games commercial opportunities has been postponed.

The Industry Capability Network said its Shepparton Showcase, which was to be held on Wednesday, July 26, will be held later in the year, although a date has not been specified, and it will not be to discuss business opportunities related to Victorian Games events themselves.

The ICN helps businesses connect with large and small projects across Australia and New Zealand to help firms win contracts.

It did not respond to News inquiries about the lost economic injection into Greater Shepparton through the state government’s decision to axe the Games that were to be held in regional areas, including the Goulburn Valley.

However, it has previously said the Games were expected to contribute more than $3 billion to Victoria’s economy, create more than 600 full-time equivalent jobs in the lead up, 3900 jobs during, and a further 3000 jobs for the state beyond them.

ICN Victoria chief executive Dianne Smith did move to reassure regional businesses that economic opportunities remained available.

“In light of the Victorian Government’s announcement, we assure you that we have a continuous presence in regional Victoria with our industry advisers who can assist you to connect to project opportunities and supply chains across Victoria and nationally,” she said.