A strong dairy industry starts with a strong community

When we talk about the dairy industry in Greater Shepparton, it is easy to focus on the things we can measure, like milk production, farms, jobs, investment and economic contribution.

But behind every one of those measures is a community.

The dairy industry is deeply woven into the fabric of our region. It supports farmers and their families, employs people across processing, transport, manufacturing and services, and contributes to the viability of local businesses, schools, sporting clubs and community organisations.

It is an industry that has helped shape our region, and one that will continue to be important to our future.

But a strong dairy industry needs more than productive farms. It needs people who want to live and work here. It needs young people who can see a future in the region. It needs families who feel connected and supported, and communities that are resilient when circumstances become difficult.

That is why the partnership between Gardiner Foundation and Greater Shepparton Foundation is so important.

Through the 2026 Community Development Grants, $151,000 is being invested in 19 community-led projects across Victoria's dairy regions, including $50,000 across seven projects in northern Victoria, all delivered in partnership with Community Foundations imbedded in and advocating for their regions.

These grants are an investment in the social infrastructure that underpins the future of dairy communities.

In our region funding is supporting initiatives including Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre’s Dairy Community Connector project, a community outreach, peer support and education initiative for people living with blindness or low vision and Tatura Community House’s Gardening Connection project, providing an accessible community garden and outdoor space to improve wellbeing and bring people of all ages together.

It is hoped this grant round continues to grow and build over time with the ongoing support to deliver practical projects that make a lasting difference.

Until next time,

Amanda