2025 Greater Shepparton Business Festival delivers strong attendance and support for local businesses

This year’s festival attracted a record-breaking crowd of more than 500 attendees, showcasing the drive and ambition of Greater Shepparton’s business community. Across the three-week program, 13 free workshops covered topics including artificial intelligence, branding, financial management and customer experience, with many sessions reaching full capacity.

Attendees working at a table with laptops

A major highlight was the keynote session with Darren Flanagan, explosives expert from the 2006 Beaconsfield Mine disaster, who shared his powerful story of leadership, teamwork and resilience. The session was proudly supported by The Fair Co. and Workforce Australia.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the strong turnout showed the importance of supporting local businesses.

“The Business Festival is about providing real tools, knowledge and connections for our business community. To see so many people attend and engage demonstrates the strength, resilience and ambition of businesses across Greater Shepparton,” he said.

“Following the increase in attendance at this year’s Business Festival, it is important that we continue to build on this success and to further support our business community so they can thrive.”

Greater Shepparton Business Network Chair, Stephen Schneider, said the festival highlighted the importance of collaboration.

“The festival created a space where businesses could not only gain knowledge but also build relationships. We saw first-hand the value that came from sharing experiences and connecting with others across the region,” he said.

Council would like to thank all attendees, presenters, and partners who contributed to the success of this year’s festival and looks forward to welcoming the business community back again in 2026.

Support for local businesses continues year-round through the Greater Shepparton Business Centre, which offers office spaces, casual hire rooms, workshops and mentoring opportunities for new and emerging businesses. For more information, please visit the Business Centre website or contact the Business Centre on 5832 1100.

Greater Shepparton City Council, supported by the Greater Shepparton Business Network and partners, proudly presented the 2025 Greater Shepparton Business Festival.