Community generosity has driven an overwhelming response to support neighbouring councils impacted by recent bushfires, with donations already making a tangible difference on the ground.
Greater Shepparton City Council established a Bushfire Donation Drop-Off Centre at the Shepparton Showgrounds on Saturday 9 January 2026, with 22 fruit bins filled within five hours. Donations were delivered the following day to the Seymour Relief Centre.
The centre reopened on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 January, with the community again rallying to fill a further two semi-trailers with essential supplies. Deliveries have continued over recent days, with the final semi-trailer delivered to the Seymour Relief Centre.
In total, 85 fruit bins were filled with donated items, including thousands of kilograms of pantry goods, toiletries, bottled water and essential supplies, as well as more than 4,000 litres of long-life milk.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Shane Sali, said the response highlighted the strength and generosity of the local community.
Mayor Sali said he met with Strathbogie Shire Mayor, Scott Jeffery, at the Seymour Relief Centre, where the impact of the donations was already being felt.
“These items are already being distributed and used by people impacted by the fires,” Mayor Sali said.
“Community members are visiting the Seymour Relief Centre to collect what they need, while supplies are also being delivered directly to impacted towns to be distributed as required.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the Greater Shepparton community. We know how to support one another and rally behind our neighbours during difficult times, and this response has been extraordinary.”
Alongside coordinating the donation drive, Council has also been supporting neighbouring councils through staff and resourcing assistance, including emergency management and communications support.
This assistance is set to continue as affected councils transition into recovery, with Greater Shepparton City Council deploying staff on the ground where needed.
