And it appears the resounding ‘yum’ from patrons has made it all the way to the Victorian Multicultural Commission, which recognised the staple Shepparton event in its state awards ceremony earlier this month.
The October festival received the Government and Civic Leadership Award (Highly Commended) and was recognised as not only being a foodie highlight, but also for its celebration of culture and diversity.
One of the champions of the festival is Kamaldeep Singh from the St Georges Rd post office.
“Since the start, we decided that food and music could bring the community together and break down communication barriers,” he said.
“It brings all the different communities and cultures together in one place, it links people together.
“The food and the music make it very special, and everyone bringing their traditional cultures to one place has really been wonderful.”
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Seema Abdullah said she was proud to see the festival recognised.
“We are dedicated to making greater Shepparton a warm and inclusive community as well as a practical and accessible place to live for people from all backgrounds,” she said.
“With more than 14 per cent of our population identifying as being born overseas, we must cater for everyone in our community.
“The St Georges Road Food Festival is just one of many things we do to highlight our multiculturalism and our diversity.”
The awards celebrate the contributions of individuals and organisations that foster cross-cultural understanding, support migrants and refugees, and celebrate and preserve the diversity of all cultures.