News

Together in the dark, united in the light

By Brynne Timewell

Sep 1, 2026

Approximately 100 people gathered at a candlelit vigil to honour those lost in Nepal’s recent flash flood. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Close to 100 people gathered at Victoria Park Lake on Monday, August 31 for a candlelight vigil, followed by a tribute and moment of silence to honour those lost in Nepal after the recent flash floods.

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Organised by members of the local Nepalese community, the evening combined traditional Nepalese music with a minute of silence, as attendees stood together in quite remembrance.

Attendees were invited to leave a message to loved ones and people still in Nepal, signifying a small gesture of connection across distance.

Greater Shepparton Nepalese Community member Bishal Jung Kunwar spoke of the recent scale of loss across the Nepal-Tibet border area.

“It is with heavy hearts that we remember the victims lost in the recent devastating floods in Nepal, Tibet and surrounding regions,” Mr Jung Kunwar said.

“Many families have lost loved ones, homes and their livelihoods.”

GSNC secretary Ujjwal Rijal said the turnout reflected the strength of support in Shepparton.

“This shows very good support in a small town,” Mr Rijal said.

“We are standing together.”

The gathering was a reminder that even from afar, a small town can hold a community’s shared grief and offer its support.

Donations to support the recovery effort can be made through the official channels listed on the Greater Shepparton Nepalese Community Facebook page via tinyurl.com/jfu3kf9m.