As part of the City Council’s Activities in the Park program, budding sports players and experineced players united on May to join in with the festivities down at Shepparton Sports Precinct.
Families were provided with the chance to pick up quality pre-loved sporting boots, helping players of all ages get game ready for the season ahead - as the nation prepares to get swept along with Socceroos fever.
The Boot Swap created a welcoming space for the community to come together, share gear and give boots a second life, while also reducing waste and keeping usable items out of landfill.
Mayor Shane Sali spoke of the potential of the Boot Swap scheme as an opportunity to create bonds between sporting enthusiasts, while also helping out fellow members of the wider community to kick-start their soccer journeys.
“Sport plays a vital role in our region, it builds confidence, friendships and a strong sense of belonging,” he said.
Recalling the event with pride, Sali described how the Boot Swap demonstrated what can be achieved when the people from across the region come together.
“Programs like this make a real difference for local families,” he said.
“It is about making sport more accessible while also reducing waste and supporting smarter ways to reuse what we already have.”
In addition, the City Council’s Director Healthy Communities and Liveability, Briana Baass, said the initiative reflects the purpose of the Activities in the Park program.
“This program is about creating opportunities for people to connect, stay active and feel supported in their community,” she said.
“The Boot Swap is a great idea that delivers real outcomes; helping families, reducing waste and making sure more young people can get involved in sport.”
Many families shared their appreciation on the day, highlighting how valuable the initiative was during a time when sporting costs can quickly add up.
The success of the event was made possible through strong community support, including key partners and local organisations.
Aquamoves and the Shepparton Sports Stadium played an important role by providing convenient drop-off points and supporting collection efforts in the lead up to the event.
Kick It Forward contributed a large number of donated boots, while the Shepparton Junior Association supported the initiative and helped spread the word across local sporting networks.
If you have boots you would like to donate or know someone in need of a good pair, visit the Kick It Forward website here.
