The Committee for Greater Shepparton’s first major event of the year was a success, bringing leaders together to celebrate local innovation.
Health innovation in the Goulburn Valley is delivering impact locally and internationally, according to the Committee for Greater Shepparton’s first major event for 2026.
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The event, held on Tuesday, March 3 brought together leaders from across health, food manufacturing and digital technology, showcasing how innovation is changing industries in greater Shepperton and beyond.
Committee chair Leigh Findlay said local talent and new ideas were at the forefront of the event’s focus.
“We wanted to demonstrate that some of the most exciting developments in health are happening right here, in our hospitals, clinics, factories and tech networks,” Mr Findlay said.
The evening hosted two expert panels, the first of which discussed how to better use data, connectivity and digital tools that are transforming the way services are planned and delivered.
The second panel focused on practical examples of innovation being led by local clinicians, manufacturers and allied health professionals.
“These conversations showed how technology, research and industry partnerships are giving people more options for treatment and recovery without leaving the region,” Mr Findlay said.
Hume Rural Health Alliance chief information officer Neelu Kaur, Murray Primary Health Network chief operations officer Jacque Phillips and Dr Kim Houghton, from the Regional Wellbeing Project University of Canberra.
Highlights from the night included conversations between Australian Dairy Products Federation chief executive Janine Waller, and Australian Food and Grocery Council director of nutrition and regulation Duncan Craig.
They discussed the ‘protein arms race’ that is unfolding as demand for top-quality high-protein foods surges, and the key role that local dairy producers can play.
The event also highlighted advancements in prosthetics, accessible product design, preventative health initiatives and local education pathways, including the ability to complete a full doctor of medicine degree in Shepparton.
Mr Findlay said continued investment in facilities, skills and partnerships, including the Goulburn Valley Health redevelopment, was critical to sustaining the region’s leadership in health and food innovation.
“Our region’s unique combination of food and health innovation provides a powerful platform for careers, research and business growth,” Mr FIndlay said.
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