We acknowledge the Traditional Owners, the Yorta Yorta Nation and the clans whose lands cover the area now called Greater Shepparton, the Kailtheban, Bangerang, and Ngurai Illum Wurrung. We acknowledge that First Peoples have never ceded sovereignty over their lands. This always was, and always will be, their country. We are conscious that colonial laws and practices led to displacement and disempowerment, and that they continue to do so with a profound and rippling effect. We pay respect to Elders past and present, and to emerging leaders. We value their vision and strength that enabled the continuity of culture and connectedness to country.