Shepparton & Goulburn Valley

Make a trip of your visit to the Award and discover Shepparton & Goulburn Valley.

Located around two hours north of Melbourne, Shepparton is a vibrant regional centre with a strong food, arts and cultural scene, surrounded by the rich agricultural landscape of the Goulburn Valley.

While in Shepparton for the Award, explore the region's galleries, museums, restaurants, cafés, local produce and natural landscapes. Discover the region.

This October, Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) will also host the Archibald Prize 2026, the only Victorian venue on the exhibition's tour. Experience a week of world-class piano alongside Australia's most celebrated portraiture, all in Shepparton. Visit the Archibald Prize at SAM.

Getting to Shepparton

By car

Shepparton is approximately 188km from Melbourne, around a two-hour drive via the Hume Freeway and Goulburn Valley Highway.

By train and coach

V/Line services operate between Melbourne and Shepparton. Check current timetables and travel information before travelling.

By air

Melbourne Airport is the closest major airport, approximately two hours from Shepparton by car.