Member Spotlight

Gabriella Calandro of Shepparton Art Museum

This August we’re introducing Gabriella Calandro, one of our Goulburn Region Tourism Board members and the Head of Engagement at the Shepparton Art Museum. With an exciting career across the globe, Gabriella shares her journey back to The Goulburn Region where she grew up, as well as her favourite local experiences and her vision for the region’s future.

Coming home to The Goulburn Region

Starting my position at the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), was me coming back to the region. I was born and raised in Shepparton and my family still live in the area, so taking the role as Head of Engagement at the Shepparton Art Museum was my coming home. After working in the arts sector in Melbourne, Europe and the United States for many years, I returned to SAM just before we reopened in 2021 and haven’t looked back. I love living in Shepparton.

A unique offering

Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is one of the leading regional art museums in the country. Home to over 4,500 objects, our collection includes contemporary art across different mediums, the most significant collection of ceramics in regional Australia, an exceptional breadth of First Nations art, and world-class programming and events that celebrate our collection, artists, and regional practitioners.

SAM runs extensive programming for every type of visitor from toddlers, students, adults, and everyone in-between. We service Goulburn Valley and Hume region, engaging people both in the gallery, in the classroom and out in the community. We deliver programs on-site and online in English and languages spoken by our community. We also develop and produce a series of digital resources available to all though our website and across social media channels.

Our purpose-built museum, which opened in November 2021, has enabled SAM to host exceptional exhibitions from major Australian art institutions. This year, we’re proud to present the Australian-exclusive exhibition Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso from the Auckland Art Gallery, and the 2026 Archibald Prize for the first time.

What do you love most about the region?

The diversity of possibilities and adventures around every corner means there really is something for everyone – whether it’s enjoying world-class arts experiences at SAM, tackling the amazing bush-walks and hikes in the Strathbogies, taking to the water in Nagambie, or savouring the delightful food gems and wineries of Tahbilk, Mitchelton, Avenel, Euroa and surrounds. Or maybe meandering through local markets sampling local produce and artisan wares or experiencing theatre from leading Australian and regional companies’ who tour to the region, or local theatre and music groups performing – whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here in The Goulburn Region.

What inspired you to join the Goulburn Region Tourism Board?

I was excited about giving this region a voice and sharing our corner of the state with eager travellers and day trippers.

A recommendation

SAM is always at the top of my list – though it’s not exactly hidden! For day-trippers from Melbourne, I recommend driving up to Shepparton and stopping in at SAM, particularly between September and November this year, when we’re hosting the 2026 Archibald Prize (!).

Then make your way back down to Melbourne, stopping at Avonlea for fresh flowers in Murchison, and Nagambie for lunch or an afternoon coffee.

For those after a longer stay, I recommend choosing a central base so you’re within an easy 30-40 minute drive of art and culture in Shepparton at SAM, M.O.V.E and Riverlinks, fantastic wineries in every direction for cellar door tastings, lunch or dinner, and, on weekends, brilliant markets with local produce, handmade artisan goods and live music – all within easy reach and all within The Goulburn Region.

What are you most looking forward to?

To have visitors remark, “wow, I didn’t know you could do that here!”

Alison Angus of Ashlan Farm

This July we’re introducing Alison, one of our Goulburn Region Tourism Board members and the owner of a beautiful farmstay on the Strathbogie Tableland. With more than 30 years’ experience in tourism and hospitality, Alison shares her journey to The Goulburn, her favourite local experiences and her vision for the region’s future.

Finding home in The Goulburn Region

I made the move to Victoria 10 years ago, with my first stop in Benalla. It didn’t take long to fall in love with the region, and over the years I’ve been fortunate to really get to know its people and places. Today, I’m proud to call the Strathbogie Tableland home.

By day, I work full-time in tourism and events within Local Government. Outside of work, my husband and I run a farmstay, I’m involved in a number of local committees, and I enjoy the variety that comes with life on the farm. Being part of the community, connecting people to the region, and sharing the lifestyle we enjoy is something I’m truly passionate about.

A place to slow down

Together with my husband, we run a peaceful farmstay in the small hamlet of Boho South, nestled on the beautiful Strathbogie Tableland. Our fully self-contained cottage sleeps up to six guests across three bedrooms, making it the perfect escape for families, couples and friends looking to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience country life.

What makes our farmstay special is the opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings while exploring everything the wider Goulburn Region has to offer.

Why The Goulburn?

What I love most about The Goulburn is its incredible diversity. From the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife to the welcoming communities, beautiful night skies and authentic farm life, it’s a region that offers something special in every season.

It’s more than just where I live – it’s home.

Giving back through tourism

After more than three decades working across tourism and hospitality in destinations throughout Australia, joining the Goulburn Region Tourism Board felt like a natural next step.

I’m passionate about helping grow the visitor economy, supporting local businesses and showcasing everything that makes this region such a remarkable place to visit.

Alison’s local favourites

There are so many wonderful experiences across the region that it’s hard to choose just a few!

Closer to home, I always recommend visiting Sunnymeade Garden on one of its open days. It’s a truly beautiful and inspiring space.

For great coffee and a warm country welcome, the Strathbogie General Store is always worth a stop.

And if you’re looking for a memorable dining experience, Seven Creeks Wagyu is hard to beat. Enjoying a meal by the creek while it’s flowing is one of those simple experiences that perfectly captures the beauty and charm of the Strathbogie Tableland.

Looking ahead

I’m excited to see visitation continue to grow across the entire Goulburn Region as awareness of our destination builds.

We have so much to offer from incredible food and wine to spectacular nature, rich history and welcoming communities. As our regional identity continues to strengthen, I hope more visitors will venture beyond the well-known destinations to discover the many hidden gems across our towns and villages.

It’s an exciting time for tourism, and I’m looking forward to seeing The Goulburn firmly established on more travellers’ must-visit lists.