General News
2 March, 2026
Jeparit Fiesta returns for Women's Day
THE Hindmarsh Shire Council will bring back the International Women’s Day Jeparit Riverbank Fiesta in 2026, following the strong community response to last year’s event.
This free, family-friendly event will take place at the Jeparit Riverbank Precinct on Saturday, March 7, from 5-10.30pm.
The council and community organisers will celebrate International Women’s Day with this year’s theme, ‘Balance The Scales.’
The event will include live music, guest speakers, food vendors, and market stalls.
Organisers have already announced some stallholders, such as Hot Iron Hats, Blossom Blend, and Chris and Ann’s Bites, and expect more to join.
Bec Schultz from the Jeparit Town Advisory Committee said the event will use the same format that was successful in 2025.
“It’s very similar to last year,” she said.
“We’ll have different guest speakers this time around, but again, it all worked really well in 2025.”
She explained that the evening will start with market stalls at 5pm, followed by guest speakers and live music.
“We will be having market stalls again from 5 onwards, and I think the guest speakers will be starting about 6 and the band will be from 7.30,” she said.
Ms Schultz said about 10 stalls have been booked so far and she expects a similar number by the event date, even though there are other markets and events in nearby towns that weekend.
“At this stage we’ve got 10 stalls booked, which is wonderful, and I would say there will be around 10, give or take a couple,” she said.
She encouraged people from across the district to come along, saying the fiesta celebrates women but welcomes everyone.
“It is for everybody, but it’s just celebrating the women, and it’s a very family-friendly event.”
The event will also feature representatives from Allied Justice, who will speak about justice for women through history and the support services the organisation offers.
Ms Schultz said they hope locals, people from nearby towns, and visitors will enjoy the evening by the river.
Guests are welcome to bring their own chairs, blankets, and refreshments. Dogs can come too, as long as they are on a leash.
Hindmarsh Shire Council, the Jeparit Township Advisory Committee, and VicHealth present the event.
People interested in booking a market stall can contact the Bec Schultz Jeparit Township Advisory Committee by email at jeparittc@hotmail.com or by phone on 0417 348 881.
For more information about the fiesta, people can contact Stephanie Lynch, Free From Violence Project Officer, on (03) 5391 4444 or email slynch@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.