A warm welcome at Shepparton

While day eight may have been the shortest distance (9km) in the walk so far, it has been the biggest in terms of support and bringing people together to ask for permanent visas. 

Please keep sharing the petition and emailing your MP to call for permanent visas. 

I was joined today by Afghan refugees and supporters who had travelled from Melbourne to walk into Shepparton with me. We received a special escort with flashing lights from the Shepparton Search and Rescue car as we made our way along the Midland Highway into town.  

When I arrived in town, I was met by a contingent of Iranian refugees who had also travelled from Melbourne. I was grateful for Hazaran hospitality with a welcome lunch from local refugees and supporters. 

The main event for the day was a talk at the Shepparton Mosque. The Mayor of Shepparton Shane Sali, Deputy Mayor Anthony Brophy and Councillor Seema Abdullah welcomed me. Thank you to the Greater Shepparton City Council for your support! 

I spoke with many refugees after the meeting about their stories - so many men, women and children have been left behind with no pathway to permanent visas. I also met Abdullah Naveed and Sam Arukorala from the Ethnic Council of Shepparton.

I want to say thank you to all the refugees and their supporters who travelled hours to meet me and join me today. I am walking for all refugees who have been left behind.

Please support me by sharing the petition and emailing your MP to call for permanent visas.