Situated in the northern area of the City of Shepparton, Parkside Gardens is a 21 hectare park of undulating land surrounded by a moat of wide waterways. Originally the site was called " The International Village" and was purpose - built by the then City Council to showcase the culture of the many migrant groups represented in Shepparton' s multicultural society.

Construction of the man-made island began in 1975. Wherever possible, buildings and their surrounding gardens were designed and built using knowledge and labour from the home country of the local migrants.

Over the past several years Council has neglected the " Village", removing and demolishing some significant buildings and icons. The site was renamed Parkside Gardens in 1996. At this point in time the moat is in reasonable condition and the original design remains intact.

The Bangerang Cultural Centre and The Philippine House are still operating as museums and meeting places. In the " Chinese" section, most of the original garden elements and plantings have survived but the area is overgrown and in need of rejuvenation. In the centre of the park the ampitheatre is still in existence.

Other features within the park are the extensive paved roadways, the barbeque area overlooking the " lake ", an enclosed children' s playground, an unusual building inside the entrance known as " The Doll 's House " and the extensive Weeping Willows along the banks of the moat.

This site is an important symbol of Aboriginal progress towards self-determination in Victoria. The historical, cultural and social significance of local Aboriginal (Bangerang) people being invited to participate in the " Village" development was very important because of the inclusiveness which this promoted.

According to the Bangerang people, the building and administration of their Cultural Centre at the International Village was the first opportunity for Victorian Aboriginal people to take control of their own affairs and it reflected significant changes in Government policies at the time.

As a result, the local Aboriginal people became the creators and "owners" of the first Aboriginal Museum in Australia, still in operation at Parkside Gardens.

There is architectural and cultural significance in the two remaining working buildings as well as educative potential, as both house a rich display of artefacts. The Bangerang Keeping Place is based on a design which symbolises Aboriginal Culture and sits in an Australian bush landscape.

The Philippine House reflects the culture of the Philippines. It is in a two-part structure situated beside an attractive inlet formed by the moat. Both are unique in Victoria.

This precinct is of cultural and social significance to the State of Victoria.