Greater Shepparton City Council completes work on Sangi Rag pitch

Greater Shepparton City Council has completed works on a Sangi Rag pitch at Victory Park on St Georges Road. Sangi Rag is a traditional game played in teams of two, which involves throwing rocks at a target from a distance. Each game can last up to five hours.

Games were previously held on Archer Street in Kialla, however there were several snake sightings in the area and lack of shade for players and spectators.

Members of Council’s Parks, Sport and Recreation team heard the story and reached out to the Afghan community and Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District to learn more about the game, how it is played and what is required to create a safe and dedicated area, deciding on Victory Park as an appropriate location.

Council’s Director Infrastructure Gary Randhawa said Council’s Parks, Sport and Recreation team are proud to have developed this purpose built Sangi Rag pitch, which will be put to good use with games played multiple times per week.

Randhawa notes “many people in Greater Shepparton’s Afghan community are isolated from their families and friends after moving to Australia. Having a safe space to play this traditional sport is important for fostering social connections and keeping traditions alive.”

Image above: Shane Sali, Mayor for Greater Shepparton City Council participating in a game of Sangi Rag.