August 2015 Big Screen award page 3
Child Friendly City page 7
Science Week page 13
Small Business Festival page 14
CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Dandenong office 225 Lonsdale St Dandenong
H
ello and welcome to the August edition of The City.
Here at Council we value the opinions and ideas of the youngest members of our community, so much in fact that we have taken steps to become a Child Friendly City. Read more about that on page 7.
Springvale customer service 397–405 Springvale Road Springvale Keysborough customer service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre Keysborough
This month we celebrate Greater Dandenong’s sustainability credentials. With a long list of programs that aim to make our city more sustainable, there are many ways we can make a difference. Read about some of our programs and our success at the Keep Australia Beautiful Sustainable Cities Awards on pages 8-9.
Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 18–34 Buckley Street Noble Park All correspondence to: The City PO Box 200 Dandenong VIC 3175 Email: news@cgd.vic.gov.au
Small businesses can get inspired at a number of events celebrating the Small Business Victoria Festival. Turn to page 14 to see what’s on. I hope you enjoy reading about this great city of ours and have a great month.
Phone: 8571 1000
Fax: 8571 5196
Mayor Sean O’Reilly
www.greaterdandenong.com
@greaterdandy facebook.com/greaterdandenong cityofgreaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TY: 133 677 T Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 Internet: www.iprelay.com.au TIS: 13 14 50 council@cgd.vic.gov.au
IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency calls Police/Fire/Ambulance.................... 000 Street lighting faults/ non-operational United Energy ........................ 13 20 99 Traffic signal faults/ non-operational................... 8571 1000 Hoon Hotline.................. 1800 333 000 Hard waste collection WM Waste Management Services......... 9721 1915
my CITY Here is a view from behind the scenes of a Greater Dandenong icon. The clock tower overlooks Dandenong, and sits atop the magnificent building that once served as the Dandenong Town Hall. The tower is now part of the Drum Theatre, and still chimes on the hour. Cover photo: Litter Prevention bug Lily Litter is part of an education program that took top honours at the recent Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Sustainable City Awards. Read more about the awards on pages 8-9.
Australian Animal Protection Society............... 9798 8415 RSPCA................................ 9224 2222 Nurse on Call.................. 1300 606 024 This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.
2 the CITY
Big win for the
BIG SCREEN HARMONY SQUARE A
public quest to find a name for Dandenong’s civic square has been completed, with Harmony Square chosen as the winner. A call was put out to the community to suggest names for the square, and initially 164 names were put forward. The list was narrowed to 32, before a final list of five was put out for public comment.
H
armony Square’s Big Screen has a big mission – to entertain and inform the masses. Unveiled in April 2014 as part of the new civic centre precinct, the Big Screen is used to showcase the local community and connect in a unique and engaging way. With a community as diverse as Greater Dandenong’s, the Big Screen breaks down barriers by supporting visual content, rather than traditional communication methods that rely on individuals being fluent in English. The screen was awarded for this at the recent Government Communications Australia Awards, taking out the top honour for ‘Digital Media’. The award recognises the Big Screen’s focus on community participation and engagement as well as its ability to provide a free outlet for education and entertainment.
Regular content includes packages produced by artists and designers, as well as documentaries and short films sourced both locally and globally. Major sporting competitions (including AFL, NBL, NFL, A League and Champions League Soccer) and breaking news coverage are also screened. The screen is interactive too, with a camera facing out into the square the Big Screen links live to Federation Square for special events. It was also a centrepiece of the Nocturnal arts festival, with artists’ work being displayed throughout the night event. Programming for the Big Screen is listed on the Council’s website a week in advance. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/bigscreen to find out what’s on or how to get your own content onto the Big Screen.
Greater Dandenong councillors then used community feedback to select Harmony Square, a name that embodies and promotes a culture of acceptance and community – making everyone feel they have a place to belong. The Office of Geographic Names gave a green light to the name listing it in the Victorian Government Gazette on 4 June before it was unveiled on 30 June. Giant white letters spelling out ‘Harmony Square’ were temporarily displayed across the green lawns so the community can familiarise themselves with the name. The letters will reappear at various events and community celebrations in the square. Harmony Square is a generous and welcoming community square that can accommodate events for up to 2000 people. the CITY 3
your COUNCILLORS COUNCILLOR CONTACTS Lightwood Ward Cr Youhorn Chea Ph: 9547 5745 Fax: 9547 3586 0417 320 645 ychea@cgd.vic.gov.au Lightwood Ward – Mayor Cr Sean O’Reilly 0422 523 258 sean.oreilly@cgd.vic.gov.au
Lightwood Ward Cr Loi Truong Ph: 0466 004 618 loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au
Paperbark Ward Cr Roz Blades AM Ph: 9701 5821 Fax: 9798 5927 0417 053 612 roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au
COUNCIL MEETINGS Council meetings are held on the second and the fourth Monday of the month at 7pm. All Council meetings are held at the city chambers at the Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. The August meetings will be held: • Monday 10 August • Monday 24 August Did you know you can watch Council meetings live online via our web-cast service? You can keep up with all the latest decisions, hear questions from residents and find out the many ways your local councillors are serving the community. To view meetings online simply go to www.greaterdandenong.com and look for the ‘Watch Council Meetings Live’ page in the Your Council section.
COUNCILLORS
Mayor Sean O’Reilly took to the stage during Emerge in the South East at Dandenong Market. He was joined by councillors Jim Memeti and Matthew Kirwan at the festival which celebrated cultural diversity through art.
Paperbark Ward Cr Peter Brown Ph/Fax: 9584 5149 0408 138 939 peter.brown@cgd.vic.gov.au Paperbark Ward Cr Heang Tak 0403 072 291 heang.tak@cgd.vic.gov.au Red Gum Ward Cr Angela Long Ph: 9795 6574 Fax: 9795 4412 0466 004 616 angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au Red Gum Ward Cr Matthew Kirwan 0403 072 295 matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic.gov.au
Red Gum Ward Cr Jim Memeti Ph: 9792 4683 Fax: 9792 4683 0434 560 239 jim.memeti@cgd.vic.gov.au Silverleaf Ward Cr John Kelly Ph: 9793 1777 Fax: 9706 0186 0418 350 743 john.kelly@cgd.vic.gov.au Silverleaf Ward Cr Maria Sampey Ph: 9790 1291 Fax: 9790 6104 0438 800 027 maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au
4 the CITY
Councillors Matthew Kirwan and Maria Sampey join the Mayor Sean O’Reilly and Greater Dandenong Council officers at the Keep Australia Beautiful Sustainable City Awards, where Council took out the Litter Prevention Award.
TOP THREE
1
Catch a show at the iconic Drum Theatre. The legendary footy show presented by the Coodabeen Champions will be live on 4 August, while Circus Oz tour their latest show on 21-22 August. Visit www.drumtheatre.com.au for a full list of performances.
2
Shop for the freshest food at Dandenong Market, get cooking tips during live demonstrations in The Kitchen, or make the most of kids activities. Visit www.dandenongmarket.com.au for details.
3
Delight your tastebuds and explore some top class eateries around Greater Dandenong. Pick up a copy of the Great Bites booklet, which highlights our tastiest locations from a Council customer service centre or visit www.greaterdandenong.com/visit for more information.
Lightwood Ward
Cr Loi Truong A
s a Councillor for Lightwood Ward I would like to discuss two important news items that I believe affect all of us. Firstly, the car parking machines being introduced around the Springvale shopping centre. In making this decision Council heard from both sides of the argument and how this decision would affect residents, shoppers and traders. I agree with many of the reasons on both sides, but I voted to support the introduction of parking meters, and to fight for a pick up and drop off place. There are a lot of changes happening across Springvale, including the Springvale Civic Master Plan. To help fund the master plan Council is selling the former Springvale Council Depot site at 32-40 View Road.
Council’s vision for the land is for the development of a high quality residential project, comprising of either aged care, townhouses, low rise apartments, dwellings or a nursing home (or a combination of these uses). The land covers 20,000 square metres in central Springvale (behind the Town Hall), so its development will play an important role in the future of the suburb. If you have any questions or would like to discuss issues that affect you in Lightwood Ward please contact me at loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone me on 0466 004 618.
Silverleaf Ward
Cr Maria Sampey M
any Silverleaf Ward residents who visit the Jan Wilson Community Centre regularly will notice a fresh look for the building. Improvements include a new foyer area with a television screen for promoting events and building community engagement, as well as new reception area and a new dishwasher, freezer and flooring in the kitchen area.
Jan Wilson Centre.
I have organised a Community Forum on Thursday 24 September, at the Jan Wilson Community Centre at 7pm. I have arranged for some council staff to attend as well and help address community concerns, including rate capping, hoon drivers and graffiti. Please come along and voice any concerns you may have. There is a lot of uncertainty at a local government level about how rate capping will affect service delivery
and future infrastructure projects. Here at Greater Dandenong we are hoping to find a way to balance the rates we charge with community expectations about service delivery within a rate capping environment. Hoon driving is a dangerous and illegal behaviour that endangers the lives of drivers and other road users. Council is working with Police and VicRoads to reduce hoon driving, but you can play a part by phoning the police on 000 to make a report. Graffiti is an issue that affects communities all over the world, and Council wants to help keep Greater Dandenong clean. We offer free graffiti removal kits and tips to keep your property graffiti free. Visit www. greaterdandenong.com/graffiti for more information, or phone me on 0438 800 027 to discuss any concerns you may have in regard to Council issues. the CITY 5
working FOR YOU
Public transport for seniors
S
enior Greater Dandenong residents are being encouraged to get out and about with a new guide to public transport.
The City of Greater Dandenong Community Care team have put together a handy guide which covers how to buy tickets for bus, train and tram services, and how to access concession fares and free travel. The guide aims to make travellers more confident and offers tips on making travel easier, including: • Plan your journey ahead of time by using the website www.ptv.vic.gov.au • Be aware of public toilet facilities along your chosen travel route • Travel in the front carriage of the train, closer to train drivers who can help passengers with mobility issues. The guide also outlines support services for those who need extra help, including community transport options, patient transfer services and half-price taxi fares for eligible travellers. Mayor Sean O’Reilly said the guide was a great initiative to help seniors stay active when they had to rely on public transport. “This is a great initiative that we are proud to launch for our seniors, valuing their safety and supporting their independence,” Cr O’Reilly said. You can get a copy of the guide at Council’s customer service centres or for more information phone 8571 1000.
Supporting asylum seekers L
The Statement was recently presented to Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield MP and Hon Mark Dreyfus QC MP.
It was attended by representatives from state and local governments, and community agencies.
It is hoped the Statement will result in increased funding for community agencies and the provision of more detailed information on asylum seeker numbers to assist Council with the planning and provision of services.
ast year the City of Greater Dandenong hosted a forum on asylum seekers living in the community.
The forum produced the Joint Statement on Asylum Seekers living in the Community, which has since been signed by 20 Councils representing the interests of more than 1.5 million Victorians. The Statement is a call for adequate support for asylum seekers already living in the community awaiting a determination of their status. With significant numbers of asylum seekers receiving little or no material support, Councils and local agencies are experiencing unprecedented demand. The Statement advocates to the Commonwealth Government for the necessary resources and information that will allow both local government and local community organisations to meet the needs of the community. In doing so the Statement recognises those who give so selflessly of their time and resources to support the most vulnerable in the community. 6 the CITY
City of Monash’s multicultural community development officer Amara Hamid and City of Greater Dandenong’s cultural diversity planner Biljana Komnenovic.
community NEWS
COMMUNITY SATISFACTION SURVEY T
he City of Greater Dandenong has again scored well on a statewide Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey. Each year the survey is conducted by JWS Research on behalf of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, and 69 of Victoria’s 79 local government areas took part this year. The survey assesses Council’s performance across a range of measures and seeks to find ways to improve service delivery. The City of Greater Dandenong’s results are compared to the rest of the state as well as selected Councils in metropolitan Melbourne. Council significantly outscored the state average across all key performance measures, and equalled or bettered the metropolitan council averages in most categories.
Council scored five points higher than the state average for overall performance, 65 compared to state score of 60, and improved on last year’s results for several categories including community consultation (up four points to 61), making community decisions (up from 61 to 62) and overall council direction (up from 63 to 65). The same questions were asked across each municipality, but Greater Dandenong residents were also asked Performance Measure
a question relating to the perception of safety in their neighbourhood at night. This question was also asked last year, and showed a large jump in perceptions of safety, with a score of 40 per cent in 2014 to 48 per cent this year. Areas identified as the best parts of living Greater Dandenong include community facilities, parks and gardens, diversity, waste management, customer service and road/street maintenance.
Council Score
Metro average State average
Overall Performance
65
67
60
Community Consultation
61
58
56
Advocacy
61
58
55
Making Community Decisions
62
59
55
Sealed Local Roads
67
69
55
Customer Service
76
73
70
Overall Council Direction
65
56
53
The City of Greater Dandenong is a Child Friendly City where all children and young people are valued, respected and celebrated. It is a city where: • Children are given opportunities to learn and develop their potential • Families, services and the broader community work together to ensure children are safe at all times and have access to services
Child Friendly City L
ast month the City of Greater Dandenong made a commitment to children, young people and families with the launch of the new Children’s Plan 2015-19 and the Child Friendly City initiative. Being a Child Friendly City highlights the important part our younger residents play in all aspects of community life. One in five residents in the City of Greater Dandenong are children, and ensuring they have the best start to life is a major priority for Council.
But providing care is just the start. Council encourages our young voices to be active and heard, and one way we can do this is by encouraging young people, their families and support services to participate in consultation and planning so that we can all benefit from their fresh and relevant ideas.
• Children have access to environments and services to improve their health and wellbeing • Children have opportunities to connect with other children, to their family, to their community and to the environment where they live • Children’s voices are heard through consultation in planning and implementation of programs.
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com for more information
the CITY 7
Lily Litter and litter prevention officer Amy McLoughlin celebrate Council’s win at the Keep Australia Beautiful Awards.
Emerson School students Jonathan, Gow, Isabelle and James in the school garden.
SUSTAINABLE CITY Greater Dandenong becoming a
A CLEAN GAME IS A GOOD GAME G
reater Dandenong sports men and women are contributing to a more sustainable city by recycling right at local sports grounds. A trial project, A Clean Game is a Good Game – Recycle Right, has delivered recycling bins and lockable bin cages to 12 sports grounds across the municipality. Clubs are encouraged to unlock the cages and put bins around their grounds on game day and during training. Statistics show that up to 80 per cent of waste generated by sporting facilities is recyclable, and includes aluminium drink cans, glass bottles, plastic bottles, cardboard and paper waste. The trial has proven successful with 8 the CITY
Council’s waste education officer Sam Ondrus and Dandenong Junior Football Club’s Colin Riddiford.
audits revealing the clubs involved are producing more recyclable rubbish with less cross contamination. The project was a finalist in the Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Sustainable Cities Awards in the Resource, Recovery and Waste Management category.
• Coomoora Reserve (Keysborough Soccer Club) • Greaves Reserve (Dandenong Football Club) • Edinburgh Reserve (South Waverley Sandown Cobras Football Club)
Sports grounds and clubs taking part in the trial include: • George Andrews Reserve (Dandenong Thunder Soccer Club)
• Turner Reserve (Dandenong Wolves Soccer Club)
• Police Paddocks Soccer Ground (Dandenong City Soccer Club)
• Ross Reserve (Springvale Little Athletics Club, Springvale City Soccer Club)
• Noble Park Reserve (Noble Park Football Club)
• Lois Twohig Reserve (Dandenong North Junior Football Club)
• Shepley Oval (Dandenong Stingrays Football Club)
• Police Paddocks Softball Ground (Dandenong Softball Association)
• Warner Reserve (South Springvale Soccer Club)
T
he City of Greater Dandenong is committed to creating a sustainable community for future generations and while we think global, we act local to make a change. From kerbside recycling collection to our own five-star rated Civic Centre and education programs, Council is serious about taking a sustainable approach to all aspects of our operations. Greater Dandenong was a finalist across several categories at the Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Sustainable Cities Awards, including in the prestigious category of Sustainable City. A Litter Prevention Program, which aimed to reduce litter on the streets while encouraging the community to ‘dob in a dumper’, won the Litter Prevention Category. Branded vehicles, unique public signage and a life-sized litter prevention bug named named Lily Litter helped remind people that rubbish dumping and littering are offences, and we all have a responsibility to keep our streets clean.
From your garden to ours Garden waste collected by Council waste trucks is taken to a garden waste processing facility (Natural Recovery Systems), where it is turned into compost and mulch which is used on Council garden beds and prominent parks. Waste Wise office program Council offices promote recycling across all areas, with recycling infrastructure provided in staff kitchens. Compost kitchen caddies have also been set up in staff kitchens, with compost taken to Aerobins located at Heritage Hill and Council’s Operations Centre for use on veggie gardens and garden beds. Feed the elephants Mirror bush (Coprosma repens) and other environmental weeds which cause damage to our local environment and smother native plant species are removed and donated to the Melbourne Zoo, where they are used to feed the elephants and other browsing animals.
Several other Council programs were finalists at the awards: Emerson School Sustainability Program in the Active Schools category Horticulture students at the specialist school have worked with Council to improve garden beds in Loxwood Reserve and Springvalley Park, and they also delivered a school-wide Journey Towards Sustainability program. The Asylum Seeker Pilot Project was Highly Commended in the Community Action Leadership category A partnership with Council and AMES(Adult Multicultural Education Services), the project recruited six volunteer asylum seekers to help regenerate the Roth Hetherington Botanic Gardens. Greater Dandenong Sustainability Festival in the Community Government Partnership category Held at the Dandenong Market in March, the festival encouraged the community to consider their environmental actions at home.
Edible gardens Instead of planting annual flowers in Dandenong Park, Council is experimenting with edible plants. Harvested crops, including hundreds of colourful lettuce plants were donated to not-for-profit organisation Avocare. A tropical garden planted as part of a Melbourne University study also produced hundreds of root vegetables, including sweet potato, taro and cassava.
Healthy Together – school garden network Healthy Together Victoria is an innovative approach to chronic disease prevention which aims to improve people’s health where they live, learn, work and play. Greater Dandenong is an active member of the program and has helped establish a school garden network which encourages healthy eating.
Heritage Hill Program and Building Revitalisation in the Cultural Heritage category Council oversaw the restoration in 1869 building Laurel Lodge, and a revamp of Heritage Hill’s program of activities to focus on art, craft and a sustainable lifestyle. Greater Dandenong Civic Centre in the Environmental Sustainability category The new Civic Centre houses council’s municipal offices as well as the hi-tech Dandenong Library and Harmony Square. The centre was designed to achieve a 5-star Green Star rating by the Green Building Council of Australia. The Great Bin Swap was Highly Commended in the Resource Recovery and Waste Management category More than 150,000 residential waste and recycling bins were swapped, to make bin colours conform to the Australian Standard. The project also encouraged higher levels of recycling and lower levels of waste to landfill.
Tree planting Planting days help nourish the environment and build community connections. This month planting days will be held on Sunday 9 August at Tirhatuan Park, Dandenong North, and Sunday 23 August at Coomoora Woodland Flora and Fauna Reserve, Keysborough. Community gardens Council actively supported the establishment of community gardens in Noble Park and Springvale, including donating vegetable crates, compost and mulch, and running workshops on how to compost food scraps. Environmental education with quirky characters Council runs a schools environment education program with guided tours of reserves, called Harry Habitat the Animal Hotel, and the fun Be a Bushranger program. Lily the litter prevention bug is also a colourful addition to community events and festivals. the CITY 9
community CALENDAR
AUGUST MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
31
Submit your community event online at www.greaterdandenong.com Coodabeen Champions
Combined Probus Club of Noble Park Club Noble 10am, Ph: 9546 2346
Heritage Hill
3
Intro to iPads - get started Springvale Library 6.30pm-8pm
Dandenong Evening View Club Dandenong RSL 7pm, Ph: 9560 9717
10
Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm Noble Park Country Women’s Association Craft Day Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 10am-1.30pm Ph: 9547 7261
Botanical Dyeing Heritage Hill 10am Ph: 9793 4511
24
Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm Springvale View Club Greyhounds Entertainment 6.30pm Ph: 9700 1976
10 the CITY
Skilled Up - cover letter and selection criteria Dandenong Library 4.30pm-6.30pm Cheeky Little Monkey’s Playgroup Noble Park Community Centre 2.30pm Ph: 9547 8501
Ballroom Dancing Burden Park Bowling Club 6.30pm (every Monday) Ph: 9798 1784
Toddler Time Springvale and Dandenong libraries 10.30am, Ph: 1300 630 920
Noble Park Community Action Forum Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 6pm Ph: 9701 5821
18
Skilled Up - interview skills Dandenong Library 4.30pm-6.30pm Conversation Circle Springvale Library 10.30am Dandenong Library 6pm, Ph: 1300 630 920 Live cooking demonstration – the perfect steak Dandenong Market The Kitchen 12pm
The Beggars Sing The Seekers Drum Theatre 10.30am, Ph: 8571 1666
National Reading Hour Carp Productions Dandenong Library 6-7pm
6
Freeza Events Committee Meeting 5pm Ph: 9793 2155 Heartlands exhibition launch Walker Street Gallery 6.30pm
12 Interfaith Tour 8.30am Ph: 9546 8441
Top Cat Dancers Rock & Roll Edinburgh Hall 7.30pm Ph: 0413 393 345
Introduction to iPads - go further Springvale Library 6.30pm-8pm
Bilingual Storytime – Vietnamese & English Springvale Library 10.30am
11
Art Series - Barat Ali Batoor Dandenong Library 6.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920
17
5 Gaming Development Dandenong Library 4pm-6pm (every Wednesday)
Skilled up - resume writing Dandenong Library 4.30pm-6.30pm
Ballroom Dancing Burden Park Bowling Club 6.30pm (every Monday) Ph: 9798 1784
Intro to iPads - learn more Springvale Library 6.30pm-8pm
4
The Coodabeens 35th Anniversary Tour Drum Theatre 8pm Ph: 8571 1666
13 Burmese Women’s Alliance Friendship Group Noble Park Community Centre 10.30am Ph: 0432 021 888
19
20 Heritage Hill garden tour and picnic 12pm Ph: 9793 4511
Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch Committee Meeting Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 7.30pm, Ph: 0407 325 030 Business Support Program Discover our resources Dandenong Library 6.30pm-8pm
25
26
27
Baby Bounce Springvale and Dandenong libraries 10.30am, Ph: 1300 630 920
Seussical the Musical Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666
The Social Knitwork Dandenong Library 10.30am (every Wednesday)
Storytime Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am (every Thursday)
www.greaterdandenong.com/Calendar
2015 FRIDAY
SATURDAY Ballroom Dancing Burden Park Bowling Club 6.30pm, Ph: 9798 1784
Graeme Connors
Progressive Polish Food Tour 10am Ph: 8571 1550
Dance for Type 1 Diabetes Gaelic Park Hall 7pm, Ph: 0401 888 436
Artist in Residence Open Day Heritage Hill 1pm, Ph: 9793 4511
8
14
Houseplant by Elizabeth Barnett – Opening Night Heritage Hill 6pm, Ph: 9793 4511
9
Drum Theatre 8571 1666 Dandenong Library 1300 630 920
Greazefest Sandown Racecourse 11am-7pm
Me and My Dad: Our Breathing System Dandenong Library 2pm Ph: 1300 630 920
✆ City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000
Planting Day Tirhatuan Park 10am Ph: 8571 1702
15
Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511
16
Kids Circus at Dandenong Market 10am-3pm
India Day @ Foster Street Dandenong 10am-10pm
21
Jan Wilson Community Centre 9795 9279 Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 8571 1436
22 Circus Oz – But Wait…There’s More Drum Theatre 2pm and 8pm Ph: 8571 1666
Circus Oz – But Wait…There’s More Drum Theatre 8pm Ph: 8571 1666
2
Springvale Computer Market/Swap Meet Springvale Town Hall 10am
Greazefest Sandown Racecourse 10am-10pm
Dandenong & District Orchid Club Meeting Greaves Reserve 7pm, Ph: 0412 188 263
Inspirational Stories – Our Elders Exhibition Heritage Hill 12pm Fred Woodman Exhibition Heritage Hill 12pm, Ph: 9793 4511
Robotics workshop Dandenong Library 10am-12pm Ph: 1300 630 920
Live cooking demonstration – Homemade Pasta Dandenong Market The Kitchen 12pm
Live cooking demonstration – Simply Nuts Dandenong Market The Kitchen 12pm
1
Graeme Connors – North 25 Years On Drum Theatre 7.30pm, Ph: 8571 1666
7
U3A Dandenong Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 1pm Ph: 9546 2997
Paramnesia by Rachel Nelson Heritage Hill 6pm, Ph: 9793 4511
SUNDAY
23 Planting Day – Coomoora Woodland Flora & Fauna Reserve 10am Ph: 8571 1702
Science Week Tech Challenge Dandenong Library 10am-2pm Ph: 1300 630 920
Springvale Library 1300 630 920 Springers Leisure Centre 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery 9706 8441
28
29
30 Dandenong Market 9701 3850
Live cooking demonstration – Vegan Heaven Dandenong Market The Kitchen 12pm
Kids Carnival Dandenong Market 10am-3pm
Cultural Tours 9771 5777
Art by Fred Woodman
the CITY 11
INTERFAITH TOUR
M
any Faiths, One People is a great description for the Interfaith network of the City of Greater Dandenong. Experience the many faiths that are worshipped by our diverse community as part of a bus tour that is designed to promote peace, harmony and understanding.
in Carrum Downs, the Brahma Kumaris Retreat Centre in Baxter and the Wat Buddharangsi (Cambodian Buddhist) in Springvale South. A vegetarian lunch will be provided by the Brahma Kumaris Retreat Centre.
The next tour will be held on Wednesday 12 August, leaving from Council’s Springvale offices at 8.45am.
The tour costs $25, which covers transport and a copy of the Many Faiths, One People booklet. Participants are asked to contribute a donation to cover the cost of the lunch.
The tour will visit the Bosnia and Herzegovina Islamic Mosque in Noble Park, Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple (Hindu)
For more information email tours@ interfaithnetwork.org.au or phone Helen Heath on 9546 8441 or 0408 571 483.
Mr Jasbir Singh Suropada, Senior Constable Maha Sukkar, Reverend Father Robert Stickland, Reverend Dr Phyllis Gorfine, Mr Rajadurai Varendran and Venerable Thich Thien Tam.
The Enterprise history project T
wo Springvale locations will feature interpretive signs as part of a project honouring the 30,000 migrants and refugees who lived at the Enterprise Migrant Hostel between 1970 and 1992. The first two signs will be installed at Springvale Rise Primary School and Centrelink.
The Enterprise History Project was initiated in 2007 by a group of people who had worked with community agencies providing services to Enterprise residents. It led to an exhibition at the Immigration Museum in 2008 and since then community interest has seen the project broaden into The Spirit of Enterprise. A rose garden was one of the first things people saw when they arrived at the Enterprise Hostel. The rose garden was well cared for and gave people hope they too would be looked after. In 2012 a new rose was officially named the Enterprise rose and became a fitting symbol for the project. 12 the CITY
A tribute garden funded by contributions from the community, local community organisations and the Victorian Multicultural Commission, was planted at the site of the hostel, which is now Lexington Gardens Retirement Village. In a bid to tell the stories connected to the Enterprise Hostel, a series of permanent signs will be installed at sites across the Springvale activity centre. The final signs will be installed at locations that were important in the journey of new migrants and refugees and include the Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau, Springvale Neighbourhood House, Springvale Community Health Centre and the Springvale retail precinct. It is hoped the amazing stories of hope and enterprise will inspire residents and visitors and give people a better understanding of the surprising Springvale of today. Visit www.enterprisehostel.org.au to find out more about the history project.
SCIENCE WEEK AT THE LIBRARIES
Gaming development Institute of Games and Greater Dandenong Libraries offer a program where you can learn to create your own games. Every Tuesday in term 3, from 4pm-6pm, for ages 12-15 years. Email steven@instituteofgames.com to book.
iPad programs
G
reater Dandenong Libraries will use August to celebrate the role science and technology plays in our everyday lives. Science week will kick off with a Me and My Dad session on the theme of the human breathing system at the Dandenong Library on Saturday 15 August, 2pm-3pm. The Me and My Dad program offers a chance for kids and carers to share an educational experience in a fun setting.
A series of iPad workshops covers everything from getting started to being more creative with apps, and using the camera, iPad calendar, notes, reminders and iCloud. Bookings are essential.
iPad lending scheme In addition to public access computers, Springvale Library will have 10 iPads available to borrow for up to two hours of personal use in the library. Visit www.greaterdandenonglibraries. com for more information or phone 1300 630 920.
DINOSAURS IN SPRINGVALE S
pringvale will roar with excitement with the arrival of Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo at the Town Hall next month. The exciting children’s show, with its large scale dinosaur puppets will take you back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The show features a range of prehistoric creatures, from cute baby dinos to some of the largest carnivores that ever walked the planet, and the world’s largest flying insect the Meganuera monyi.
The week will end on Saturday 22 August with a Science Week Tech Challenge, including the construction of a robot which will race through an obstacle course.
Greater Dandenong Libraries have many resources in print and online covering science, mathematics, engineering and technology subjects, including:
A range of programs inspired by Science Week (15-23 August) will be introduced at both libraries this month. They seek to encourage the wider community to explore the world in which we live and build an interest in scientific pursuits.
E-resources: • Credo Reference • Encyclopaedia Britannica • Safari Books Online • Informit – health, engineering • Zinio emagazines
Robotics workshop
Technology: • Atomic Training • Iynda.com • The Computer School
Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo will be at Springvale Town Hall, on Thursday 10 September at 12pm and 6.30pm. All tickets $15. Parking is free.
And a wide range of magazines with science and technology themes.
Book online at www.greaterdandenong. com./dinozoo or phone 8571 1666.
We have partnered with Robogals to deliver a hands on workshop designed to inspire and introduce pathways into science, engineering and IT. Fun for kids aged 8-13. Phone 1300 630 920 for dates and to book.
Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo is a cutting edge production that will have you and the kids on the edge of your seats. All tickets are the same price, but book early for a discount to this once in a lifetime interactive experience. Critics have described the show as an ‘extraordinary spectacle’ and ‘very clever, beautifully constructed and hugely entertaining’.
IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – AUGUST 2015 The Immunisation Timetable for the City of Greater Dandenong is available from Council’s customer service centres or Maternal and Child Health centres and online. Phone Council on 8571 1000 or visit www.greaterdandenong.com for more information on the upcoming immunisation sessions: DATE 3 August
TIME 5pm-6.30pm
LOCATION Springvale Service for Children, 23-28 Lightwood Road, Springvale
11 August
10am-12pm
Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park
13 August
10am-11.30am
Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong
18 August
10am-11am
Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough
19 August
4.30pm-6.30pm
Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong
22 August
10am-12pm
Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong
25 August
10am-11am
Jan Wilson Community Centre, BJ Powell Reserve, Halton Road, Noble Park North
26 August
10am-12pm
Springvale Service for Children, 23-28 Lightwood Road, Springvale
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business NEWS
SMALL BUSINESS FESTIVAL G
et inspired and learn new skills at the Small Business Festival Victoria. Held throughout the month of August there are more than 300 events across the state to help you network with other small business owners and be inspired by successful business people. To book visit www.business.vic.gov.au/ festival. Some of our fabulous local business events include:
SEBN business grants and assistance explained Thursday 6 August, 12.30pm-2pm at Council Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong One hour session with Matthew Fletcher followed by one-on-one consultations. Bookings required.
Top ten technology tips Tuesday 18 August, 6pm-8pm at Council Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Hear from industry experts on how to utilise the latest technology and social media in your business. Small business support Wednesday 19 August, 5.30pm-7pm at Council Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Find out about handling commercial retail leasing, contract and business disputes.
Brothers Hamed and Mohammad (front) Musawi at Dandy Naan.
GRANT APPLICATIONS
Dandenong Library will also host three Small Business sessions. An introduction to Business Victoria’s website, on Monday 3 August, 6.30pm-8pm. How to register an ABN online, on Tuesday 11 August, 6.30pm-8pm. Discover our business resources, on Wednesday 19 August, 6.30pm-8pm.
Grants of up to $8000, plus a business mentoring and marketing package valued at $2000, aim to stimulate business growth in Greater Dandenong. Expressions of interest close on Friday 21 August at 4pm. Details: www.greaterdandenong.com/ businessgrants or phone 8571 1550.
BUSINESS GRANT HELPS EXPANSION
D
andy Naan was one of five local businesses to receive a grant under the 2014-15 Business Grants Program. The success of the unique bakery has given the owners the idea to expand into a kebab, coffee, salad and snack takeaway shop, and that idea was what scored them the grant. Dandy Naan specialises in making Iranian flatbread sangak, which is rarely found in Australia. The bread is made in a specially imported oven to a traditional recipe which uses
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City of Greater Dandenong is offering small and start-up businesses the chance to secure grants up to $10,000.
wholemeal flour and has no added oil, sugar or salt. The word sangak means little stones in Persian, which refers to the imprints the earthenware oven makes on the bread. Dandy Naan is at 30 Stud Road, Dandenong, and is open 8.30am7pm Tuesday to Sunday. Visit www.dandynaan.com.au for more information or phone 8712 8489. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com for more information about the City of Greater Dandenong’s Business Grants Program.
community NEWS
Noble Park Community Centre
Art Show I
t’s time to put on your artistic cap and let your creative inhibitions run wild.
It doesn’t matter if you are a professional artist or hobbyist, the Noble Park Community Centre Art Show prize is up for grabs again, and now in its 10th year it’s bigger than ever before. The art show has grown more popular among artists, with last year’s show attracting more than 500 entries across 17 categories. Anyone can participate, with entry costing just $5 per piece, free junior entries are open for children up to the age of 16. Total prize money is $3000 thanks to generous sponsors. The Open Prize and Best School Exhibit prize are both worth $500 for the winners and $250 for runner-ups. There are also prizes for the best Aged Care Facility and All Abilities exhibits.
Emerging artists are encouraged to get involved and experience exhibiting their work at an all-inclusive art show. Any two-dimensional art pieces of reasonable size are encouraged, and they must be framed and presented ready to hang. Winners will be judged by renowned art critic and curator David O’Halloran who manages the prestigious Walker Street Art Gallery in Dandenong.
Neighbourhood Watch
G
reater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch will hold a public forum and information night on Wednesday 16 September featuring guest speaker Michael Strong. Mr Strong is the president of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria and has a long list of credentials, including having been a Crown Prosecutor, County Court Judge, Director of the Office of Police Integrity, Australian Crime Commission Examiner, and board member of Odyssey House. He will speak on the topic of crime and punishment in Victoria in 2015.
Greater Dandenong is becoming known for its focus on the arts and this show aims to bring arts back to the grassroots.
The forum is open to the whole community and will be held in rooms 3 and 4 at the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley St, Noble Park.
Entries close 17 September, visit www.nobleparkcommunitycentre.org. au/art-show-0 to register or phone 9547 5801.
For more information about Neighbourhood Watch Greater Dandenong or to volunteer your services contact president Dawn Vernon at president@nhwgreaterdandenong.org or phone 0407 325 030.
Find Noble Park Community Centre Art Show on Facebook to keep up to date.
U3A DANDENONG KARAOKE GROUP T
he award-winning Kool Kat Karaoke Group at U3A Dandenong have been entertaining members for four years. The group meets every Friday afternoon at the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre in Noble Park, and sings all their favourites from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Each year the group holds a karaoke competition, but this year they decided to enjoy the music with a themed concert instead.
The group is operated by U3A members Rob and Louise Wood, and with more than 2000 songs available, no one has trouble finding a favourite song. Choices range from country music, classic rock and pop. The group proves that even though you might be retired, you can still belt out a good tune and enjoy yourself. For more information contact the U3A office on 9546 2997. the CITY 15
CIRCUS OZ COMING TO DANDENONG
CIRCUS OZ: BUT WAIT...THERE’S MORE Friday 21 August, 8pm Saturday 22 August, 2pm & 8pm
SLEEPING BEAUTY
JANE RUTTER – FRENCH KISS
Thursday 1 October, 10.30am & 1.30pm
Thursday 8 October, 10.30am & 8pm
BOOK NOW! 8571 1666 | drumtheatre.com.au facebook.com/thedrumtheatre
Corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong