The City July 2017

THE

CITY

Greater Dandenong’s Monthly Magazine

JULY 2017

New look Town Hall PAGE 7

2017–18 Budget

A tourist’s delight

Open House weekend

►► PAGE 3

►► PAGE 14

►► PAGE 8

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THE CITY

Customer Service Centres Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Springvale Customer Service 397–405 Springvale Road, Springvale Keysborough Customer Service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre, Keysborough 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 Phone: 8571 1000 Fax: 8571 5196

Mayor ’s message Welcome to the July edition of The City.

This month we are proud to see the reopening of the refurbished Springvale City Hall. This is the first step in the revitalisation of the Springvale Community precinct. Read more about the project on page 7.

By the time you get this magazine Council will have voted on the Proposed 2017–18 Budget which decides where rate money is allocated. Read more about how your rates are spent on page 3.

Mayor Jim Memeti

Council is proud to have been invited to take part in the prestigious Open House Melbourne event this month. We have several locations which you can tour on the weekend of 29–30 July. See page 8 for more information.

And finally one of our most popular festivals is returning this month. Springvale Snow Fest celebrates the beauty of winter and brings real snow to our streets.

Find out more about the 30 July event on page 12.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue and have a great month.

www.greaterdandenong.com @greaterdandy facebook.com/greaterdandenong cityofgreaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TTY: 133 677 Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 www.iprelay.com.au TIS: 13 14 50

My City Get out and explore your city. Greater Dandenong boasts 523ha of open space, including 197 land reserves, 25 sports reserves and 17 bushland areas. There are also 101 playgrounds across the municipality, including this one at Tatterson Park in Keysborough.

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 Australian Animal Protection Society.............................. 9798 8415 RSPCA....................................................... 9224 2222 Nurse on Call................................ 1300 606 024

www.greaterdandenong.com

Front Cover: Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr Jim Memeti is excited to unveil the new-look Springvale Town Hall. Picture: Hilton Stone.

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

News

Budget – where your money will be spent Councillors were due to adopt the 2017–18 Budget at the 26 June Council Meeting, giving residents a clear idea of where rates will be spent this financial year.

“The challenge to fund the appropriate replacement of existing assets, including roads, drains and buildings, is one that our Council shares with many other local councils,” Cr Memeti said.

When this edition of The City went to print, the City of Greater Dandenong councillors were due to adopt the Proposed Budget 2017–18 which went out to public consultation from 10 May to 7 June.

“In our particular case, the challenge is beginning to become urgent as much of our key infrastructure was built in the 1960s and 70s and will soon reach the end of their useful lives.

While the State Government’s rate cap of 2 per cent has placed some pressure on this year’s Budget, Council has tried to balance the service needs of our community, while continuing to invest in infrastructure.

Mayor Jim Memeti said this year’s Budget invested significantly in the infrastructure of our city despite the constraints imposed by rate capping and continued cost shifting by other levels of government.

“Despite this I feel that this year’s Budget strikes a good balance between ensuring Council continues to provide support to our community while at the same time complying with the CPI cap on rate income imposed by the State Government.”

THE CITY

Key features of the Budget ► $6.9

$

million for Tatterson Park – stage three pavilion construction, synthetic soccer pitch, and access road and car park works (part funded by Commonwealth and State Government funding of $1.77 million)

► $6.45

million for Springvale Community Precinct – stage two

► $5.56

million for road rehabilitation and resurfacing

► $4.05

million for a building renewal program

► $1.7

million for footpath and kerb and channel renewal works

► $1.6

million for Dandenong Activity Centre, Walker Street streetscape construction – stage one

► $1.5

million for Dandenong Park Master Plan implementation

► $900,000

for Wal Turner Reserve pavilion extension

► $1.16

million for library resources

► $1.15

million for Springvale Road Boulevard

► $625,000

for Dandenong Market

projects ► $600,000

for Greaves Reserve floodlight installation and soccer pitch construction for playground renewal and upgrades

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► $510,000

$

www.greaterdandenong.com

$

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THE CITY

Councillor Contacts Lightwood Ward Cr Youhorn Chea Ph/Fax: 9584 5149 0417 320 645 youhorn.chea@cgd.vic.gov.au

Lightwood Ward Cr Sean O’Reilly 0422 523 258 sean.oreilly@cgd.vic.gov.au

Lightwood Ward Cr Loi Truong 0466 004 618 loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au

enong Mayor, d Greater Dand Cr Sam Aziz an ague and or, Le ay AM y an r se fo Ca , anding to lobby Cr Brett Owen rst or, de ay Un M a of ini m rd Ca orandu i sign the Mem east.

Cr Jim Memet ourne’s south elb M r fo am te W-League

Paperbark Ward Cr Roz Blades AM Ph/Fax: 9701 5021 0417 053 612 roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au

Paperbark Ward Cr Tim Dark 0466 403 914 tim.dark@cgd.vic.gov.au

Paperbark Ward Cr Heang Tak Ph: 9548 2340 0403 072 291 heang.tak@cgd.vic.gov.au

Red Gum Ward Cr Matthew Kirwan 0403 072 295 matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic.gov.au

THU RSDAY Red Gum Ward Cr Angela Long Ph/Fax: 9795 6574 JU LY 0466 004 616 angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au

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NOVEMBER Red Gum Ward Cr Jim Memeti – Mayor Ph/Fax: 9792 4683 0434 560 239 jim.memeti@cgd.vic.gov.au

Silverleaf Ward Cr Zaynoun Melhem 0466 518 082 zaynoun.melhem@cgd.vic.gov.au

Mayor Jim Memeti shows his soccer skills to ex-Socceroo Vincent Grella and State Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams at the celebration of the launch of a bid for an A-League and W-League team based in Melbourne’s south east.

Council Meetings MONDAY

10 JULY

MONDAY

24 JULY

www.greaterdandenong.com

00 10 JU LY

NOJUNE VEMBER

M O N DAY

10 J U LY

Council meetings are held on the second and the fourth Monday of the month.

Did you know you can watch Council meetings live online via our web-cast service?

All Council meetings are held at the city chambers at the Dandenong Civic Centre at 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong.

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.

The July meetings will be held: Silverleaf Ward Cr Maria Sampey Ph/Fax: 9790 1291 0438 800 027 maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au

MONDAY TH URSDAY

Monday 10 July Monday 24 July

To view meetings online simply go to greaterdandenong.com/ councilmeetings

MOND

24 J U LY

THE CITY

Cr Roz Blades

► Paperbark Ward Recent capital investment in Douglas Street of $396,000 has added to the look and feel of the streetscape. There will be some further funding available for streetscape projects once the level crossing works are completed.

Cr Roz Blades enjoying a coffee at MS Coffee Shop in Noble Park.

My family are long term residents of Noble Park. I am very proud to be part of this community. It is the smallest of Greater Dandenong’s three activity centres, but we punch above our weight.

Noble Park now has a pedestrian friendly main street with a strong retail focus, alongside its own activity space.

New seating is a highlight and adds to the pedestrian friendly feel of the suburb. As someone who regularly shops in Noble Park I am always amazed by the diversity of offer. With cafes, restaurants and retail shops totaling more than 150, there really is something for everyone in Noble Park.

Add to this the fact that Noble Park has the highest concentration of shops open after 6pm and it is fair to say this wonderful suburb packs quite a punch.

Those that know me know I am a passionate supporter of our community, I am a strong believer in volunteering and over the years have been privileged to work with other committed volunteers helping families in need.

That’s why I often use this column to tell you about new or improved infrastructure that Council has built.

In the photo, you can see my dog Scrappy and me at Keysborough’s newest off-leash park at the corner of Chapel Rd and Villiers Rd, Keysborough.

But improving the liveability of Greater Dandenong also involves councillors and Council staff lobbying State Government for infrastructure and services that are not our responsibility but that will make a big difference to our residents’ lives. This includes things like more police, new schools and new bus routes. I personally advocate on those issues but also the following issues, which I am passionate about: ► Poker

Machine Addiction: we are lobbying State Government to reduce the harm caused by poker machines through tougher laws that make poker machines less addictive and by giving communities like ours a real say over the location of and number of poker machines.

If you would like to talk to me about any local issues I would love to hear from you. You can contact me at roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au or 0417 053 612.

Cr Matthew Kirwan

► Red Gum Ward I believe one of Council’s most important roles is to improve the liveability of Greater Dandenong.

The Springvale Benevolent Society volunteers are amazing with the work we do on a daily basis. For those in our community doing it tough we really are a lifeline. We supply food vouchers and non-perishable items to individuals and families at a time when they need it most. We could not survive without the generous donations from our community so thank you to everyone who gives so generously. It is also heartwarming to know I live and represent a community who cares so much for others.

► Asylum

Seekers: Through the Greater Dandenong Asylum Seekers and Refuge Communities Action Plan, we work with agencies and volunteer groups to assist the almost 3000 asylum seekers in our community.

This includes advocating for more resources from State and Federal Governments to deal with the challenges of integration, housing, education and unemployment.

► Unemployment:

Greater Dandenong has twice the average Melbourne unemployment rate, with the suburb of Dandenong the most affected. Through the Mayoral Youth Employment Taskforce, DandenongDoveton Community Revitalisation Project and measures specifically aimed at asylum seekers, we are working hard to get our residents jobs.

You can find out more about our current and past advocacy campaigns on Council’s website.

Please contact me via email matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic. gov.au or phone me on 0403 072 295 if you have any ideas of what Greater Dandenong Council should be advocating for, or any other issues or concerns you want to raise with me.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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THE CITY

Community grants now open The City of Greater Dandenong Community Support Grants Program Round 2 opens in July.

The program invests in community groups and helps them make a real difference.

Keep it green

Working for You

…open in July

Grants of up to $20,000 are available this year and these can be used to develop or trial initiatives that benefit the local community.

Applications can be submitted from 10 July and close on Friday 18 August at 5pm.

For the first time all applications will be received online.

Council will be running sessions on the program and how to write an effective grant application.

Tuesday 25 July, 6pm–7.30pm Level 2 Meeting Rooms Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong Thursday 27 July, 10.30am–12pm Level 2 Meeting Rooms Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong Tuesday 1 August, 10am–11.30am Meeting Rooms 1 and 2 Springvale Council Offices 397–405 Springvale Road Springvale Wednesday 2 August, 10.30am–12pm Function Room 2 Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 18–32 Buckley Street Noble Park For more details or to apply go to greaterdandenong. com/grants

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Council’s fortnightly garden waste collection helps keep the city clean and green, but it is important that households avoid contaminating their bins with unacceptable items.

The bin with the green lid is for green waste, but if you have ever received a pink sticker it is likely you have put out a contaminated bin for collection.

Garden waste is collected and taken to a processing facility where it is turned into high quality compost. However, contaminants can affect the amount of compost created and can also cause major damage to machinery used during processing.

Items such as plastic bags, household garbage, tyres, car parts, chemicals, oil cans, gas cylinders and metals have all been found in garden waste collected in Greater Dandenong. Other items that contaminate the waste include food, soil, bricks, recyclables, garbage, clothing and nappies.

In extreme cases whole truckloads have been rejected from the facility, wasting the recycling efforts of many households.

Items that can be placed in your green bin include grass clippings, flowers, small branches (less ✔︎ than 30cm), weeds and garden prunings.

If you are following your collection dates through the Community Calendar provided free of charge by Council then please be aware that July’s collection dates are wrong. A printing error has resulted in the green waste and recycle symbols being swapped around.

If in doubt you can visit our website greaterdandenong.com for up to date information on waste collection services for your neighbourhood.

Community Calendar

…due to open to the public later this month

THE CITY

Allan Street Bridge connecting residents in Dandenong

Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr Jim Memeti oversees works as the finishing touches were put on the new-look Springvale City Hall last month.

The new look Springvale City Hall unveiled The finishing touches are currently being put on Stage 1 of the Springvale Community Precinct Project – with the new-look Springvale City Hall due to open to the public later this month.

The redevelopment of Springvale City Hall is the first major renovation that has taken place at the site since it was built in the late 1960s.

The upgrades include new heating and cooling, as well as improved lighting and acoustics. A new terrace also has been built on the northern side of the town hall, making the facility more attractive for function hire and hosting key community events.

The second stage of the Springvale Community Precinct Project will include construction of the new Springvale library and community hub.

This significant Council investment in Springvale will see the site of the former Springvale Municipal offices at 397–405 Springvale Road transformed into a world-class community facility, providing a variety of learning, leisure and cultural spaces.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr Jim Memeti said work on the town hall began in October last year and has seen the building transformed into an amazing function hire space.

“The refurbishment works have given the Springvale City Hall a new lease on life,” he said.

“When this project is completed it will become the new community heart of Springvale.”

Council is now taking bookings for the Springvale City Hall. Anyone interested in booking the venue for their next function can contact 8571 5340.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr Jim Memeti, Cr Angela Long and State Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams officially opened the new Allan St Bridge in Dandenong recently.

The new bridge is the final piece of the puzzle in the Metro Village 3175 project.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr Jim Memeti said the bridge was a vital link between central Dandenong and the neighbourhoods to the south, and would result in improved access for locals and businesses.

“This new bridge complements the other work Council has done with the State Government to make Dandenong an even better place to live, work and invest,” he said.

“The new bridge will also reduce traffic congestion in the area, giving locals an extra creek crossing to Cheltenham Road.”

The works were delivered by Development Victoria, who worked closely with the City of Greater Dandenong and Melbourne Water on the bridge’s design.

The bridge will now be owned and maintained by the City of Greater Dandenong.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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THE CITY

OPEN HOUSE COMES TO GREATER DANDENONG Several iconic Dandenong locations have joined the popular Open House Melbourne 2017 program for its 10th year.

Open House Melbourne opens the doors to some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including private residences, and encourages exploration of architectural marvels and historical hotspots.

This year’s Open House will be held on the weekend of July 29–30 and five locations in central Dandenong will host tours open to the public.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/visit for more information.

Dandenong Town Hall and Drum Theatre

Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens

Built in 1890 the Dandenong Town Hall is a superb example of a Victorian 19th century Town Hall. Originally built as a combined Shire Hall and Mechanics Institute, it also fulfilled the role of public hall, court house, local library and council chambers.

Benga House

In 2006 the hall was redeveloped into the 521 seat Drum Theatre, in an outstanding marriage of old and new architecture.

A building this old is bound to have some skeletons in the closet, and some ghost stories will be revealed as part of the Open House tours.

St James Anglican Church Built in 1864 the church is the oldest un-modified building in Dandenong and continues to welcome congregations to services each week. Its significance lies not only with its age, but the elegance of an old English church.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Built in 1936 for local doctor Ian Hart and his wife Dorothy, Benga House was one of the largest and most expensive houses built in the Shire of Dandenong at the time. It was extended in 1952, but the 1930s character was maintained.

A major feature of the Benga property is the exceptional Edna Walling inspired garden design.

Laurel Lodge Owned and built in 1869 by noted building contractor Robert Huckson, Laurel Lodge is Dandenong’s reminder of the 19th century.

Huckson rented the property to a ‘Miss Matilda’ who established a private ladies’ school from 1870–1884. From 1884 to 1971 the house was residence for a prominent local family. The property was subdivided in 1936 and sold to the Dandenong City Council in 1971.

…held on the weekend of July 29–30 Harmony Square and Dandenong Library Completed and opened in March 2014, the new $65 million municipal building in central Dandenong houses a state-ofthe-art library, Civic Centre and Council Chambers. Adjacent sits the modern open plaza of Harmony Square, fitted with a large scale LED screen framing a performance space and stage.

There are numerous references to the local indigenous landscape throughout the building and civic square, which has become the new civic heart for Greater Dandenong. This space has received a number of national and state architecture and design awards.

Community Calendar

THE CITY

Planting the seed National Tree Day, now in its 22nd year, continues to inspire the hearts and minds of ordinary people wanting to do extraordinary things.

In addition to National Tree Day the City of Greater Dandenong runs tree planting days from June to September. Join us at any or all of the following events:

Council invites residents to join us for National Tree Day celebrations at Falkiner Reserve on Sunday 30 July from 10am–1.30pm. Help plant some seedlings and enjoy a live animal show and free barbecue.

► Tatterson

“Community planting days are a way the community can give back to our planet,” Mayor Jim Memeti said.

“There are so many benefits from participating at one of these events – it is good for your health, great family time and you are helping to plant habitat for all the wonderful fauna of Greater Dandenong. Last year the community helped plant more than 25,000 indigenous seedlings in our reserves and parks.”

Park On Sunday 9 July, from 10am–1pm

► Fotheringham

Reserve On Sunday 23 July, from 10am–1pm

► Coomoora

Woodland Flora and Fauna Reserve On Saturday 29 July, from 10am–1pm

► Falkiner

Reserve On Sunday 30 July, from 10am–1.30pm

► Tirhatuan

Park On Saturday 19 August, from 10am–1pm

► Alex

Wilkie Reserve – Spring Opening Festival and Planting Day On Saturday 2 September, from 11am–3pm

COMMUNITY ART ON SHOW

All planting events are followed by a free barbecue lunch. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and shoes and bring your own gloves.

Bookings are essential for catering purposes. Events will be cancelled in adverse weather. For enquiries or to book phone 8571 1702.

Parking in Greater Dandenong A draft Greater Dandenong Municipal Parking Strategy has been developed and Council is looking for public feedback on the document.

Local artists are being invited to enter their work in the annual Noble Park Community Centre Art Show.

The show, now in its 12th year, is a great chance for both emerging and established artists to exhibit their work to the public in a professional, but supportive, setting.

The show will be launched at the Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park on Thursday 3 August, at 10.30am.

Organisers hope that this celebration of community art will also encourage first time exhibitors – young or old – to share their work.

Prizes will be awarded across open and junior categories, and a selection of entries will be on show at the annual exhibition across the weekend of 21–22 October.

Visit nobleparkcommunity centre.org.au for more information.

Whether you live in Greater Dandenong, or visit for work or pleasure, car parking concerns everyone. This Strategy outlines Council’s commitment to manage car parking to best suit the needs of the community, and now we want you to tell us what you think.

To have your say on the draft Municipal Parking Strategy, visit www.greaterdandenong.com or any of our customer service centres, or phone 8571 1000. We will be accepting feedback until 5pm, Friday 29 July 2017.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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THE CITY

Community Calendar

Event Calendar / July 2017 MONDAY

TUESDAY

31

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

► Library

Toddler Time Springvale and Dandenong Libraries 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Heritage Hill

3

► Combined

Probus Club of Noble Park Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park 10am, Ph: 9546 2346

4

► Dandenong

Evening View Club Dandenong RSL, 44-50 Clow Street 7pm Ph: 9560 9717

► Burden

Park Social Dancing Burden Park Bowls Club, Springvale South 7pm-10pm (every Monday) Ph: 9547 1907 Week Celebrations Drum Theatre, 3pm-6pm 8571 1000

10 ► Dandenong

Probus Club of Sandown Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park 10am, Ph: 9791 6807

► Little

► Conversation

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, 7pm

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► Library Toddler Time Springvale and Dandenong Libraries 10.30am (every Monday) Ph: 1300 630 920

► Conversation

► The

► The

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Circle – Beginner Dandenong Library 6pm Ph: 1300 630 920 Australian Ballet Regional Tour’s Giselle Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

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20

Knitwork Dandenong Library 10am Ph: 1300 630 920

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► Learning

Help for Adults Dandenong Library 1pm-3pm (every Tuesday) Ph: 1300 630 920

► 3

vs 3 Basketball Tournament Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive 12pm-5pm Ph: 9793 2155

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► Centrelink

myGov session Springvale Library 10am–5pm Ph: 1300 630 920

► Peer

2 Peer Homework Club Dandenong Library 4pm-6pm (every Monday) Ph: 1300 630 920

► Library

Storytime Springvale and Dandenong Libraries 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

► Greater

Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch Committee Meeting Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 7.30pm, Ph: 0407 325 030

24 Park Country Women’s Association General Meeting Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 10am–12pm, Ph: 9547 7261

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► Springvale

► Baby

► Council

► Super

► Noble

www.greaterdandenong.com

Men’s Group Springvale Neighbourhood House, 9am-12pm Ph: 9548 3972

► Noble

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

6

► Social

Circle – Advanced Dandenong Library 6pm (every Tuesday) Ph: 1300 630 920

► Council

► Heritage

Australian Ballet Regional Tour’s Giselle Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

and District Diabetic Support Group Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 2pm Ph: 9546 2346

Devils Circus Workshop Drum Theatre, 10.30am-12.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

5 Hill Museum and Historic Garden Tour 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 10am Ph: 8571 1666

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► Combined

July

► NAIDOC

Tree Planting

Soup Cooking Workshop 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 11am-12pm Ph: 8571 1702

Bounce Dandenong Library 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920 Park Community Action Forum Annual General Meeting Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 6pm to 8pm

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► Basket

Making Class Keysborough Learning Centre, 402 Corrigan Road 1pm-3pm Ph: 9798 7005

Community Calendar

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

► Windmill

Theatre Company presents Chicago Drum Theatre 8pm Ph: 8571 1666

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► Plaza

Live – Youth Talent Showcase Dandenong Plaza, 4pm-6pm Ph: 9793 2155

► Ballroom

Dandenong Keysborough Senior Citizens Hall, 352 Cheltenham Road, 8pm-11pm, Ph: 0428 549 995

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2

► Windmill

Theatre Company presents Chicago Drum Theatre, 2pm Ph: 8571 1666 Dandenong Environment Group Dandenong Wetlands, Stud Road, Dandenong North 9.30am Ph: 8571 1702

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► Springvale

► Chinese

Rotary Sunday Market Springvale Railway Station 8am–2pm Ph: 0438 303 939

► Tree

Mandolin Music Group Springvale Neighbourhood House 1pm-3pm Ph: 9548 3972

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► Roy

– A Tribute to Roy Orbison Drum Theatre 8pm Ph: 8571 1666

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► Learn

Lion Dance Springvale Neighbourhood House 1pm Ph: 9548 3972

21

► Sisters

of Mercy English Tutoring Dandenong Library 9am–11am Ph: 1300 630 920

22 Resurrection School Community Swap 414–418 Corrigan Road, Keysborough 10am–11am

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Lion Dance

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► Keysborough

► Springvale

► Family

► Tree

Fun at the Library Springvale Library 11am Ph: 1300 630 920

Rotary Sunday Market Springvale Railway Station 8am–2pm Ph: 0438 303 939

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre Ph: 8571 1436 Springvale Library Ph: 1300 630 920

Planting Coomoora Woodland Flora and Fauna Reserve, Serpentine Way, Keysborough 10am-1pm Ph: 8571 1702

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► Springvale

Snow Fest Corner Balmoral and Buckingham avenues, Springvale, 12pm-7pm

► National

Walker Street Gallery Ph: 9706 8441 Dandenong Market Ph: 9701 3850

Planting Fotheringham Reserve, Alexander Avenue, Dandenong 10am-1pm

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► Tree

Jan Wilson Community Centre Ph: 9795 9279

Springers Leisure Centre Ph: 9701 5900

Social Knitwork

Dandenong Library Ph: 1300 630 920 Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens Ph: 9793 4511

Planting Tatterson Park, Cheltenham Road, Keysborough 10am-1pm Ph: 8571 1702

City of Greater Dandenong Ph: 8571 1000 Drum Theatre Ph: 8571 1666

► Greater

Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Drum Theatre 11am and 1pm Ph: 8571 1666

Coleman’s Ministry of Dance Musical Theatre Workshop Drum Theatre, 10.30am and 12pm, Ph: 8571 1666

► The

► Jason

Contact:

SUNDAY

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THE CITY

Tree Day Planting Falkiner Reserve, Falkiner Crescent, Dandenong 10am-1.30pm Ph: 8571 1702

Cultural Tours Ph: 8571 1666

Send your event listings to news@cgd.vic.gov.au List your community event online at greaterdandenong.com/ eventlistings

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THE CITY

Winter produce is a winner at Dandenong Market Shopping in season tastes better and costs less. During the cooler months Dandenong Market has a wonderland of choice when it comes to finding the freshest, most flavoursome winter produce for those warm, delicious meals we look forward to when the weather turns.

Dandenong Market’s resident chef, Tim Hollands, has some tips to help you make the most of the fruits and vegetables currently in season. “Winter produce doesn’t have to be all about boring broccoli and brussel sprouts!” he said. “Root vegetables, leafy greens and citrus fruits are also plentiful and offer great value at this time of year.”

CURRENTLY IN SEASON Apples Avocados Bananas Beetroot Broccoli Brussel Sprouts Cabbage Carrots Celery Leek

Lemons Mandarins Mushrooms Oranges Parsnips Pears Potatoes Rhubarb Spinach Silverbeet Spinach

You can spice up your winter menu with a range of hearty recipes like this one at dandenongmarket. com.au.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Featured Recipe

Braised Beef with Mediterranean Spices Serves 4–6

Method

Ingredients

► In

500g diced steak 2 brown onions, diced 2 sticks celery, diced ¼ cup plain flour 4 large field mushrooms, diced ¼ teaspoons sumac ¼ teaspoons turmeric ¼ teaspoons fennel seeds 1 tablespoon roasted garlic puree 3 tablespoons tomato paste 1 litre of water (red wine optional) 200g kipfler potatoes, washed and dried 4 heritage carrots, peeled 1 bunch English spinach 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

a large bowl mix the diced beef with roasted garlic puree, sumac, turmeric and fennel seeds. Set aside and allow to marinate (overnight if possible)

► Dust

beef in plain flour

► Using

a large casserole pot and oil, diced beef

► Add

diced vegetables, kipfler potatoes and tomato paste.

Cook for a further 3 minutes

► De-glaze

of water

pan with 1 litre

► Bring

to the boil, then turn down and simmer for approximately 2 hours or until tender

► Steam

carrots and spinach until cooked

► Add

chopped herbs to the casserole and serve with carrots and spinach

Community Calendar

Winter wonderland comes to Springvale

THE CITY

NAIDOC week in Greater Dandenong

The City of Greater Dandenong will celebrate NAIDOC Week on Monday 3 July with a community event at Dandenong’s Drum Theatre.

It will be snowing again in Springvale this month when the award-winning Springvale Snow Fest returns.

Now in its fifth year, Springvale Snow Fest has become Greater Dandenong’s most popular community festival. With two real snow play areas and heaps of free family-friendly entertainment it is not hard to see why.

Up to 40,000 people are expected to attend the event on Sunday 30 July, from 12pm–7pm.

While carnival rides will cost $2–$6, entry to the two snow play areas is free and Mt Buller will again ship 80 tonnes of real snow direct from the mountain.

If your little ones love winter sports, then why not try Burton Riglet, a fun activity teaching 3–6 year olds to snowboard.

With the event expected to attract so many people to Springvale visitors should consider planning their journey via public transport. However, there will be plenty of parking, including free parking at the number 8 car park (off Balmoral Avenue). Visitors should also be aware that there will be some road closures during the event, including along Windsor, Balmoral and Buckingham avenues.

Snow Fest will end with a bang with fireworks set to light up the sky from 6.50pm.

Live performances will feature across two stages, while roving performers will help entertain crowds waiting to enter the snow play areas.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ snowfest for more information.

The community is invited to come along and sample indigenous food, musical performances and a rich array of cultural arts activities.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr Jim Memeti said NAIDOC Week was an important occasion, not only for the indigenous community but for all Australians.

“Events such as this provide us all with a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and promote a greater understanding of the people, cultures, histories and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said.

NAIDOC Celebrations will be held on Monday, 3 July at Dandenong’s Drum Theatre from 3pm to 6pm.

Immunisation Timetable – July 2017 Date

Time

Location

Monday 3 July

4.30pm–6.30pm

Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, Springvale

Tuesday 11 July

10am–11.30am

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18–34 Buckley Street, Noble Park

Wednesday 12 July

4pm–6.30pm

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

Monday 17 July

4.30pm–6pm

Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

Monday 17 July

1pm–1.45pm

Jan Wilson Community Centre, Halton Road, Noble Park North

Saturday 22 July

10am–11.45am

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

Wednesday 26 July

10am–11.30am

Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, Springvale

www.greaterdandenong.com

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14

THE CITY

Business News

Be a tourist in your own backyard

Delphi Bank proudly supports the Springvale Rotary Club Delphi Bank’s Dandenong branch recently had a very special visit from the newly formed Burmese Refugee Soccer Club.

People often say you never discover the delights of your own neighbourhood unless you have visitors. The same can be said for residents of the City of Greater Dandenong.

Do you know about the suburban secrets of Springvale, Dandenong or Noble Park? As a resident what comes to mind for you when you hear the word tourism?

One of the most interesting facts about our community makes us stand out from others and adds to our allure. We are one of the most culturally diverse municipalities in Australia, with over 155 different nationalities represented in our community.

Our local food and retail businesses reflect this, and we run some informative and fun food and cultural tours to show this off. Including: ► Afghan

Bazaar Cultural Tour ► Sensational Springvale Cultural Tour ► Progressive Polish Tour ► Little India Cultural Tour ► Day time and night time Food Lovers Tours.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Sports enthusiasts can also find something to do. ► We

have Melbourne Cable Park in Bangholme, the first of its kind in Victoria. There’s an Aqua Fun Park with an oversized inflatable obstacle course (opening again in September), and three lakes where you can wakeboard using a cable system – no boat required.

► Motorheads

can visit Le Mans Go Karts, the largest outdoor racing track in Victoria.

Council is very supportive of the local arts community, and while our city is dotted with some colourful public art pieces, we also have an award winning theatre in our midst.

The 521-seat state-of-the-art Drum Theatre is a vibrant hub for arts and cultural activities. Throughout the year it offers a range of professional touring productions, local theatrical performances and community presentations.

The City of Greater Dandenong has so much more to offer so why not support local businesses and share our secrets with visiting friends and relatives.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ visit to find out more about what’s happening in your own backyard.

The soccer club was established with the assistance of the Springvale Rotary Club and Delphi Bank providing sponsorship support.

Senior Relationship Manager, Chris Karalis said: “Delphi Bank is pleased to be involved in the outstanding work that the Springvale Rotary Club does for their local community and can’t wait to see more projects come to life.”

Community Community Calendar News

THE CITY

Volunteering The Greater Dandenong Volunteer Resource Service helps find the right people to fill volunteer roles in our community.

A joint initiative of South East Volunteers and the City of Greater Dandenong, the service offers personalised support to help organisations find the right volunteer.

There are approximately 700 volunteer jobs available through the service.

Greater Dandenong Volunteer Resource Service’s outreach manager Melissa Mahoney said recent studies on volunteering after retirement showed the benefits to both the community and volunteers.

Ms Mahoney said there were many reasons to volunteer, including a satisfying way to fill spare time or a chance to meet people and make new friends.

She said volunteering could give retirees an opportunity to share their skills and life experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. It was also a chance to learn new skills and challenge yourself.

Volunteering makes your heart sing Natalie Irvine and the Greater Dandenong Volunteer Resource Service really are the perfect match.

Natalie loves volunteering and the Volunteer Resource Service loves volunteers.

“Find an activity that you are passionate about – volunteering is best for all parties involved when you are doing something you enjoy,” Ms Mahoney said.

Natalie, who lives in Dandenong North, won the Australia Day Volunteer of the Year Award in Greater Dandenong in 2015 and for good reason.

“It’s never too late to get started.

Whether you have just retired, or are in your later years there is a volunteering opportunity out there for you.”

For more than 23 years Natalie volunteered at the Springvale Neighbourhood House tutoring people in English. She also continues to volunteer in palliative care and loves to sing.

Five reasons to volunteer 1 It helps bridge the generation gap.

2 Volunteering time makes you feel like you have more time.

3 It’s good for your mental health.

4 Volunteering helps prevent senior isolation and depression.

✎

5 It promotes physical activity.

During more than two decades at Springvale Neighbourhood House Natalie helped many people who came from countries around the world learn English.

The former piano teacher said seeing people learn and grow was something she had always taken great joy in.

Last year Natalie attended the Volunteer Week thank you breakfast and was approached about volunteering at the Greater Dandenong Volunteer Resource Service.

As she puts it “the rest is history really.”

“Having volunteered myself for years I understand how important it is to match the right people to the right jobs,” Natalie said.

“Everyone brings something different to the table and what suits one person is not going to suit another.

“We are looking for volunteers who are going to stay a while so it is important we match them with the right organisation. You can be any age to volunteer and I match everyone from young mums to people who have recently retired.

“My job is to find out what makes a person tick and find the perfect volunteer role for them.

“I have the time and I love volunteering. It is something I really enjoy and I have seen firsthand how much joy volunteering brings to people’s lives.”

We accept submissions for the Community News page in The City every month.

Email us at news@cgd.vic.gov.au to share your story.

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FREE ENTRY

SUNDAY 30 JULY 2017 12PM-7PM Corner Buckingham and Balmoral avenues, Springvale greaterdandenong.com/snowfest | 8571 1000 Springvale

Two stages of live ent ertain men Rides $2-$6 tR

Free f eal snow play areas a mily Food an d ma activities rket ea stalls r a Fire h t u work FReeZA yo s 6.50pm

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