Stakeholder Magazine - June 2015

June 2015 Dandenong on Wheels page 2

Entrepreneurship on the rise page 3

Premier Business Awards pages 12 & 13

Revitalisation projects change the face of Greater Dandenong page 21

Dandenong on Wheels POST EVENT

Premier announces $530+ million purchase of locally manufactured rail equipment

CONTACT. Paul Kearsley Group Manager Greater Dandenong Business Sandra George Manager South East Business Networks City of Greater Dandenong Council Offices 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong, Victoria 3175 Enquiries to 8571 1550 www.greaterdandenong.com Adrian Boden South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) Ph: 9768 2524 www.semma.com.au Amanda Checken Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Ph: 9794 8881 www.greaterdandenongchamber.com.au Bill Underwood Stakeholder Editorial Ph: 8571 1455 bill.underwood@cgd.vic.gov.au Views expressed by individual contributors in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the City of Greater Dandenong.

Material from Stakeholder, Greater Dandenong‘s business news may be reproduced for noncommercial purposes provided the source is acknowledged, e.g. ‘This material first appeared in the City of Greater Dandenong’s Stakeholder publication, June 2015.'

To subscribe email: business@cgd.vic.gov.au Cover: Dandenong on wheels at the City of Greater Dandenong civic centre.

DANDENONG ON WHEELS M

elbourne’s south east proudly demonstrated its manufacturing prowess and pride in its products at April’s Dandenong on Wheels expo.

The City of Greater Dandenong in partnership with the Committee for Dandenong and the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) organised the event to show that manufacturing is alive and well in Dandenong and that there are great career opportunities in the sector.

Dandenong’s Civic Square and adjoining Walker and Thomas Streets were packed with big shiny machines made in the local area including a Bombardier train and a tram used on the Melbourne network, a Volgren articulated bus to be exported to the Japanese City of Niigata, Jayco caravans and motor homes, IVECO trucks, Wastech waste 2 STAKEHOLDER

FOCUS

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elcome to the second Stakeholder of 2015.

In this edition we celebrate the achievements of our local businesses with a centre page spread profiling the winners of the Greater Dandenong Chamber’s 24th Annual Premier Regional Business Awards. We also congratulate five local business owners who were recently presented with their Greater Dandenong Business Grant certificates by the Mayor, Cr Sean O’Reilly.

The strength of our manufacturing and food sectors continues to be a Stakeholder theme with feature stories on Nissan Australia’s involvement in the production of its Leaf electric car, the export success of local specialty cheese maker Moondara Cheese and our spectacular Dandenong on Wheels event.

A range of business improvement methodologies and activities are featured with articles on entrepreneurship development, business mentoring and workplace health and well being enhancement along with government grant and business development programs currently on offer.

We also highlight a number of activities and programs my team offers to disposal vehicles, Norden wheelchair accessible vehicles and Actco Pickering lift off service body units and off-road camper trailers.

The Mayor, Cr Sean O’Reilly said he was proud to host the event and showcase what our municipality and this region is capable of producing. “I

Minister D'Ambrosio, local MPs, Mayor, representatives of SEMMA and the Committee for Dandenong and local manufactures

Paul Kearsley.

engage and support our Greater Dandenong business community.

These include a Mayor and CEO’s Business Forum, our ongoing South East Business Networks and Economic Development Unit programs and activities.

We welcome your enquiries about our stories and programs and look forward to working with you over the balance of 2015 to build a more prosperous and resilient business community.

Paul Kearsley Group Manager, Greater Dandenong Business hope it will lead to new orders for our transport products and also encourage our young people to consider a career in Greater Dandenong’s vibrant manufacturing sector”.

If you are interested in working with us to support local manufacturing, email business@cgd.vic.gov.au

ENTREPRENEURS

THE SCHOOL FOR

ENTREPRENEURS

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he University of Melbourne and Ormond College have established the Wade Institute of Entrepreneurship, with a Masters of Entrepreneurship expected to be offered from January 2016.

Dr Peter Binks, Director of the Institute, said Australia needed a new generation of businesses to provide economic growth and employment.

“If you’re in a position where you want to start a small business and grow it, then a Masters of Entrepreneurship is probably suited to what you need.

“It’s more for people who’ve got new ideas – an existing idea could work if you’re trying to take it into a new market – then you may look to us to give you the pragmatic skills to do that.

Our perception is there’s a real shortage in Australia of the practical and highly rigorous degree that we intend to offer.”

In the course, students will prototype new products and services; develop, launch and run a pop-up business; and develop their start-up business idea to pitch for real venture capital funding.

Dr Binks’ own experience includes starting and growing Nanotechnology

Peter Binks, Director of the Wade Institute

Victoria. “We had to learn a lot about the business basics such as registering companies, getting proper governance in place, managing the financial side, developing marketing plans and strategies, and developing products and relationships.

Over my 30-year-career I’ve made a tonne of mistakes and I look back and think ‘if only I’d known what I know now’. What we actually teach in entrepreneurship are the lessons you learn along the way.

“Entrepreneurship does lend itself to certain personality types, but not necessarily what people often think of, such as ‘wide-eyed’ youth.

Most entrepreneurs are sensible, nice people with a burning desire to achieve something.

Entrepreneurs need guidance, encouragement and your time,” Dr Binks said. www.ormond.unimelb.edu.au/wade-institute-for-entrepreneurship

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR ENTREPRENEURS

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he Australian Government has introduced its flagship Entrepreneurs’ Infrastructure Programme to assist businesses increase their competitiveness and productivity.

Using a network of experienced private sector advisers, the Programme offers support in three key areas: Business Management – providing support for business improvement and growth; Research Connections – helping small and medium businesses collaborate with the research sector to develop new ideas with commercial potential;

and Accelerating Commercialisation – helping entrepreneurs, researchers, start-ups and businesses address key challenges along the commercialisation pathway to bring products, processes and services to the market.

approaches to supplying into new and existing markets. Business Growth Services – offers eligible high growth businesses access to specialist advisers, services and connections for up to two years.

Of particular interest is the Business Management stream which offers Business Evaluations – conducted at a business’ premises, resulting in a detailed report and recommendations for the business to make improvements. Supply Chain Facilitation – offering practical

Business Growth Grants – co-funded grants to engage external expertise to assist businesses implement improvements recommended by their Business Evaluation.

To find out more go to www.business. gov.au and click on the 'Grants and Assistance' link.

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BUSINESS

THE CREAM OF DANDENONG CREATES NEW PLANT Monash students make real difference in industry

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n Australian first, the Monash Industry Team Initiative (MITI) program is a cross-disciplinary collaboration where Monash students engage with industry to solve real world problems and provide solutions.

“Established multi-discipline teams of students work together on a welldefined industry problem over the summer break,” said Director External Engagement Madeleine McManus.

“The partners for this year included recognised leaders in industry, engaging 18 teams across Victoria.

All student teams delivered above expectations, resulting in commercial innovation and financial benefits “ As a testament to MITI, all of the industry partners involved indicated they intend to participate again, including Hilton Manufacturing – the first to be involved in the Greater Dandenong region – which asked students to design and build an innovative new product.

“Partnering with universities like Monash is vital in helping develop the next generation of engineers; the industry experience they gain helps them develop skills and experiences that cannot be learnt in the classroom. We look forward to being involved in future programs,” said Darren Williams, Product Launch Engineering Manager for Hilton.

Businesses interested in participating in the MITI can contact Madeleine McManus on 03 9905 6870. www.miti.monash.edu 4 STAKEHOLDER

Anthony Rosano, Factory Manager Moondara Cheese in front of cream cheese machine under construction.

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anufacturer Moondarra Cheese has completed a $5 million cream cheese plant to service both local and overseas markets.

“Currently we make flavoured cream cheese under the Moondarra brand but we also do a lot of contract manufacturing for leading brands,” said Managing Director Matt Freeman.

“Building this plant means we’ll supply our own needs, using local milk rather than bringing it in from outside and interstate.”

Moondarra Cheese is widely acclaimed for its quality and innovation with a unique range of flavours exported to many countries.

The company’s best seller is its apricot and almond cream cheese but tastes vary across different countries. “Our bruschetta flavour is a big seller in Russia, the chocolate hazelnut flavour is popular there and also in the USA, and the melon and mango is the favourite in Korea.

“The export side has been developed over the 11 plus years of doing business. It’s about developing good relationships with distributors in the local market and supporting them too, however there are risks beyond our control.”

Russia is Moondarra Cheese’s biggest export market but the company ran into problems last August when various sanctions were placed on agricultural products into that market.

“We lost 15 per cent of sales overnight through geopolitics,” Mr Freeman said.

The company moved to the LOGIS estate in Dandenong South three years ago to expand. “We saw an opportunity to develop a greenfield site for our specific needs and the infrastructure here was conducive to business. We appreciate the support and interest Council gives with business seminars and their focus on manufacturing,” Mr Freeman said.

The company employs around 40 staff full-time with an additional 40 casual staff in the ‘entertaining’ season – the lead up to Christmas through to January. The new cream cheese plant will create up to five additional jobs. www.moondarracheese.com.au

INVESTMENT

Nissan Casting charges ahead A

s automotive manufacturing in Australia winds down for the majority of businesses, Nissan in Dandenong South is thriving.

Announcing on 21 April, the company had secured more business from Nissan Global which will see the plant operating well beyond 2020.

The Nissan Casting Australia Plant (NCAP) manufactures and exports die-cast metal components to Nissan assembly plants globally.

This includes four precision, die-cast components for the Nissan LEAF’s electric motor, three of which are exclusive to the local plant.

“Success with these customers doesn’t come down to merely cost or price; one thing unites them and that is the demand for quality,” said Peter Jones, Managing Director of Nissan Casting Australia.

“I think it’s fair to say the jewels in our crown are the electric motor parts we produce for Nissan’s two EV [electric vehicle] models, the Nissan LEAF and e-NV200 van. When you see

an example as it comes out of the die, you’ll think it’s been machined, not cast, it’s that special. It’s a great example of the collaboration that we have with the CSIRO. Together we developed a casting technology that eliminates the valve blockages caused by molten aluminium. It avoids machine stoppages and can save us up to $100,000 a year in the production of a single component.

“At the moment we employ around 160 staff but we’re recruiting more, and we are running three shifts a day, seven days a week and we’re busy… and we’re about to become busier.”

Every year, NCAP makes around 2.3 million aluminium castings and approximately 25,000 Nissan vehicle accessories.

“This new business includes driveline components for soon-to-be-released new models, new motor technology and all-new propulsion systems that are yet to be announced,” Mr Jones said. www.nissan.com.au

Real estate and development professionals take note

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he Economic Development Unit’s annual Real Estate and Developer Forum provides a rare opportunity for Real Estate and Development Professionals to come together and learn more about the strategic settings and initiatives driving the property market in Melbourne’s south east. See pages 22-23 for details.

Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au if you haven’t attended in the past and would like to participate in this invitation only event.

New Investment Prospectus to support your marketing initiatives

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ouncil’s Economic Development Unit has recently published a prospectus to highlight the many advantages Greater Dandenong offers as an investment and business location. The brochure highlights Greater Dandenong’s premier location, infrastructure services, workforce and market access, economic diversification and development opportunities.

Business and development facilitators are encouraged to use the prospectus to support their marketing campaigns.

You can view the prospectus at www.greaterdandenong.com/business.

Feel free to email business@cgd.vic.au to source hard copies as required.

STAKEHOLDER 5

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

CABRINI PROVES COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

Cabrini Linen Service is an example of a shared value business model, as outlined in an article by Phil Preston in the last edition of Stakeholder. Greater Dandenong businesses looking for ways to build support for the community into their business growth or expansion plans can email business@cgd.vic.gov.au

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abrini Linen Service (CLS) operates a large-scale, commercial ecolaundry in Dandenong South, currently employing around 120 people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Since its relocation to the LOGIS Estate 18 months ago, CLS has provided employment for more than 31 local people – 84 per cent of them had been unemployed for more than one year, and 48% for more than two years.

“As our business grows, we anticipate offering more employment opportunities to people in the Greater Dandenong area,” said Managing Director Ralf Pelz.

Left to right: Bill Underwood, Clinton Graham, Mayor Cr Sean O'Reilly, Ralf Pelz, Sandra George and Kevin Duong

Social enterprise seeks development partnerships T

RY Australia is one of Australia’s oldest charities, established in 1883. “In the ‘70s, the organisation established social enterprises to generate income to continue to fund its benevolent activities throughout Victoria,” said CEO Julia Cambage.

“Disadvantaged, unemployed youth numbers are on the rise around Dandenong and the south east.

We provide practical training, work experience, one-to-one mentoring, job search support and real employment opportunities working in construction, property maintenance and related

industries. Around 70% of the people we work with gain employment or return to education.”

Ms Cambage said TRY Australia’s property maintenance division and outdoor furniture factory would relocate from Morwell to the Dandenong area in the near future. “It will create more jobs for local young people and accelerate our expansion in other areas such as commercial cleaning.”

“We employ refugees, the longterm unemployed, and people with disabilities among others. It’s important to us to have that mix. We offer training to willing applicants who are prepared to learn, work effectively and deliver quality. We are committed to supporting them.

A new centre of around 400 m2 will house training facilities and the outdoor furniture factory. It will employ 15-20 people and train 60 young people in the first year.

“When clients hear the story of CLS providing employment for the disenfranchised, our mission becomes their mission,” said Mr Pelz.

TRY Australia is looking for creative, community-minded partners to assist with construction materials, volunteers keen to pass on their skills to the next generation, trade mentors, benefactors who can offer suitable factory space, or businesses that need an enthusiastic property maintenance team.

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CLS has a strong commitment to its mission and values, according to Mr Pelz, which includes providing employment opportunities to new arrivals and disadvantaged members of the community who may find it difficult to find a job. It collaborates with Wise Employment, CatholicCare, Project Respect and the Lighthouse Foundation to offer people a fresh start.

CLS also preferences local suppliers when purchasing services and consumables and sees sustainability as part of its service to the community, using class-A recycled water and producing 40 per cent of its own energy via its cogeneration plant at its FourStar-Green-Star certified facility.

If interested in being part of this project, contact Julia Cambage 0428 282 364.

“We are trying to balance mission and margin. Any surplus we make, we invest back into our company, our people and our community.”

www.try.org.au

www.cabrinilinen.com.au

BUSINESS GRANTS

Left to right: Scott Lacey, Mohammad Musawi, Mayor Cr Sean O'Reilly, Lokesh Baskaran, Shobana Radhakrishnan and Joe Mulholland

Greater Dandenong Business Grant recipients celebrated G rant award certificates were presented by the Mayor, Cr Sean O’Reilly, at a presentation event held at the Civic Centre in March.

Grants were awarded to 363 Enterprises Pty Ltd, a manufacturer of custom built timber windows;

Quantum Recycling Solutions Pty Ltd, an electronic waste recycling business; Ruson Fire Division of Power Industries Aust., a manufacturer and servicer of fire protection equipment; Dandy Naan & Kebab, a baker of a unique form

Tatiana and Nina Kuzovova (Courtesy of Dandenong Journal)

of Persian flat bread called Sangak, and From Granny, a manufacturer of Russian style dumplings.

Please contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au if you want to know more about these businesses or the grant program.

Young Uncles mature through grant experience Y

oung Uncles Café in Dandenong has increased its sales and employed two more staff since the $8,000 small business grant and $2,000 marketing package (supported

by Dandenong Journal) and mentoring (provided by the Small Business Mentoring Service) was awarded by Council in June 2014.

Bert Glinka said he and co-owner Brendan D’Amelio used the grant to purchase a superior coffee machine to improve the consistency of their product, as well as outdoor seating to increase capacity.

“We believed both those things would attract and retain new customers and we’ve had a great response,” said Mr Glinka.

“It basically accelerated our strategies and gave our business the best chance. I think a lot of businesses can relate to being so busy they don’t

Interested in applying for a business grant?

Bert Glinka and Brendon D'Amelio

work on the business – mentoring taught us how to go about that.

“We put processes and practices into place such as people management and recruitment. As our small business has grown, we have learnt the importance of enabling things to run themselves through good processes and empowering staff. This has allowed us to continue our vision and focus on growing whilst maintaining the passion for what we do." www.unclessmallgoods.com

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re you starting a new business, expanding your existing business or planning to better utilise a vacant premise or activate a business precinct within the City of Greater Dandenong then read on. The City of Greater Dandenong will shortly be launching its 2015–16 Business Grant Program. Keep a close eye on the Dandenong Journal or follow www.greaterdandenong.com/business for details. Email business@cgd.vic. gov.au to register your interest in applying for a grant, and perhaps your business could feature on the Grants Award Page in the June 2016 Stakeholder.

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Nina and Tatiana Kuzovova, Owners

FOOD INDUSTRY

Seeking leaders in the food sector

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he City of Greater Dandenong has been actively engaging with leaders from the local food sectors – retail, manufacturing and community food access, throughout the development of the Greater Dandenong Regional Food Strategy and Action Plan.

As part of the Action Plan, Council is keen for interested business leaders to step forward to form a collaborative leadership group and shape the future of the food system in Greater Dandenong. This group would guide the development of services which will improve the future for the industry sector locally. They will also work alongside Council’s Economic Development Unit to implement Council's Food Strategy and Policy and work collaboratively to assist each other grow their businesses and create new opportunities.

To meet with and work alongside other key leaders representing the local food industry, and to drive this growth sector into the future, please register your interest by emailing business@cgd.vic.gov.au

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From Granny with love A

local dumplings business has grown from a dinner party to a new factory in Dandenong in the space of two years.

From Granny is run by Russian mother and daughter team Nina and Tatiana Kuzovova and draws its recipes from Siberia while its ingredients are sourced locally.

“We had dinner with friends and one of them liked them a lot,” said Tatiana. “She asked mum to cook a batch for her as they are a healthy, natural choice for a kid’s lunch. We started making them for more friends, then for the owner of a Russian restaurant, followed by grocery shops and delis that had heard about the dumplings.

“I went to our Council last year and asked what the requirements were.

Just their belief in our business gave us inspiration and it’s so good to have an Economic Development Unit. We were introduced to Jane at My Other Kitchen – a kitchen incubator in Bentleigh. She is a

fantastic woman and we rented her kitchen for about a year. She did a lot for us and said ‘you will need your own kitchen soon!’ and that’s what’s happened!”

A chance meeting with a Sydney wholesaler while Tatiana was delivering dumplings saw From Granny secure its largest customer, compelling Nina and Tatiana to travel around the world to secure a dumpling machine and move to premises in Dandenong South.

“Now we are using new technologies and machinery, combined with the old authentic recipes. We are still doing part of the job by hand to make the dumplings look and taste homemade,” said Tatiana.

Although the business has relied on word-of-mouth marketing, From Granny has begun conducting sales visits, targeting Dandenong and Keysborough shops due to a high level of customer enquiries. www.fromgranny.com.au

PROJECT UPDATES

Connecting communities Council is working to strengthen connections between the commercial, social and public sectors of the Greater Dandenong Community. Current activities include developing strategies to enhance central Dandenong office worker’s lifestyle and shopping opportunities and generate additional turnover for local retail, hospitality and service businesses.

Greater Dandenong workers' lifestyle A survey of office workers conducted late last year indicated that there are opportunities to develop greater connections between workers and businesses in central Dandenong to benefit the local economy. To improve office workers' engagement as consumers in central Dandenong, Council’s Economic Development Unit (EDU) appointed consultant, Sustainable Everyday, to develop a set of innovative actions in consultation with key stakeholders.

A convivial coffee and conversation was held on 18 March at Ginger Jones, where business representatives, office workers and Council staff engaged in an energetic brainstorm of creative ideas to assist with making central Dandenong an even more vibrant and exciting place to work, play and shop.

A subsequent co-design workshop brought together a similar group of stakeholders to further develop the creative ideas and progress a number of short and long term actions. It is anticipated that over time these innovative actions will be expanded to other areas in the municipality.

Linking social progress to business profits The EDU is also working on a project that aims to bring the social and commercial sectors closer together to foster a culture of collaboration across the local economy. This current project will assist local businesses to develop business models that are not only effective for building a more sustainable business, but will also generate social outcomes in the local community. This is called a shared value approach. Council research shows that the culture of collaboration

is present and growing but there is a potential for the sectors to connect in a more effective way. The project is looking to help social and commercial sector players increase the level of collaboration.

Phil Preston, a community engagement strategist, facilitated a meeting in March that explored the links between business profits and social progress. A number of people with diverse sector background, experience and influence in the local community discussed this topic including how we could engage more businesses in this conversation. An action plan is being developed that will work to engage the commercial sector in social issues at a strategic level with short and long term projects.

For more information about these initiatives please contact business@ cgd.vic.gov.au STAKEHOLDER 9

BUSINESS SUPPORT

LEARNING FROM

THE BEST Wendy Wong, Owner at Milan Tea House

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entoring provides an excellent opportunity for experts in their field to pass down their knowledge and can be a very enriching experience for the mentor. Whether it’s an ambitious business person looking to find their focus and grow, or an early school leaver trying to find their future path, mentoring can also be a life-changing and rewarding activity for the mentee.

The Economic Development Unit at City of Greater Dandenong is currently facilitating four different mentoring programs available to local businesses.

With the support of State Government, and through the StreetLife 2014-2015 Program, nine food businesses have benefited from private mentoring, group workshops, and mystery shop audits (details below).

Supplementary to the above, Council also provided a Retail Mentoring

STREETLIFE C

ouncil has been successful in obtaining a second grant from the Victorian Government to provide free business mentoring to nine cultural food businesses under the StreetLife Program.

This program provides four, one on one mentoring sessions and two small group workshops provided through the Small Business Mentoring Service. The businesses involved are also promoted through local newspaper advertising and flier inserts in Council’s Stakeholder magazine. As Asha Padisetti of Lakshmi Vilas Café in Pultney Street, Dandenong commented “being involved in the StreetLife mentoring

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financial, production and marketing plans and also explore business development and growth opportunities.

Program to a further 11 food businesses (that submitted an expression of interest for the Streetlife program). This program includes a diagnostic interview with the business, private mentoring and group workshops.

The City of Greater Dandenong is proud to have the Small Business Mentoring Service closely involved with all of the above mentoring programs. www.sbms.org.au

Women in Business is a State Government-funded initiative designed to assist women who are either looking to start a new business or develop their existing business. The program had a low participation fee and included an introductory networking function, monthly workshops and private mentoring.

Greater Dandenong Business Grant awardees also receive mentoring as part of their benefit package. They use their mentoring sessions to develop detailed program and the promotional activities has enabled us to introduce the café to new customers. I really found the program to be a source of inspiration.”

The following local businesses participated: Dandenong Roma Deli Lakshimi Vilas Café M.K.S. Spices ‘n Things Hot Chilli Indian Munch Brunch Café Green Coriander Café Lion Bakehouse and Food Springvale Milan Tea House Noble Park Christies Café

FOOD TOURISM C

ouncil continues to create opportunities for local businesses by promoting all the great food that is on offer to visitors to the area.

Council recently appointed a public relations company to target Metropolitan and National media highlighting Greater Dandenong’s unique food experiences.

In partnership with Council they are organising a ‘famil’ for media and food bloggers which will be led by well known celebrity foodie, Maeve O'Meara.

A professional ‘food’ photographer was also commissioned to create a suite of amazing food photos for the new and improved Great Bites publication.

The photos will also be featured on Council's website and in other publications and promotional material.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Telstra Business Centre Dandenong gets Healthy Together

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elstra Business Centre (TBC) Dandenong is leading the way in workplace health initiatives as part of Healthy Together Greater Dandenong, having set up an active health and wellbeing committee.

‘The Health Champs’ group was established after TBC Dandenong participated in the 10,000 Steps Workplace Walking Challenge last year, with 7 staff members representing the 52-strong workforce.

“As part of our strategy we also have an end-of-month awards program where we recognise staff for their work.

We used to get pizzas every month so we changed that to a healthy lunch with wraps, salads and sandwiches,” Mr Kyriacou said.

TBC Dandenong has reached Recognition Point 1 of the ‘Achievement Program for Workplaces’ and Mr Kyriacou said the goal for the 2015-16 financial year was to move to Recognition Point 2.

Recent initiatives include first-aid training and free flu shots for staff during work hours – both voluntary.

“We’re an employer of choice – people want to come here and we think our Health Champs strategy is one of the reasons,” Mr Kyriacou said. www.tbcdandenong.com.au

“They meet once a week and are responsible for the ongoing management and development of the Healthy Workplace Strategy throughout the year,” said Gary Kyriacou, Licensee and Director of the branch.

This has included providing skipping ropes and a basketball ring “for people who want to chill out the back”; a vending machine audit; a ‘Biggest Loser’ Competition over three months which had good participation and saw lasting weight loss results; an international food day fundraiser for Diabetes Australia and a cupcake day for the Cancer Council “we let staff know what they’ve contributed as a team, which is good for staff morale”; fruit packs across the building; a walking ‘Turtle Club’; social programs like footy competitions and Melbourne Cup sweeps; community support such as sponsoring a ‘pop-up’ vegetable garden, donating to a local primary school, and participation in ‘Take a Swing for Charity’ golf days.

Soccer5s S

contribute to employee motivation, building trust among workers and increased productivity.

Workplace supported activities involving physical activity can go a long way to improving professional relationships, while supporting health and wellbeing. Team building activities

Contact Soccer5s to book.

Email: dandenong@soccer5s.com Website: www.dandenong.soccer5s.com Address: 29 Brindley Way, Dandenong VIC 3175

occer5s is coming to Dandenong!

Soccer5s is a State of the Art 5 & 7-a-side football facility which organises structured social leagues and ‘Social Pitch’ hire nationwide. ‘Small Sided Football’ is fast, fun and contagious.

Everyone can play the game!

The opening of the centre is planned for July and Soccer5s are offering a free 1 hour pitch hire voucher during July for business team building sessions during lunch, after work or at the weekend.

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AWARDS

2014

PREMIER REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS

The 2014 award winners were celebrated at a gala dinner on 18 March at Sandown Greyhound Function Centre. Greater Dandenong Business congratulates the winners profiled below.

Manufacturing Award Wastech Engineering

CSR and Employment Award Wurth Australia

Established in 1993, Hallam based Wastech Engineering has grown from a three-man-business to now employing 93 people. With a turnover heading towards $30 million, Wastech designs, manufactures and supplies engineering solutions for the waste and recycling industry throughout Australia. It also distributes to Malaysia, Singapore and the UAE.

Despite being part of a multinational organisation, Wurth Australia in Dandenong South prides itself on its family values and is one of the leading suppliers of assembly and fastening materials in Australia.

Its success is attributed to its extensive industry knowledge coupled with innovative, state-of-the-art equipment and outstanding solutions. The business has enabled its entire workforce to commence the relevant qualification in competitive systems and practices in the last five years, further upskilling its staff.

The company recruits, trains and develops its employees. Over 15% of the workforce has more than 10 years’ service and the company runs three separate award presentations across Australia annually with approximately 250 staff and partners attending. Wurth Australia provides flu shots, meditation and massages for employees.

Additionally, the organisation supports different charities every month through staff events.

www.wastech.com.au

www.wurth.com.au

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Premier Regional Business Award SRXGlobal SRXGlobal is the Australian market leader in electronic manufacturing services. The Dandenong South company produces a wide range of products including handheld ultrasound machines, metabolism rate evaluation devices, Heads Up Display systems for attack helicopters and battery power control systems for foot soldier electronics.

Up to 75 per cent of the company’s products by sales are either directly exported or manufactured into products for subsequent export sale. This success has been recognised in both the Governor of Victoria Export Awards and the Victorian Government Manufacturing Hall of Fame in 2014.

Strategy has been key to the success of SRX; understanding what it does well and seeking partners who have relationships with clients in need of this particular type of manufacturing.

The business has just under 200 employees in Dandenong, a further 125 in Malaysia and approximately 75 in New Zealand.

A planning and measurement regime enables constant improvement including reducing labour inefficiency from 4 per cent to 1.5 per cent, and reorganising six production lines down to five to drive manufacturing efficiencies. www.srxglobal.com

AWARDS Small Business Award Norden

Retail and Commercial Award Future Metals Recycling

Norden has been at the same facility in Dandenong – albeit renovated three times – since 1968. The company’s four divisions are: Norden Hydraulic Connections; Norden Body Works; Kwikee RV Products; and Norden Conversion – the company’s primary operation – which modifies trucks, vans, tippers and standard vehicles to service wheelchair users.

Future Metals Recycling in South Dandenong has focussed on three key areas to deliver continued growth and long-term sustainability: culture, strategy and service.

Norden prides itself on its attention to detail, listening to the customer, and delivering on and backing up its promises. Norden has been able to obtain the approval of major companies like Renault to adapt vehicles without compromising motor vehicle warranties. www.norden.com.au

Youth Enterprise Award Alex Woller Apprentice Alex Woller is in the third year of his apprenticeship with Actco Pickering Metal Industries, which provides specialist quality sheet metal fabrication and component manufacture services. Described as “focussed and passionate with a skill level beyond his years”, Alex is studying a Certificate III in Engineering and Fabrication at Chisholm Institute. As well as training to become a welder and boilermaker, Alex holds certificates in first aid and engineering technology. He has a strong background in volunteering, including preparing food for homeless people.

bailing machine to assist with export opportunities, sticking to ferrous and non-ferrous metals, and not straying into plastics or paper. www.futuremetals.com.au

The company has a strong salesorientated culture with excellent knowledge of the recycling industry.

The owners believe in employing the right people with a ‘can-do’ attitude.

They constantly make decisions aligned to the company’s strategy to create a sustainable business.

Examples include investing in a

Hall of Fame Inductee Tom Hartley

Hall of Fame Inductee Jill Walsh

Tom Hartley established sheet metal manufacturer Hilton Manufacturing in 1976 and is known for his dedication to the development of hundreds of employees over the years. The company currently has around 230 staff and opened a second manufacturing plant in Brisbane five years ago. Hilton Manufacturing has embraced world’s best practice to ensure its long-term sustainability. A serious philanthropist, Mr Hartley with wife Margo spends a considerable amount of time and resources on charitable causes including Mercy Ships Australia and Dandenong Hospital.

Jill Walsh is a Partner with Actco Pickering Metal Industries and General Manager of ARM Group Australia.

By profession an accountant, Jill has spent more than a decade working in Dandenong. She is a passionate supporter of manufacturing in Dandenong and has spent much of the past 10 years lobbying governments to purchase locally. Jill has earned the respect of both sides of politics serving on government committees to maximise jobs in rail manufacture and in skills and training. She is also a member of the Committee for Dandenong.

www.hiltonmanufacturing.com.au

www.armgroup.com.au

Join the Chamber and SAVE! If you submit an application for new membership you will recieve 18 months membership for the price of 12 months!

Contact Amanda on 9794 8881 to join NOW! Congratulations to all those businesses nominated, and to all who were recognised for their success as outlined above.

Photos Courtesy of the Dandenong Journal STAKEHOLDER 13

SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS (SEBN)

Why not join your peers in a manufacturing network?

SEBN 2015 ROUND TABLES & PROGRAMS INCLUDE: • General Manufacturing Leadership • OH&S & Healthy Workplace Network • Quality/Environment/Sustainability • Manufacturing Excellence • Export/Globalisation • Lean Leadership Academy • Building Future Leaders • CEO/Business Leaders Program • MATE Network (Materials and Time Efficiency) • MIIdAS (Manufacturing Industry Ideas Awareness Series) • Social Enterprises

SOUTH EAST WOMEN IN BUSINESS (WIB) ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: • Showcasing WIB Series • Women in Business Network

6

th

'Take a Swing' a huge success!

H

eld on 23 February and raising $44,000 on a day of challenging weather, the skies cleared just in time for 108 players to tee off at the 6th annual CGD – Industry Take a Swing for Charity golf day.

It was a day of fun and laughter (with brief moments of serious golf along the way) and the après golf dinner and auction proved just as much fun, with JJ Richards taking home the custom-made trophy courtesy of Hilton Manufacturing.

Players had a lot to gain from the day with $5000 up for grabs in the putting contest and the choice of not one, but two cars on offer courtesy of Dandenong Nissan and Kia for the Hole in One – unfortunately neither went off so players will have to try again next year.

Thanks to our wonderful sponsors below and everyone who participated in the day, all funds raised were donated this year to the State Schools Relief Fund (SSRF) providing uniforms, clothing, shoes and other material aid to local primary and state schools.

In 2013/14, the SSRF spent $92,000 to clothe 1100 local school children – but the need is forecast to increase to 11,000 children from 2016 when the government withdraws the current Education Maintenance Allowance. Having warm clothes and suitable uniforms ensures students don’t suffer embarrassment and segregation simply because their parents cannot afford appropriate school clothes.

Contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au

SEBN SHOWCASING WOMEN IN BUSINESS CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

S

peaking on ‘Let’s Get Mental’, acclaimed author, radio and television personality, Nelly Thomas, gave a wonderful presentation on a very delicate and somewhat ‘taboo’ subject of mental health at SEBN’s annual celebration of the achievements of women on International Women’s Day. Displaying her great sense of humour, Nelly helped raise awareness of the complexities of mental health and the need for greater understanding and acceptance. Refer to page 16 for the full story.

Comedian Nelly Thomas with fans Clora Fung, from Sunrise Products, and Sineth Sareth Sar, from RST Consulting

Photo Courtesy of Dandenong Journal

14 STAKEHOLDER

SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS (SEBN)

VALUABLE TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL

US MARKET ENTRY D

r Karin Hollerbach, Taku Group, and Soody Tronson, STLGip Tech Law Firm, provided some valuable insights into the US market at the SEBN Export roundtable discussion in late 2014. Some key takeaways for the audience were: • the US is not a single market – there are many variations culturally, legally, et al • identify the unique differentiation of your total offering – it’s not just about technology or key features • tailor to the specific target market • you may need a local ‘presence’ • ‘think global, act local’!

Having both a US presence and venture capital (VC) funding should be carefully considered as part of your growth strategy and there are many options and models to facilitate this.

As a parting word Karin and Soody emphasised that the key to an efficient, cost effective entry into US markets was to compile a well defined, but flexible strategy.

Karin and Soody were guest presenters at this event courtesy of the State Government. Dr Hollerbach is the CEO of Taku Group – an advisory and interim management firm based in Silicon

Valley and has worked with clients globally – from start-ups to Fortune/Global 500 companies.

Founder of STLGip, a boutique technology law firm in Silicon Valley, Soody is a seasoned professional combining law, science, engineering and business management in start-ups and established businesses.

To read the full article or for details on Karin and Soody, go to www.greaterdandenong.com/sebn or to join the Export network, contact SEBN@cgd.vic.gov.au

SEMMA STANDS OUT AT AUSTECH 2015 T here was no mistaking manufacturers from Melbourne’s south east region at Austech 2015.

Proudly grouped together within the SEMMA stand, 14 local manufacturing businesses demonstrated their diverse capabilities and showcased the state of the art goods that they produce.

SEMMA’s presence, with the support of the City of Greater Dandenong, enabled local businesses to generate awareness of their brand, grow their networks

and find new customers. “We want manufacturing in south east Melbourne to thrive, so ensuring manufacturers (especially the small businesses) have the confidence to participate in events such as Austech is crucial to the long term success of manufacturing in the region. We want all manufacturers to feel included so collectively no business is too small to get involved and miss potentially game changing opportunities” said Simon Whiteley, President SEMMA.

It ran from 26 to 29 May, Austech is Australia's premier Advanced Manufacturing and Machine Tool Exhibition. It attracts thousands of people from around the world and is held biennially in Melbourne.

SEMMA is a peak industry group representing more than 200 leading manufacturers based in Melbourne’s South East.

SEBN – Bringing people together to strengthen business, manufacturing and community capability.

This page features stories from Council’s Business Networking Department. South East Business Networks (SEBN), together with the South East Melbourne Manufacturers’ Alliance (SEMMA Inc) highlighting their work with industry and the diversity and innovation typical of the manufacturing sector in this region.

STAKEHOLDER 15

BUSINESS

THE LIGHTER SIDE OF MENTAL ILLNESS physical health and they’re completely intertwined. I go through the options of how you can actually be healthy – some may work for you, and some won’t. One of the most popular suggestions in relation to depression and anxiety is doing meditation and yoga and there is evidence they work, but for me, I’ve literally never done anything more boring in my life!”

S

outh East Business Networks (SEBN) and the City of Greater Dandenong Healthy Workplaces team have joined forces to shine a light on mental health and wellbeing.

Comedian Nelly Thomas was an entertaining and informative keynote speaker at SEBN’s breakfast on 6 March.

Ms Thomas’ passion is combining comedy with social and health promotion messages, having worked in welfare and education in a previous life.

“In my presentation I talk about having suffered depression and anxiety myself, and what those things feel like in layman’s terms.

Ms Thomas said mental illness can happen to anyone, any time – no different to any other illness. “The most important thing is to be honest about it, deal with it, and get professional help; don’t get the advice from ‘Uncle Barry’ at Christmas lunch! If you want to help someone in your workplace you think may be struggling, Beyond Blue, Black Dog Institute and other trusted organisations have suggested strategies on their website.”

“Mental health is very similar to

www.nellythomas.com

“It’s a natural fit; as Australians, we don’t like anything to be too preachy or serious, especially around health issues where we can be in denial or it’s taboo, so humour can be a really good tool to break through that,” said Ms Thomas.

CEO and Mayors Forum F

ollowing their introduction in 2014, this year’s forum program commenced with a highly successful round table lunch where the Mayor and CEO hosted 18 business members of the Indian Executive Club (IEC – see article page 18 of this edition). Guests at the event held at the Greater Dandenong Civic Centre, included Ms. Manika Jain the Consul General of India based in Melbourne.

Ms Jain provided a brief over-view of current issues and business trends affecting India and highlighted the opportunities these presented for Australian-Indian businesses. Growing collaboration between the IEC, Council and the local business community can benefit all stakeholders including participation in initiatives flowing from the Greater Dandenong Food Strategy recently adopted by Council (see page 8 of this edition). A number of the businesses represented at the lunch already have a significant presence in the local food manufacturing and retailing sector.

Council has strong business links with China through its Sister City 16 STAKEHOLDER

relationship and Business Delegation Program. All attending the forum agreed that there was a lot to be gained from developing a similar relationship with India. “The IEC and the local Australian-Indian business community could be the catalyst for developing these business links, and creating opportunities for local Mayor Cr Sean O’Reilly, Consul General of India Ms Mankia Jain and CEO, John Bennie.

entrepreneurs from all sectors of the Greater Dandenong business community” said Mr John Bennie, CEO, City of Greater Dandenong.

Future Mayor and CEO forums are currently being planned in venues across the municipality to better connect with industry sectors and clusters. If you would like to be involved in one of these invitation only events please register your interest by emailing business@cgd.vic.gov.au

BUSINESS

Scott Lacey, Managing Director

Power Industries Australia opens second facility P

ower Industries Australia (PIA) has opened a second facility in Dandenong South to support Ruson Fire, its new, specialised service division for the fire protection industry.

“We established ourselves in 2010 initially as a manufacturer of water pumps and power generators,” said Managing Director Scott Lacey, a motor mechanic by trade. “We started by importing diesel engines and that evolved into water pumps and generators to value add those products. That further evolved into selling to the fire protection industry, which is now 90-95% of our sales.”

For the love of timber A

new window and door manufacturer in Dandenong South is making a name for itself creating bespoke products for period homes, renovated properties and new houses.

“There’s a lot of windows in homes that have been around for over 100 years and when they need replacement, you need to make a window that fits the existing opening.

With years of experience in the industry, director and owner Joe Mulholland and working partner Michael Filosa established 363 Enterprises in September last year.

“We have access to fantastic wood machinists who craft our windows and doors from locally grown, renewable Australian hardwood timber. We supply a great product at a very competitive price.

“We understand the market has big companies churning out windows at cost-effective prices, but there’s a demand beyond that for homes requiring joinery that doesn’t come off the end of a production line,” said Mr Mulholland.

“A timber window looks great, is energy efficient and its appearance can be changed over the years with a coat of paint, unlike their Aluminium/PVC counterparts.

PIA started selling in Queensland, followed by New South Wales then Victoria. “It was mainly word of mouth but we used to do a lot of advertising for the water pump side of the business.

“Ruson Fire was only established late last year. We sat down and looked at where the business was going. It seemed like a natural fit for us to look at the service side of the industry. The fire protection industry is worth about $2b a year, comprising many different facets from exit signs to diesel motors and control panels. A large part of that is the service side which offers greater opportunities to grow our business,” Mr Lacey said.

The new facility incorporates Ruson Fire’s office and warehousing and will create one new role. www.rusonfire.com.au

Left to Right Michael Filosa and Joe Mulholland, Director

“The feedback from customers has been terrific and so has the support from our suppliers. Up until now our business has been referrals as our website and catalogue are still being developed,” Mr Mulholland said.

363 Enterprises employs three full-time and two part-time staff and hopes to put on an apprentice and a delivery truck driver in the next 12 months.

Email: sales@363enterrprises.com.au

STAKEHOLDER 17

Shobama Radhakrishnan and Lokesh Baskaran, Quantum Recycling Solutions Directors.

BUSINESS

Indian Executive Club builds business relationships across cultures

A

fter the successful launch of the Indian Executive publication, the Indian Executive Club (IEC) was formed in 2010 with the key objectives of supporting, recognising and profiling the SME businesses and executives from the growing Indian population in Australia.

“With a growing membership and supported via a media platform – both print and digital – the IEC is now recognised in Australia as a credible organisation,” said Chairman of the IEC, Vinay Sharma.

“The IEC holds value-adding networking functions throughout the year. Our signature events include Spice Out – to recognise the contribution of the hospitality and tourism businesses operated by the Indian diaspora in Australia; and the Indian Executive Club awards.”

The IEC also collaborates with other Australian organisations in joint networking events, and proactively meets with representatives across various industries. This includes corporate and sporting organisations to establish the best strategies for engaging with local Indian business people. The IEC also coordinated a luncheon in February for Council representatives and Indianoperated businesses (refer article page 16 of this edition).

The Club can provide its expertise and cultural understanding to Australian SMEs wanting to deal with Indian SMEs and vice versa. It can also assist organisations looking to engage with the growing Indian diaspora in Australia. www.indianexecutive.com.au

A SUSTAINABLE WAY TO DO BUSINESS A

n ‘e-waste’ (electronic waste) business officially opened in Dandenong South in March and is already servicing numerous clients thanks to careful planning.

Managing Director Lokesh Baskaran said it took him nearly a year to set up Quantum Recycling Solutions with the help of his father-in-law who runs a waste management business in India.

“He had plans of starting an e-waste business in India but the competition is huge, unlike in Australia. That was in 2013.”

Mr Baskaran established Quantum Recycling Solutions while still working his day job as an assistant manager for Kennards Hire; he wanted to achieve more and do something related to his Masters of Microelectronics.

“First I was looking at the scope of the business and the company’s future. It was all planned and I was mainly hoping for business expansion which e-waste had scope for,” Mr Baskaran said.

18 STAKEHOLDER

“I was looking for a place to grow and Dandenong, known for its industrial sectors, was the most promising one.

“Even before we set up we started organising our customers, including Councils and waste management companies who subcontract to Councils. We’re looking to grow and work with Sustainability Victoria to make some of the waste into other products.

“We have a big shredder which makes it easier for clients to buy the product, while the second imported machine separates the plastic and copper in PCBs [printed circuit boards].”

Quantum Recycling Solutions currently has two casual staff in addition to Mr Baskaran. “We want to raise awareness about the growing e-waste problem and I encourage councils to communicate to residents the benefits of recycling for them, the country and the future.” www.quantumrecyclingsolutions.com

EVENT VENUES

NEED A VENUE?

Many Council owned or supported facilities within our community are available for hire for professional and business events. Following on from those featured in the last edition of Stakeholder, here are some more examples:

The Castle As the city's premier music venue, The Castle, located on the outskirts of central Dandenong, caters for community events, with a strong focus on youth activity. The main function room holds up to 350 people, with a kiosk area for more intimate gatherings. Upstairs there is a balcony room for smaller functions such as cocktail parties.

The main room features a stage and elegant high ceilings. There is also a courtyard to the side, as well as a separate catering area and kitchen.

For bookings, inspections and other enquires, contact Community Facilities on 8571 1436 or email communityfacilities@cgd.vic.gov.au

Springers Leisure Centre Located in Keysborough, Springers Leisure Centre has the ability to accommodate almost any function size. The facilities include three separate function rooms that can host a variety of special events, meetings, training, expos, conferences, receptions and award presentations, all in the comfort of air conditioned/heated rooms. To cater for larger events, an indoor sports centre, spread over three basketball courts can accommodate conferences, expos, markets, concerts and weddings.

For more information visit www.springersleisurecentre.com.au or email springers@ymca.org.au or phone: 9701 5900.

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre The Paddy O’Donoghue Centre in Noble Park has four meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 230 people standing for major functions such as meetings, training, expos, conferences, receptions and award presentations. The ‘main hall’ is the largest room, has a stage and can accommodate up to 200 people in theatre style. Council offers a special reduced rate for not-for-profit community groups.

For bookings, inspections and other enquiries, contact Community Factilities on 8571 1436 or email communityfactilities@cgd.vic.gov.au

Oasis Dandenong Oasis has two air-conditioned/heated rooms available for hire. Oasis’ facilities can cater for up to 50 people in theatre style and 30 in cabaret style seating for meetings, training, and conferences. Oasis also provides healthy catering.

Oasis is easy to travel to by bus or access from the Monash freeway. Please note that Oasis is a smoke and alcohol free venue.

For more information visit www.dandenongoasis.com.au or email stephen.littlewood@ymca.org.au or phone: 9767 3100.

The Free City Shuttle introduced new hours of operation from 1 May. Monday to Saturday 10am to 3pm (except public holidays). For details visit www.greaterdandenong.com

STAKEHOLDER 19

BUSINESS

Council advocates for HSB in industrial areas

A

major research report has recently been released highlighting the importance of High Speed Broadband (HSB) connections in industrial areas.

The Southern Melbourne Regional Development Australia Committee in partnership with the Cities of Greater Dandenong, Kingston and Frankston will use the findings to continue to advocate for the accelerated roll out of high speed internet services in key employment areas across Melbourne’s south east.

The research demonstrated that connecting HSB to the 542 businesses in the survey areas would result in an additional $127 million in Gross Regional Product and 1024 extra jobs. It also indicated that firms without HSB access are at a competitive disadvantage and are denied access to a range of productivity enhancing technologies. To find out more about the report and to add your support to the advocacy campaign please email: business@ cgd.vic.gov.au. We need to hear from you if HSB will improve your business’s future.

Why HSB is important

I

nternational experience has demonstrated the economic benefits of switching to HSB. An increase in Denmark’s broadband speeds from 9 to 42 Mbps was estimated to yield a 0.3 per cent annual increase in GDP Growth.

The cities of Sunderland and London in the UK attributed a 0.4 to 0.5 per cent increase in annual GDP growth to HSB connection.

Following the rollout of HSB in Chattanooga in the US several larger firms relocated to the city to take advantage of the superior band width and expansions of existing manufacturing firms including Alstrom Turbines and Volkswagen were attributed to the telecommunications upgrade.

20 STAKEHOLDER

Arco

The changing face of Dandenong’s industrial and business landscapes I

f you have driven around any of Greater Dandenong’s new industrial estates and business parks of late you can’t help but be impressed by the quality of the development and the range of services and amenity now offered to workers. Gone are the days when the only service on offer was the occasional milk bar or fast food outlet.

These changes reflect the increased blurring of the boundaries between core industrial activity and other aspects of a business’ operation. Many new industrial buildings have a large office component to accommodate design, R&D, sales and marketing, finance and other professionals that form the modern, integrated business unit. Providing a quality work environment and support services is now essential to attract and retain key professional and technical staff.

A quick survey of the area reveals that Places Victoria’s LOGIS estate offers walking and bike trails, break out areas with native planting and mature trees, sporting facilities including fivea-side soccer courts and clubhouse (currently under construction) and a proposed service retail precinct with restaurants, cafes and an express supermarket.

Australand’s The Key Industrial Park features The Key Café within stage one of the park and numerous reserves

Crocs Lyndhurst

M1 Hub

M1 Childcare

maintained as natural, open areas to service occupiers.

Cbus Property’s Estate One will feature a retail centre including 14 specialty stores and a ground floor restaurant in the heart of its commercial precinct.

Pellicano’s M1 and M2 Industry Park’s amenities include the well known Arco Restaurant and Café, and an early learning centre. A commercial and recreational development providing medical, fitness and retail services is also proposed. Pellicano’s nearby Innovation Park estate includes Café Innovation offering quality dine-in as well as takeaway options.

BUSINESS

Noble Park attracts cosmopolitan apartment development

T

he Noble Park Activity Centre was further revitalised in February 2015 with the completion of Buckley Central, featuring 62 apartments, three retail spaces and a café.

“The location provided a good value proposition for affordable housing,” said Managing Director and Cofounder Nicholas Smedley of developer Steller Group.

Nicholas Smedley, Developer the Steller Group

“We do the construction, the development, the sales… so that really enables us to keep external costs to a minimum. The location of 51–53 Buckley Street in terms of the train station, the shopping strip, and overlooking the park is in my view the best apartment location in Noble Park.

The area is a growth corridor for us.”

The $10.5 million project took just nine months to build on formerly vacant land with a total of 60 people working

throughout the construction period.

“All our developments meet council regulations for environmental energy ratings. In terms of design, there’s no set formula – we create what we feel suits that individual site. If you walk into the centre of the building, there are two impressive open-air atriums – it came up really well.”

The development has been very well received with the majority of apartments and commercial spaces sold before Buckley Central was completed, according to Mr Smedley.

“It’s attracted first-time home buyers – owner/occupiers with family helping them – young couples and investors.”

The Steller Group is currently planning a larger townhouse site on Princes Highway, Dandenong www.buckleycentral.com.au

$12m Salvation Army Headquarters to be built in Central Dandenong

T

he Salvation Army will open a new regional headquarters, community centre, shop and church on George Street, Dandenong as part of the Revitalising Central Dandenong initiative.

The deal with Places Victoria will see the $12 million project bring further investment to the area with construction expected to commence by early 2016.

Around 25 staff from Mitcham and a further 20-25 from other sites will relocate to the new headquarters, in addition to the 50-100 volunteers the Salvation Army aims to engage in an average week. “We are delighted to bring both community and economic activity into the new urban renewal area,” said Captain McGifford.

“The new site will connect the Salvation Army not just to the disadvantaged in Dandenong but across the surrounding areas, with bus services close by. This is a great opportunity to move to a location we feel will be a centre for business and community activity in Melbourne across the next 20 to 30 years.” www.salvationarmy.org.au

“It’s going to bring together a range of programs on one dynamic site, as well as housing the Salvation Army’s divisional headquarters,” said Dandenong Corps Officer and Pastor, Captain Stuart McGifford.

“We have evaluated the different services in Dandenong and surrounding suburbs and we came to the conclusion that bringing it together on a single site would make a difference for our clients, our customers, church members and the community.”

STAKEHOLDER 21

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JUNE Dandenong Retail Traders Association Formed in 1997, the DRTA represents a diverse crosssection of Dandenong's retail businesses.

Dandenong Retail Traders Association (DRTA) Networking Night • Tuesday 2 June • 6pm – 7.30pm Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Register your interest with Glenys Cooper on 0417 394 722 or dandenongrta@yahoo.com.au

SEBN (South East Business Networks)

CEO and Mayors Forum – SEBN connect • Friday 26 June • 12pm – 2pm Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au if you haven’t attended one of their events in the past and would like to participate in this invitation only event.

JULY Real Estate and Developers Forum • Wednesday 22 July • 7.30am - 10am Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

SEBN is about encouraging businesses to think and supporting them to act. Its role is to bring people together to strengthen manufacturing knowledge and capability in the south-east region.

Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au if you haven’t attended in the past and would like to participate in this invitation only event.

SEBN Showcasing Women in Business event

• Friday 24 July • 12pm – 2pm The Drum Theatre, 226 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

• Friday 5 June • 7am – 9am Highways, Crn. Princes Hwy & Corrigan Rd, Springvale

CEO and Mayors Forum

Cost $55pp (incl. GST) or $500 corporate table of 10.

Register your interest at sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au

Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au if you haven’t attended in the part and would like to participate in this invitation only event.

SEBN Industry Breakfast event

Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce

• Thursday 18 June • 7.15am - 9am Register your interest at sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au

The Greater Dandenong Chamber of commerce is the 'connective tissue' of the business community, enabling businesses the opportunity to meet other local business people.

GRANTS AND OPPORTUNITIES New opportunities for local suppliers Similar and supplementary to TendersOnline, the City of Greater Dandenong is developing a new 'local buy' system which will allow local businesses to register their capabilities, and then be advised when Council is seeking work of that nature.

TendersOnline is utilised for contracts that go out for official tender (generally over $50K in value), where this new system is available for quotations under this threshold. Registering in advance allows local businesses to be proactively notified of relevant quoting opportunities, and enables the City of Greater Dandenong to enhance its local buy program.

This system is expected to come online by the end of June. For more information or to register visit www.tendersonline.com.au/cgd 22 STAKEHOLDER

Both TendersOnline and the new quoting register are supplemented by the ICN Gateway – where local business can register to receive notifications of relevant opportunities to tender or quote for work throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Visit: www.icngateway.com.au

R&D Tax Incentive Program This program, available to eligible businesses in all industry sectors, provides incentives to offset the costs of conducting research and development activities.

The tax incentive has two components: a 45 per cent refundable tax offset for eligible enterprises with a turnover of less than $20 million per annum, and a

BUSINESS & DRTA Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Premier Regional Business Awards Breakfast This year’s breakfast events will be focusing on the last 25 years in the Greater Dandenong area, what people have done and achieved during this period, and where the region is headed now. The celebratory year will be capped off with a massive Gala Celebration in March 2016.

• Wednesday 29 July • 7am start Sandown Greyhounds To register your interest contact Amanda Checken on 9794 8881 or greaterdandychamber@bigpond.com

South East Melbourne Manufactures Alliance (SEMMA) Membership-based industry group representing more than 200 leading manufacturers based in south-east Melbourne.

SEMMA Annual General Meeting • Thursday 30 July • 5pm – 7pm Sandown Racecourse (Samson Room), Princes Highway, Springvale

SEBN Industry event • Thursday 13 August • Time and venue to be confirmed Register your interest at sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au

Small Business Victoria Festival: Top Ten Technology Tips This event will explore the top ten technology tips to run a successful business. The tips include social media, banking technology and digital marketing. The speaker will focus on the most important and easily applied of the tips so you are able to use your newly acquired knowledge straight away.

• Tuesday 18 August • 6pm for 6.30pm start – 8pm Council Offices. 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Register your interest contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au

Small Business Victoria Festival: Small Business Support Presented by the Victorian Small Business Commissioner and the Small Business Mentoring Service with a focus on commercial retail leasing, contract and business disputes.

To register your interest contact Cathy 9768 2524 or cathy@semma.com.au

• Wednesday 19 August • 6pm – 7.30pm Council Offices. 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

AUGUST

Register your interest contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au

Small Business Victoria Festival: SEBN Business Grants and Assistance Explained One hour session with Matthew Fletcher with a focus on manufacturing • Thursday 6 August • 12.15pm for 12.30 – 2pm with one-on-on consultations afterwards, bookings required Council Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Register your interest with sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au

INVITATION TO ALL BUSINESSES WITHIN CENTRAL DANDENONG non-refundable 40 per cent tax offset for all other eligible enterprises.

Find out more at www.business.gov.au and click on the ‘Grants and Assistance’ link.

A one-stop shop for small business information and resources You can find all the resources you need to start, run and grow your small business at the Small Business Victoria Hub. Assistance and events on offer include workshops and seminars, a business festival, expert advice, business mentoring and business grants. You can access the Hub via www.business.vic.gov.au then clicking on ‘Support for your business’.

The next DRTA Business Networking night, hosted jointly with the City of Greater Dandenong, is being held at the Civic Centre, Lonsdale Street Dandenong, on 2 June.

This year the focus will be on providing businesses of all types with information, ideas, connections and networking opportunities.

The evening will commence at 6pm and run for approximately 1.5 hours. Free drinks and finger food will be provided during the event.

Registrations are essential, please send your details including business name and number of people attending to dandenongrta@yahoo.com.au or text Glenys Cooper on 0417 394 722.

Glenys Cooper, Chairperson STAKEHOLDER 23

SMALL BUSINESS FESTIVAL VICTORIA 1-31 AUGUST 2015 Over 300 events across Victoria to help you start or grow your business See Calendar of events for details, page 23.

For more information visit www.business.vic.gov.au/ events-workshops-and-mentoring/victorias-small-business-festival