Stakeholder - June 2016 by City of Greater Dandenong

June 2016 Technology to impress the world page 3

Celebrating the best of the best page 6 & 7

Smart Manufacturing 16 page 12 & 13

3fold opens new $5 million facility page 21

CONTACT Paul Kearsley Group Manager Greater Dandenong Business Sandra George Manager SEBN City of Greater Dandenong Council Offices 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong, Victoria 3175 Enquiries to 8571 1550 www.greaterdandenong.com business@cgd.vic.gov.au 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 2016.' To subscribe email: business@cgd.vic.gov.au Cover: Smart Manufacturing 16 event, Dandenong.

FOCUS

ere we are at the mid-point of the year and look at what has already has been achieved by our business community. In this edition we feature the Smart Manufacturing 16 mega event that saw Lonsdale Street, Walker Street and Harmony Square in central Dandenong host a spectacular display of products and technologies manufactured in the region. We congratulate the winners of the prestigious 2016 Premier Regional Business Awards, two new inductees to the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame and the winners of the City of Greater Dandenong’s Sustainability Awards. Council also offers its congratulations to three local dairy product manufacturers who featured prominently at this year’s Royal Agricultural Society of NSW’s Cheese & Dairy Awards, and the winners of the VACC Industry Awards. Our story on Noble Park firm, Laserlife LittleJohn demonstrates the innovative capacity of our local manufacturers, as well as the benefits to be gained from accessing government support programs regularly flagged in our ‘Grants and Opportunities’ section. We also report on a range of new

Paul Kearsley.

business investments including the official opening of 3fold Resources' Dandenong South facility. Finally, I encourage you to read our Mayor and CEO Business Luncheon and Food Manufacturing initiative updates and invite you to get involved in these and other business support activities featured in this edition. I wish you well for the second half of 2016. Paul Kearsley Group Manager, Greater Dandenong Business

Free business boost for Noble Park and Springvale T he City of Greater Dandenong has extended its free Wi-Fi zones to help businesses, residents and visitors to the municipality stay connected using mobile devices.

Wi-Fi is now available in Springvale’s Multicultural Place and the Noble Park Civic Space in Douglas Street. The Noble Park Wi-Fi zone includes the Aubrey Moss Memorial Gardens and the new Skate Park. Wi-Fi is also available in Dandenong’s Harmony Square and the Dandenong and Springvale libraries.

Mayor Heang Tak launching the Wi-Fi service.

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Council has invested in this technology to create more inviting commercial and public spaces. Offering free internet access is an important way to attract visitors and business customers.

People are now able to complete work online, study in a local cafe or park, post a photo to social media, or monitor and respond to important emails while visiting these centres. The free public Wi-Fi networks are available from 5am – 10pm daily. Connecting is easy once located in one of the serviced zones. Just: • Go to Wi-Fi settings and select ‘Free Council Wi-Fi’ • Follow the prompts to connect • Start using Wi-Fi.

Personal details are not required to access the service.

BUSINESS

Locally developed technology set to impress the world Alex Engel, Managing Director Laserlife LittleJohn.

Noble Park firm is about to revolutionise global printing with the help of a Federal Government Accelerating Commercialisation Grant. Manufacturer Laserlife LittleJohn has developed a textured titanium printing roll that will increase efficiency and reduce waste. “It’s a highly innovative technology we’ve developed – it’s disruptive technology,” said Managing Director Alex Engel. “We can pretty much replace every other system and analogue technology currently used around the world. “It’s cheaper to produce, easier to clean, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly – the titanium used in the process has minimal waste versus 50 per cent waste generated

with conventional materials. It’s less energy to produce the same product and fully recyclable. Europe has strict environmental rules coming in so we identified the shortfall in existing technology. “We’re a small company on the world stage and the grant is helping us control the technology and order new equipment to commercialise it; it would be a very slow process without it.” The family business has operated for almost 50 years and currently manufactures anilox and rubber printing rollers. Due to increased competition from Asia, Laserlife LittleJohn became involved in the Victorian Direct Manufacturing Centre, which helped develop the new technology.

Laserlife LittleJohn will create a new arm for the titanium rollers – Kinetic Elements – and will modify its existing manufacturing facility. Overseas agents will market the product to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the printing and packaging industry. “We forecast rapid growth. No new jobs will be created in the first year as we get our equipment up and running but we estimate 18 new jobs will be created in the next six years,” said Mr Engel. www.laserlife.com.au

2016 Small Business Workshops Report T

he City of Greater Dandenong’s Business Workshop and Seminar Program is proving to be a great success. Introduced at the beginning of this year, and delivered in partnership with the City of Kingston, the program has been enthusiastically adopted by new and existing business operators and entrepreneurs in the local area. Covering topics including Commercialising a New Idea, Business Taxation, Developing an Online Strategy and Commercial Leasing.

Each session has experienced a ‘full house’ with an average of 20 participants attending. Participant feedback has been very positive with most rating the workshops as “excellent” and having provided “lots of great information I can use now”. The events in the first half of the year have focussed on marketing and getting your business and ideas ready to go to market. The second half of the year will focus on developing online and social media skills as well as

winning government business, writing tenders and much more. Council has partnered with a number of companies and agencies to deliver the program including Macpherson Kelley lawyers, The Australian Tax Office, Pitcher Partners consulting, The Industry Capability Network and Small Business Victoria. For program details please visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ businessevents STAKEHOLDER 3

BUSINESS

Mayor and CEO luncheons report

CMTP finds the right fit in new move

ayor Heang Tak, along with Paul Kearsley, who stepped in for CEO, John Bennie, hosted a lunch in April for local food manufacturer’s and processors. This event was a great opportunity for food industry leaders to get together in an informal setting and share what their day-to-day concerns are, where their businesses are currently heading, and what they want to see from Council when it comes to future growth. Taking the time out from your business day to touch base with fellow business executives and senior Council representatives is a great way to highlight the issues and opportunities your business and industry sector is facing. It also provides an opportunity to discuss measures Council has or could put in place to assist/address them. These quarterly luncheons are a regular feature on the CEO and Mayor’s schedules, so look out for them and when the opportunity presents itself take up the offer. If you are interested in attending one of these invitation only events, please contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au

The CMTP Team.

ackaging company CMTP moved from Braeside to Dandenong South in January, introducing new, automated processes that will increase the company’s efficiency and output. “It’s a massive investment for a family-owned business,” said General Manager David Day of the new facility at the LOGIS estate. “Our Director Chris Meade had a vision of how the factory had to look and considerations of transport, space, and availability of land. It’s purpose-built to be best practice for what we do. We’re currently transitioning manual processes to automated processes and have increased our operation to two shifts. “CMTP is about movability and protection solutions. We make everything from a box to export asparagus, to a crate to hold a jetliner tail wing; it is very much a custom-built business,” Mr Day said. One of CMTP’s crowning achievements has been developing a robot to manufacture asparagus boxes after receiving a $184,000 Victorian Government ‘Investing in Manufacturing Technology’ grant in 2014.

Mayor and CEO Business Luncheons.

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“One operator used to make 200 asparagus boxes by hand a day. We

designed a robot that can produce 1200 boxes in 8 hours with just one operator. The robot gives us much better capability to keep up with demand, which in turn enables local businesses to grow their export markets. “We believe this robot is the only one with this capability in the world and it was designed and built right here in Melbourne. Two years ago we might have made 100,000 boxes annually, maximum; last year we sold closer to 200,000.” The company is now moving away from its reliance on the automotive industry and is investigating further opportunities in the local food industry, with Mr Day describing Dandenong as “the gateway to Gippsland”. www.cmtp.com.au

BUSINESS

BASKETBALL IS

BIG BUSINESS

andenong Basketball Stadium attracted almost 600,000 patrons in the 2014/15 financial year, an impressive figure with a flow-on effect to local businesses. “The annual Australia Day Basketball Tournament we host has the reputation of being the largest organised junior basketball tournament in the world,” said Sally Phillips, Commercial Operations Manager for the stadium and the Dandenong Basketball Association. “We had 587 teams registered to compete this year over 3 days, many travelling from interstate and country areas. In respect to the income boost for the local area, it has a huge impact with 40,000 people coming through the doors.” The stadium has grown from 6 courts since it opened in 1991 to 15 after a $9m redevelopment in 2007. It now hosts basketball games, volleyball, beach volleyball and other events seven days a week, year-round. “People have hired the show court for talks, trade shows, musical

DANDENONG SOUTH TO GET AN EGO BOOST IN EARLY 2017 B

uilding a new global headquarters is the ultimate opportunity to shape a workplace that reflects the values of a company and creates a space that staff will love coming to for work it’s an opportunity that Ego Pharmaceuticals Managing Director Alan Oppenheim is relishing.

Mr Oppenheim says every element of stage one of Ego’s new $35 million Dandenong South development has been carefully considered as the project leads the way in a 30 year expansion plan for the family owned business. “Ego is an innovative company with a strong emphasis on research and

theatre and boxing; it’s a lot of people needing accommodation and places to eat. Some of our sponsors that manage activity centres see their attendance numbers rocket around games, and our accommodation partners Ramada Encore Hotel and Punthill Apartments obviously benefit,” said Ms Phillips. Dandenong Basketball Stadium has begun working with Council’s new Food Enterprise and Tourism Officer to assist local businesses. “We want to let our visitors know the great things you can do in Dandenong, rather than going into the city or elsewhere, and we’re happy to speak with anyone we can assist. A lot of the work I do is working with businesses on how we can help with their marketing strategy. “Obviously sponsorship is a great place to start and we have had partnerships in the past to drive numbers directly to a business.” www.dandenongbasketball.com.au development so we saw this as an opportunity for our headquarters to reflect this through state-of-the-art design” said Mr Oppenheim. Melbourne architects Crossier Scott answered the brief, designing the building to include significant environmental and ecological sustainable design elements including passive orientation, solar electricity generation, double glazing and rain water harvesting. Led by Victorian builder Hacer Group, Ego is also engaging local businesses including Fox Fire Protection, based in Hallam and Star Ceilings, based in Keysborough to complete the project to the highest quality. Due for completion in early 2017, you can follow the project’s progress via timelapse at: www.egopharm.com/company/followme-to-oppenheim-way STAKEHOLDER 5

AWARDS

Premier Regional Business Awards

he Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated their 25 and final Regional Business Awards at a gala dinner held at the Sandown Function Centre. The Business of the Year and overall winner, Hilton Manufacturing was selected by the audience from 12 previous award winners profiled on the night. The Youth Award winner and two inductees to the Hall of Fame were also announced. The Chamber is introducing a revised awards program focussed on Greater Dandenong. L-R, Hall of Fame inductees Bruce Parker and Jamie Sturgess.

Youth Enterprise Award: Juwita Jouhari At only 19-years-old, Community Services student Juwita Jouhari has already completed valuable work for numerous organisations. She has assisted people with disabilities through art and food classes; helped build a community garden for Salvation Army clients; and enriched the education of kindergarten students and refugees. L-R, Tom, Todd and Margo Hartley, Overall Winner Hilton Manufacturing.

She commenced studies at Chisholm Institute in 2014 and has maintained a high level of professionalism and academic achievement according to teacher Sandra Maudier. Ms Jouhari said she hoped to become a great asset to the community. “I have always had an interest in working with people to help them to achieve the best they can. Although I struggled at school, I find I am able to empower others around me to make them see what I see in them.”

Overall Winner: Hilton Manufacturing Hilton Manufacturing commenced business in 1976 and now operates from a 15,000m2 factory in Dandenong South and a smaller Brisbane plant. Since 2008 the organisation has doubled in size and now employs 230 people. The company is a preferred supplier to the truck, bus, caravan, defence and healthcare industries. It has developed its expertise in the local truck industry to gain export orders to Korea, Japan, Sweden and Canada and has achieved ISO International Standards in quality and environmental management. Juwita Jouhari, Youth Enterprise Award Winner.

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More recently, Hilton initiated a program to upgrade its equipment,

ensuring all products are made to high standards while keeping manufacturing costs down. The organisation is known for being diversified and progressive. Its latest business venture, ‘Hilton Digital Pty Ltd’, offers new and innovative ways to control digital screens including advertising and variable traffic signs. Hilton has an active and varied Corporate Responsibility Program that supports the local Dandenong community. www.hiltonmanufacturing.com.au

AWARDS

Hall of Fame – Bruce Parker From an apprentice mechanic to Managing Director of a multimillion-dollar automotive business, Bruce Parker is a shining example of growth and success. After working with Preston Motors from 1960, Mr Parker established Headmod in his parents’ garage in 1969 to rebuild engines. His company grew rapidly and moved to Dandenong South in 1989, later merging with HM GEM Engines in 1998.

Hall of Fame – Jamie Sturgess As the Managing Principal (Victoria) of commercial law firm MacPherson Kelley, Jamie Sturgess has been a driving force in the practice at all levels. His commercial acumen is regularly utilised for major acquisitions, mediations, disputes, planning and strategy, particularly in the motor dealer industry. But beyond law, Mr Sturgess is passionate about the development and growth of the South-East Melbourne region. He is a past President and Life Member of the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce; Chairman of Committee for Dandenong; and has been a key organiser of the Premier Regional Business Awards for more than 20 years. Moving forward, Mr Sturgess says, “One of the next challenges that this region has is to ensure people… appreciate this region’s potential to be a vibrant, dynamic, world-class manufacturing zone that delivers economic growth, jobs and investment even beyond its current high level.” www.mk.com.au

BUSINESS GRANTS AWARD

G ON

www.hmgem.com.au

R DANDEN TE

AT E

Mr Parker has a proven commitment to developing employment opportunities for people with disabilities, who now make up 15 per cent of the company's production workforce.

Headmod Group has also acquired 12 Repco engineering machine shops around Australia to facilitate the remanufacturing of large commercial engines, a practice previously completed offshore.

GR EA

Mr Parker has paved the way for expansion into export markets including Indonesia, Thailand and Saudi Arabia. Headmod Group now generates combined annual sales of more than $30m from its businesses Nason Engine Parts and HM GEM Engines.

R DANDE

Steve Jones, owner Silkwood Furniture.

BRINGING CRAFTSMANSHIP TO CABINETRY T he municipality’s latest business addition, Silkwood Furniture, has now opened in Dandenong thanks to a 2015-16 Greater Dandenong Business Grant.

business. My father was an antique restorer and cabinet-maker so I collaborated with him to bring together modern skills with traditional skills; that’s my unique selling point.

As a manufacturer of high-end bespoke furniture and joinery, owner Steve Jones specialises in timber work, often using reclaimed materials integrated with modern finishes such as laminate, paints and natural stone.

“I love using reclaimed timbers – it has so much character and life to it, which gets reflected in the work you’re doing. Every piece of recycled timber is unique and it’s great from a sustainability perspective.”

“The business is unique and I believe Council is trying to encourage a diverse range of businesses in the area,” said Mr Jones about receiving the grant. “It’s going to assist me to have a display area, put up signage and improve some of my equipment. I’m also at a growing phase of the business where I’d like to start training staff. “I’ve been doing this for around two decades. After my apprenticeship I knew I wanted to start my own

Mr Jones previously ran Silkwood Furniture from Gembrook, working with architects, interior designers and builders primarily on residential projects. “The business has expanded and I need to be more accessible to customers and suppliers.” He plans to use social media to draw people to his new factory. “I’d also like to encourage people to visit Dandenong with its evolving cultural and dining scene,” he said. www.melbournecabinetmaker.com.au STAKEHOLDER 7

STATISTICS

EMPLOYMENT GROWTH FORECAST FOR GREATER DANDENONG A

recent forecast by SGS Economics and Planning conducted for Greater Dandenong Council estimated that total employment within Greater Dandenong is forecast to grow to nearly 188,000 by 2051. This equates to an average annual growth rate of 1.72 per cent over the 40 year forecast period. Overall, employment growth to 2051 is forecast for almost all industries but primarily in the health care and social assistance, wholesale trade, manufacturing and retail trade. A number of key factors will likely contribute to this employment growth. A significant supply of well-located industrial land in the Dandenong South National Employment Cluster should underpin growth in Manufacturing and Wholesale Trade as other parts of Melbourne reach capacity. Over the longer term, it is assumed that constraints on existing employment land supply will be counteracted by more

intensive utilisation of existing land and increased land use efficiency. An interesting trend in the utilisation of the municipality’s employment land is the positioning of key service providers to industry closer to their clients. For example, planning consultant KLM Spatial and Cameron commercial and industrial property agents have established offices at 3 Ordish Road, Dandenong South and accountants, auditors and business advisors Pitcher Partners service clients from their 80 Monash Drive, Dandenong South premises. According to state government forecasts, the population will grow by 1.1 per cent per year in Greater Dandenong and 1.4 per cent per year in Metro Melbourne by 2026. This population growth is expected to underpin growth in population servicing industries such as Retail, Health Care and Social Assistance, and Education and Training. Growth in retail and commercial businesses will also increase due

$1.6B PROJECT IN OUR OWN BACKYARD

he recently announced $1.6 billion Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project involves the elimination of nine level crossings in south eastern Melbourne and related rail upgrade works. There is a strong commitment to local industry participation and local content on the project.

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An alliance, comprising Lendlease, CPB Contractors, Aurecon, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff and MTM, has been awarded the contract. The Level Crossing Removal Authority, together with the Alliance and the Industry Capability Network (ICN), are committed to providing full, fair and reasonable

to the increased attractiveness of the municipality’s activity centres resulting from significant state and local government investment in these important retail and commercial precincts. A number of infrastructure upgrades such as the level crossing removal program will also enhance capacity and facilitate more intensive use of existing employment lands. In addition, expected continued investment in key public facilities will underpin growth in institutional employment and in the health and education sectors. Greater Dandenong’s employment precincts currently source a significant proportion of their labour from the neighbouring municipalities of Casey and Frankston. While employment growth in Greater Dandenong will contribute to the employment of more local residents, Greater Dandenong Council and its partners will continue to support initiatives to assist local residents gain a greater share of this employment. opportunities for capable local industry to participate in the project and its supply chain opportunities. To find out more about the project and the work on offer, visit the ICN Gateway project page at www.bit.ly/LXRA_CTD You can find out more about ICN and their networking platform at www.gateway.icn.org.au

ACHIEVEMENT

CREATE FROM A

CRATE

andenong’s Walker Street Gallery recently hosted the exhibition launch and awards ceremony for the 2016 Create from a Crate Competition. This initiative challenges Australia’s most talented woodworkers and designers to make a beautiful object or furniture piece from two rough and discarded timber pallets. The aim of the competition is to promote the re-use of waste timber currently going to landfill. This year the timber used for the competition came from pallets made in the USA and used to import rolls of plastic film to make crisp packets. Timber species found in these pallets include oak, elm, maple, cherry and ash. First prize was awarded to woodworker Jeremy Brown for his minimalist maple and oak chair. Previous winning pieces have included a violin, and a clock complete with cogs and wheels made out of pallet timber. “Each year 500,000 tonnes of timber waste is disposed of in Victoria.

Much of this timber is packaging in the form of pallets, crates and boxes with the potential to be recycled into new, value added products” said Competition Sponsor Ward Petherbridge, Managing Director of Dandenong South based materials recycler, Waste Converters. “I am a strong believer in the waste hierarchy, where re-use is at the pinnacle and landfill is at the bottom. Create from a Crate aims to inspire the community to be less wasteful and to look for the gems in our rubbish.” Victoria’s 590 waste and resource recovery businesses currently generate $2.2 billion in annual revenue. Substantial growth in the sector is assured with the States waste tonnage expected to almost double by 2044.

2016 Winning Piece by Jeremy Brown.

Visit the following websites for more information about the competition and sector opportunities. www.createfromacrate.com www.wasteconverters.com.au https://aspire.csiro.au/ www.sustainability.vic.gov.au > Business & Industry > Investment facilitation

Iconic Springvale pharmacy continues to serve

im’s Pharmacy, located at 10A Balmoral Avenue, has been a wellknown and respected source of health advice and services in Springvale for over twenty years. Owners Richard and Anh Lim have witnessed their community grow into the thriving and culturally rich neighbourhood we know today. Although their community has changed over time, the Lims’ commitment to helping locals stay healthy and care for themselves and their families has stayed constant. Richard Lim’s desire to give back to the community that supported him after arriving in Australia during the Cambodian–Vietnamese War has led him to tailor his business to suit Springvale residents’ unique needs. Lim’s Pharmacy is a lifeline

for many Springvale locals with the pharmacists and staff speaking English, Vietnamese, Chinese, Cambodian, and Thai. This personalised and holistic approach to healthcare sets Lim’s Pharmacy apart from its competitors. As the recipient of the 2013 Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s ‘Pharmacy of the Year’ award, Lim’s Pharmacy has been recognised for its customer service and positive community connections. The pharmacy regularly works with other local health practitioners to run seminars targeting common community health concerns.

Richard Lim, Owner Lim's Pharmacy

www.limspharmacy.com.au STAKEHOLDER 9

FOOD TOURISM

SENSATIONAL SPRINGVALE ON SHOW E

lizabeth Chong, a multi-award winning media personality, celebrity chef, author and teacher, recently hosted food bloggers and metro media on a special food tour in the Springvale Activity Centre. The whirlwind experience introduced the foodie and tourism representatives to the unique culinary experiences on offer right here in our own backyard, a fact long known by locals. Elizabeth is very familiar with the evolution of the Springvale food scene, having hosted tours in the area over the last 20 years with her daughter Angie.

contestants, also enjoyed the tour and were particularly impressed with the variety of produce on offer. In the same week as the tour, well respected social media site, Broadsheet, featured the Central Dandenong’s culturally diverse food offer. In response to the heightened interest in Springvale’s food and cultural scene, the EDU engaged Angie Chong to host an additional Springvale tour for media and travel industry representatives.

Again, participants were very impressed with the tour and the insight that Angie could offer on the area and the exotic cuisine and ingredients on offer. Angie’s Sensational Springvale tour subsequently featured on Pieces of Victoria, an interactive, web-based guide for travel and tourism writers. The word is certainly getting out about Greater Dandenong’s food and tourist attractions.

The food bloggers and media tour was another element of a media campaign that Council’s Economic Development Unit (EDU) has initiated on the recommendation of a public relations company, engaged to promote food and cultural tourism across the municipality. Springvale received some great post tour media coverage including a front cover and centre, double page spread in the Herald Sun’s Taste food lift out featuring all the businesses visited on the tour. The food bloggers, including past Masterchef

2016 MELBOURNE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL T

his year’s Festival saw two Greater Dandenong businesses take part in this annual celebration of all things good to eat and drink. Uncles Smallgoods and the Dandenong Market provided participants with the opportunity to enjoy their fares and learn about the value of fresh, local, value for money produce. When visiting Uncles Smallgoods, people met the head smallgoods maker and learnt about smoking techniques, all while sampling the delicious products. They also got to take away traditional recipes using Uncles' products. The Dandenong Market hosted the Dandenong World Fare, as part of the

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Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. The event featured 36 food vendors representing the international flavours of Melbourne, complemented by a programme of live performances, cooking demonstrations and children’s entertainment. In keeping with a growing trend, food trucks including The Curry Truck, Nem n Nem, Dos Diablos and Toasta were also well represented. Over 35,000 people attended the event,

the largest attendance thus far. The City of Greater Dandenong is already looking forward to next year’s event and encourages more local businesses to take part. This is a great opportunity to raise the profile of your food or beverage business and to expand your customer base. If you are interested in being part of 2017’s Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, email business@cgd.vic.gov.au

FOOD INDUSTRY

Why the food and fibre sector matters

FOOD MANUFACTURERS COLLABORATIVE NETWORK LAUNCHED A

s reported in previous editions of Stakeholder, Council has developed a Food Strategy for Greater Dandenong in partnership with industry stakeholders. One of the key objectives of the strategy is to provide mechanisms for food manufacturers and processors to work collaboratively in pursuit of business growth and expanded market access opportunities. To this end the 'Food Manufacturers Collaborative Network' (FMCN) was launched at a 'Meet and Eat' event in March. Held at Council's Civic Centre and presided over by Mayor Heang Tak, attendees including local manufacturers and stakeholders representing all levels of Government, business service organisations and Agribusiness connectors voted the event a great success. In addition to establishing the FMCN, the City of Greater Dandenong Economic Development Unit (EDU) has worked closely with partners such as FIAL and the Victorian Government's Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Training and Resources

(DEDJTR) to develop and deliver a series of workshops, events and tours targeting food and beverage manufacturers and processors. These activities will enable food manufacturers to connect more readily with their local peers, build business relationships with supply chain members and provide the opportunity to visit key food innovation and research and development facilities throughout Melbourne. Details of the above events, including the workshop series, are available on Council’s website. These activities will also be promoted throughout SE Melbourne and beyond, particularly in the Gippsland region where there are great opportunities to build relationships with primary product suppliers. We invite you to get in on these activities at the very beginning. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/business to find out more, or contact Council's Food and Tourism Officer, Helen Beekmans on 8571 1550 or email helen.beekmans@cgd.vic.gov.au to discuss the opportunities on offer.

ll three levels of government have identified the Food and Fibre Sector as having major growth potential. For example, Food and Fibre accounted for almost half of Victoria’s $11.6 billion export of goods in 2014-15. The state already leads the nation as a Food and Fibre hot-spot, with the sector employing 190,000 people and generating 30 per cent of Australia’s processed food output and 27 per cent of the sectors, national exports. Greater Dandenong alone hosts over 500 food and fibre businesses, employing almost 3,700 people and contributing $353 million in value add to the municipality’s economy. The Australian Government has a range of programs to grow the sector including April’s Australia Week in China (AWIC). This year’s AWIC was one of Australia's largest business delegations to China. Focussing on the commercial opportunities underpinned by the rise of an affluent Chinese middle class and the China Australia Free Trade Agreement, AWIC included Agribusiness and Premium Food and Beverage as two of its eight focus areas. At the state level, the Victorian Government’s, $200 million Future Industries Fund, has recognised Food and Fibre as one of six priority sectors with remarkable growth potential. It has developed a comprehensive strategy to capitalise on the opportunities the sector offers to businesses. The City of Greater Dandenong has developed its own Food Strategy to support local food industry supply chain members. The strategy supports the establishment of innovation networks, building partnerships with industry players and leveraging resources from state and federal government initiatives. www.business.vic.gov.au/ futureindustries

Attendees at the 'Meet and Eat' event.

www.greaterdandenong.com > Work > Business Resources and Data STAKEHOLDER 11

MANUFACTURING

Senator Kim Carr, key note speaker at Smart Manufacturing 16 Symposia.

Gabrielle Williams, MP.

SMART MANUFACTURING 16 T

he streets of Dandenong came alive on 17 May with 50 manufacturing companies displaying their manufacturing innovation to the Victorian business community.

Manufacturing Symposia designed to inspire and unlock potential for local manufacturers, businesses and the next wave of industry ‘up-andcomers’.

Committee for Dandenong Chairman Gary Castricum was excited to see the power and breadth of the “Manufacturing Zone” of Victoria’s South East on show. “It was the goal of all stakeholders to positon Smart Manufacturing 16 as a regional showcase designed to change the perception of Government, business and the general community, on the importance of manufacturing to the future success of our economy and jobs growth”, Mr Castricum said.

The Symposia explored in-depth what innovation, advanced manufacturing, R&D, education and commercialisation means to business and the workforce. Dynamic keynote presentations led by Senator Kim Carr, and workshops and panels featuring industry leaders and commentators at the forefront of industry trends, innovation, research, education, export and professional services featured at the event.

The industry showcase and exhibition ran in conjunction with an outstanding

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Smart Manufacturing 16 was hailed a success as exhibitors proactively interacted with key customers,

service providers, politicians and community members. Networking was excellent and media coverage including TV, radio and newspapers carried key event messages to a wide audience. School age and tertiary students also explored the many displays and attended the Symposia to build their understanding of the exciting and varied career opportunities manufacturing offers. Key event stakeholders Committee for Dandenong, City of Greater Dandenong, SEMMA and their Platinum and Gold Partners extend their thanks to all participants for their enthusiasm in delivering a very successful Smart Manufacturing 16.

MANUFACTURING

CLEAN, CLEVER and CRITICAL

Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria launching C4D strategy.

s a prelude to the Smart Manufacturing 2016 event, the Committee for Dandenong (C4D) hosted a regional manufacturing showcase in Queens Hall, Parliament House in March. Supported by South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA), the Greater Dandenong, Kingston, Knox, Cardinia and Casey councils, the CSIRO, Chisholm Institute, and businesses including Bombardier, Jayco and SRX Global, C4D assembled an impressive display of the products and innovative technologies our regional manufacturers and supply chain partners have to offer. A highlight of the event was C4D’s launch of a Strategic Agenda to champion smart manufacturing and innovation, improve transport and infrastructure, continue the revitalisation of Dandenong’s CBD, and fostering community wellbeing. Premier Daniel Andrews joined C4D Chairman Gary Castricum to launch the initiative.

“Melbourne’s south-east produces more than half of Victoria’s manufactured product, hosts 5,000 manufacturing businesses and provides 90,000 jobs. This incredibly valuable Manufacturing Zone has the potential to become an internationally renowned centre of manufacturing excellence. Councils, educators and researchers are working together with local manufacturers and businesses to achieve this outcome” Mr Castricum said. Industry Minister Lily D’Ambrosio and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams also attended the launch along with representatives of all sides of parliament. Ms Williams captured a key theme of the showcase event when she observed that the manufacturing sector was no longer considered “dirty, dumb and dangerous” but “clean, clever and critical”. The Strategic Agenda can be viewed at www.smartmanufacturing16.com STAKEHOLDER 13

SEBN (SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS)

LOOKING FOR LOCAL TALENT?

SEBN Industry Breakfast, Tap into the the Talent

worklocalgreaterdandenong.com.au Register today to: › Place your vacancy on the portal free of charge › Access local job seekers › Search resumes of registered job seekers. For more information contact SEBN on: Ph: 8571 1576 Email: sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au Work Local Greater Dandenong

Supporting our local women SEBN’s Women in Business network has had a busy first half of the year – with its monthly network, Showcasing Women breakfast events – and supporting the local ‘Social Inclusion’ program by exchanging stories, experiences and careers with migrant and refugee women. Dr Feelgood (aka Sally Cockburn) is keynote speaker at the June Showcasing breakfast. See Calendar of events on page 22 for details.

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Tap into the Talent and One Percent Campaign S

imon McKeon (AO) was the keynote speaker at SEBN’s ‘Tap into the Talent’ Business Breakfast held on May 3 at Sandown Racecourse. Highlighting the value of employing staff based on their strengths, Simon drew on personal experiences and anecdotes to demonstrate that employers can access a wealth of untapped talent by recruiting a diverse workforce and said ‘sometimes the talent is hidden – the world is a whole lot bigger than fit and able-bodied people’. Rene Lalande (Managing Director Bombardier Transportation) emphasised the government’s priorities when he spoke on the New Generation Tenders and the social capital requirements they contain. Government tenders for large contracts are now mandating that the successful bidders meet targets for employment ratios of 10 per cent of project hours worked by apprentices and trainees as well as 2.5 per

cent sourced from disadvantaged jobseekers. SEBN then launched the ‘One Percent Project’ which encourages employers to tap into the wealth of talent in the south east, targeting just ‘one percent’ of their workforce to be sourced from those needing a helping hand into work – or back to work. Raised at the recent Premier Regional Business Awards, Doveton is an area of particular focus with an ambitious target of 800 jobs to address the high level of unemployment – including generational unemployment . The overriding message from the Breakfast to the 120 plus audience, was that diversity in recruitment practices makes both economic and social sense and is something that all employers can embrace. There are lots of different ways for business to get involved – get in touch with sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or call 8571 1576.

SEBN (SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS)

FEELING

GOOD

SEBN BREAKS ALL RECORDS! T

hanks to the amazing generosity of local business and industry, the CGD-Industry ‘Take a Swing for Charity’ golf day raised a staggering $55,658 – all of which has been provided to State Schools Relief Fund to provide uniforms, clothing, reading

glasses, text books, swimming lessons - and work boots for VET students. At the time of going to print, more than 1,539 items of clothing had been provided to nearly 400 children across 19 schools within Greater Dandenong.

Great weather – great golf at Sandhurst – great companies! It’s a privilege for us to work in a region that is never short of people willing to give back to a community in need. The City of Greater Dandenong and the local schools thank all involved – and a special thanks to our major sponsors. Diarise Monday 27 February 2017 if you want to play – or support in some way next year. Footnote: Toyota has been working closely with State Schools Relief Fund on a community project over recent months, which has enabled them to improve their distribution efficiency from 10,000 to 60,000 items per year.

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS ... S

EBN’s core business is bringing companies together to strengthen capability, build capacity and facilitate b2b connections – particularly for the manufacturing sector. An example of what SEBN has delivered over the past couple of months: • Doing Business in China

• Social Media – ‘The upsides, downsides & potential with using ‘The Cloud’

• The Business of Communications

• Working with Hazardous Chemicals • Tricks to Video Preparation for Promotion, Explanation (eg process) and Training • Young / future leaders exposed to successful CEOs • The Key to Smarter Manufacturing Equally, business has the opportunity

to provide input into government policy including shaping Victoria’s VET system. All SEBN’s core network groups are free of charge and open to all levels of business across the south east. So whether you are a CEO, a future leader, or operating on the shop floor - there is a network for you. Contact SEBN for further information sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au

ARE YOU STILL DOING BUSINESS IN AUTOMOTIVE?

EBN has been working closely with a small group of companies who are still supplying into the automotive industry – or are being directly or indirectly impacted by the impending closure of the vehicle manufacturers. The program, which is free of charge, provides companies access to a

pool of specialist resources across various disciplines including business models, financial constraints, sales and marketing, product development, etc to assist them to implement sustainable diversification pathways - utilising existing capabilities. Whilst in its early stages, the project has

already delivered some significant benefits for participants. Work with a second small group of companies will commence shortly so if your company has been affected and this is of interest. Please contact Sandra George on 8571 1576.

SEBN – Building better businesses. This page features stories from Council’s Business Networking Department. SEBN (South East Business Networks), 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

INVESTMENT Sarah DeBoer, Director At The Well.

All is well with new dining establishment A

t The Well is a restaurant, cafe and event space with the impressive aesthetics of Scandinavian design but with coffee and fine food worthy of a discerning Melburnian. Unexpectedly located within the Jayco Industrial Estate in Lyndhurst, the family business opened in January 2016 after an 18 month design and build process. “We’re all really proud of what we’ve created,” said Sarah DeBoer, Director for both At The Well and Jayco. “We wanted to offer our neighbours great-

tasting food and a place to come for off-site meetings or events.”

can seat 120 or accommodate 200 people cocktail-style.

The licensed venue boasts a dedicated barista and experienced chef David O’Sullivan who ran Rendezvous Cafe & Wine Bar in Beaconsfield. At The Well provides catering for businesses and opens outside normal trading hours (6am – 3.30pm) for special events.

“We’ve had wonderful feedback; we work closely with our customers to ensure we treat them like royalty. So far our customer service has been rated ‘excellent’ on average and it’s also been really positive for our food and catering.”

The contemporary spaces feature polished concrete, a mix of modern pendant and down lighting, an alfresco area, and complimentary Wi-Fi and AV in the private dining room. The venue

Ms DeBoer said the focus of At The Well now was to contact local suppliers to introduce more local produce into the menu. www.foodatthewell.com.au

Spring Apartments T

he construction of 57 new luxury residences as part of Leyton Projects’ new Spring Apartments complex in the heart of Springvale is clear evidence of growing investor confidence in this sought-after neighbourhood. Situated at 28–30 Warwick Avenue, the eight level, architect-designed building contains a mix of one and two bedroom apartments as well as ground floor retail/commercial spaces. It is attracting strong interest from young professionals, families, students, investors and retirees keen to enjoy Spring Apartments’ features, convenient location and vibrant local community. The development incorporates an impressive range of amenities including its secure, state-of-the-art Klaus Multiparking System that shifts parking 16 STAKEHOLDER

spaces vertically and horizontally to maximise space, convenience and accessibility. The building also features video intercoms, swipe card access and a sophisticated security system. Leyton Projects’ owner Tony Le’s long history in the Greater Dandenong real estate investment sector, local knowledge and strong community connections have contributed significantly to buyer confidence in the project. The Springvale shopping precinct, including its renowned eateries, is within walking distance of the development as is the Springvale Rise Primary School and the newly redeveloped Springvale Station. www.thespringapartments.com

Artists impression, Spring Apartments.

BUSINESS

IS YOUR BUSINESS PREPARED FOR AN EMERGENCY?

nforeseen events can have a devastating effect on your business.

As an example, some 95 per cent of small businesses in Station Street, Fairfield closed for good after the December 2003 storm incident. No doubt many of these businesses did not have a Business Continuity Plan in place including sufficient insurance to cover losses. Business Continuity Planning (BCP) involves the identification of the likely risks facing your business and the development of strategies to protect personnel and assets to ensure that the business continues to function in the event of an emergency and returns to as close to normal as possible afterwards.

Business continuity threats come in many guises – fire, extended utility outages (electricity, gas or water), data loss, death or sudden illness of staff, chemical spills, heat waves, storms and flooding. By going through the process of developing your own BCP you will identify the key threats to your business and the best strategies to mitigate their effects. It is prudent to have your own plans in place as, depending on the scale of the incident and its impact on the community, government and emergency service agencies may not be able to assist you on the day, particularly when the incident has just occurred.

“Council and local disaster management agencies have emergency management plans in place but we also need local businesses to plan ahead so we can best protect our community and livelihoods. It doesn’t matter if your business employs three or 300+ employees, you still need a BCP” says Scott Hilditch, Council’s Emergency Management Coordinator. The Emergency Services including SES, CFA, MFB and Victoria Police, in partnership with the Small Business Institute, have developed an Emergency Resource Portal containing a wide range of resources to assist you develop a BCP. Visit www.tsbi.com.au and click on ‘resources’.

How to get more exposure for your business D id you know that Council’s Festivals and Events team coordinate a number of events where your business can participate? This is a great opportunity for a business to increase sales, carry out market research on a new product, or to build your profile in the local area. As well as taking up a market stall, opportunities often arise where you can partner with Council by making an in-kind contribution or providing sponsorship for major community events. Council sponsored events attract large crowds. Over 5,000 people attended the Autumn Fest in April of this year and it is estimated that the Springvale

Snow Fest scheduled for 24 July will attract over 40,000 locals and visitors. The 2015 Snow Fest generated an estimated net boost to the Springvale economy of $482,000.

Other scheduled events include the Greater Dandenong Race Day, Take a Swing for Charity Golf Day, The Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival and Council’s mega New Years Eve and Australia Day celebrations. Why not explore this business opportunity? For further information contact Council’s Festivals and Events team via email events@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 8571 5205.

Snowfest event 2015.

STAKEHOLDER 17

HEALTH WORKPLACE

Dandenong Market Trader, Baker Boys Bakery, owner Jawad Zada.

YOURGROCER GOES ONLINE IN DANDENONG D

andenong Market launched a partnership with YourGrocer in April to provide an online grocery service utilising local suppliers.

young mums who are already used to buying from the shops on our platform,” said Marketing Manager Mike Richardson.

Established in 2013, YourGrocer enables consumers to purchase from their local butchers, fruit shops and other specialty retailers in one transaction without leaving their home.

“In an ideal world everyone would be visiting their local shop, but people don’t have the time and will purchase from major supermarkets online if there’s no alternative.”

“We thought when we started our typical customer would be a Gen-Y professional but we now market to

Dandenong Market General Manager Jennifer Hibbs said, “We know from feedback and a trial held last year that

there’s high demand for delivery of market produce to the area, especially for times local shoppers and workers can’t make it here. We’re pleased to be partnering with a delivery service known for supporting small businesses and community markets.” Five Dandenong Market retailers are now available for residents of Dandenong and surrounding suburbs, see website below. Other shops interested in joining the service can email mike@yourgrocer.com.au www.yourgrocer.com.au

Health and wellbeing is a good investment A

good health and wellbeing program can improve the performance of your business by: • improving work morale, performance and productivity • reducing costs associated with absenteeism, presenteeism, and workers’ compensation • reducing staff turnover • attracting talented employees • assisting fulfill your corporate social responsibility obligations • enhancing business reputation A recent Victorian Health Promotion Foundation study for example, reported as much as 40 per cent of employee turnover and 60 per cent of absenteeism is caused by workplace 18 STAKEHOLDER

stress and stress-related illnesses. A targeted, workplace based health and wellbeing program can help your business avoid these costs. Working with SEBN, local businesses have implemented a range of initiatives to meet OHS obligations, reduce the risk of illness and injury and improve employee health and wellbeing. These include: adopting Healthy Catering Guidelines and offering healthy options at on-site cafeterias, vending machines and at company meetings and events; providing onsite health checks and flu vaccinations for employees; training managers and supervisors via Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) to support mental health and wellbeing: conducting staff brainstorming session and surveys to identify and address Health and

Wellbeing issues; offering onsite exercise programs; and participating in community walking challenges. Following the recent 10,000 Steps Workplace Walking Challenge, 96 percent of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they enjoyed the challenge and would be willing to get involved in similar workplace initiatives. Approximately 78 per cent of survey respondents achieved their personal goals for participating in the challenge and 49 per cent were inspired to make changes in other areas of their life as a result of participation. All of these outcomes translate into a happier and more productive workforce. For information and resources about health and wellbeing programs contact healthandwellbeing@cgd.vic.gov.au

AWARDS

Business sustainability awards L

ocal businesses and developers were recognised for their efforts to create a more sustainable environment at SEBN’s 3 May Industry Breakfast. Mayor Heang Tak, presented City of Greater Dandenong Sustainability Awards to Business and Sustainable Development category winners at the event. Hilton Manufacturing, winner of the Sustainable Business category, has implemented a range of initiatives to improve the sustainability of their organisation, and also reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. These include the installation of a

100kW solar tracking system to power operations at their Dandenong South facility, upgrading to LED lighting, and installing power factor correction systems and variable speed drive units to compressors. Hilton Manufacturing has reduced energy consumption by 600 Megawatt hours and greenhouse emissions by 780 tonnes, leading to an operating cost reduction of approximately $90,000 per annum. “Not only are the financial savings significant, the environmental savings are greater, enabling us to evolve and maintain a

competitive advantage” says Managing Director Todd Hartley. Wallara Australia, International Chemicals Engineering and Lexington Gardens Retirement Village were also congratulated for their achievements as finalists in this category. The winner of the Sustainable Development Award was the Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust for their flagship public and administrative building, The Clarence Reardon Centre, located at the Springvale Botanical Cemetery (featured on page 20 of this edition). Design excellence and sustainability were key drivers for this carbon neutral building incorporating a range of features including over 500 solar panels to reduce its environmental footprint and operating costs. Other finalists in this category were the ATO Building, Central Dandenong Tyres 4U Warehouse, and the Astral Pool Distribution Centre.

L-R Tracey Galileos, Jacques Esper, Terry King, Tony Purdy and Kara Dunn collecting awards for Hilton Manufacturing and Springvale Botanical Cemetery.

LOCAL AUTO INDUSTRY CHAMPIONS

wo prominent Greater Dandenong businesses were recognised at the inaugural VACC Industry Awards Night held at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre Plaza Ballroom in May. More than 500 industry players and their guests attended the prestigious event.

Body Works, Norden Conversion and Norden Hydraulics, the company has a proven commitment to the environment. It has moved to a paperless environment, recycles steel and aluminium, has

Winner and finalist profiles can be viewed online along with information on the next round of Sustainability Awards at www.greaterdandenong.com rainwater tanks onsite, and double glazing on windows to reduce power consumption. Norden is currently working towards ISO14000 certification. www.hmgem.com.au www.norden.com.au www.vacc.com.au/Events

HM GEM Engines were selected as the 2016 Best Engine Re-conditioner. Distributing throughout Australia, HM GEM provides professional engine reconditioning and cylinder block machining services, as well as crankshaft, camshaft and cylinder head servicing. The company also has a long-term commitment to supporting the disadvantaged by providing employment and training opportunities. Norden received the Environmental Business Award. Incorporating Norden

L-R, Robert Anson, Managing Director Norden with Peter Savige VACC President

L-R, Peter Savige VACC President with Dean Taylor General Manager HM GEM Engines

STAKEHOLDER 19

AWARDS

New function spaces set to inspire A

modern meetings and events space, The Southern Aurora Centre, officially opened in April 2016 complementing Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust’s (SMCT) unique facilities. As part of the 101-hectare Bunurong Memorial Park in Dandenong South, the new $45m development boasts five adaptable, multi-purpose function rooms that can be combined to seat 250 people. The venue is fully licensed with a selection of multicultural menus. Approximately 80,000 natives were planted on the site to make for a stunning setting easily accessible from Eastlink. “Our architectural masterpiece is ‘The Sanctuary’ reflection space. It overhangs the lake and has a glassoperable wall to become almost an open-air facility,” said Michelle Blyth,

General Manager Engagement and Partner Development. The launch of the Southern Aurora Centre follows the 2014 opening of the Clarence Reardon Centre at the historic Springvale Botanical Cemetery. Seven function rooms can be booked individually at the venue or adapted as combined spaces to seat up to 350 people. “Café Vita on the ground floor provides a more casual setting and has a vibrant atmosphere. We also have an awardwinning florist on site. “Our state-of-the-art AV offering includes digital signage, iPod functionality and a wall mounted 50-inch flat screen for slideshow presentations,” Ms Blyth said. With extensive, free parking for delegates, various organisations have

utilised both venue sites including: • the health and community sector for meetings; • business networks for breakfast events; • corporations for training courses; and • community groups for forums and events. Both the Clarence Reardon Centre and the range of facilities at Bunurong Memorial Park were designed with sustainability as a priority, complementing the beauty of the natural environment across both locations. www.smct.org.au

LOCAL DAIRY MANUFACTURERS SCOOP PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

ocal manufacturers featured prominently at this year’s Royal Agricultural Society of NSW’s Cheese & Dairy Awards Night.

industrial business park, won a silver medal for their Westacre Manhattan Apricot and Almond Infused Cream Cheese sold under the ALDI brand.

Keysborough based Nulac Foods, Coach House Dairy Chocolate Milk won a Gold Medal and the Champion award for the best flavoured milk. Coach House Dairy’s Chocolate Milk entered the marketplace in May 2015 and has clearly gone from strength to strength to win this highly contested category. Coach House Dairy also recently released two new flavours – Cold Drip Coffee with Milk and Café Mocha which won Silver and Gold medals respectively at the Sydney event. Moondarra Cheese, based in Dandenong South’s LOGIS eco20 STAKEHOLDER

Lemnos Foods were awarded a gold medal for their organic halloumi cheese. Dandenong South based Lemnos manufactures premium quality Mediterranean style cheeses and dairy products. Drawing much of their fresh milk from neighbouring Gippsland, the success of these three companies demonstrates the strength and growth potential of Greater Dandenong’s food manufacturing sector along with the value of our developing alliance with the Gippsland’s agribusiness sector.

Moondarra Cheese.

www.nulacfoods.com www.moondarracheese.com.au www.lemnosfoods.com www.agribusinessgippsland.com.au

BUSINESS

THE VILLAGE BRINGS NEW RETAIL OFFERING TO DANDENONG SOUTH

he Village Dandenong recently launched its newest set of retailers in time to celebrate with a Mother’s Day promotional campaign. Located at the old GMH site, 81121 Princes Hwy (next to Masters) in Dandenong South, the new shopping centre’s offering now includes take-aways, cafés, Woolworths supermarket, green grocer, pharmacy, nail salons, butcher, bakery and other specialty retailers. Owners RG Property opened The Village Dandenong in September 2015 with Colliers International as managing agents. Susan Etches, Director of Retail, Victoria for Colliers International said local awareness was increasing

thanks to marketing activity. “Some people may have visited when we first opened and seen a lot of hoarding but now it has so much more, including a lively alfresco dining space. “We have managed to secure a great range of retailers from the local area and it’s such a convenient location with traffic lights in both directions and extensive, free parking.” Ms Etches said the centre attracted a range of demographics including industrial and office workers during business hours, parents pre and post school hours, and families shopping on the weekends. www.thevillagedandenong.com.au

3FOLD OPENS $5M FACTORY S

hop-fitting specialist 3fold Resources officially opened its new factory in Dandenong South on 17 March 2016. Managing Director Peter Vanderzaag believes the $5 million investment will increase efficiencies and future proof the company. “The 3fold Group has two parts that work together to deliver projects; we have project management with warehousing distribution and installation, then we’ve got Orchid Furniture, which is our joinery and manufacturing business,” said Mr Vanderzaag. The new factory was built behind the existing 3fold Resources facility and now houses Orchid Furniture, previously located in Kilsyth. “We’ve invested $1.5m in new equipment so we don’t have to have the same skill level in terms of manufacturing our joinery – we’ve put technology in place so we can employ more semi-skilled workers. “I think there’s still a future for manufacturing in Australia. The Government’s recognising that

Peter Vanderzaag, Managing Director 3Fold Group.

by putting incentives into place to encourage local manufacturing again,” Mr Vanderzaag said. 3fold Resources provides local supply and manufacturing when the project has special requirements or a tight timeframe, but a large part of its business is procuring fixtures from overseas, mainly from China but also Vietnam. The company also operates “Compelled By Love” from its premises, a not-for-profit organisation that supports projects in India (where

business partner Francis D’Mello was born), Rwanda and locally. Compelled By Love also works with Youth and Family Therapy (YAFT) in schools such as Keysborough High to show troubled youth their potential. “We’ve always felt our business is not just for us, it’s for building back into both our local and overseas communities. We really believe our own organisation runs better when our staff are involved in this,” Mr Vanderzaag said. www.3fr.com.au STAKEHOLDER 21

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JUNE

Food Manufacturers Collaboration Network

Real Estate and Developers Forum

Showcasing Women’s Breakfast

E-Commerce Workshop

Featuring Dr Sally Cockburn aka Dr Feelgood

• Thursday 30 June • 9am – 3.30pm

• Wednesday 20 July • 7.30am – 10am

• Thursday 2 June • 7am (for 7.15am start) – 9am

Café Vita et Flores, 600 Princes Highway, Springvale

Highways Tabaret, Corner Princes Hwy and Corrigan Road, Springvale

Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

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

JULY

SEMMA AGM/ Networking Evening

Food Manufacturers Collaboration Network

SEMMA’s 13 Annual General Meeting and Networking Evening

Retail and Food Service Readiness

• Tuesday 26 July, 2016 • 5pm – 7pm • Sandown Racecourse (Samson Room), Princes Highway, Springvale

Contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 1576 for more information or to register your interest.

Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Recognising the stars of the Victorian Manufacturing sector • Thursday 9 June • 7pm til late

• Thursday 7 July • 8.30am – 4.30pm

Palladium Ballroom, Crown Entertainment Complex

Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

Contact Cathy on 9768 2524 or cathy@semma.com.au for more information or to register your interest.

Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

Small Business Workshops and Seminars

Save money at ‘tax time’ and learn about online options for managing tax

Understanding Marketing Short Workshop

• Thursday 16 June • 9am – 10.30am

• Tuesday 19 July • 6pm – 8pm

Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

$20 per person, 1230 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham

Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

GRANTS AND OPPORTUNITIES Finance for Australian exporters The Australian Government’s Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (Efic) is a specialist financier that assists local companies win business, grow internationally and achieve export success. In addition to finance, Efic provides a wide range of information and support to current and prospective exporters. Further details and a host of interesting case studies can be found at www.efic.gov.au

Victorian Automotive Transition Plan Funding is available to support industries impacted by the impending closure of Australia’s three major car assemblers. Under the Victorian Government’s Victorian Automotive Transition Plan grant funding is available to support business

22 STAKEHOLDER

Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

Contact Cathy on 9768 2524 or cathy@semma.com.au for more information or to register your interest.

Small Business Workshops and Seminars Pricing for Maximum Profit • Wednesday 27 July • 6pm – 8pm $20 per person, Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au if you haven’t attended in the past and would like to participate in this invitation only event.

transition planning, merger advisory services and eligible projects. Further details can be found at www.business.vic. gov.au/support-for-your-business then search ‘Victoria’s automotive transition plan’.

Are you looking for reliable, ready go to workers? Are you looking for reliable, ready go to workers? As part of the Automotive Transition Plan, the Victorian Government is investing an additional $8.4 million to strengthen skills, training and job search support in Melbourne’s south east – where over half of Victoria’s automotive workers are employed. Under changes made to the Back to Work Scheme, businesses hiring a retrenched automotive worker full time will be able to receive a one-off payment of $7000 and up to $4000 for accredited training. For more information, visit your local Skills and Jobs Centres at Chisholm or Holmesglen Institutes or go online at www.education.vic.gov.au/ skillsandjobscentres

CALENDAR OF EVENTS SEBN Special Industry Breakfast Featuring visiting US Manufacturing Technology specialist, Richard Caro • Thursday 28 July • 7am (for 7.15am start) – 9am Highways Tabaret, Corner Princes Hwy and Corrigan Road, Springvale Contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 1576 for more information or to register your interest.

Food Manufacturers Collaboration Network Site Visit to VCSCM, CSIRO and Australian Synchrotron • Thursday 28 July • 9am – 4pm Begins at 13 Rainforest Walk, Monash University, Clayton Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

AUGUST Small Business Workshops and Seminars Tendering Success Made Simple – Tender Writing Workshop • Tuesday 9 August • 9am – 11am $20 per person, Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

Small Business Workshops and Seminars Top Social and Digital Marketing Tips • Wednesday 17 August • 6pm – 7.30pm $20 per person, Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

SEBN Industry Breakfast Grant Ready with Matthew Fletcher • Thursday 18 August • 7am (for 7.15am start) – 9am Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 1576 for more information or to register your interest.

Food Manufacturers Collaboration Network Are You Ready For Export (AYRFE)? • Friday 19 August • 8.30am – 4.30pm Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

Small Business Workshops and Seminars Leasing a Premise for Your Business (Commercial Leasing) • Thursday 25 August • 6pm – 7.30pm

$20 per person, Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

SEPTEMBER Food Manufacturers Collaboration Network Site Visit to Werribee Food Innovation Centre (CSIRO) • Tuesday 6 September • 10am – 3.30pm 671 Sneydes Road, Werribee Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

SEBN Lunch with the Winners • Tuesday 6 September • 12pm – 2pm Sandown Racecourse, Princes Highway, Springvale Contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 1576 for more information or to register your interest.

Small Business Workshops and Seminars Prepare to Expand Globally and Export • Thursday 8 September • 6pm – 7.30pm $20 per person, Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or ph: 8571 1550 for more information or to register your business interest.

2016 training budget assistance

Food Agility Cooperative Research Centre (CRC)

Designed to encourage investment in training, the Industry Skills Fund is an Australian Government initiative to assist eligible businesses seize growth opportunities by providing grants to upskill and reskill their workforces. Eligible businesses will be able to access skills advice assistance and/or training grant assistance. For more information visit www.business.vic.gov.au or contact your local Chisholm Institute Industry Skills Adviser on 9212 5143.

The role of the CRC is to share data and to build brand, markets, jobs and exports. The organisation’s mission is to empower Australia's food industry and grow its comparative advantage. The CRC works with its partners to address business challenges using digital technology. For more information visit www.foodagility.com

Fine Food 2016 Australia’s largest food trade event will be held in Melbourne Monday 12 to Thursday 15 September 2016. Fine Food Australia has connected buyers and sellers within the retail and foodservice sectors in Australia and abroad for over 30 years. This year’s event will introduce more theatres, live demonstrations, masterclasses and industry recognised competitions. Put yourself in front of real buyers and bite into new markets. For more information visit www.finefoodaustralia.com.au

Resource Assessment Grants 2015-16 now open Sustainability Victoria is offering grants to help Victorian businesses get more out of the materials they purchase and save thousands of dollars. Funding of up to $10,000 is available to eligible small and medium sized businesses to review their activities and implement resource efficiency improvements. Businesses have until Friday 5 August 2016 to submit an application for a materials assessment grant, or a combined materials and energy assessment grant. www.sustainability.vic.gov.au STAKEHOLDER 23

SMALL BUSINESS FESTIVAL VICTORIA 1–31 AUGUST 2016

See events held in Greater Dandenong on pages 22 & 23.