April 2016 Preserving history page 3
Anzac Day page 7
Get Active in autumn page 8
Waste wise page 12
CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale St Dandenong
W
elcome to the April edition of The City. Autumn weather is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors and getting active. Turn to page 8 and find out more about Active Autumn and Sports Fest celebrations across the city.
Springvale customer service 397–405 Springvale Road Springvale Keysborough customer service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre Keysborough Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 18–34 Buckley Street Noble Park All correspondence to: The City PO Box 200 Dandenong VIC 3175 Email: news@cgd.vic.gov.au Phone: 8571 1000
Explore what is on for the rest of the school holidays and find out how to celebrate Greater Dandenong’s young people during youth week on page 13. Sustainability is a key word for the wider community, but here at Council we take our role as environmental leaders seriously. Go to page 12 and see how some small changes in our staff behaviour is helping keep Heritage Hill’s gardens green. This month we commemorate the spirit of the Anzac’s on Anzac Day. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which was a pivotal moment in Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. Turn to page 7 to see what is planned across Greater Dandenong. Finally, I will be hosting a special meet and greet session with fellow councillors as part of the annual Sports Fest event at Ross Reserve on Sunday 10 April, from 11am-2pm. Please stop by, say hello and enjoy some free family fun. Thanks for reading and have a great month.
Fax: 8571 5196 www.greaterdandenong.com
@greaterdandy
Mayor Heang Tak
facebook.com/greaterdandenong cityofgreaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TY: 133 677 T Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 Internet: www.iprelay.com.au TIS: 13 14 50 council@cgd.vic.gov.au
IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency calls Police/Fire/Ambulance.................... 000 Street lighting faults/ non-operational United Energy ........................ 13 20 99 Traffic signal faults/ non-operational................... 8571 1000 Hoon Hotline.................. 1800 333 000 Hard waste collection WM Waste Management Services......... 9721 1915
my CITY Singer Sylvie Paladino returned to Dandenong’s Drum Theatre to help celebrate the iconic theatre’s 10th anniversary. Sylvie performed at the gala concert which opened the theatre on 11 February 2006, and proudly returned to the stage exactly 10 years later for the anniversary celebrations. Front Cover: Rapper Da Hypnotist, breakdancer Chino and singer Tyra prepare to celebrate Youth Week. A full program of entertainment and events will tie in with the annual Sports Fest celebrations at Ross Reserve, Noble Park on April 10.
Australian Animal Protection Society............... 9798 8415 RSPCA................................ 9224 2222 Nurse on Call.................. 1300 606 024
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This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.
Free T
across Greater Dandenong
he City of Greater Dandenong has extended its free Wi-Fi zones to help residents, businesses and visitors to the municipality stay connected. Late last year Wi-Fi was switched on in Springvale’s Multicultural Place and the Noble Park Civic Space in Douglas Street. The Noble Park Wi-Fi zone extends to the Aubrey Moss Memorial Garden in Douglas Street, which provides coverage at the new Skate Park.
With the free outdoor public Wi-Fi users will:
• Be able to access Wi-Fi from 5am11pm daily
• Be able to access the network outdoors, at street level
No personal details such as email, passwords or personal data will need to be provided to access this free service.
• Have no download limits • Have no time limits, but will be asked to log in again after one hour of use
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com for more information.
Mayor Heang Tak said free Wi-Fi was also available in Dandenong’s Harmony Square and at the Dandenong and Springvale libraries. “Council wants to create inviting public spaces and offering free internet connection is one way to get people to stay and enjoy their environment,” Mayor Tak said. “Whether you want to work or study outside a local cafe or park, or you want to post a photo to social media, or monitor and respond to important emails, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the free connection.”
Tour Greater Dandenong
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reater Dandenong has become a hot spot for people who love food and culture. Bloggers and foodies across the state are starting to tout what we have always known, that Greater Dandenong is a delicious destination. Visitors are welcome to come and see what’s on offer any time, but for those who want to explore the area in the company of an expert, Council runs a number of tours and events.
Afghan Bazaar Cultural Tour (28 April). Food tours visit Springvale and Dandenong, and include a focus on Polish and Asian cuisines, while cultural tours visit Springvale, the Afghan Bazaar and Little India precinct. Various art tours and Dandenong Market tours also operate throughout the year. Tours are also offered outside of the set dates for groups of 8-16 people. Phone 8571 5222 to discuss a tour date and time that is convenient to you.
This month we have a Food Lovers Tour through Springvale (14 April) and an
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/tours for tour details and bookings.
Heritage collection now available online
Heang Tak in February. The Archive has been specially refurbished to house collections from the three organisations including artworks, objects, documents and photography.
I
f you love the fashion of the 1960s and 1970s, or want to see what the streets of Dandenong looked like in years past, the Council’s new online heritage archive is the place for you. The first release of images from the Graham Southam Collection of photographic negatives is now available online.
document some of the many images, documents and objects from the three major heritage collections in the municipality. The Council is working on this project with the Springvale and District Historical Society and the Dandenong and District Historical Society.
The release is part of Greater Dandenong’s cultural heritage digitisation project which will scan and
This is all happening at the new Shared Archive Facility in South Dandenong which was formally launched by Mayor
Over the coming months a team of volunteers will continue to add to collection items displayed online. Items can be searched and viewed by students, researchers, and local history enthusiasts alike. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/arts for more information. the CITY 3
your COUNCILLORS COUNCILLOR CONTACTS Lightwood Ward Cr Youhorn Chea Ph: 9547 5745 Fax: 9547 3586 0417 320 645 youhorn.chea@cgd.vic.gov.au Lightwood Ward Cr Sean O’Reilly 0422 523 258 sean.oreilly@cgd.vic.gov.au
Lightwood Ward Cr Loi Truong Ph: 0466 004 618 loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au
COUNCIL MEETINGS Council meetings are held on the second and the fourth Monday of the month. All Council meetings are held at the city chambers at the Dandenong Civic Centre at 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong. The April meetings will be held: • Monday 11 April • Tuesday 26 April (Tuesday meeting due to public holiday on the Monday) Did you know you can watch Council meetings live online via our web-cast service? You can keep up with all the latest decisions, hear questions from residents and find out the many ways your local councillors are serving the community. To view meetings online simply go to www.greaterdandenong.com/ councilmeetings
Paperbark Ward Cr Roz Blades AM Ph: 9701 5821 Fax: 9798 5927 0417 053 612 roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au Paperbark Ward Cr Peter Brown Ph/Fax: 9584 5149 0408 138 939 peter.brown@cgd.vic.gov.au Paperbark Ward Cr Heang Tak - Mayor 0403 072 291 heang.tak@cgd.vic.gov.au Red Gum Ward Cr Angela Long Ph: 9795 6574 Fax: 9795 4412 0466 004 616 angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au
Cr Maria Sampey, Cr Sean O’Reilly, Mayor Heang Tak, Cr Angela Long, Cr Matthew Kirwan, Cr Peter Brown and Drum Theatre Director Greg Hordacre celebrate the Drum Theatre’s 10th anniversary.
Red Gum Ward Cr Matthew Kirwan 0403 072 295 matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic.gov.au
Red Gum Ward Cr Jim Memeti Ph: 9792 4683 Fax: 9792 4683 0434 560 239 jim.memeti@cgd.vic.gov.au Silverleaf Ward Cr John Kelly Ph: 9793 1777 Fax: 9706 0186 0418 350 743 john.kelly@cgd.vic.gov.au Silverleaf Ward Cr Maria Sampey Ph: 9790 1291 Fax: 9790 6104 0438 800 027 maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au
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Mayor Heang Tak and Cr Matthew Kirwan present Woorana Park Primary School environmental educator Anthony Lyon with the schools Sustainability Award, at the Sustainability Festival in February.
Red Gum Ward
Cr Matthew Kirwan A
s I have written before, Red Gum Ward is a diverse ward – covering all of the suburbs of Dandenong and Bangholme along with parts of Dandenong North, Noble Park and the fast growing new estates of Keysborough – so there is always plenty happening. Too much for one column. Residents of the Menzies Avenue area in Dandenong North will have noticed the many improvements in the last year to Menzies Hall and to the surrounding outdoor facilities with a new playground, basketball court, barbecue and a new toilet. However, with these improvements I do get complaints that the increasing popularity of the area is making parking and traffic issues worse. In response to this, Council is undertaking a detailed investigation of the issues and the results should be known soon. Thanks to those that took part in the recent community consultation about this. The designs of the proposed Keysborough South community hub were recently shown to the community and I thank all those who have given feedback. Council will continue to keep the community informed on the progress of the hub and further updates on this project will be available on our website. Combining early years services with community meeting and activity spaces is an exciting project.
allowed in their area and have expressed concerns about parking and traffic. Because of this I have organised a Keysborough South Planning Forum and I warmly invite you to attend. The forum will enable you to learn more about the Keysborough South Development Plan and our planning, parking and traffic officers will be able to directly answer your questions. It will be held on Thursday 7 April from 7.15pm9.30pm at the Keysborough Senior Citizens Hall, 352 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough.
Recently many residents of the new estates in Keysborough have had questions about what sort of developments are
If you would like to contact me about any issue email matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 0403 072 295.
Paperbark Ward
Cr Roz Blades AM N
oble Park has a strong sense of community and has undergone quite a transformation over the past few years.
The multi-million dollar Noble Park Aquatic Centre refurbishment and the new Skate Park, which was designed by skating icon and local resident Jon McGrath, have put the suburb back on the map for recreational users. But the shopping strip is also making a name for itself with a host of great food businesses creating a delicious reputation for the suburb which celebrated its centenary in 2009. Greater Dandenong has so much on offer for foodies, and Noble Park has some of its own hidden gems. Businesses offer food from around the world, including modern fusion Asian, African, Eastern European, Persian, Chinese, Indian, Thai, Italian and Sri Lankan. A lot of people have been talking about Peddler Tuck Shop which has great coffee and offers a fresh twist on Asian classics, including their baguettes, which are made on tiger rolls baked fresh for them each day at the nearby Sunstar Hot Bread Kitchen. Sunstar is owned by four brothers who have become wellknown for their ciabatta bread, which is among the cheapest and most delicious in the south east. Ian Street, Douglas Street and Buckley Street are full of coffee shops, bakeries, takeaway places and restaurants
offering the freshest foods. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a delicious dinner or a take home treat, come down and explore what’s on offer. Another bonus for visitors to Noble Park is the recent introduction of free Wi-Fi, which covers the main shopping precinct across to the new Skate Park. Our neighbourhood is flourishing, but I invite you all to support local business and keep Noble Park on top. If you want to contact me about any issue please email me at roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 0417 053 612. the CITY 5
working FOR YOU
Valuing children’s voices T
he City of Greater Dandenong is committed to being a Child Friendly City where children and young people are valued, respected and celebrated.
will give children the opportunity to express their opinion about the city they want and their priorities. This forum will be held in May.
Council acknowledges that children play a role in helping build and grow this great city of ours, and as such plan to hold a Children’s Forum, which
Being a Child Friendly City means having children’s voices heard through consultation in the planning and implementation of Council programs, something that is starting to occur more regularly.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
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ouncil has released a new resource to help residents expand their social connections within Greater Dandenong and further afield.
The City of Greater Dandenong recognises that children are skilful communicators and active citizens who influence the world around them, as well as being influenced by it.
At last year’s Little Day Out two local children spent the afternoon interviewing their peers as roving reporters. These two children asked other children questions about what they love about living in Greater Dandenong and what are important matters for children and young people to know and talk about. Their voices are celebrated in a short video which can be viewed on the big screen in Harmony Square or on Council’s YouTube channel. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com for updates on the Children’s Forum.
Greater Dandenong Connect is a full list of groups, activities and businesses that can help people looking for a new hobby or new friends. Here at Council we believe it is important to be part of your community. Whether through sport, hobbies, school or something else, connecting with others through positive social activities improves our health and wellbeing. This resource is your starting point to discover recreation, sport, hobbies and learning, and meeting people around Greater Dandenong. Visit www.greaterdandenongconnect. com.au for more information.
A roving reporter interviews Cr Sean O’Reilly at last year’s Little Day Out held during the Children’s Festival.
Parking changes in Springvale
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were introduced, so we hope this will help rectify this situation.
Mayor Heang Tak announced the ticket machines in the two car parks were reprogrammed in February, following concerns raised by traders.
“Council’s approach to parking management is based on internationally recognised best practice principles, which include charging a fair market price for parking in a given area. Council’s action on this occasion demonstrates our commitment to those principles.”
ouncil has increased time limits and reduced fees at the Warwick Avenue car parks in Springvale, following feedback from traders.
The changes include an increase from a two hour limit to a three hour limit, while the new fees are 50 cents for the first hour to a maximum of $1 for three hours. “We listened to traders’ issues and acted quickly to address them. These particular car parks were under-utilised in the months after the parking meters 6 the CITY
Council recognises the need for flexibility in its parking management application and modifying pricing and parking restriction periods over time are implemented where it is considered that changes will benefit parking management and community outcomes.
Anzac Day 2016 A
lthough they were half a world away from the frontline of WWI, Greater Dandenong residents were very involved in Australia’s war efforts.
• Dandenong High School, 92106 Princes Highway. The first headmaster was Gallipoli veteran Percy Langford.
Discover our historical links to the Great War by visiting the City of Greater Dandenong ANZAC Memorial Trail.
• Dandenong Primary School, Foster Street. The 400 children attending this school joined the League of Young Gardeners and the Young Workers’ Patriotic Guild.
Launched last year to celebrate the Anzac Centenary the nine-stop trail features interactive markers which include information, pictures and videos commemorating local links to WWI. The markers are scattered across Springvale, Noble Park and Dandenong and are designed to resemble the iconic Anzac slouch hat. • Springvale Mechanics Institute, corner Buckingham and Balmoral avenues. Opening in March 1915, the hall had hosted two Welcome Home functions for soldiers by August 1919. • Springvale Red Cross, Springvale Library. Women from Dandenong, Keysborough, Dingley, Chelsea and Springvale formed a local Red Cross group in 1914. • Noble Park Soldiers Settlement, Noble Park RSL, Heatherton Road. The purchase of 165 acres in this area was carved into allotments for the settlement of returning soldiers.
• Peace Memorial Bridge, Lonsdale Street (near Webster Street), Dandenong. The bridge is one of the few surviving engineering works constructed during WWI. • Drill Hall, 168-170 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. The hall was built in 1916 and the 45th Infantry Battalion (citizen force) set up their headquarters here. • Old Town Hall, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Potential recruits signed up at the Town Hall and welcome home celebrations occurred here. Smart phones can interact with each sign
Cr Peter Brown wears his father’s slouch hat from WWII.
Springvale Anzac Day Parade and Service, Sunday 17 April
Dandenong Anzac Day Dawn Service
Dandenong Anzac Day March and Service, Monday 25 April
Meet at Springvale Rise Primary School, corner of Union Grove and Springvale Road, Springvale
Pillars of Freedom Palm Plaza, Clow Street, Dandenong
Dandenong RSL Sub Branch, 44-50 Clow Street, Dandenong
Meet at 10am for march to the Springvale Town Hall for Service
Service starts at 5.45am
Meet at 10.30am for march along Clow Street to the Pillars of Freedom
50th Anniversary commemorations E
very year the Greater Dandenong community joins in Anzac Day commemorative services, but 2016 is a special year for Vietnam veterans. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which has become one of the most extraordinary chapter’s in Australia’s military history. In 2005 the Dandenong RSL became home to the state’s first Vietnam War Memorial, the Vietnamese community played a major role in its establishment.
The memorial includes ‘Side by Side’ two bronze statues of an Australian soldier and a South Vietnamese soldier standing together, and the Helicopter ‘Huey’ which stands on a 6m pole and watches over the RSL. The helicopter, a UH-1V was donated to the RSL by the United States to commemorate the Australian-US alliance during the Vietnam War. Many South Vietnamese soldiers and their families fled Vietnam after the
war and now call Greater Dandenong home. Every year they walk alongside Australian veterans in the Anzac Day march through Dandenong. The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th century. At Long Tan 108 brave men from D Company 6 RAR resisted and attack of more than 1500 Viet Cong soldiers. It became a pivotal moment in the conflict and reflected the Anzac spirit. the CITY 7
ACTIVE AUTUMN
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our weeks of free active fun is helping Greater Dandenong residents celebrate autumn. The sun is shining and the weather is mild, making autumn a perfect time to get outdoors and get active. Active Autumn is a program run by the Council to encourage all members of the community to take part in free activities and exercise sessions. You could try sports such as netball, rugby, volleyball, cricket, tennis and football. Or find your inner dancer through tiny ballerina classes or women’s beginner ballerina classes. Active Autumn concludes with Sports Fest and Youth Week activities at Noble Park’s Ross Reserve on April 10, but free exercise sessions will run through the State Government’s Active April program until the end of the month. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ activeautumn for more information.
PREMIER’S ACTIVE APRIL
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his April you’re encouraged to step up the amount of physical activity in your life and get more active, more often as part of the Premier’s Active April initiative. This State Government initiative is now in its eighth year of helping Victorians to find easy ways to have fun and enjoy the benefits to health and wellbeing we know increased physical activity brings. It’s free and it’s fun – all you have to do is commit to trying 30 minutes of physical activity a day for the month of April. And you don’t have to do it alone. Participants can visit activeapril.vic.gov. au to create and join teams and find events taking place in their local area. You can also log your progress online to help you keep on track. As part of Greater Dandenong’s commitment to get more people active and healthy, our YMCA centres in Dandenong, Noble Park and Springvale are offering 10 free passes to get you started on your Active April journey. You can access free group fitness classes, free casual swims and free casual basketball shoots by registering at activeapril.vic.gov.au
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Sports Fest and Youth Week 2016 E
ver wanted to try a new sport, or find a fresh way to stay active and engage with your local community? Then Greater Dandenong’s annual Sports Fest is for you.
Breakdancing and rap performers will entertain, while fun games such as sack races and a group skipping challenge will help the crowds get active.
The theme of the event is ‘active, healthy fun’ and everyone is encouraged to try something new on the day.
The YMCA South Eastern League Skate Competition will also be held at Noble Park’s world-class skate park from 10.30am. Scooter, BMX and skateboarding registrations will be open on the day.
The event will feature everything from sports and interactive games, recreational activities, a kids area, dance, live music and performances. This year the dance circle stage will be complete with beanbags set up to help audiences relax. There will also be festival favourites with roving performers, giveaways, food and market stalls. Visitors can enjoy free entry to Noble Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC) from 11am-2pm. This year’s event coincides with National Youth Week celebrations and Council’s Youth Services and the Freeza Youth Event Committee have put together an exciting program of events for a youth stage.
Meet the Mayor and councillors at this year’s Sports Fest. They will be hosting a sausage sizzle and meet and greet outside of NPAC from 11am-2pm. Check out all the action on Sunday 10 April, at Ross Reserve, Memorial Drive Noble Park. Sports Fest: 11am-2pm. Youth stage and activities: 12.30pm-4.30pm. Skate competition: 10.30am-4.30pm. Free entry to NPAC: 11am-2pm.
Autumn Fest O
n Sunday 3 April head on down to Wachter Reserve in Keysborough for Greater Dandenong’s Autumn Fest – a free family event to celebrate the arrival of this beautiful season.
HELPFUL LIBRARY STAFF MAKE A DIFFERENCE “I didn’t know anyone who could help me. It makes me feel more … confident now that someone has helped me with this.”
While the weather might be getting chilly, you’ll be able to keep active and warm with a fun range of activities and workshops for all ages.
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hese were a few words of heartfelt thanks from a library patron. The gentleman was applying for a job and, as English is not his first language, he wanted someone he felt he could trust to read over his resume and help him not only with the grammar but also to make the document, his key to finding work, the best it could be.
There’ll be no stopping the action on the Choo Choo train ride, carousel or jumping castle, and dance clinics, sports and games will also be running.
Sammy, (not his real name), is typical of the patrons who come to the library seeking help on many issues. Where can I find an English class that is right for me? I don’t know what this letter means, can you help me? I don’t know how to fill out this online form. How do I write a cover letter? I want to practice my English.
If kicking back is more your style, cosy up on the colourful beanbags and let our roving entertainers bring their juggling, unicycling, hula hooping, ballooning fun to you. There’ll also be live music to lift your spirits as a range of local and emerging artists perform their diverse works.
Both the Springvale and Dandenong libraries offer a free service to patrons who find language a challenge when dealing with practical issues such as finding an English class, filling out a form, looking for work or accessing programs on the computer.
Other event highlights include food and market stalls, cultural arts activities, and a special Under 5s world just for the littlest family members. We hope to see you at Wachter Reserve, Kingsclere Avenue, Keysborough on Sunday 3 April from 12pm-5pm.
The libraries also run programs on how to use computers, Internet and iPads for beginners and those who just need a little extra help. People can also practice their English by joining in a conversation circle which is held at Dandenong Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm-7.30pm. Visit www.greaterdandenonglibraries. com or ask library staff for more details.
Explore your creativity The popular Get Creative program is back for Term 2, with plenty of workshops to help people of all ages tap into their artistic side.
Drum Theatre, Heritage Hill, Walker Street Gallery and Dandenong Library. You can either take a single class or sign up for the full term.
There’s Bollywood for beginners, introduction to Photoshop and life drawing, art classes for adults, dance classes for seniors and a play program for toddlers.
Get Creative is perfect if you are looking for something for the kids to do after school, looking for a way to channel your own creativity or looking to explore something new.
Activities and workshops will be held across Dandenong, including at the
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/arts for more information.
Library staff Jo Brick and Nanette Davis offer help and support to library patrons.
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community CALENDAR
APRIL MONDAY
TUESDAY
4 Combined Probus Club of Noble Park Club Noble 10am Ph: 9546 2346
Noble Park Country Women’s Association Craft Day Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 10am Ph: 9547 7261
12 Dandenong and District Diabetic Support Group Meeting Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 2pm Ph: 9546 2346
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Toddle Time Springvale and Dandenong Libraries 10.20am (every Monday)
Noble Park Community Action Forum Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 6pm Ph: 9701 5821
Live cooking demonstration: meatball masterclass Dandenong Market 12pm
Baby Bounce Dandenong Library 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920
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20
21 Diana Nguyen – Naked Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666 Library Storytime Springvale and Dandenong Libraries 10.30am (every Thursday)
27 Zumba Gold Jan Wilson Community Centre 10.30am-11.30am Ph: 9795 9279 Introduction to iPads Dandenong Library 9.30am
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Springvale Food Lovers’ Tour 6pm-8.30pm Ph: 8571 1377
Small Business Bus Dandenong Plaza 9am-4pm
Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm
Art Workshop - Have a blast with glass Heritage Hill, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 11am
Over There... Drum Theatre 10.30am Ph: 8571 1666
Introduction to iPads Dandenong Library 6.30pm
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7
Keysborough South Planning Forum Keysborough Senior Citizens Hall, 352 Cheltenham Road 7.15pm Ph: 8571 1000
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Social Knitwork Dandenong Library 10am (every Wednesday)
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Arts Workshop - fun with lettering Heriatge Hill, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 11am
Art Series Dandenong Library 6.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920
Intermediate Computer Skills Jan Wilson Community Centre 1pm-1.30pm Ph: 9795 9279
6 Trash Test Dummies Drum Theatre 1.30pm Ph: 8571 1666
Party Tricks Drum Theatre 6pm
11 Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm
THURSDAY
5 Kids’ Party Confidential Drum Theatre 1.30pm Ph: 8571 1666
Arts workshop - Clay Pencil Pots Heritage Hill, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 11am Ph: 8571 1666
Anzac Day Public Holiday
WEDNESDAY
Afghan Bazaar Cultural Tour 6pm-8pm Ph: 8571 1377
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Winning Local Government Tenders Dandenong Civic Centre 9am-10.30am Ph: 8571 1550 Small Business Bus Springvale Multicultural Place 9am-4pm
www.greaterdandenong.com/Calendar
2016 FRIDAY
SATURDAY 1
Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay Street, Springvale Ph: 8571 1702
SUNDAY 2
Dresden Callisthenics Jan Wilson Community Centre 9.30am-10.30am
Noble Park North Multicultural Seniors Jan Wilson Community Centre 12pm-4pm
8 Playgroup Jan Wilson Community Centre 10.30am-12pm Ph: 9795 9279 Hip Hop Dancing (5-8 years) The Castle, Hemmings Park, Dandenong 11am Ph: 8571 1666
3 Autumn Fest Wachter Reserve, Keysborough 12pm-5pm Open Art Day - Travelling Art Show Heritage Hill, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 12pm-4pm
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Sports Fest and meet the Mayor and councillors Ross Reserve, Noble Park 11am-2pm
10
Walker Street Gallery Music Series: The Twoks Corner Robinson and Walker streets, Dandenong 2.30pm. Ph: 8571 1666.
15 Live cooking demonstration: eggsellent eggs Dandenong Market 12pm English in the Community and Workplace Jan Wilson Community Centre 9.30am-12pm Ph: 9795 9279
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17 Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay Street, Springvale 10am Ph: 8571 1702
Me and My Dad: Get going with gears Dandenong Library 2pm Ph: 1300 630 920
23
City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000 Drum Theatre 8571 1666 Dandenong Library 1300 630 920
Youth Week Celebration Ross Reserve, Noble Park 10.30am
Dandenong Market Cleeland Street, Dandenong 7am-4pm
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Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511 Jan Wilson Community Centre 9795 9279 Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 8571 1436
24 Live cooking demonstration with Masterchef’s Jamie Ward Dandenong Market 12pm
Springvale Library 1300 630 920 Springers Leisure Centre 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery 9706 8441
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Baby Bounce Springvale Library 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920
30
Carole King Tribute Show Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666
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Dandenong Market 9701 3850 Cultural Tours 8571 1666
Submit your community event online at www.greaterdandenong.com
Send your event listings to news@cgd.vic.gov.au the CITY 11
In April 2015 composting buckets were introduced to all kitchen areas in the Civic Centre and the Operations Centre.
Council offices are waste wise
Fruit and vegetable scraps, tea bags and coffee grounds are collected in the bins and turned into compost which is used to feed the garden beds at Heritage Hill and Benga House in Dandenong. So far the bins have helped divert more than half a tonne of food waste from landfill. Recycling bins and paper and cardboard bins placed throughout the offices have also helped minimise waste to landfill.
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landfill and have set a good example for the wider community.
Between the recycling bins and compost collections Council estimates that 63 per cent of waste from council’s offices is being diverted from landfill.
Changes to staff behaviour at Council’s Civic Centre and Operations Centre have greatly reduced waste going to
But don’t take our word for it, why not visit the luscious gardens at Heritage Hill and see first-hand the composting that is helping keep the grounds healthy.
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ wasteandrecycling for more information about recycling and diverting your own waste from landfill.
he City of Greater Dandenong takes its role as a sustainability champion seriously.
Sports Awards The 2016 Greater Dandenong Sports Awards nominations are now open. The awards recognise the exceptional contribution of people within our sporting communities, including those who enrich the lives of others by providing opportunities to participate in sport. Categories include: • Community Sports Club • Community Coach • Sports Volunteer • Community Project • All Abilities Sport • Community Team • Sport Athletes including Male/ Female/Junior Athletes If you know of a local team, coach, volunteer or player that should be recognised for their commitment and passion to sport in Greater Dandenong then nominate them now. Nominations close on Friday 6 May. For information visit www.greaterdandenong.com or phone 8571 1000. 12 the CITY
Success for learner driver T
he City of Greater Dandenong is looking for more mentors to help learner drivers achieve their ultimate goal. The community-based L2P program matches fully licensed drivers with learners under the age of 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver or vehicle. University student Sam recently passed his driving test, with the help of experienced driver and local grandfather Enrique.
The pair spent more than 100 hours driving around Victoria, including trips to Phillip Island, Mt Macedon and Warragul, while Sam got the experience he needed to pass his test. Sam said he would not have passed his test without the L2P program. L2P is free for eligible learners and is funded by the TAC. For more information about the program, whether as a learner or a volunteer, phone 9793 2155.
School holidays at the libraries
Tim Credible.
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ity of Greater Dandenong Youth Services are running an Active Autumn school holiday program for young people aged 12-25.
f you want to do more than pick up a good book for the school holidays, have a look at these fun programs at Greater Dandenong’s libraries.
Storytime
Join Cathy for a fun-filled session of karaoke and sing your favourite children’s songs. For ages 4-8, no bookings required.
Friday 1 April, 11am at Springvale Library Stories, rhymes and songs for preschoolers. For ages 3-5, no bookings required.
Tim Credible Tuesday 5 April, 11am at Springvale Library
Let’s Create with iPads Friday 1 April, 2.30pm at Dandenong Library Use an iPad to create your own comic book. For ages 8-12, bookings on 1300 630 920.
Cathy’s Karaoke for Kids
Tim presents a funny, interactive magic show featuring ventriloquism and a performing dog. For ages 5-10, no bookings required.
Lego Club Wednesday 6 April, 2pm at Springvale Library
Monday 4 April, 2pm at Dandenong Library Head for the Clouds.
HOLIDAY FUN FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Have fun with Lego. Make buildings, people and creatures while having fun with friends. For ages 5-10, no bookings required.
Activities include indoor rock climbing, Bubble Sportz and next level gaming. If you want to get more active these school holidays sign up for a great time with our program. Bookings are essential, visit www.greaterdandenong.com/youth for the full program of events.
Let’s Create with iPads Friday 8 April, 2.30pm at Springvale Library Use an iPad to create your own comic book. For ages 8-12, bookings on 1300 630 920.
Head for the Clouds Thursday 7 April, 11am at Dandenong Library When Anthony’s hat blows off in the wind he enlists some help from friends to retrieve it from the clouds. A delightful show full of slapstick comedy, mime and physical theatre. For ages 3-8, no bookings required.
Lego Club.
IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – April 2016 The Immunisation Timetable for the City of Greater Dandenong is available from Council’s customer service centres or Maternal and Child Health centres and online. Phone Council on 8571 1000 or visit www.greaterdandenong.com/immunisation for more information on the upcoming immunisation sessions:
DATE
TIME
LOCATION
4 April
5pm-6.30pm
Springvale Service for Children, 23-28 Lightwood Road, Springvale
6 April
10am-11.30am 10am-12pm 10am-11.30am 10am-10.45am 4.30pm-6.30pm 10am-12pm 10am-12pm
McFees Road Maternal Child and Health Centre, 70A McFees Road, Dandenong North Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Springvale Service for Children, 23-28 Lightwood Road, Springvale
12 April 14 April 19 April 20 April 23 April 27 April
the CITY 13
business NEWS
Grants boost local businesses
Cr Roz Blades, Mayor Heang Tak and Cr Angela Long with Greater Dandenong Business Grant recipients.
Work. Shop. Play. App C entral Dandenong is a great place to work, shop and play.
There’s a world of experiences on your doorstep, and local workers can take advantage of this through the Work. Shop. Play. program, which now boasts an app for mobile devices.
T
he City of Greater Dandenong’s Business Grants Program is helping support a range of innovative and passionate businesses within our community. Introduced in 2014, the program this year awarded grants to six local businesses. The application process was rigorous and competitive, with the assessment panel noting how impressed it was with the quality of applicants.
CFO (financial) service provider Billson Business Advisory; and ballet school operator Melbourne Ballet School. Many of the recipients have singled out the mentoring, marketing and networking support, which is part of the grant package, as integral to their continued success. The grant money will be used to relocate or upgrade premises and equipment. In addition the business owners will use the grant’s networking opportunities to expand their operations.
In partnership with local businesses Council has set up a program to present a great range of offers for central Dandenong workers, so they can experience this vibrant and diverse community for themselves.
Grant recipients include: bio-diesel producer Biofuel Innovations; middle eastern food manufacturer Arabian Bites; LED screen and security product supplier Global Communications; bespoke furniture maker and joiner, Silkwood Furniture;
Discover unique food, services, arts and cultural experiences on your lunchbreak, after work, or even on the weekend.
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE RETAILER
The offers are also suitable for people who live locally and who might want to share some Dandenong highlights with visitors and friends who live outside of the city. In the past, voucher booklets have been distributed to central Dandenong offices, but with the introduction of the app new offers can be accessed by anyone while out and about. You can download the app for free for Apple and Android devices. For more information visit an app store and search Work. Shop. Play. 14 the CITY
D
o you have a favourite retailer that you would like to be recognised? This could be for their great customer service, their product range or simply the staff exceeded your expectations. Now you have your chance. During April you can vote for your favourite retailer as part of the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Retail Awards. The retailers that receive the most votes in each of the suburbs within Greater Dandenong will go through
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ business for more information about the support Council offers to local businesses.
to compete for the prestigious 2016 Retailer of the Year award through the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. To get involved visit www. greaterdandenongchamber.com.au for more information. To thank you for voting you will go in the draw to win great prizes for supporting your local favourite retailer. These awards are supported by City of Greater Dandenong and Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce.
community NEWS Sandown, Noble Park, Keysborough and Springvale Districts have featured in the show’s news, highlights and features segments, giving them the opportunity to promote their club, their achievements and successes to people all over the state.
The Local Footy Show A
s a drop in Autumn temperatures heralds the beginning of yet another footy season, Greater Dandenong fans will again be upto-speed with local footy news and highlights from across Victoria every week of the season thanks to Channel 31’s The Local Footy Show. The Local Footy Show has been a passionate supporter of the people,
The show is also produced right here in Noble Park by a team of dedicated volunteers who truly believe in the value sport can bring to a community, by bringing people together, fostering belonging, and promoting healthy, active lifestyles.
Local Footy Show hosts Kevin Murphy, Daryl Pitman and Ian Bennett.
clubs and communities that make grassroots football possible for over 20 years, with its unique combination of information, humour and entertainment attracting a range of interesting special guests, and a viewing audience of almost 100,000 footy fanatics. In Greater Dandenong we have a thriving sports culture and many of our local teams, like Masala,
The program’s outstanding coverage of the people and places that bring local football to life each weekend has been recognised countless times during its long history – it’s won successive national awards for ‘Best Sports Show’ as well as twice being awarded AFL Victoria’s ‘Best Television Feature’ award. Host Daryl Pitman said even better things are to come in 2016 with plans afoot to feature Sunday afternoon live league matches. Tune in to The Local Footy Show on Channel 31 Friday nights at 7pm or catch the replay on Saturdays at 9am during football season.
Volunteer community visitors needed T
he MS Community Visitors Scheme is seeking volunteers to visit older people living in Noble Park and Springvale.
Russian, Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, Arabic, Vietnamese and German.”
“My girls and I really enjoy seeing her laugh and smile – it’s a very positive experience for all involved,” Penni said.
Manager Community Visitors Scheme Esis Tawfik said the program’s volunteers visited recipients one-onone in aged care homes or in the older person’s own home.
MS Community Visitors Scheme volunteer, Penni and her three children visit Renata on a fortnightly basis, sharing songs and conversation.
MS will provide volunteers with training and ongoing support. For more information email cvsrecruitment@ ms.org.au or phone 9845 2729.
“The purpose of the visits is to provide friendship and companionship. If you have time to contribute one visit per fortnight, over a minimum 12 months, then we would like to hear from you,” Ms Tawfik said.
Volunteer visitor Penni and her daughters visit with Renata regularly.
“It is as simple as sharing stories, having a cuppa and chat, reading or taking your new friend for a walk. You could include your children or a familyfriendly dog. Just spending quality time will make a difference. “At the moment we have older people waiting to be matched to volunteers who can speak English, Greek, Italian, We accept submissions for the Community News page in The City every month. Email us at news@cgd.vic.gov.au to share your story. the CITY 15
Sunday 10 April 11am – 2pm
Ross Reserve, Memorial Drive, Noble Park
Come and try sports activities NPAC free entry, 11am – 2pm Dance performances • Giveaways and prizes Also on the day
National Youth Week Activities, 10.30am – 4.30pm
Skatepark activities, breakdancing, rap and game challenges.
Meet your Mayor and Councillors, from 11am Free sausage sizzle and extra family fun!