The City - February 2016

February 2016 Australia Day Awards page 7

Drum Theatre celebrates pages 8 & 9

Sunset Cinema page 12

Lunar New Year page 14

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale St Dandenong Springvale customer service 397–405 Springvale Road Springvale Keysborough customer service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre Keysborough Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 18–34 Buckley Street Noble Park All correspondence to: The City PO Box 200 Dandenong VIC 3175 Email: news@cgd.vic.gov.au Phone: 8571 1000

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elcome to the first issue of The City magazine for 2016.

As I write we are wrapping up an action-packed Summer of events and activities in Greater Dandenong.

One of the highlights of the season was the announcement of the winners of our annual Australia Day Awards, which celebrate those members of our community who have gone above and beyond to help others and make our city such a great place to live, work and play. We’re delighted to profile the winners on page 7.

This month we turn our attention to the environment. The Sustainability Festival on Sunday 21 February will help kick-start your sustainability journey by showing you how to do more with less, while World Wetlands Day celebrations will showcase the beauty and environmental significance of Tirhatuan Park’s native wetlands (both stories page 12).

Congratulations are also in order as our very own Drum Theatre celebrates 10 years of entertainment – a wonderful achievement and a cause very worthy of celebrations (pages 8 & 9).

I look forward to bringing you more news of Greater Dandenong’s events, activities and achievements over the coming months.

Fax: 8571 5196 www.greaterdandenong.com

Mayor Heang Tak

@greaterdandy facebook.com/greaterdandenong cityofgreaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TY: 133 677 T Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 Internet: www.iprelay.com.au TIS: 13 14 50 council@cgd.vic.gov.au

IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency calls Police/Fire/Ambulance.................... 000 Street lighting faults/ non-operational United Energy ........................ 13 20 99 Traffic signal faults/ non-operational................... 8571 1000 Hoon Hotline.................. 1800 333 000 Hard waste collection WM Waste Management Services......... 9721 1915

my CITY Noble Park Aquatic Centre is one of the best places to be during summer.

The iconic waterslide has been a drawcard for many years, and is still considered one of Melbourne’s biggest slides. NPAC, in Memorial Drive, will host an open day on Saturday 20 February to raise money for the YMCA’s annual Swimathon.

Front Cover: This Lion Dancer entertained the crowds at last year’s Lunar New Year Festival. This year’s event ushers in the Year of the Monkey on Sunday 7 February. Read more about the festival on page 14.

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.

School’s in and your library is the place to be

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ith school comes homework, and Greater Dandenong Library members can get free, on-demand help with study questions through the Your Tutor program.

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f you love to make, paint, create, draw, sew, dance, sing or juggle, the City of Greater Dandenong is launching an exciting new program which will inspire you to Get Creative.

Get Creative is a series of term-based and one-off creative workshops available to everyone in the community.

Activities include life drawing, crafting, photography, circus skills, dance, gardening, music, sewing, theatre, web design, creative writing and more.

The City of Greater Dandenong celebrates the arts and encourages

creative opportunities while supporting local emerging artists. This new range of creative programs will provide our community members with an opportunity to try new things, tap into unknown talents and meet new people with a variety of art forms for people to Get Creative.

Come along to the Drum Theatre on Thursday 11 February 4.30-5.30pm for a FREE sample of Bollywood dancing, arts and crafts, face painting and balloon animals.

For further information about the Get Creative program visit www.greaterdandenong.com/arts

CHANGES TO THE GREEN WEDGE PLANNING RULES – HAVE YOUR SAY

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ouncil is proposing to make some changes to the planning rules that apply to the City of Greater Dandenong’s part of the South East Green Wedge.

Parts of Keysborough, Bangholme and Lyndhurst will be affected by the proposed changes which include all land outside of the Urban Growth Boundary within the City of Greater Dandenong’s section of the South East Green Wedge. Specifically this covers land bound by Hutton/Perry/ Glasscocks Road to Thompsons Road and by the Mornington Peninsula Freeway to the west and the Westernport Highway to the east.

The northern-most portion of the Green Wedge, known as the ‘Clarke Road Precinct’, which is centred around Clarke Road between Westall, Springvale and Heatherton roads in Springvale South will also be affected.

The proposed changes include rezoning some land in Keysborough from the Green Wedge Zone to the

Green Wedge A Zone, introducing a temporary vegetation protection control for larger native trees and updating some of Council’s local policies and planning guidance regarding land use and development in the Green Wedge.

The amendment is not proposing to change the Urban Growth Boundary or the minimum subdivision sizes that currently apply to these areas (of between 4 and 40 hectares).

Find out more about the project, including how to have your say on the proposed changes by visiting Council’s website or phone 8571 1000. Submissions will close in early March 2016.

The tool is available Sunday to Friday, from 3pm-10pm online via The Vault, or it can be accessed through the library computers of WiFi service from 3pm until closing.

Your Tutor connects students, from Grade 3 through to university, to a real life tutor who is waiting online to answer questions covering subject matters including maths, physics, biology, chemistry, English, business studies and more.

Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ thevault for more information.

The emotions experienced by students who are starting school for the first time, moving to high school or starting at a new school, can be extreme.

Greater Dandenong Libraries have a host of books to help with the transition, for both students and parents. Here is a list of books that might help through different stages:

PRE-SCHOOL Monkey: not ready for kindergarten Marc Tolon Brown Hickory Dickory: songs from Play School, songs from Kindergarten [sound recording].

Going to playschool Sarah Garland

PRIMARY SCHOOL Starting school Janet Ahlberg and Allan Ahlberg Birdie’s first day of school Sujean Rim What’s in my lunchbox?

Peter Carnavas My First Day at School Meredith Costain and Michelle Mackintosh The starting school survival guide: everything you need to know when your child starts school Sarah Ebner

SECONDARY SCHOOL A parent’s survival guide to starting secondary school: ease the transition for you and your child!

Molly Potter the CITY 3

your COUNCILLORS

• Monday 8 February • Monday 22 February Did you know you can watch Council meetings live online via our web-cast service?

You can keep up with all the latest decisions, hear questions from residents and find out the many ways your local councillors are serving the community.

To view meetings online simply go to www.greaterdandenong.com and look for the ‘Watch Council Meetings Live’ page in the Your Council section.

WARD MAP

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Paperbark Ward

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Silverleaf Ward Cr Maria Sampey Ph: 9790 1291 Fax: 9790 6104 0438 800 027 maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au

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Silverleaf Ward Cr John Kelly Ph: 9793 1777 Fax: 9706 0186 0418 350 743 john.kelly@cgd.vic.gov.au

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

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

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Red Gum Ward Cr Angela Long Ph: 9795 6574 Fax: 9795 4412 0466 004 616 angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au

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Paperbark Ward Cr Heang Tak - Mayor 0403 072 291 heang.tak@cgd.vic.gov.au

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Paperbark Ward Cr Peter Brown Ph/Fax: 9584 5149 0408 138 939 peter.brown@cgd.vic.gov.au

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Paperbark Ward Cr Roz Blades AM Ph: 9701 5821 Fax: 9798 5927 0417 053 612 roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au

The February meetings will be held:

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

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

East Link

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

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

Corrigan Road

Lightwood Ward Cr Youhorn Chea Ph: 9547 5745 Fax: 9547 3586 0417 320 645 youhorn.chea@cgd.vic.gov.au

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Darren Rd

COUNCILLOR CONTACTS

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Silverleaf Ward

Cr Maria Sampey P

roviding increased support for our older residents is something that I’m really passionate about. For that reason I’m pleased to announce that this year Council will be conducting a review of its Ageing is About Living Strategy and Action Plan to develop the goals and strategies that will address the needs of older people over the next 8-10 years.

The City of Greater Dandenong remains committed to a collaborative approach to finding ways to better support older people and to improve their health, wellbeing and independence in the community.

During February and March Council will be conducting a number of community consultations with residents and local service providers to gather ideas about how we can address the challenges that will face older people in our community now and in the future.

The consultations are an opportunity for members of our community to help shape the principles that will guide Council’s actions.

During these consultations you’ll be able to ask questions, provide feedback, and have your say on issues that are important to you.

Council officers and members of the Positive Ageing Advisory Committee will visit a range of local community groups to talk to older people, their families, and those that care and support them.

We’ll also be accepting feedback via written and online surveys.

I really encourage you to have your say on how we can make ageing a positive experience for you and your loved ones.

To find out more visit greaterdandenong.com or, as always, feel free to contact me by phoning 9790 1291 or 0438 800 027 or by emailing maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au

Red Gum Ward

Cr Jim Memeti G

reater Dandenong train lines are on the busiest rail corridor in Melbourne and Council has long advocated for improvements to help rail and road users get a clear run.

Last year a series of improvements to the Pakenham line were announced by the State Government, including the removal of all level crossings between Dandenong and Caulfield stations (nine in total), and the purchase of 37 new high capacity trains.

These improvements will ease congestion for rail and road users.

The new trains will increase capacity by 42 per cent, helping to transport an extra 11,000 people during the morning peak.

The removal of rail crossings is also expected to help keep traffic moving more smoothly by removing pesky boom gates that can stay down for what feels like an eternity.

The improvements will also help boost the strong manufacturing industry in Dandenong, with the trains to be made by locally-based manufacturer Bombardier.

This means more job security for local workers and adds to Dandenong’s reputation as the “manufacturing heartland” not only for Victoria but Australia.

As the Red Gum Ward Councillor I am always available to listen to the concerns of my community and advocate on your behalf at all times.

The new trains are expected to be on the tracks by the end of 2018, while work is due to start this year on the level crossing removals.

If you would like to discuss a local issue you can phone me on 9792 4683 or 0434 560 239 or email jim.memeti@cgd. vic.gov.au the CITY 5

working FOR YOU Council officer Lucas Sikiotis and Councillor Peter Brown at the Herbert Street crossing.

award as recognition it was one of Victoria’s leading road safety initiatives.

For the safety of students, teachers and local residents, Council installed computer controlled automated bollards that closed the street off to traffic between 8am and 4pm on school days.

This was in addition to some street modifications, flashing lights, audible warnings, the ability to retrieve CCTV footage and a manual override switch for emergency services.

SAFETY AWARD FOR HERBERT STREET BOLLARDS he Transport Accident Commission (TAC) last year recognised a Greater Dandenong road project as part of their Towards Zero road safety campaign.

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The Herbert Street Bollards project, which closes the road between the two campuses of Dandenong High School, received a TAC Safe Roads

Launch of Draft 2030 Sustainability Strategy

It will be used to inform decisions and actions that will help achieve Council’s objective of becoming an environmentally-sustainable city.

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o coincide with this month’s Sustainability Festival, Council will be launching its Draft 2030 Sustainability Strategy which will be a key document for the City of Greater Dandenong.

While community consultation during 2014 helped draft the strategy, Council is now seeking community feedback before it is finalised in July.

To ensure the community’s views are well represented, Council will be

The result has been zero incidents over the past two school years in the area involving pedestrians and vehicles, achieving Council’s primary objective of creating a safe and protected environment.

According to the TAC’s CEO Mr Joe Calafiore, “Towards Zero sets an ambitious target, but we’ve got to be ambitious if we are going to stop lives being lost on our roads”.

undertaking a range of activities during February and March 2016 including drop-in sessions at the Dandenong and Springvale libraries on 16 and 25 February with a free children’s art activity at the Dandenong Library.

Visit www.greaterdandenong.com for information on the ways in which you can contribute to the Draft Sustainability Strategy.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSES T he City of Greater Dandenong is proud of the contribution our six local Neighbourhood Houses make to the wellbeing of our community.

Neighbourhood Houses provide a safe and caring environment for people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities and interests to connect, learn, and to participate in a wide range of activities and programs.

They are also home to a range of community groups within the City of Greater Dandenong and offer low cost meeting rooms and facilities for hire.

Council is committed to ensuring our Neighbourhood House programs continue to meet our community’s needs and aspirations. To do this we’d like to hear what you think.

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We’d like to know:

• Have you used the programs or services of a Neighbourhood House?

• What activities would you be interested in taking part in at a Neighbourhood House?

• How should Neighbourhood House programs and services be promoted?

Have your say at greaterdandenong. com/neighourhoodhouses Feedback will be accepted until 5pm, Monday 29 February. For more information contact Leanne Malcolm at lmalco@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 8571 5348.

Australia Day Award Winners T

he winners of The City of Greater Dandenong’s Australia Day Awards were recently recognised for their service to our community in a special ceremony at Dandenong Park. The inspiring list of local residents and volunteers for 2016 include: Citizen of the Year Fr Jean Mawal

Sportsperson of the Year – Aaliyah Corles

A leader of the Antiochian Church, Fr Jean Mawal has been recognised for his influence in promoting a more tolerant and respectful community through his involvement with Council’s Challenge Family Violence Project.

Award judges were impressed with 12 year old Aaliyah’s athletic ability and particularly her willingness to help encourage and coach younger participants in the martial arts.

Volunteer of the Year – Tracey Walden Tracey Walden has been recognised for her 35 years of service to the Noble Park Junior and Senior Football clubs, and for promoting community participation in Australian Rules Football.

Leadership Award – Hayatullah Rahimi Mr Rahimi, himself a former refugee, is recognised for his commitment to raising awareness about refugee and asylum seeker issues and for offering ongoing support to members of the Hazara community.

Multicultural Award – Andrew South and Matthew Pond, Noble Park CFA Noble Park CFA members, Andrew South and Matthew Pond, have worked to increase CFA membership by encouraging people from culturally diverse backgrounds to join, ensuring its sustainability into the future.

Corporate Citizen of the Year – David Willersdorf David Willersdorf is a highly-respected member of Greater Dandenong’s business community whose philanthropic support of local charities and initiatives has greatly benefited our city.

Young Leaders of the Year – Mohammad Reza Haidari and Khalid Katikang (joint winners)

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t’s that time of year again to put on your gloves and grab your clean-up kits to participate in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 6 March.

The City of Greater Dandenong is a proud supporter of this great annual event. Individuals, schools or community groups can register their own Clean Up site or volunteer to join an existing site at www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au Registered volunteers will receive a dedicated Clean Up kit in the mail, with gloves, rubbish and recycling bags, and all the paperwork you’ll need to plan and organise your team on the day.

Council is also able to supply volunteer groups with additional gloves and bags if needed – just contact Council’s Waste Education Officer, Samantha Ondrus, on 8571 1715.

We look forward to seeing you and your team on the day for a funfilled, rewarding, clean up event.

Mr Haidari has been recognised for his outstanding service as a volunteer for organisations across Greater Dandenong, including the Red Cross and the Asylum Seeker and Refugee Centre.

Since arriving in Australia aged 12 as an unaccompanied minor from Sudan, Khalid Katikang has given back to his adopted community by volunteering with a range of youth programs, including developing the ‘Say No to Crime’ program with the young Sudanese community. the CITY 7

C E L E B R AT E S

10 years of entertainment Since the Drum Theatre’s gala opening in 2006, more than 1600 theatre performances have entertained audiences.

And 2016 promises to be another fantastic year of entertainment as Drum Theatre celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The theatre was officially opened by the then Mayor of The City of Greater Dandenong Cr Peter Brown and then Premier of Victoria Steve Bracks.

The glittering night featured James Morrison, Sylvie Paladino, The Three Chinese Tenors and local artists including The City of Greater Dandenong Band, who entertained guests well into the evening.

Legendary Australian actor Charles (Bud) Tingwell hosted the memorable evening and summed up the Town Hall renovations.

Since that first night the Drum has presented some amazing productions from world-renowned performers, including the Australian Ballet Dancers company, Bell Shakespeare, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Opera Australia and Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.

Last year proved to be a big year for the Drum, with performances by Circus Oz, the Russian National Ballet Theatre and top Australian comedians Max Gillies, Anh

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Do and Dave Hughes. Touring shows by Australia’s favourite children’s entertainers Octonauts and The Wiggles also pulled in crowds.

While 2015 was a big year, 2016 promises to be even bigger.

Drum Theatre marks its 10th anniversary on Thursday 11 February 2016, but it will be celebrating the milestone all year.

On 11 February an afternoon of ‘Come and Try’ events will be open to the public, from 4pm-6pm.

A free concert will be held from 7.30pm, featuring local performers and a return by opening night drawcard Sylvie Paladino.

Drum Theatre Director Greg Hordacre said he joined the theatre in 2009 and was immediately struck by the incredible work of the dedicated staff.

“There is a great pride in all Drum does, shared by all staff,” Mr Hordacre said.

“Drum has been filled with moments full of laughter and smiles for 10 years now and we look forward to welcoming everyone here soon.”

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I t was a mad dash to prepare the venue for opening night, the foyer was cleaned up two days prior and the gold wall was painted on the day. Technical gear had to be hired in and the auditorium seats were still being screwed in as guests were arriving. The day after opening night we handed the building back to the builders to finish off the construction.” here was a real sense of teamwork T and camaraderie among the front of house staff. We were proud of the venue we worked at – it was a beautiful building and something not only special to Dandenong but to the wider community.”

original staff member Cheryl Rush.

BY THE NUMBERS $10.5 million total income from shows and functions $3.5 million spent in Greater Dandenong by patrons 1650 theatre performances 56,636 beverages sold at Drum Theatre 700,200 patrons walked through the doors

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community CALENDAR

FEBRUARY MONDAY

TUESDAY 1

Simply Fitness Jan Wilson Community Centre 9.30am-10.30am Ph: 9795 9279

WEDNESDAY 2

Live cooking demonstration: birthday cakes for kids Dandenong Market 12pm-1pm

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

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

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Central Dandenong Green Building Precinxt Tour 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 6pm-8pm Ph: 9546 2346

Citizenship Session Springvale Library 9.30am-11.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Noble Park Community Action Forum Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 6pm Ph: 9701 5821

16 Writing Program Dandenong Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

Citizenship Session Springvale Library 9.30am-11.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Save Energy, Save Money Workshop Dandenong Civic Centre and Springvale Civic Centre 5.30pm-7.30pm

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Citizenship Session Springvale Library 9.30am-11.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Yoga Jan Wilson Community Centre 7pm-8.30pm Ph: 9795 9279

11 Drum Theatre 10th Anniversary celebrations 226 Lonsdale St, Dandenong From 4.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

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English in the community and workplace Jan Wilson Community Centre 9.30am-12pm Ph: 9795 9279

Save Money, Save Energy Workshop Dandenong Civic Centre and Springvale Civic Centre 5.30pm-7.30pm

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

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Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm

Zumba Gold Jan Wilson Community Centre 10.30am-11.30am Ph: 9795 9279 Digital Literacy: intro to email Dandenong Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

Citizenship Session Springvale Library 9.30am-11.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm

THURSDAY

18 Dandenong Food Lovers Tour 10am Ph: 8571 1377 Website Creation Dandenong Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

24 Digital Literacy: intro to internet Dandenong Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

25 Library Storytime Springvale and Dandenong Libraries 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920 Website Creation Dandenong Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

www.greaterdandenong.com/Calendar

2016 FRIDAY All National Social Cricket Greaves Reserve 5pm Ph: 0430 783 526

SATURDAY 5

SUNDAY 6

World Wetlands Day Tirhatuan Park 4.30pm-7.30pm Ph: 8571 1702

Sunset Cinema: Red Dog Harmony Square 7pm

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Springvale Lunar New Year Festival Buckingham & Balmoral Avenues 10am

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Live cooking demonstration: Valentine’s Day romantic dinner Dandenong Market 12pm-1pm

✆ City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000 Drum Theatre 8571 1666 Dandenong Library 1300 630 920 Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511

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Summer Community Festival Burden Park 5pm

Summer Community Festival Burden Park 11am

Sunset Cinema: The Fantastic Mr Fox Harmony Square 7pm

Noble Park Aquatic Centre Open Day Memorial Drive, Noble Park 11am-2pm

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Baby Bounce Springvale Library 10.30am (every Friday)

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Dandenong Market Cleeland Street, Dandenong 10am-3pm (every Sunday)

Sunset Cinema: Inside Out Harmony Square 7pm

Sunset Cinema: Howl’s Moving Castle Harmony Square 7pm

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Summer Community Festival Burden Park 11am

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Sustainability Festival Dandenong Market 10am-3pm Speed Date a Sustainability Expert 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 2pm-4pm Ph: 9639 1500

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YMCA Swimathon Dandenong Oasis, Cleeland Street 11am-2pm

Jan Wilson Community Centre 9795 9279 Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 8571 1436 Springvale Library 1300 630 920 Springers Leisure Centre 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery 9706 8441

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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

World Wetlands Day D

andenong’s Tirhatuan Park will host a free community event on Saturday 6 February to mark World Wetlands Day – an international day raising awareness of the worldwide loss of wetlands and promoting measures to better manage and protect these unique natural environments.

In Greater Dandenong we’re fortunate to have a stunning series of wetlands that provide habitat for our native flora and fauna while improving the water quality of Dandenong Creek.

Tirhatuan Park is a valuable oasis for some endangered wetland vegetation that has been almost entirely wiped out in Victoria, as well as an abundance of water bugs, reptiles, birds, fish, frogs and mammals.

The wetlands are also a great recreational asset to our community.

Tirhatuan Park has a fantastic playground, extensive walking and bike tracks, BBQs and boardwalks, which you can take advantage of on the day.

Council’s community event will be held on Saturday 6 February, from 4.30pm7.30pm, and will include a guided wetlands tour, a live reptile show, face painting, children’s games and activities, and interactive displays to keep the whole family busy and entertained.

Tirhatuan Park is in Kriegel Way, Dandenong North. This is a free event, but please book for catering purposes on 8571 1702.

2016

SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL L

earning to do more with less and helping create a better environment is the theme for this year’s City of Greater Dandenong 2016 Sustainability Festival.

Dandenong partners with the Sustainable Living Foundation – hosts of the Victorian Sustainable Living Festival at Federation Square.

To be held on on Sunday 21 February at the Dandenong Market, this free family-fun event will be action packed with activities, programs and experts to help you to learn more, do more, and save more.

This partnership had added some great activities during February including a green building and recycling facility tour, a save energy - save money workshop in Dandenong and Springvale, speed date a Sustainability expert on February 21 and cooking demonstrations at the Dandenong Market on 16 and 19 February. The full program of events can be found on Council’s website.

The festival is now in its third year of providing practical and environmentallyfriendly solutions for everyday home and garden topics that will help kickstart your sustainability journey.

These include finding ways to help reduce both your household’s bills and environmental footprint as well as trying out your gardening, home living and cooking skills.

Activities include face painting and children’s activities, pedal-powered smoothies, sustainable product stalls, plant your own herbs take-home veggie plantings, and expert advice from sustainability specialists.

While last year’s event was a huge success, the 2016 festival promises to be bigger and better as Greater

SUNSET CINEMA T

at 7pm every Friday night between 29 January and 11 March.

he City of Greater Dandenong is proud to announce the launch of a free family movie program – Sunset Cinema.

Deckchairs will be available in the Square for early birds.

The Sunset Cinema will showcase popular recent-releases as well as old family favourites in Harmony Square

This event is proudly supported by Nova 100. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com for more information.

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Bring a picnic, a blanket, and enjoy the fun night time atmosphere with your family.

The Sustainability Festival also provides the important opportunity to recognise local residents, schools and businesses for their efforts to create a cleaner, greener community through the annual Sustainability Awards.

To read the stories of the winners and finalists visit greaterdandenong.com/ sustainability When: Sunday 21 Feburary from 10am-3pm Where: Dandenong Market – southern upper level car park Information: www.greaterdandenong.com

Session Times 29 January Paddington G 5 February Red Dog PG 12 February Inside Out PG 19 February The Fantastic Mr. Fox PG 26 February Howl’s Moving Castle PG 4 March Shaun The Sheep G 11 March Tomorrowland PG

Councillor Angela Long with staff at swimmers at the Dandenong Oasis.

Splash out for a great cause G

reater Dandenong’s two public pools are supporting a national push to help children and adults with disabilities learn to swim.

Dandenong Oasis will host a Swimathon on Sunday 28 February from 11am-2pm.

The Swimathon aims to raise $800,000 nationally, and Oasis is trying to raise $10,000 through their event. The money will help provide specialised

TOUGHER IMMUNISATION LAWS P arents of young children risk losing government support and access to childcare if their children are not fully vaccinated under tough new rules introduced this year.

swimming lessons and pool access equipment for up to 8000 swimmers across Australia.

from 11am-2pm, with all proceeds going towards the Swimathon.

You don’t even have to be a swimmer to help the cause as other activities in the lead up to the main event will also raise money. Visit www. dandenongoasis.com.au for more information or to register.

A range of fun activities will be open to all for a gold coin donation, including supervised water games for the kids, access to the newly upgraded waterslide, inflatable fun and a sausage sizzle.

Noble Park Aquatic Centre will host an open day on Saturday 20 February

Visit www.nobleparkaquaticcentre. com.au for more information.

The Commonwealth Government has introduced No Jab, No Pay legislation that will see family payments cut for families who do not fully immunise their children.

across the municipality. See the below timetable for February sessions or visit www.greaterdandenong.com to view the 2016 timetable.

The State Government has also introduced No Jab, No Play legislation that will require proof of full immunisation to enrol children at early childhood services.

Children born overseas can take part in a catch-up program to make sure their immunisations meet the Australian schedule. Council runs catch-up sessions every Monday, from 9.30am-10.30am, at 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. No appointments are necessary.

The City of Greater Dandenong provides immunisation sessions

IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – February 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 for more information on the upcoming immunisation sessions:

DATE

TIME

LOCATION

1 February 3 February 9 February 11 February 16 February 17 February 24 February

5pm-6.30pm 10am-11.30am 10am-12pm 10am-11.30am 10am-10.45am 4.30pm-6.30pm 10am-12pm

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

27 February

10am-12pm

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong the CITY 13

SPRINGVALE LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL O

ne of Victoria’s premier multicultural festivals, the 2016 Springvale Lunar New Year Festival, kicks off on Sunday 7 February for its annual celebration.

One of the most important festivals on the Lunar calendar, this family-friendly event is traditionally celebrated by the Chinese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Korean and Japanese communities and is open to the general public.

Event organisers, the Springvale Asian Business Association (SABA), expect this year’s festival to be bigger than ever with the event coinciding with Chinese New Year’s Eve and SABA President Daniel Cheng said the association was looking to attract over 70,000 visitors from across Victoria.

“I can guarantee that the program will be one of the best ever with a lot of variety. We are also going to use two big LED screens as big as the one at Harmony Square,” Mr Cheng said.

With the support of the City of Greater Dandenong, the Buckingham Avenue shopping precinct will be transformed into a colourful, vibrant space from 10am until 10pm as the event celebrates the Year of the Monkey – the ninth sign in the Chinese zodiac that predicts a fast and energetic year for all.

Celebrating the fusion of Asian culture and traditions with the multicultural landscape of Greater Dandenong, more than 70 market stalls will be on display, as well as a dazzling entertainment program that includes traditional lion dancing, firecracker display, games, rides, martial arts, live band, dancing and a wide range of delicious Asian cuisines.

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When: Sunday 7 Feb 10am–10pm Where: Buckingham Ave, Springvale Transport and parking: Patrons are encouraged to utilise the public transport system on the day. Both trains and buses are easily accessible and close to the event venue. Please visit the PTV website (Journey Planner) to plan your trip. Please note that spaces are limited and subject to availability on the day. Other parking areas are also available around the vicinity.

For more information: Please contact springvalelnyf@outlook.com or 9898 3918.

Free parking is also available at the Number 8 Car Park (on the corner of Balmoral and Buckingham avenues).

community NEWS

KIDS TEACHING KIDS S

tudents take on a leadership role and bring environmental issues into the classroom under the Kids Teaching Kids program.

The program was developed by environmentalists and educators Arron Wood and Richard Wood, and gives students access to tools and resources through the Kids Teaching Kids website.

The idea is that the program starts in the classroom and extends into the community where students become leaders focused on finding solutions to local environmental issues.

Silverton Primary School students recently took part in the Kids Teaching Kids Conference. Visit www. kidsteachingkids.com.au to find out more about the program.

CARERS OF

AFRICA C

arers of Africa is a local not-forprofit organisation working to help refugees and asylum seekers suffering from mental illnesses to achieve safer, healthier and happier lives for themselves and their families.

Being part of Kids Teaching Kids was great because it’s important to learn about the environment because then you will be more aware of the issues happening in Australia and around the world.

It also teaches us about life skills like developing your vocabulary, improving your ability to speak in front of a crowd and learning how to teach others.

Before you can teach others you need to learn about the issue yourself so you can then teach your peers. It’s also good to be able to teach your peers because we know how kids like to learn.

When we delivered the workshop it made us feel special, confident, inspired and amazing.

Kids Teaching Kids gives us an opportunity to convince other kids not to be shy and to show them that you can achieve things that you didn’t think you could do.

By Cassie, Fayben, Lachlan, Danni, Alicia, T.J, Josh and Angelique.

In a community where many African refugees and asylum seekers have arrived after suffering conflict, violence and displacement in their homelands, the support services Carers of Africa offer are invaluable.

Whether clients are seeking advice or support on settling into their new community, or access to health and rehabilitation programs, Carers of Africa provide care, compassion and guidance to address their suffering and distress.

Clients are encouraged to get involved in their community and to participate in social and sporting pursuits, for example, or to access study, volunteering or employment pursuits that will help them achieve their goals.

Carers of Africa also provide specific physical, mental and drug health support for those who need it.

To get in touch, find Carers of Africa at 4/106 Foster Street, Dandenong.

Phone: 9706 9887

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

Family

SUSTAINABILITY

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Learn more, do more, save more

SUNDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2016 • 10AM-3PM

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Lonsdale St

FOR MORE INFORMATION: PHONE 8571 1000 WWW.GREATERDANDENONG.COM

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KICK START YOUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY...

King St

Stuar t St

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Children’s activities • Roving entertainment • Cooking demonstrations • Pedal-powered smoothies • Native animals up close • Spot prizes, sustainability awards and more

FREE ENTRY

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FREE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY...

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