The City - July 2016 by City of Greater Dandenong

July 2016 2016-17 Budget page 3

NAIDOC Week page 7

Cultural Threads page 8

Snow Fest page 13

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale St Dandenong

Hello and welcome to the July edition of The City. This month is important for our Indigenous residents who will celebrate NAIDOC Week (3-9 July). Greater Dandenong has a strong link to its heritage, in fact the name Dandenong itself is derived from an Aboriginal word for meeting place. Read more about Council’s celebrations on page 7.

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

If you love being creative, then the return of our popular Cultural Threads program should make you excited. Read more about the public art installations and workshops planned for the program on page 8. The City of Greater Dandenong planted more than 24,000 indigenous seedlings last year and more than 2500 street trees. We take our role as an environmental leader seriously and this month we celebrate National Tree Planting Day with a series of tree planting sessions in local parklands. Speaking of parklands, Dandenong Park’s garden beds have been used to grow fresh produce for several years. The latest haul featured about 60kg of sweet potato, yams and taro. Turn to page 12 read more about our tropical garden.

Phone: 8571 1000

Our most popular family festival Snow Fest is also on this month. Turn to the back page of this magazine for more details.

Fax: 8571 5196

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

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 Coffee is a staple for many residents and visitors on the wintery streets of Greater Dandenong. Sandra picked up a warm brew in Springvale just outside the train station. Front Cover: Sky Thomas and her grandmother Lucille Boothy, Gunnai women from the clans of South Victoria, stand together to celebrate NAIDOC week in Greater Dandenong. Picture: Kylie Grinham.

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.

2016-17 BUDGET

he City of Greater Dandenong has just adopted its 2016-17 Budget, giving ratepayers a clear picture of how their rates will be spent this financial year. A number of external factors have placed considerable pressure on Council’s 2016-17 Budget. The most notable of which is the new State Government legislation which will see the rate rise capped at 2.5 per cent, resulting in an average increase of $34.09 for each property – or 66 cents per week. Greater Dandenong Mayor Heang Tak said while rates had been capped at 2.5 per cent not every ratepayer in Greater Dandenong would see this figure reflected in their rates notice. He said due to this year being a property revaluation year the rate rise could increase or decrease depending on the property’s new value. “While we strive to make our rates system fair and equitable, the truth is some properties will be hit by increases above 2.5 per cent,” Mayor Tak said. “This comes down to how much your property is worth. The bottom line is you will pay higher rates if your property value has increased by more than the average of 24 per cent. On the other hand if your property has increased

by less than the average you will see a drop in your rates bill.” “Strong growth in residential property values over the past two years in Greater Dandenong should be seen as a positive by residents”, Mayor Tak said. Another significant factor affecting rates are the two levies Council collects on behalf of the State Government. Despite appearing on the rates notice, both the Fire Services Levy and Landfill Levy are passed directly to the State Government. Mayor Tak said Council’s challenge for 2016-17 was to meet these funding pressures while still being able to deliver key future infrastructure projects and services. Greater Dandenong’s Chief Executive Officer John Bennie said he felt this year’s Budget continued to provide funding for both new and improved infrastructure whilst maintaining Council’s existing assets. Mr Bennie said Council’s main priority was always to ensure its ratepayers had access to the best possible services and facilities. The 2016-17 Budget provides for a total capital works program of $47.47 million.

DIGITISATION PROJECT UPDATE

ouncil has trained a team of volunteers from the Dandenong and District Historical Society and the Springvale and District Historical Society to help build our Digital Heritage Collection. A small team of volunteers has already scanned more than 500 items from Council’s own Civic Collection, with plans for the new volunteers to help digitise historical collections for the eHive database. To explore our online collections visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ arts and follow the links to the History and Heritage tabs.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

he City of Greater Dandenong and Kingston City Council have joined forces to run a series of business workshops and seminars for small business owners. This month there are two workshops presented by Small Business Victoria. Each costs $20 to attend. An Understanding Marketing workshop will be held Kingston City Council offices in Cheltenham, on Tuesday 19 July, 6pm-8pm. A Pricing for Maximum profits workshop will be held at Dandenong Civic Centre, on Wednesday 27 July, 6pm-8pm.

Key features of the Budget

• $1.44 million for stormwater projects

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ businessevents for more information.

• $8.65 million Springvale Community Precinct Project including the Springvale Town Hall Refurbishment

• $1.16 million for library resources including new books

RUN FOR COUNCIL

• $5.95 million for road rehabilitation and resurfacing

• $865,000 for projects at the Dandenong Market including stage two of roof renewal project, improved back of house cool room facilities and further design of the al-fresco dining area

• $1.7 million for footpath and kerb and channel renewal works

• $750,000 for Dandenong Park Masterplan implementation

• $1.57 million for Robert Booth Reserve Pavilion, car park and access upgrade (including a $100,000 grant from the State Government)

• $672,380 Yarraman Kindergarten renovation and refurbishment (part funded by State Government funding of $350,000)

• $6.56 million Tatterson Park Pavilion Stage 1 construction (part funded by Commonwealth and State Government Funding of $3.26 million)

• $1.44 million for Alex Nelson Reserve Pavilion redevelopment (including a $100,000 grant from the State Government)

• $510,000 Playground renewal and upgrade program as part of the playground strategy.

he Municipal Association of Victoria will hold a Candidate Information Session for people considering running for Council at the October elections. The session will cover eligibility requirements, how to nominate, what’s involved in running a campaign and voting. The session will be held at the Dandenong Civic Centre on Thursday 14 July, from 7pm9pm. Email lisa.roberts@cgd. vic.gov.au to RSVP, or visit greaterdandenong.com/elections 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

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

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 July meetings will be held: • Monday 11 July • Monday 25 July Did you know you can watch Council meetings live online via our webcast 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

RECENT DECISIONS Councillors voted to support a range of new initiatives to help stamp out illegal hard rubbish dumping across the city. The initiatives include: • Advocacy for a State-wide advertising campaign • Advocacy for establishment of a local waste transfer station • Advocacy for firmer fine penalties when litterers are prosecuted • Proactive dumped Rubbish Hot Spot Collection Program – 12 month trial • Drive Thru Recycling Days • Expansion of the rural roadside surveillance camera program.

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

Daniel Cheng, Khon Chan Ma, Stan Chang, Cr Roz Blades, Sam Lam and Mayor Heang Tak with a cheque that was presented to the Asylum Seeker’s Resource Centre’s Food Justice Truck, which sells fresh produce to asylum seekers and refugees at reduced prices.

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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Topsy Petchy, Mornington Peninsula Shire Councillor Antonella Celi, Frankston City Councillor Sandra Mayer, City of Greater Dandenong Councillor Roz Blades and Casey City Councillor Amanda Stapledon were the panel for GOWomenLG 2016, an information session held at the Dandenong Civic Centre for women interested in standing for local government.

Lightwood Ward

Cr Sean O’Reilly S

pringvale has long been regarded as one of the most celebrated South-East Asian precincts in Melbourne due to its diverse food and retail offer. Approximately 1.7 million people walk through Multicultural Place in Buckingham Avenue each year. With this increase in visitors, and Council-supported events such as Lunar New Year and Springvale Snow Fest, we want to create better pedestrian and cycling access between all parts of the Springvale activity centre. Council will improve pedestrian and cycling pathways in and around Springvale Road through its Laneway Revitalisation Project. This $100,000 investment will make walking around central Springvale more enjoyable, and will focus specifically on Post Office Lane and a laneway at 248a Springvale Road. A streetscape upgrade encompassing Springvale Road between Virginia Street and St James Avenue is being planned. The Springvale Road Boulevard Project over the next few years will transform Springvale Road and reinforce the precinct as one of Australia’s premier cultural destinations. Council is seeking community input throughout the process.

It has been a busy and rewarding time for me, and I love serving as your local councillor. I always welcome your ideas and feedback, and you can contact me on 0422 523 258, facebook.com/councillorseanoreilly or at seanoreilly.com.au

Red Gum Ward

Cr Jim Memeti R

ecent State Budget funding announcements for services and infrastructure in Keysborough South are rewarding for myself and other members of Council who have been lobbying for the suburb. Planning for a community hub in the area has been underway for some years, but recent pressure from Council and a large section of the community has paid off with the State Government announcing funds that will be used to purchase a school site. Population statistics show that more than 2000 school aged children currently live in Keysborough South, with that figure expected to grow to 2500 by 2018. This is a constantly growing population and the education needs of these children and future residents need to be met. Better public transport is another issue I have been advocating for, and I was pleased to see funding for more bus routes was also announced in the Budget. Another project I am proud to say I have advocated for, is the Tatterson Park Pavilion and sports pitch. In March Keysborough State MP Martin Pakula announced a $650,000 Community Sports Infrastructure Fund grant, the final funding contribution for the $11.6 million project. The Federal Government and Council have invested the remainder of the money (over several years) that will help turn this park into Greater Dandenong’s premier sporting and community hub. Council has invested $6.2 million, while the Federal Government has committed $4.8 million to the project.

A synthetic playing field and flood lights that meet FIFA guidelines will also be included in the project. The multipurpose community pavilion will be state of the art, and will appeal to local sporting groups and community groups. The project will make best use of the 52 hectare site and will complement the existing facilities, including Springers Leisure Centre, wetlands and playgrounds. As a Red Gum Ward Councillor I am always looking for ways to advocate for better services for my residents. If you want to discuss a local issue please contact me on 0434 560 239. the CITY 5

working FOR YOU “Being a part of this forum made me feel great because I felt like I had a say...really good to know that they want to hear our ideas too!”

CHILDREN’S FORUM

ore than 80 primary school students took part in the first ever City of Greater Dandenong Children’s Forum. The children, representing more than 20 primary schools, took part in several workshops and fun activities to help gather ideas and opinions on things such as public space, playgrounds and what makes Greater Dandenong a great place to live. Mayor Heang Tak said Council recognised the value of involving children in decision making. “We are a Child Friendly City, which means children are valued, respected and celebrated here in Greater Dandenong,” Mayor Tak said.

“Being a part of this forum today made me feel special and felt like I was heard.”

“The forum gave students an opportunity to meet other student leaders, and discuss and celebrate what growing up in Greater Dandenong means to them.” Students took part in discussions about playground design, public space in the city and what they would like to see at family festivals in the future. The children also tackled some of the big issues, including making our community more sustainable and global warming. While the activities were fun, they had a serious side, with results of the discussions being used to help inform future plans and decisions made by departments across Council.

“This forum made me feel more included in our community.”

YOUTH SUMMIT – UNITED IN DIVERSITY M

ore than 200 Year 10 students from across Greater Dandenong converged to talk about the big issues. The students, from 10 local secondary schools and alternative education settings, attended the Youth Summit 2016: United in Diversity at Springvale Town Hall. Round table discussions, activities and workshops saw the group discuss a range of issues affecting young people today, including: • racism and discrimination • identity

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• cultural similarities and differences • building harmonious communities. The students also took part in a series of personal development workshops, including indigenous topics, self care and mental health awareness, drumming and arts. The art developed on the day also featured in a public display at Dandenong Library during Refugee Week last month. Council’s Youth and Family Services staff facilitated the day, with organisers and participant describing the event as a huge success.

News

NAIDOC Week

he City of Greater Dandenong has an Indigenous history that stretches back before white settlement to the dreaming.

Council will hold a fun-filled community celebration in the heart of Dandenong, in Harmony Square on Monday 4 July, from 1.30pm-3.30pm.

Greater Dandenong is the territory of the Wurunjeri and Bunorong tribes of the Kulin Nation, and interestingly the name Dandenong comes from the Aboriginal word ‘tanjelong’ which means meeting place.

The event will be held during the school holidays which will encourage young people and their families to celebrate the rich Indigenous culture and community spirit of the First People of our nation.

To this day Greater Dandenong remains a meeting place, between our ancient culture and the many new cultures that call our community home.

Mayor Heang Tak will open festivities alongside a local community Elder, and the crowd will be encouraged to get interactive with performances by the Indigenous Hip Hop Projects group and the Jindi Worabak Dancers which will be broadcast on the big screen.

NAIDOC Week is 3-9 July, and is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements. It provides us with an opportunity to recognise the contributions that Indigenous Australians make to our country and our society.

Other workshops, activities and displays in Harmony Square include basket weaving, a football workshop with Dandenong Stingrays players, art activities and Indigenous games.

The theme of NAIDOC Week this year is Songlines: The living narrative of our nation. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the Dreamtime describes a time when the earth, people and animals were created by ancestral spiritual beings. Dreaming tracks crisscross Australia and trace the journeys of ancestral spirits as they created the land, animals and lores. These dreaming tracks are sometimes called Songlines as they record the travels of these ancestral spirits who ‘sung’ the land into life. Aboriginal language groups are connected through the sharing of Songlines with each language group responsible for parts of a Songline. Through songs, art, dance and ceremony, Torres Strait Islanders also maintain creation stories which celebrate their connection to land and sea.

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Council is calling on creative residents to help us celebrate the return of the Cultural Threads program in 2016. Through the medium of textiles, Cultural Threads will encourage people to connect, trade skills, share stories and interweave their cultures. A series of public activities, workshops and events will help create some beautiful artwork and celebrate cultural diversity. Four school holiday workshops will encourage young artists to get involved. • Create a hat fit to wear to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. On Friday 1 July, 11am-2.30pm, at Heritage Hill. • Create your own material cactus plant pot. On Tuesday 5 July, 11am12.30pm, at Heritage Hill. • Make your own dyed paper leaves, butterflies, flowers, creatures and more. On Thursday 7 July, 11am12.30pm, at Walker Street Gallery. • Design and create your own stamp to personalise your very own library bag. On Friday 8 July, 11am-12.30pm. Workshops will continue throughout August and include: • Book repurposing • Introduction to sewing • Weaving • Crochet • Embroidery • Macramé. Visit greaterdandenong.com/ culturalthreads for full details of workshops and activities. 8 the CITY

Public Art Installations

Cultural Threads Launch

Greater Dandenong Community Peace Quilt

Thursday 28 July 6.30pm - 8:30pm Heritage Hill 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong RSVP arts@cgd.vic.gov.au

An evolving, large scale textile work constructed from recycled fabric. Drop in sessions at Dandenong Library will be held each Tuesday in July. Come and create your piece to form part of the quilt, no experience required.

Greater Dandenong Patterns Through the craft of embroidery, Dandenong Patterns will highlight various historical details found around the Greater Dandenong landscape. Submit your ideas regarding architecture of significance in and around Greater Dandenong by email to arts@cgd.vic.gov.au

Here and Now Exploring the fabrics of the Greater Dandenong community, and the stories they represent, through etching on glass panels. If you have a fabric of significance you would like to replicate on glass then come along to our public workshop on Friday 8 July, from 10am12pm at the Drum Theatre.

All her thoughts are so tactile A large scale embroidery engaging with the history of Laurel Lodge, speaking directly to ideas of ‘women’s work’ and traditional girls education. Visit artist Thea Jones in her studio to see this large scale work come to life, or take part in botanical dying workshops from plants found in the gardens at Heritage Hill, on Tuesday 5 and Thursday 7 July, from 10.30am-12.30pm.

Celebrate the start of Cultural Threads at the official opening night:

Voting in Council elections E lections for the Greater Dandenong City Council will be by attendance voting on Saturday 22 October 2016.

The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) conducts the elections on behalf of Council. You can phone them on 131 832. If you are enrolled to vote for the State elections and are a resident of the City of Greater Dandenong, then you are automatically enrolled to vote at the Council elections and it is compulsory for you to vote. If you are not automatically enrolled, you can apply to be included on the CEO’s List for special category voters if you: • are a non-Australian citizen who lives and pays rates in the municipality • pay rates on a property that you occupy and have no other voting entitlement in the municipality, e.g. you are a shop tenant, and are either named on Council’s rates records to receive the rates notice or have the written consent of the owner to vote in their place • are a director or company secretary of a corporation that pays rates in the municipality and have no other voting entitlement within the municipality • are a business occupier of a property that pays rates as a condition of the lease and have the prior agreement of the owners to apply to vote at this election. To apply email lisa.roberts@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 8571 5216. Applicants will be sent a statutory form which must be completed and received by Council by 4pm on Friday 26 August. Those on the CEO’s List who own more than one property within Greater Dandenong but do not reside here will be included on the Voters’ Roll (under the CEO’s List) against the property with the highest capital improved value. If you want to be listed against a different property then a statutory form must be completed. Those properties on the CEO’s List who have multiple owners who do not reside within Greater Dandenong will automatically list the first two owners in Council’s database. If the owners of the property wish to change this, then a statutory form must be completed. It is not compulsory for anyone on the CEO’s List to vote.

FOLLOW YOUR WASTE RECYCLING AND WASTE TOUR

ave you ever wondered what happens to your recycled waste, household rubbish and garden waste once it gets emptied by the trucks? Would you like to learn more about reducing your waste going to landfill & how to become a better recycler? The City of Greater Dandenong is giving you the chance to find out when it hosts a Follow your Waste tour. The free tour will be held on Wednesday 27 July. The tour will leave from the Springvale Town Hall at 9.30am sharp and will finish at 3pm. The first stop of the tour will be the Polytrade Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Dandenong South. It is a great chance to learn how recyclable material gets sorted, packed and processed into new products. The next stop will be at a landfill facility in Hallam. Participants will learn about landfill processes, how a landfill is constructed, what happens to garbage once it reaches landfill, followed by a tour of NRS in Dandenong, where people will have the opportunity to see firsthand how green waste is turned into quality compost and mulch. The tour finishes with lunch and tour of Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve. To make a tour booking please contact Council’s Operations Centre on 8571 1702. Places are limited.

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community CALENDAR

JULY MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Submit your community event online at www.greaterdandenong.com

4 Combined Probus Club of Noble Park Club Noble 10am Ph: 9546 2346

5 Get Creative: Cactus Plant Making Heritage Hill 11am-12.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

11 Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm Noble Park Country Women’s Association Craft Day Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 10am Ph: 9547 7261

Toddler Time Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am Simply Fitness Jan Wilson Community Centre 9.30am-10.30am Ph: 9795 9279

25 Council Meeting 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong 7pm Get Creative: Yoga for Seniors Heritage Hills 2pm-3pm (every Monday) Ph: 8571 1666 Get Creative: Art Club for kids Drum Theatre 4.15pm-5.45pm Ph: 8571 1666

Educating Rita Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

12 Learn more about iPads Dandenong Library 9.30am-11.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

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

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

Free For All Tuesday – Sway Jazz Drum Theatre 5.30pm Ph: 8571 1666 Get Creative: Indie Photography Workshop Heritage Hill 7pm-9pm Ph: 8571 1666

Big, Blonde and Beautiful Drum Theatre 10.30am Ph: 8571 1666

Conversation Circle Dandenong Library 6pm (every Thursday) Ph: 1300 630 920

Learn more about iPads Springvale Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920 Social Knitwork Dandenong Library 10am (every Wednesday) Follow Your Waste Tour Springvale Town Hall 9.30am Ph: 8571 1702

21 Library Storytime Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am (every Thursday)

Baby Bounce Dandenong Library 10.30am (every Wednesday)

Get Creative: Paper Dying Walker Street Gallery 11am-2.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

Council Candidate Information Session Dandenong Civic Centre 7pm-9pm Ph: 8571 1000

Get started with iPads Springvale Library 6.30pm-8.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

Top Cat Dancers Rock & Roll Edinburgh Hall 7.30pm Ph: 0413 393 345

Art Series Dandenong Library 6.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

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Witches, Giants, Peaches and Twists! Roald Dahl Dandenong Library 2.30pm-3.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

Marvels of Magic Drum Theatre 10.30am and 1.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

NAIDOC Week celebrations Harmony Square 1.30pm-3.30pm

Get Started with iPads Dandenong Library 9.30am-11.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

28 Adult exercise class Jan Wilson Community Centre 9.30am-10.30am Ph: 9795 9279

www.greaterdandenong.com/Calendar

2016 FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party workshop Heritage Hill 11am-12.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

SUNDAY

2 The Wiggles: Wiggle Town Tour Drum Theatre Ph: 8571 1666

Kids Craft Workshop Dandenong Market 11am-3pm

Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch Fundraising Dance Noble Park Scout Hall, Mons Parade, Noble Park 8pm Ph: 0407 325 030

8 Get Creative: Library Bag Making Dandenong Library 11am-12.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920 Playgroup Jan Wilson Community Centre 10.30am-12pm Ph: 9795 9279

Drum Theatre 8571 1666 Dandenong Library 1300 630 920 Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511

16 Me and My Dad: Prime SCI! Magnets Dandenong Library Ph: 1300 630 920 Opera Australia’s The Marriage of Figaro Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

23 Victorian State Ballet presents Cinderella Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

Victorian State Ballet presents Cinderella Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

✆ City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000

Walker Street Gallery Music Series: Taqi Khan 2.30pm Ph: 9706 8441

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

15 Opera Australia’s The Marriage of Figaro Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

Dandenong Alevi Cultural Centre Jan Wilson Community Centre 3pm-6pm

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

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

29 Supergirly: Return of the Pop Princess Drum Theatre 7.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

30 Sewing for Beginners with TWICH Walker Street Gallery, Dandenong 1-3pm Ph: 8571 1666 Tree Planting Tatterson Reserve, Cheltenham Road, Keysborough 10am-1pm Ph: 8571 1702

31 National Tree Day planting Falkiner Reserve, Heatherton Rd, Dandenong North 10am-1pm Ph: 8571 1702

Dandenong Market 9701 3850 Cultural Tours 8571 1666 Send your event listings to news@cgd.vic.gov.au the CITY 11

WARM UP WITH DANDENONG PARK’S TROPICAL GARDEN

t might be Melbourne and we might be in the depths of winter but Dandenong Park went troppo when Council harvested its latest crop of vegetables from its tropical garden. The plants used in the garden were donated by the University of Melbourne’s Horticulture Department. Council’s Bushland and Garden Services Team Leader Maree Keenan said the garden was now in its second year and had been attracting quite a bit of attention from community members. “The garden has successfully interested and engaged residents and helped raise awareness about how tropical edible plants can be grown in cooler climates,” she said. “For many in our community, the garden and its produce has been a lovely reminder of home.” The latest crop – planted in December – includes sweet potato, taro, yams, edible hibiscus and cassava. Council harvested more than 60kg of sweet potato, yams and taro this year, all of which have been donated to local food distribution charity Avocare.

NATIONAL TREE DAY T

he City of Greater Dandenong would like to invite residents to help make our community green through a series of planting days. The days are planned around National Tree Day (July 31), a Planet Ark initiative to help communities across Australia do something positive for the environment.

In addition to National Tree Day, Council will run tree planting days at the following locations: Coomoora Woodland Flora and Fauna Reserve, Serpentine Road, Keysborough On Saturday 9 July, 10am-1pm

This year Planet Ark is celebrating 21 years of National Tree Day and Schools Tree Day - Australia’s largest community tree-planting and nature care events.

Fotheringham Reserve, Pyke Street, Dandenong Sunday 24 July, 10am-1pm

Join us at Tatterson Reserve, behind Springers Leisure Centre on Saturday 30 July and Falkiner Reserve, Heatherton Road, Dandenong North on Sunday 31 July. Both sessions run from 10am-1pm and include a free barbecue.

Tirhatuan Park, Kriegel Way, Dandenong North Sunday 14 August, 10am-1pm

“Community planting days are a way the community can give back to our planet.” Mayor Heang Tak said. “There are so many benefits from participating at one of these events – it is good for your health, great family time and you are helping to plant habitat for all the wonderful fauna of Greater Dandenong. Last year the community managed to plant more than 25,000 indigenous seedlings in our reserves and parks.”

All planting events start at 10am and are followed by a free barbecue lunch, so join us and meet your neighbours in the beautiful setting of our reserves. They are a chance to improve biodiversity by planting native trees, shrubs and grasses to increase much needed habitat for local wildlife. All residents are encouraged to wear suitable outdoor clothing and shoes and to bring your own gloves. Bookings are essential for catering purposes. For enquiries or bookings phone 8571 1702.

Healthy waterways T he City of Greater Dandenong takes our role as an environmental leader seriously, and one way to keep track of our green credentials is the health of our local waterways.

Clean waterways are one clear way to show a healthy environment, and one way to judge a clean waterway is the wildlife that calls it home. This tadpole was found in the Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve. Council encourages residents to get involved in environmental programs to help improve the health of our waterways. Visit greaterdandenong.com/ sustainability to find programs and events across the city. 12 the CITY

Cr Peter Brown, Mayor Heang Tak and Cr Roz Blades with trees ready for planting.

SPRINGVALE SNOW FEST W

inter in Greater Dandenong can be a chilly affair, but snow is unusual, unless you visit Springvale in July.

Entry to the snow play area is $4, rides start at $2 and there will be plenty of free family fun for all to enjoy.

Springvale Snow Fest is the City of Greater Dandenong’s most popular community festival, and on Sunday 24 July real snow will decorate the streets of Springvale.

Live acts will perform across two stages, ice sculptors will carve great artworks, roving performers will keep the party moving, and food, market and community stalls will have plenty to offer visitors. The night will end with a spectacular fireworks display at 6.50pm.

Up to 40,000 people are expected to attend the event, which will feature two snow play areas with snow delivered straight from the mountain at Mt Buller.

With so many visitors expected you are encouraged to plan your trip via

public transport, but drivers can park at the number 8 multi-deck car park (off Balmoral Avenue) for free, or in the car park outside the Springvale Town Hall, which is a short walk away. Rug up and celebrate winter at Springvale Snow Fest, corner Buckingham and Balmoral avenues, Springvale, on Sunday 24 July, from 12pm-7pm. Visit www.greaterdandenong.com/ snowfest for more information.

World First for Drum Theatre D

andenong’s own Drum Theatre will hold a world premiere of Opera Australia’s newest touring production The Marriage of Figaro.

The Mozart opera is a comic masterpiece which follows the adventures of a household over one crazy day. Masters are lusting over their servants, servants are outwitting their masters – Figaro is the Downton Abbey of opera, but a whole lot more fun.

Award-winning creative duo Michael Gow and Robert Kemp have created a brand new production, featuring stunning period costumes and a clever set. A talented chamber orchestra and chorus of children from Wooranna Park Primary School will accompany some of Opera Australia’s finest singers performing Mozart’s beautiful music. Wooranna Park Primary School students are taking part in Opera

Australia’s Regional Children’s Chorus Program, which teaches children songs from the opera and gives them a chance to perform on stage alongside the professionals. The shows promise to be a delightful night out and suitable for the whole family. They will be performed on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 July, at 7.30pm. For bookings visit drumtheatre.com or phone 8571 1666.

IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – July 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 July

5pm-6.30pm

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

6 July 12 July 14 July 19 July 20 July 23 July 27 July

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 the CITY 13

business NEWS

Mayor Heang Tak, MP for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan, Jill Walsh from Actco-Pickering and Committee for Dandenong’s Gary Castricum.

SMART MANUFACTURING 16 T

he streets of Dandenong became a showcase with 50 local companies displaying their manufacturing innovation to the Victorian business community. The Smart Manufacturing 16 event built on last year’s successful Dandenong on Wheels showcase, and paired with a Manufacturing Symposia to inspire those already in the industry and those considering a career in manufacturing. The symposia featured a series of dynamic presentations, workshops and

panel discussions hosted by industry leaders and commentators at the forefront of innovation.

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 in one location. “It was the goal of all stakeholders to position 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 successful event saw trucks, trams and busses among some of the more imposing displays in and around Harmony Square. Businesses displayed their wares along Lonsdale, Walker and Thomas streets, and the general public was invited to explore the breadth of manufacturing businesses thriving in Greater Dandenong and the south east.

SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS L

ocal businesses and developers were recognised for their efforts to be green through the City of Greater Dandenong Sustainability Awards. The hotly contested Business and Sustainable Development category award winners were announced at the South East Business Network (SEBN) Industry Breakfast in May. Hilton Manufacturing won the Sustainable Business category, after implementing a range of initiatives to improve the sustainability of their organisation, and reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. The initiatives included 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 14 the CITY

Tracey Galilaos, Jacques Esper, Terry King, Tony Purdy and Kara Dunn accept Sustainability Awards.

cost reduction of approximately $90,000 per annum. Other finalists in this category included Wallara Australia, International Chemicals Engineering and Lexington Retirement Village. The winner of the Sustainable Development Award was the Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust for their flagship public and administrative building, the Clarence Reardon Centre

at the Springvale Botanical Cemetery. Design excellence and sustainability were key drivers for this carbon neutral building, which incorporates 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.

community NEWS

Perfect mix of music and sport

he City of Greater Dandenong Band invites you to their upcoming Cabaret Wide World of Brass, an entertaining evening of music from the wide world of sport.

Be Ha, MP Clare O’Neil, Mayor Heang Tak and Cr Youhorn Chea at the launch of a marker noting the importance of the Springvale Neighbourhood House.

Neighbourhood houses deliver

reater Dandenong’s neighbourhood houses continue to deliver quality services and programs to the community. All seven local houses took part in a State Government survey, revealing that in 2015 the number of volunteer hours put into running these services have almost doubled since 2014 (from 887 to 1536). The hours of activity delivered per week have also increased from 6055 in 2014 to 7464 last year, while the community events hosted at the seven houses have jumped from 43 in 2014 to 164 in 2015.

language, take up belly dancing or yoga and much more. You can also go there to receive information on a range of other local services in your area. No matter what level of education or training you have had in the past, Learn Local programs at neighbourhood houses can help. New skills can be life-changing, offering job choices, further education and the chance to interact with others in your community.

In 2015 more than 4700 English classes were delivered.

Courses range from basic computer skills to Certificates and Diplomas in business or community services. The focus is on individual needs, tailoring programs for both the learner and businesses.

The range of activities and programs offered at neighbourhood houses is only limited by your imagination. You can learn to paint, speak another

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ communityhouses to find out more about your local neighbourhood house.

This unique concert showcasing the Band’s impressive musicianship and versatility will be held on Saturday 9 July at the Springvale Town Hall from 6.30pm. The Cabaret style evening is becoming a much loved annual tradition of the Band and its audience. After previously hosting Gold Class Brass, Around the World in 80 Tunes, The Sound of Musicals, and Saturday Night Brass, the event is getting bigger and more spectacular every year. Wide World of Brass will feature many of the classics including; Chariots of Fire, You’ll Never Walk Alone, Howzat! and of course an AFL Medley - just to name a few. There will be plenty of exciting raffle prizes up for grabs and half time entertainment will include a handball competition plus other fun games. This coupled with live singing and a band whose reputation continues to grow guarantees a great evening of entertainment. For tickets and further information, please contact the Band Secretary on 0423 925 192 or visit the band website at www.dandenongband.org.au Hurry, limited tickets available.

Seeing Eye Dogs at Dandenong Plaza V

ision Australia organised for some special shoppers to visit Dandenong Plaza to mark International Guide Dog Day recently.

“The six-legged partnership that develops between a person and their seeing eye dog provides the person with access to life, for life,” Mr Garwood said.

Council’s Health Department supported the Paws with Purpose campaign launch, to help educate local business owners about the rights of people accompanied by seeing eye dogs.

“Unfortunately, our research shows that one in two handlers feel discriminated against while out with a seeing eye dog and more than half have been refused access to a public space.”

Seeing Eye Dogs Australia General Manager Leigh Garwood said that even though laws protecting the rights of handlers have been in place for more than 50 years, too many handlers still face discrimination.

Council is engaged in an ongoing campaign to promote access for guide dog users to all premises. Mr Garwood said Vision Australia was inundated with stories about taxi drivers refusing service, security guards turning

away visitors and shop or restaurant owners turning away customers. Visit seda.visionaustralia.org for more information.

Seeing Eye Dogs and their handlers visited Dandenong Plaza.

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 24 JULY 2016 12PM-7PM Cnr Buckingham and Balmoral avenues, Springvale greaterdandenong.com/snowfest, 8571 1000

Springvale

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