The City December 2018

THE

CITY

Greater Dandenong’s Monthly Magazine DECEMBER 2018 / JANUARY 2019

Christmas in Greater Dandenong PAGE 6

Meet your new Mayor

Australia Day Festival

Year in Review

►► PAGE 3

►► PAGE 14

►► PAGE 16–17

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THE CITY

Customer Service Centres Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street, 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 Fax: 8571 5196 www.greaterdandenong.com @greaterdandy facebook.com/greaterdandenong cityofgreaterdandenong

Mayor ’s message Welcome to the bumper December January edition of The City magazine.

As we farewell 2018 and welcome in 2019, I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow councillors for voting me in as the new Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong.

I look forward to leading the city into 2019, and encourage you to find out more about me and what I want to achieve for our city on page 3.

This time of year really illustrates why Greater Dandenong is the City of Celebrations.

Mayor Cr Roz Blades

You can read about our Christmas celebrations, including Carols in the Square on page 6, and see what we have in store for New Year’s Eve on page 7.

Turn to pages 8 and 9 to see what is happening at Dandenong’s iconic Drum Theatre.

As the most culturally diverse community in Australia, our Australia Day Festival means so much to our community. Find out more about this popular annual event on page 14.

Summer is a great time of year to be out and about, but I would like to remind all of our residents to stay safe. Turn to pages 20 and 21 to see some helpful safety tips around water, fires and extreme heat.

Finally I would like to wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TTY: 133 677 Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 relayservice.gov.au TIS: 131 450 council@cgd.vic.gov.au

Important Numbers Emergency calls Police / Fire / Ambulance................................... 000

My City The open space under the new raised rail lines in Noble Park is starting to take shape. Colourful play equipment, seating and landscaping is creating an attractive place for the community to come together. In further developments at Ross Reserve, the State Government recently announced $3.05 million to upgrade sporting facilities and car parking, and build an all abilities playground within the reserve.

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 Australian Animal Protection Society.............................. 9798 8415 RSPCA....................................................... 9224 2222 Nurse on Call................................ 1300 606 024

www.greaterdandenong.com

Front Cover: Students from Dandenong Primary School’s Choir look forward to performing in Harmony Square for the Carols in the Square event.

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

News

THE CITY

Introducing your new Mayor Paperbark Ward Councillor Roz Blades AM has been elected Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong for the fourth time.

Cr Blades brings with her a wealth of experience, having served the Greater Dandenong community as a Councillor for more than 25 years, having been Mayor in 1998 and 2011, as well as serving one term as the Mayor of the City of Springvale.

Cr Blades and her husband Terry first settled in Noble Park in 1971, and her three children were raised and educated locally. She has been heavily involved in the local community over the years, always wanting to give something back to the community that has given her so much.

As Mayor, Cr Blades has themed the Mayoral year ‘working together’, and is committed to working with her fellow Councillors, Council staff and the community to ensure the City of Greater Dandenong continues to be a vibrant, welcoming and connected community.

“It goes without saying that I am passionate about our vibrant and diverse community and in my role as Mayor I am looking forward to working hard to achieve positive outcomes for all,” Cr Blades said.

“There are many exciting things happening in our city, but over the next 12 months I look forward to focussing on grass roots issues that affect the everyday lives of our residents.

“One of my priorities will be to continue to advocate for improved public transport, which will in turn improve local job opportunities. I am proud to be Council’s representative at the Eastern Transport Coalition, where we represent over a million residents in the south east.

“I am also particularly interested in the health and welfare of our residents and am keen to see more affordable housing within the city, as well as creating further opportunities for our younger residents through education and health.”

Cr Blades said that planning for the future needs of the community through current master plan activities was another priority, along with continuing to advocate for, and supporting, refugees and those seeking asylum.

Cr Blades has been campaigning for the Federal Government to reverse its decision on planned cuts to financial support services.

“The City of Greater Dandenong currently has almost 2000 people seeking asylum in the local community and Federal Government cuts to financial support will affect the vast majority of them.

“These changes will put increasing pressure on charities who are already struggling to keep up with demand, not to mention the negative mental health and wellbeing impacts these cuts will have on asylum seekers living in our community.”

Cr Blades said she would like to acknowledge outgoing Mayor Cr Youhorn Chea and thank him for his passion and commitment to the city over the past year.

“I look forward to working closely with my fellow councillors in the year ahead and ensuring the City of Greater Dandenong continues to be a place where people want to live, work and play.”

www.greaterdandenong.com

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Councillor Contacts Lightwood Ward Cr Youhorn Chea Ph/Fax: 9584 5149 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 0466 004 618 loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au

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

2019 Community Calendar Enjoy the sights of Greater Dandenong while keeping on top of your kerbside waste collection dates with your free 2019 Community Calendar.

The calendar, which came with this magazine, features a waste collection calendar, handy waste and recycling

tips, and some beautiful images of the Greater Dandenong community.

If you did not receive a copy of the calendar or if you would like extra copies you can pick one up from Council’s customer service centres or phone 8571 1000.

Customer Service Christmas hours

Paperbark Ward Cr Heang Tak Ph: 9548 2340 0403 072 291 heang.tak@cgd.vic.gov.au

Friday 21 December: All centres close at 12pm, call centre closes at 5pm Saturday 22 December: Parkmore open 9am–1pm, all other centres and call centre closed Monday 24 December: Paddy O’Donoghue Centre is closed, all other centres and call centre open 8.30am–5pm Tuesday 25 December: Christmas Day CLOSED icorn Wednesday 26 December: Boxing Day CLOSED ide a un ike r Thursday 27 December: Normal hours resume ss up l dre Monday 31 December: Paddy O’DonoghueorCentre is closed, n all other centres a unicor and call centre open 8.30am–5pm Tuesday 1 January: New Year’s Day CLOSED Wednesday 2 January: Normal hours resume (except for the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre which will reopen Monday 7 January)

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

Council Meetings

Paperbark Ward Cr Tim Dark 0466 403 914 tim.dark@cgd.vic.gov.au

THU RSDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

TH URSDAY

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Red Gum Ward Cr Angela Long Ph/Fax: 9795 6574 DE CE MB ER 0466 004 616 angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au

NOVEMBER

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

Silverleaf Ward Cr Zaynoun Melhem 0466 518 082 zaynoun.melhem@cgd.vic.gov.au

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

www.greaterdandenong.com

DECEMBER

JANUARY

Just one Council meeting will be held in each month for December and January.

All Council meetings are held at the city chambers at the Dandenong Civic Centre at 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong, at 7pm.

The last meeting of 2018 will be held: Monday 10 December The first meeting of 2019 will be held: Tuesday 29 January (due to public holiday)

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The general public is always welcome to attend meetings, but 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 greaterdandenong.com/ councilmeetings

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THE CITY

Saving water over summer Long range weather forecasts show that this summer will be hotter and drier than usual, so saving water around the home and garden will help maintain this precious resource both now and in the future.

Many areas of Australia are currently experiencing drought but it is up to all of us to use water wisely. Rethinking how we use water now can help reduce the burden on our water stores in years to come and can help protect the environment.

You could think about installing a rainwater tank, or purchasing more water efficient appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers.

You could replace your shower heads, install timers or install a grey water system to recycle water through your toilet and laundry.

While these changes can cost money, there are many simple and free changes you can make today: ► Take

shorter showers off the tap when brushing your teeth ► Use a plug in the sink when preparing vegetables, washing fruit or washing dishes by hand ► When washing your car, do it on the lawn and use a bucket ► Turn

Visit savewater.com.au for more tips on how you can save water.

More street art for Dandenong Indian Precinct

Climate change is impacting on our everyday environment, but simple steps like reducing our water usage can help address the effects.

The City of Greater Dandenong recognises that everyone has a role to play in reducing our impact on the environment and preparing for climate change.

Council will work to develop a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan which will help the City of Greater Dandenong prepare itself for the impacts of climate change, while also empowering the community to do the same.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ climateenergy for more information or to take part in a short survey about water usage and climate change.

New Indian-themed and culturally inspired art has added colour and vibrancy to Foster Street in Dandenong.

Two power poles are the latest canvases for a street art program designed to brighten the Indian Cultural Precinct.

Artist Sohail Yamin’s work Peace and Love, features brightly coloured motifs, symbols and slogans synonymous with truck art, which is very popular in India. The second artist, Yoge Biju painted Thoonu, which translates to Indian Pillar.

The poles sit in the heart of the precinct and are designed to extend the experience of India’s colour onto the street. Other artworks are on major entrances to the precinct.

More than 12,000 first generation Indian residents call the City of Greater Dandenong home, and the Little India Cultural Precinct in Dandenong has grown to include more than 30 authentic Indian businesses since the early 1990s.

When washing your car, do it on the lawn and use a bucket

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ littleindiaculturalprecinct to keep up to date with works happening in the Indian Cultural Precinct.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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Carols in Harmony Square

Christmas in Greater Dandenong Larger than life decorations will adorn Greater Dandenong streets during this year’s festive season.

Council will celebrate Christmas with colourful street decorations, including two 9 metre tall Christmas trees and a giant Santa on top of a Reindeer.

Santa and his reindeer will be in Multicultural Place, Buckingham Avenue, Springvale, while the giant Christmas trees will be placed in Harmony Square, Dandenong and Aubrey Ross Reserve in Douglas Street, Noble Park.

The City of Greater Dandenong is proud to present the 71st annual Greater Dandenong Carols in Harmony Square on Friday 14 December.

Hosted by Denis Walter, join your family and friends for a night of free entertainment and activities.

Say hello to roving performers, soak up the Christmas spirit and sing along with traditional Christmas carols. Santa Claus will also take a break from his own Christmas preparations to visit Harmony Square.

Enjoy delicious food on sale and check out the market village for some last minute gift ideas.

Free parking will be available in the Walker Street and Thomas Street multi-deck car parks from 6pm.

Join the community and celebrate Christmas at the annual Carols in Harmony Square event, on Friday 14 December from 6.30pm–9.30pm.

Visit greaterdandenong. com/carols for more information.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Adding to the cheer will be festive flags, colourful tree guards and light pole decorations across Dandenong, Noble Park and Springvale. Harmony Square will also be decked out with present boxes around the base of the trees, decals on the stairway entrance and a life-sized nativity scene in the library window.

Roving entertainers will engage with shoppers during the busiest retail time of the year. Watch out for them in central areas of Springvale, Noble Park and Dandenong from 18–21 December.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/christmas for more information about festive celebrations in Greater Dandenong.

Council is also encouraging local homes and businesses to get into the Christmas spirit and enter the Best Dressed House and Best Dressed Business competition.

Take a photo of your Christmas display and submit it for your chance to share in $3000 worth of prizes awarded by the Mayor.

Entries are now open. Visit greaterdandenong.com/ christmascomp for more information and to find out how to enter.

Season’s Greetings from your Councillors As the end of another year approaches, now is a wonderful time to reflect on the year that was and look forward to a bright and promising year ahead.

As Councillors of the City of Greater Dandenong, it has been our pleasure to represent and serve you over the past 12 months.

We look forward to continuing to work with you in 2019 to build a vibrant and connected community and to ensure that our city remains such a wonderful place to live, work and play.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a safe, peaceful and joyous festive season and all the very best for the new year.

Community Calendar

New Year’s Eve in the Square

THE CITY

we would love for your family to join us…

New Year’s Eve in Harmony Square has become a celebrated tradition, and we would love for your family to join us this year.

Up to 10,000 people are expected to attend the event, which has expanded this year to include Halpin Way. There will be live entertainment, free activities, children’s rides (costing $2–$6), food and market stalls, not to mention a spectacular fireworks finale at the family-friendly time of 9.25pm.

The event will be held in Harmony Square, Dandenong, on Monday 31 December from 6pm.

Free parking will be available at the Walker Street and Thomas Street multi-deck car parks after 6pm.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ newyearseve for more information.

Sunset Cinema Join us for some Friday night fun in Harmony Square and catch some awesome family movies when Sunset Cinema returns.

Free movie screenings will be held every Friday night from 1 February until 9 March, at 7pm.

Deckchairs, limited seating and rugs will be available for early birds, otherwise bring your own seating, blankets and picnics and enjoy a great night out.

Films will include box office hits and family classics, but the full schedule will be available on Council’s website.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ sunsetcinema or follow Greater Dandenong on Facebook for all the information.

Family movie night Springvale Library will host a family movie night to help locals celebrate Christmas.

Come along and join us for a festive story, popcorn, a screening of the film Santa Claus Brothers on Kanopy and a special appearance from Santa.

Kanopy allows you to stream movies and documentaries and experience the best in independent, classic film, world cinema and children’s programs. Join in the festive fun and find out more about using Kanopy at home, for free with your library membership.

Join us for the Christmas Family Movie Night, at Springvale Library, on Monday 17 December, from 6.30pm.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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Drum Theatre Encore Season One 2019 The Drum’s popular Encore program provides senior audiences with a series of matinee shows with complimentary morning tea and parking vouchers.

There are four great shows coming up as part of Season One 2019:

Feeling’ Good

Practically Perfect Swinging on Broadway Thursday 4 April at 10.30am Celebrate the life and music of the legendary Dame Julie Andrews. Join stars Karla Hillam and Jonathan Guthrie-Jones, for an all singing, all dancing journey from the West End to Broadway and onto Hollywood.

Caruso to Carreras – the Great Tenors

Thursday 21 February at 10.30am

www.greaterdandenong.com

Thursday 27 June at 10.30am The Sound of Music swings at last.

There’s a bossa nova in Brigadoon, a mambo in Mamma Mia and Hello Dolly will definitely be heavy on the hi-hat. Melissa Langton will be swinging down Broadway with a mix of classic show tunes and some playful reinterpretations of more recent Broadway favourites.

Michael Cormick Musical theatre star Michael Cormick will be accompanied by the talented David Cameron on guitar and piano, as he performs songs from some of his favourite shows and shares stories of a great composer and directors he has worked with both here and overseas.

Melissa Langton

Thursday 23 May at 10.30am One of Australia’s finest tenors, Roy Best, performs classics by the likes of Pavarotti, Bocelli, Lanza, Domingo, Caruso and Carreras. Soprano Alison Jones will join Best as his leading lady for some wonderful solos and duets.

Perennial favourite Chris McKenna will compere this fascinating performance.

Visit drumtheatre.com.au or phone 8571 1666 for more information about The Drum’s Encore program.

HOLIDAY OPENING HOURS Monday 24 December 10am–1pm Tuesday 25 December to Sunday 6 January CLOSED Tuesday 7 January 2019 Box Office opens and normal hours resume

Community Calendar

THE CITY

Robot Song Saturday 29 June at 10am and 1pm

Robot Song

Theatre for children Drum Theatre is an ideal venue to introduce our youngest audiences to the magic of theatre.

Many family friendly shows will hit The Drum stage in 2019. Here are some highlights:

Family friendly shows…

The Gruffalo

Tuesday 14 May at 11.30am and 1.30pm Adapted from the Gold Award winning children’s book, The Gruffalo follows mouse into the deep dark wood on the hunt for hazelnuts. This vibrant and bold production was the toast of London’s West End.

The gift of theatre Are you looking for a fun and special Christmas gift this year? Give your loved ones the gift of theatre with a Drum Theatre gift voucher or 2019 membership.

Become a Friend of The Drum Theatre and enjoy discounted tickets, an Encore program presale, special invitations and other offers.

When it comes to friends, Juniper has no idea what all the fuss is about. In fact when classmates tease her for being like a robot she takes it as a compliment. Through the unconventional eyes of a child on the autism spectrum, Robot Song takes the audience on an incredible ride of personal discovery.

This performance embeds cutting edge digital technology within live performance.

Ho Ho Ho! There’s a Hippopotamus on our Roof Eating Christmas Cake Monday 16 September at 6.30pm Do you love Christmas? Our Hippopotamus certainly does.

Adapted from the best-selling picture book series, Hippopotamus is coming to The Drum. Will he eat a cake on our stage? Well, you will have to come and see for yourself.

Drum Theatre gift vouchers are also a great way to share your love of the theatre with family and friends. Treat them to a great day or night out any time of the year.

Visit drumtheatre.com.au or phone the Box Office on 8571 1666 to find out more.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

What’s On December 2018 MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

31 ► New

Year’s Eve in the Square Harmony Square, Dandenong 6pm–9.30pm Ph: 8571 1000

December

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6

► Combined

► Heritage

Probus Club of Noble Park and Dandenong Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park 10am Ph: 9546 2346

► Toddler

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

► Library

Tech Assist Springvale Library 10am Ph: 1300 630 920

► Heritage

► D andenong

► Reading

Evening View Club Dandenong RSL, 44–50 Clow Street 7pm Ph: 9795 1222

Hill Precinct Tour 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 10.30am–12.30pm Ph: 8571 1666 Circle Dandenong Library 11am–12pm Ph: 1300 630 920

Hill Garden Highlights Tour 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 10am–11.30am Ph: 8571 1666

► Wish

Upon a Star – Rhonda Burchmore’s Christmas Drum Theatre 10.30am Ph: 8671 1666

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► C ombined

► C hinese

Probus Club of Sandown Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park 10am Ph: 9791 6807

► C ouncil

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

► D andenong

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

► C onversation

Circle –

Advanced Dandenong Library 6pm Ph: 1300 630 920

► I nterfaith

Network Tour 39 Clow Street, Dandenong 8.30am–3.30pm Ph: 8774 7662

► C hristmas

Baby Bounce Dandenong Library 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Painting Class Springvale Neighbourhood House, 46–50 Queens Avenue 2pm Ph: 9548 3592

► B allroom

Dancing Keysborough Senior Citizens’ Hall 352 Cheltenham Road 8pm Ph: 0428 549 995

► A ustralian

Nativity Scene St Elizabeth’s Parish, 107 Bakers Rd, Dandenong North Ph: 9795 6217 or 0428 927 110

17 18 19 ► Evening

Christmas Storytime Springvale Library 6.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

► L earn

to Sew Springvale Neighbourhood House, 46–50 Queens Avenue 12.30pm–2.30pm Ph: 9548 3972

Knitwork Dandenong Library 10am Ph: 1300 630 920

► Social

24 25 26 ► D andenong

Market is open 7am–4pm

www.greaterdandenong.com

CHRISTMAS DAY

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BOXING DAY

Carols in the Square

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Community Calendar CITY OF CELEBRATION

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

1 2 ► Family

Fun at the Library Springvale Library 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

► Greater

Dandenong Environment Group Dandenong Wetlands, Stud Road, Dandenong North 9.30am Ph: 8571 1702

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► A rt

Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay Street, Springvale South 9am–3pm Ph: 8571 1702

► S ocial

Wheelchair Badminton Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough 5pm–6.30pm (every Friday)

Club – Christmas Club Heritage Hill, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong 10.30am Ph: 8571 1666

► S anta’s

arrival at Dandenong Market 11am

► S pringvale

Rotary Sunday Market Springvale Railway Station Carpark, Lightwood Road 6am–12.30pm Ph: 0425 806 006

► D andy

Makers Market Dandenong Market 10am–3pm

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15 16

► Sisters

► Divine

of Mercy English Tutoring Dandenong Library 9am Ph: 1300 630 920

► Carols

in Harmony Square Harmony Square, Dandenong 6.30pm–9.30pm Ph: 8571 1000

Mother and Child Health and Wellness Session Dandenong Senior Citizens Centre, 10 Langhorne Street 11am–1pm Ph: 0418 319 229

► Australian

Traditional Nativity Scene St Elizabeth’s Parish Church, 107 Bakers Rd, Dandenong North 10am–8pm Ph: 9795 6217

► Alex

Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay Street, Springvale South 10am–5pm Ph: 8571 1702

► Meet

Santa at Dandenong Market 11am–3pm

THE CITY

Contact: City of Greater Dandenong Ph: 8571 1000 Drum Theatre Ph: 8571 1666 Dandenong Library Ph: 1300 630 920 Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens Ph: 9793 4511 Jan Wilson Community Centre Ph: 9795 9279 Paddy O’Donoghue Centre Ph: 8571 1436 Springvale Library Ph: 1300 630 920 Springers Leisure Centre Ph: 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery Ph: 9706 8441

21 22 ► Meet

Santa at Dandenong Market 11am–3pm

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23 ► S pringvale

Rotary Sunday Market Springvale Railway Station Carpark, Lightwood Road 6am-12.30pm Ph: 0425 806 006

29 30

Dandenong Market

Dandenong Market Ph: 9701 3850 Cultural Tours Ph: 8571 1666

Send your event listings to news@cgd.vic.gov.au List your community event online at greaterdandenong.com/ eventlistings

www.greaterdandenong.com

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

What’s On January 2019 MONDAY

TUESDAY

1 2

3

NEW YEAR’S DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY

► N oble

New Year’s Eve

WEDNESDAY

January

7 8 9

► Pure

Meditation Classes – Find Your Own Inner Peace Dandenong North Senior Citizen’s Club, Latham Crescent 7pm Ph: 0497 783 946

14 15 16 the Australian Open on the Urban Screen in Harmony Square

Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC) is open 5.30am–8pm

Visit nobleparkaquaticcentre .com.au for special event details

10 ► Australian

Traditional Nativity Scene St Elizabeth’s Parish Church, 107 Bakers Rd, Dandenong North 10am–8pm Ph: 9795 6217

17 ► D andenong

Oasis is open 5.30am–9.30pm

► W atch

Visit dandenongoasis.com.au for special event details

21 22 23

THURSDAY

24

Noble Park Aquatic Centre

Australian Open 28 29 30 AUSTRALIA DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY

www.greaterdandenong.com

► C ouncil

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

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CITY OF CELEBRATION

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

4

5 6

► Alex

Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay Street, Springvale South 9am (every Friday) Ph: 8571 1702

11

12 13 Rotary Sunday Market Springvale Railway Station Carpark, Lightwood Road 6am–12.30pm

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve

► D andy

Makers Market Dandenong Market 10am–3pm

19 20 ► Springvale

Rotary Sunday Market Springvale Railway Station Carpark, Lightwood Road 6am–12.30pm

25 26 ► Australia

Day Festival Dandenong Park, corner Pultney and Foster streets 3pm–9.30pm Ph: 8571 1000

27 ► T ET

Festival Sandown Racecourse, Princes Highway, Springvale 11am–10.30pm

► TET

Festival Sandown Racecourse, Princes Highway, Springvale 11am–late

Community Calendar submissions This calendar lists free and low cost events happening in the City of Greater Dandenong.

► S pringvale

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If you have a community event you want listed on this calendar please note we work at least two months in advance, and we use the event calendar on our website to populate this page.

For this reason we ask that you use our website to list your event in the first instance. Visit greaterdandenong.com/ eventlistings to list your event.

Please be aware that we have more event listings than we can fit on this calendar each month, so some recurring events may not run every issue, however we will make every effort to promote all community events, support meetings and other activities where we can.

If you have regular meetings that go throughout the year, we do not automatically carry these listings over from one year to the next.

You will need to email website@cgd.vic.gov.au to let us know whether you want your event listed for the new calendar year, and what the dates will be.

Email news@cgd.vic. gov.au for any other queries relating to this page.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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Australia Day Festival As the most culturally diverse community in Australia, Greater Dandenong has many reasons to celebrate Australia Day.

With residents coming from 157 different birthplaces, the Australia Day Festival represents an opportunity for our community to reflect on what it means to be Australian.

The family-friendly festival will be held in Dandenong Park, on the corner of Pultney and Foster streets on Saturday 26 January, from 3pm–9.30pm.

The event will include a Welcome to Country and a Smoking Ceremony followed by a flag raising ceremony and presentation of the Australia Day Awards on the main stage.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Award categories include: ► Citizen of the Year ► Young Leader of the Year ► Volunteer of the Year ► Leadership Award ► Multicultural Award ► Sportsperson of the Year ► Corporate Citizen of the Year The free festival will include a main stage and youth stage with live entertainment, roving performers, a dedicated food court, community and market stalls, rides (costing from $2– $6) and many more family activities.

The celebrations will finish with a spectacular fireworks display at 9.25pm.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ australiaday for more information.

Community Calendar

THE CITY

positive role models…

Sports stars recognised Council recognised some of our city’s top athletes, and sporting volunteers and teams at the 2018 Greater Dandenong Sports Awards.

Now in their fourth year the awards recognise the efforts made by individuals and clubs to enrich the lives of others through sporting pursuits.

Council recognises the importance of being active when it comes to the health and wellbeing of our residents, and that sport can be accessible to everyone in our community.

Many positive role models were awarded for their efforts over the past year. Here is the list of winners: Male Athlete of the Year: Brandon Barnes – Dandenong Thunder Soccer Club

Female Athlete of the Year Jessica McCulloch and her mother Kerrie.

Master Athlete of the Year: Marcela Necas – Carrum Rowing Club Volunteer of the Year: Peter Kayearts – Lyndale Cricket Club

Female Athlete of the Year: Jessica McCulloch – Dandenong Casey Titans

Team of the Year: Noble Park Junior Football Club Under 12 Team

Junior Athlete of the Year: Jennifer Audy – St Anthony’s Primary School, Noble Park

Club of the Year: Silverton Cricket Club Coach of the Year: Michael Carlsson – Noble Park Football Club

Positive Engagement Award: Michael Palma – Parkmore Junior Football Club Sports Achievement Award: Balloon Football, Southern League – Scope Outstanding Contribution to Sport: Jack Ferro – Keysborough Soccer Club

Immunisation Timetables December 2018 Date

Time

Location

Monday 3 December

4pm–6.30pm

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

Tuesday 11 December

10am–11.30am

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18–34 Buckley Street, Noble Park

Wednesday 12 December 4pm–6.30pm

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong (enter via Harmony Square) Jan Wilson Community Centre, Halton Road, Noble Park North (BJ Powell Reserve)

Monday 17 December

1pm–1.45pm

Monday 17 December

4.30pm–6pm

Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

Saturday 22 December

10am–11.45am

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong (enter via Harmony Square)

Monday 7 January

4pm–6.30pm

Springvale City Hall (Supper Room), 397–405 Springvale Road, Springvale

Wednesday 9 January

4pm–6.30pm

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong (enter via Harmony Square)

Tuesday 15 January

10am–11.45am

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18–34 Buckley Street, Noble Park

Thursday 17 January

2.30pm–4.30pm Springvale City Hall (Supper Room), 397–405 Springvale Road, Springvale

Monday 21 January

4.30pm–6pm

Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

Wednesday 23 January

10am–12pm

Springvale City Hall (Supper Room), 397–405 Springvale Road, Springvale

January 2019

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THE CITY

Year in Review January

May

The City of Greater Dandenong joined together to celebrate what it meant to be Australian, at the annual Australia Day Festival. Nine locals were recognised for their contribution to the community via the Australia Day Awards, including the Citizen of the Year Patricia Keilty and Young Leader of the Year Aishwarya Pokkuluri.

Eleven artists explored ideas implicit with good and evil, and performance and identity through the Odile Exhibition. Odile was displayed across four different venues including Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, Drum Theatre, Heritage Hill and Garnar Lane, across the months of May and June.

March

February

Council’s annual Sustainability Festival created a fun and educational environment for families to explore ways to look after our planet. The festival was sponsored by the Dandenong Market and supported by the Sustainable Living Foundation, and included the annual Sustainability Awards, which recognise individuals, organisations and businesses who are making an environmental difference.

Local families enjoyed free movies in Harmony Square as part of the popular Sunset Cinema program. Featured films included top Aussie flicks, Red Dog: True Blue and Paper Planes, Disney’s Moana and Steven Spielberg’s 80s classic The Goonies entertained the crowds.

June Public art took centre stage as two colourful artworks were unveiled. Eddie Botha’s image brightened the Councilowned Thomas Street Car Park, while Baden Johnson’s “impressionism with a spray can” mural transformed the pocket park linking Palm Plaza and Lonsdale Street.

April Council encouraged residents to get moving this month via the 2018 Premier’s Active April. As an incentive we ran free circuit, yoga and boxing classes in Harmony Square throughout the month.

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Community Calendar

THE CITY

September Now in its seventh year, the Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival kept the city’s youngest residents entertained with workshops, activities and movie screenings. The headline event of the festival, the Little Day Out, attracted families to a free fun day at Ross Reserve, Noble Park.

July Council proudly celebrated thousands of years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history during NAIDOC Week (8-15 July).

This year’s celebrations had the theme Because of her, we can! and celebrated the strong role indigenous women play in our society, as leaders, trail blazers and social change advocates.

20 18 November

October Council launched the fourth annual Home exhibition at the Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre.

Home aims to recognise and nurture the talents of refugee and newly-arrived artists and provide them with opportunities to develop their art practice.

Hundreds of people took a public stand in the fight against family violence at Council’s sixth annual Walk Against Family Violence.

Motivational speaker and domestic violence survivor Jen Harwood led the walk through central Dandenong and shared her personal story to the crowds gathered in Harmony Square.

August Children and books are a common sight at Greater Dandenong Libraries, and especially during Children’s Book Week (August 18-24). Visits from well-known children’s book authors and illustrators helped celebrate and encourage reading for our youngest readers.

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THE CITY

Libraries change lives Library holiday hours Greater Dandenong Libraries are getting behind a state-wide campaign to promote local libraries and seek more State Government funding for services.

Public libraries across Victoria receive more than 30 million visitors annually.

In the past year Greater Dandenong’s two libraries, at Springvale and Dandenong, welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors, more than 900,000 items were borrowed and the computers were used more than 150,000 times.

Libraries play an important role in our community, but while user numbers continue to grow finding money to fund infrastructure and technology improvements is a challenge.

Our libraries offer a place to learn, create and belong. Along with free access to computers, iPads, online learning courses, books and DVDs, our libraries also play host to English language classes, technology classes and creative workshops.

We offer storytimes for toddlers and baby play sessions for new parents, study support for secondary school students, technology sessions for seniors and support for those starting a new business.

Statistics from Public Libraries Victoria show that for every $1 invested in a local library, $4.30 is generated in community benefit.

The Greater Dandenong Library Service is encouraging local residents to join the push to improve funding for local libraries by sharing their own stories through the Libraries Change Lives campaign. So let’s make some noise about the benefits of public libraries.

Visit librarieschangelives.org. au to add your story or speak to staff at one of our library branches to find out more.

School’s out, but the library is in.

If you are looking for a great holiday read or want to explore what’s on at the Springvale or Dandenong libraries here are the opening hours over the Christmas and New Year period.

Saturday 22 December 10am–5pm Sunday 23 December 12pm–5pm Monday 24 December 9am–5pm Tuesday 25 December CLOSED Wednesday 26 December CLOSED Thursday 27 December 9am–5pm Friday 28 December 9am–5pm Saturday 29 December 10am–5pm Sunday 30 December 12pm–5pm Monday 31 December 9am–5pm Tuesday 1 January CLOSED Wednesday 2 January 9am–9pm (normal hours resume) The libraries will also be closed on Monday 28 January, which is the Australia Day public holiday.

Lunar New Year at the Library Welcome in the Year of the Pig at Springvale Library on Sunday 3 February.

Greater Dandenong Libraries, in partnership with the Chinese Cambodian Friendship Association of Victoria’s Chinese Cultural Centre of Victoria Lion Dance Troupe, will present a Lunar New Year Lion Dancing celebration.

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There will be craft activities for children followed by a wonderful Lion Dance performance to ring in a prosperous 2019.

The library session will be happening between 2pm-3pm, on the same day as the annual Springvale Lunar New Year Festival which will take place in central Springvale on Sunday 3 February.

Visit greaterdandenong.com and search our events calendar for more information.

THE CITY

[SUB]URBAN STUDIO Two years of free art workshops delivered an inspiring creative experience for residents of Greater Dandenong.

Due to the growing number of residences in Keysborough, Council is making some changes to the garbage, recycling and green waste collection days for some areas.

The [SUB]URBAN STUDIO program delivered high-quality classes in contemporary dance, puppetry and spoken word. The program ran from early 2017 to November 2018 and resulted in several public performances for participants.

Spoken word artist Abdul Hammoud hosted fortnightly open workshops in Council libraries for members of the general public. Hammoud also acted as a Writer in Residence with community groups and local primary and secondary schools.

A poetry book to be published soon will showcase the work of talented writers uncovered through the [SUB] URBAN workshops.

Acclaimed dance company Chunky Move has run weekly contemporary dance classes at Council’s cultural facilities, and several performances at Drum Theatre. A choreographer has also become a Dancer in Residence at Heritage Hill to explore dance in public space.

Changes to bin collection days

About 1300 houses will be affected by the changes in Keysborough, while a further 100 houses in a small area of Bangholme will also be affected by a change to their bin collection day.

Free puppetry workshops also gave the community a chance to explore the art form, including building life-sized puppets and playing with shadows. An Artist in Residence worked for two months with Fusion Theatre Company to create life-sized puppets for a public performance.

Throughout the two year program participants showed their skills in public performances at Council venues and events.

The affected Keysborough households will see their collection change from Friday to Wednesday. The affected Bangholme households will see their collection day change from Friday to Monday.

Households within the affected areas will receive a letter detailing the specific changes in December.

The changes will take effect from the first week of February. The new collection days are detailed on the back page of the waste calendar which was delivered with this magazine.

For more information visit greaterdandenong.com

Shaping the future of aquatic facilities in the city The City of Greater Dandenong received an overwhelming response to community consultation undertaken as part of the Future Dandenong Oasis Feasibility Study.

More than 1,000 people provided feedback on the facility and information about their aquatic and leisure facility needs.

This approach will ensure the complementary provision of facilities across the city in response to community need.

More information will be available on Council’s website in the coming months, with community feedback on the draft report expected to be sought in the first half of 2019.

Based on community feedback and detailed analysis, Council has broadened the scope of the project to include a municipal-wide approach to aquatic facility provision which includes the Noble Park Aquatic Centre.

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THE CITY

SUMMER SAFETY Safety by the water As the weather heats up, many Greater Dandenong residents will visit public pools and waterways to cool down.

It is important for people of all ages to be safe and confident in and around the water, and Council urges everyone to improve their skills to make a day out by the water fun.

Not all members of the Greater Dandenong community have had the opportunity to develop swimming and water safety skills. Unfortunately members of the culturally and linguistically diverse community are over-represented in Victorian drowning statistics making up 45 per cent of drowning deaths at beaches in 2016–17.

The City of Greater Dandenong is home to two public pools, Dandenong Oasis

Stay safe in the heat As temperatures soar we would like to remind residents to keep hydrated and stay safe in the sun.

Extreme heat can cause your body to dehydrate or overheat, and those most at risk include those aged over 65, children and babies, and those who suffer from chronic medical conditions.

During a heatwave it is essential you take extra care to look after yourself.

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and Noble Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC), which offer a range of swimming programs for people of all ages. From babies to adults, it is never too late to learn an important life skill.

Nationally accredited swim teachers provide regular feedback on students’ progress, and as an added benefit students have full access to pools and water play areas outside of lesson times.

Even if you are not taking lessons, a visit to your local pool can also help increase confidence while swimming in a supervised environment.

Rules for water safety: ► Follow

all pool rules and lifeguard instructions for your safety and the safety of those around you

► At

the beach, the safest place to swim is between the red and yellow flags, where the lifesavers are on duty

► Never

leave your children unattended – parents supervise, lifeguards save lives

► Children

under 10 years of age should be actively supervised and children under five years of age should always be within arm’s reach of an adult

► If

you have a medical condition make sure you inform the lifeguard on duty.

Visit dandenongoasis.com.au or nobleparkaquaticcentre. com.au for more information.

► Non-swimmers

and weak swimmers should not swim alone and should stay in shallow water

It is also a great idea to keep an eye on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours.

Here are some tips to stay healthy on days of extreme heat: ► Never

leave children, adults or pets in cars – the temperature can double in just minutes

► Drink

plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty

► Spend

as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned buildings (visit a shopping centre or the library if your house is not air-conditioned)

► Plan

ahead by keeping an eye on the forecast and stay indoors during the hottest part of the day

► If

you must go out wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water with you

► Avoid

sporting activities and exercise on days of extreme heat.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ heat for more tips on staying healthy in the heat.

Community Calendar

Fire safety in summer

THE CITY

Be emergency ready The City of Greater Dandenong has joined with three neighbouring councils to highlight the importance of community safety.

check your property for fire hazards…

Bushfires and grassfires don’t only impact those living in rural areas.

Fires can occur where the suburbs meet the bush, or in urban areas where houses have grass, bushland or parkland around them.

Many people travel to high risk bushfire areas while holidaying or on day trips, so it pays to be aware of how to respond in an emergency situation.

During summer you should check the fire danger rating every day and know if it is a total fire ban day. Check for warnings using at least two sources of information, including phone apps, the internet and media outlets, like radio and television.

Effective emergency management is about preparation and knowing what to do before an event happens.

It is a good idea for families to discuss what they would do in the event of a bushfire or grassfire, make a plan and make sure that all family members can be contacted during an emergency situation.

Checking your property for fire hazards before the hottest part of summer hits is also a good way to minimise risk. A checklist could include: ► Keeping ► Keep

grass cut to below 10cm

gutters clear of leaf litter

► Cut

back branches overhanging buildings

► Get

rid of dry grass, leaves, twigs and loose bark

► Store

flammable liquids and woodpiles away from the house.

Visit cfa.vic.gov.au for more information about keeping safe from fire this summer.

Together with Kingston Council, Frankston Council and Mornington Peninsula Shire, Greater Dandenong has launched the Operation Emergency Ready campaign to educate the community and ensure they are emergency ready.

The campaign includes a range of resources, such as a booklet, eight preparedness videos and an interactive website to assist the community in developing their own emergency plans.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Councillor Roz Blades said councils worked in partnership with emergency service providers to keep their local communities safe.

She said that 26 per cent of the people living within the four council areas only arrived in Australia in the past 10 years, so education and awareness was paramount.

“Everybody can play a role in being emergency ready, and we want to help all members of our community to be prepared,” Cr Blades said.

Visit greaterdandenong.com for more information.

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Business News

Dandenong Market Christmas Trading Hours December Tuesday 18 Wednesday 19 Thursday 20 Friday 21 Saturday 22 Sunday 23 Monday 24 Tuesday 25 Wednesday 26 Thursday 27 Friday 28 Saturday 29 Sunday 30 Monday 31

7am–4pm CLOSED CLOSED 7am–5pm 7am–4pm 7am–4pm 7am–4pm CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED 7am–5pm 7am–4pm 10am–3pm CLOSED

January Tuesday 1 Wednesday 2 Thursday 3 Friday 4 Saturday 5 Sunday 6 January

CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED 7am–5pm 7am–4pm 10am–3pm

Christmas at

Dandenong Market Renowned for its fresh produce, huge variety and amazing bargains, Dandenong Market is the ultimate destination for Christmas shopping.

Last minute gift shopping is easy, with more than 120 stalls in the Bazaar, offering unique and affordable gifts for all.

Whether you are planning a traditional Christmas turkey dinner with all the trimmings, a seafood feast, or a family barbecue, the market has everything you could possibly need for a festive feast.

Santa Claus will also be a market regular in December. On Saturday 8 December at 11am, he will make his grand entrance on a sled pulled by huskies and led by the City of Greater Dandenong Band.

Mr Claus and a Christmas Elf will be in attendance every market day after (until Christmas Eve), so stop by, grab a photo and share your Christmas wish with him between 11am–3pm.

Visit dandenongmarket.com.au for more information.

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Community Community Calendar News

Lunar New Year

THE CITY

Funding coup for Ross Reserve Ross Reserve has received a financial windfall, just in time for Christmas, with the State Government contributing $3.05 million towards a major upgrade.

The money will assist Council in delivering the Ross Reserve Masterplan which includes a new basketball court, jogging track, lengthening of the junior football oval, upgrades to parking, roads and other amenities and an all abilities playground.

Welcome in the Year of the Pig at Springvale’s Lunar New Year celebration.

The Springvale Asian Business Association are running the festival, which is now in its 27th year.

The first Springvale New Year Festival was held in 1993, and featured food stalls, entertainment and traditional lion dancers to scare away bad spirits. More than 30,000 people attended the inaugural celebration.

The festival continues to celebrate the New Year for Cambodian, Vietnamese and Chinese communities, but also focuses on being a family event for all cultures with carnival rides, market stalls and family entertainment.

Welcome in the New Year in central Springvale, on Sunday 3 February from 10am–10pm.

Over the years the festival has grown to become one of the biggest Lunar New Year events in Victoria, attracting more than 70,000 people to Springvale’s streets.

Visit facebook.com/Springvale AsianBusinessAssociation SABA for more information.

“Noble Park is one of Greater Dandenong’s thriving activity centres,” she said.

Christmas hampers Springvale Neighbourhood House is doing its bit to help keep spirits high for families doing it tough this Christmas.

The Neighbourhood House is a collection point for food donations for the Springvale Benevolent Society’s Christmas hamper drive.

A Food for 400 morning tea organised recently helped collect much needed supplies for the hampers, and raise awareness of the work the Springvale Benevolent Society has been doing in the community for more than 40 years.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Councillor Roz Blades said she was thrilled to see the State Government investing in Noble Park.

Springvale Neighbourhood House will continue to collect items for Christmas hampers up until Christmas Eve. You can drop items at the Neighbourhood House, 46–50 Queens Avenue, Springvale or phone the Springvale Benevolent Society on 9546 5558.

“The area has a strong sporting history, particularly in regards to recreational sport and Ross Reserve is no exception.”

“The Reserve is well utilised by the local community and sporting clubs and this injection of funds will enable Council to deliver on its Masterplan.”

Council has already begun preliminary work on the new all abilities playground and will be seeking community feedback on what it would like to see included in early 2019.

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Summer OF CELEBRATION

These are smoke and alcohol free events

greaterdandenong.com/summerofcelebration 8571 1000