Greater Dandenong Council News April 2020

APRIL 2020

Greater Dandenong Council News

Youth Week PAGE 8

Climate Change

Dandy-Con Comic Festival

Discover Dandenong Creek

►► PAGE 7

►► PAGE 9

►► PAGE 12

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Council News

Customer Service Centres Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 18–34 Buckley Street, Noble Park Keysborough Customer Service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre, Keysborough All correspondence to: Greater Dandenong Council News PO Box 200 Dandenong VIC 3175 Email: news@cgd.vic.gov.au Phone: 8571 1000 Fax: 8571 5196 www.greaterdandenong.com

Mayor ’s message Welcome to the April edition of the Greater Dandenong Council News.

The City of Greater Dandenong strives to be a leader in the field of sustainability and aims to be one of Australia’s most sustainable cities by 2030. We know we can’t do this on our own, and each year we host the Sustainability Festival to share tips and ideas with the wider community so we can all play a part in looking after the environment.

See the opposite page to find out more about this year’s festival, and then turn to page 7 to read more about how Council is working to combat climate change.

Mayor Cr Jim Memeti

This month we celebrate Victorian Youth Week. It’s a time to celebrate the amazing contribution young people make to our community. Read more on page 8.

Looking for ways to entertain the kids these school holidays, turn to page 9 to read about what our libraries have in store. Then check out our community calendar on pages 10 and 11 for more events and activities happening throughout April.

I hope this month is a good one for everyone.

@greaterdandy facebook.com/greaterdandenong cityofgreaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TTY: 133 677 Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 relayservice.gov.au TIS: 131 450

My City

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 Australian Animal Protection Society.............................. 9798 8415

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve is a beautiful section of bushland in Springvale South which showcases what the landscape in this area would have looked like before European settlement. Our new Visitor Centre adds to the experience and is available for school bookings from early learning through to tertiary studies. The blue tongue lizard in front is carved with a chainsaw by a local artist. On warm days you can see wild blue tongues in this reserve.

RSPCA....................................................... 9224 2222 Nurse on Call................................ 1300 606 024 Front Cover: Young Leaders Ann, Asmaa, Malith and Adam. Picture: Hilton Stone.

www.greaterdandenong.com

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

Council News

Growing our future together

…small changes can make a big difference

The Greater Dandenong Sustainability Festival returns for the seventh year, with some great new initiatives to promote a more sustainable lifestyle.

Join us for this free event and find out how small changes can make a big difference at the Dandenong Market, on Sunday 19 April, from 9am–3pm.

Those who love a caffeine hit can grab a $3 coffee from OneBean, in a unique Keep Cup. The cups feature an exclusive design by Wurundjeri, Boon Wurrung and Yorta Yorta artist Shane Charles.

Join the clothes swap and help recycle some great fashion. At the clothes swap stall you can bring your used clothes and shoes, and for every item you bring

Customer Service In preparation for the new Springvale Community Hub opening, Council has temporarily relocated the Springvale customer service centre.

you can take two home. Don’t worry if you don’t have any items to donate, you can still take one piece of clothing home for free.

Visit the Boomerang Bags Dandenong stall and take home a beautifullydesigned, handmade bag for a gold coin donation. The donations will be used to pay for sewing machines and materials which will be used by the volunteers to reduce the number of single-use bags out in the community.

The event will also feature: ► Free pedal-powered smoothies ► Cloth nappy workshops ► Take home veggie plantings ► Roving bubbles

The Paddy O’Donoghue Centre will handle all customer service queries and payments until the Springvale Community Hub opens.

You can visit any one of Council’s customer service centres at: ► Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18–34 Buckley Street, Noble Park

► Live

music pop-up library ► Stall holders selling sustainable products ► Kids yoga ► Toy library. ► A

Listen to guest speakers, join Council’s Waste and Parks teams for a Q&A session, and meet with sustainability specialists and officers from Council’s environment team.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ sustainabilityfestival for more information.

► Parkmore

Shopping Centre, Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

► Dandenong

Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

Or phone 8571 1000.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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Council News TH URSDAY

THU RSDAY

Councillor Contacts APRIL

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Lightwood Ward NOVEMBER 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 Peter Brown Ph: 8571 5230 0468 584 837 peter.brown@cgd.vic.gov.au

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

TUESDAY

14 APRIL

MONDAY

27 APRIL

Council Meetings Council meetings are held on the second and the fourth Monday of the month, at 7pm.

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

The April meetings will be held: Tuesday 14 April (due to a public holiday on the Monday) Monday 27 April

Cr Sophie Tan

Paperbark Ward Cr Sophie Tan 0466 793 727 sophie.tan@cgd.vic.gov.au

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

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

Red Gum Ward – Mayor Cr Jim Memeti 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

In my last column I mentioned a project to install exercise equipment at Chandler Road Reserve. I am pleased to say that the equipment has been installed and residents are taking advantage of the free fitness circuit this $50,000 project has created.

This year promises to be a big one for Paperbark Ward. With several masterplans being implemented for local parks and reserves.

The biggest project is at Ross Reserve where works will soon begin on installing an All Abilities Playground.

The $3 million playground has been funded by Council and the Victorian Government and has been designed following thorough consultation with the community, including children from Springvale Park Special Development School. Council is considering another $300,000 for accessible toilets and changing rooms.

A $750,000 sports pavilion will also be built at Ross Reserve.

1AP0RIL

The general public is NOVEMBER always welcome to attend meetings and can now ask their questions in person during Public Question Time, but did you know you can watch Council meetings live 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 or to find out more about Public Question Time simply go to greaterdandenong.com/ councilmeetings

► Paperbark Ward An Aquatic Strategy was adopted

by Council late last year following consultation with the community. The Strategy looks at the future of both the Noble Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC) and the Dandenong Oasis. The strategy outlines plans for NPAC to be a familyfriendly facility that offers year round activities, and proposes the addition of a gymnasium, dedicated learn to swim pool and the retention of the outdoor 50m pool.

Streetscape works are planned for Douglas Street, Noble Park, with work expected to start very soon.

An extended left turn lane on Chandler Road, into Cheltenham Road is also on track to be delivered this year.

A draft Master Plan is also being created for Rowley Allen Reserve in Keysborough. To the Cambodia, Thai, Lao and Sinhala/Tamil communities I say happy New Year.

On April 25 many residents will reflect on their family history and the history of our nation to remember the sacrifices our soldiers have made at Anzac Day commemorations.

If you would like to contact me you can reach me via email at sophie.tan@cgd.vic.gov.au or on 0466 793 727.

Council News

Cr Maria Sampey

► Silverleaf Ward transport for low cost outings and day trips. With this in mind I successfully advocated to Council’s mid-year Budget review for two new buses to be used specifically by these groups. I am excited to say these will be on the road in the coming months.

If you have difficulty accessing public transport and are interested in going on regular trips to the library, shopping centre, or participating in our Seniors Day Trips trial please contact Council’s transport team on 8571 5556 for details or to make a booking.

Social connection is essential in maintaining health and wellbeing, particularly as we get older. This is why I am committed to supporting older residents to remain fit and active, and live independently in their own home for as long as they can. Access to localised transport options such as our Community Transport Program plays a key role in supporting opportunities for social interaction.

our seven community buses are used in the most effective way. We currently offer trips to the Springvale and Dandenong Libraries, shopping trips to Dandenong Market, Parkmore, Waverley Gardens and Dandenong Plaza, plus trips to Oasis for hydrotherapy classes.

We also use our community buses to transport clients to our Social Support Program in Mackay Street, Springvale South and also transport residents to senior citizens clubs.

Late in 2019 I asked for a review of our Community Transport service to ensure

Many seniors’ clubs and groups have identified the need for community

► Red Gum Ward Ever since I stepped into the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre in Noble Park in 2007 for the first time I have been fascinated by community hubs.

A community hub is a building that offers a range of community services and activities as well as informal meeting spaces for residents. It replaces the traditional model of having separate facilities like senior citizen’s centres, kindergartens, childcare facilities and youth centres with integrated, intergenerational facilities.

In recent editions of this magazine you have heard a lot about the Springvale Community Hub which is currently being constructed so I wanted to tell you about some other hubs being planned.

Council is doing a feasibility study into a Dandenong Community Hub. Currently community services and community meeting spaces in Dandenong are spread over a large range of buildings, some very old and some in hard to

On a national level, the Federal Government is holding a Royal Commission into aged care, and needs to hear about your experiences. The Commission is accepting submissions until the end of April. Turn to page 6 to find out how you can have your say.

If you want to discuss any local issues please email me at maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone me on 0438 800 027.

Cr Matthew Kirwan find locations. This runs contrary to the philosophy of community hubs.

There is both a paper and online survey of possible uses that could be in a Dandenong Community Hub out for public comment until Friday, 24 April.

Go to greaterdandenong.com to have your say.

The long-awaited Keysborough South Community Hub is now going full steam ahead. Last November Council selected a site on Chapel Road that was central to the new estates of Keysborough, was high profile and had good transport access. The full range of facilities have not been locked in but they are likely to include kindergarten rooms, childcare rooms, maternal and child health consulting suites, a community lounge, semi-commercial kitchen and outdoor community/play spaces. A community kitchen, drop-in library service, co-working spaces and community garden are some of the other ideas under consideration.

In February the design team were appointed by Council. A revised concept plan will be out for consultation with the community in June 2020, with construction planned to start in 2021.

If you have questions or ideas about these community hub projects please email me at matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone me on 0403 072 295.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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THE CITY Council News

Working for You

Open Space in Greater Dandenong Council is seeking community feedback on a new draft Open Space Strategy 2020–2035.

The Strategy will guide how Council manages and improves our open spaces over the next 15 years.

Residents can provide feedback on the draft Strategy until Thursday 30 April.

Open space includes sporting fields, nature reserves, gardens, playgrounds, trails and civic spaces such as Harmony Square in Dandenong.

Hard copy surveys and copies of the draft Strategy will be available at Council’s customer service centres or libraries.

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

F or more information or to complete an online form visit agedcare.royalcommission.gov.au I f you don’t want to submit an online form there are other options, including:

The Federal Government is currently holding a Royal Commission into aged care and Greater Dandenong residents are being encouraged to make a submission.

The Royal Commission will continue to accept submissions until the end of April 2020. They need to hear about your own experiences, those of a family member or friends, and your views of what changes you would like the Royal Commission to recommend to the government.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ futureofopenspace for more information, find out about opportunities to talk to Council officers or fill in an online survey.

► Write

to: Royal Commission, GPO Box 1151, Adelaide SA 5001 ► Email ACRCenquiries@royal commission.gov.au ► Phone 1800 960 711 interpreter service available

Please consider making a submission as high quality care of the very vulnerable and frail is so important.

New Year’s Eve 2020 Community groups and organisations looking for somewhere to ring in the new year can apply to hire one of six Council halls.

Applications are now open to use one of the following facilities on Thursday 31 December 2020: ► Springvale

City Hall and Supper Room (capacity 620)

www.greaterdandenong.com

► Menzies

Hall (capacity 300) Reserve (capacity 200) ► Tatterson Pavilion (capacity 200) ► The Castle (capacity 300) ► Jan Wilson Centre (capacity 160) ► Springvale

Prospective applicants will need to provide information about the organisation, who they are, where they are based and the benefit they bring to the Greater Dandenong community.

Information about the proposed function and how tickets will be sold will also be taken into account.

Applications close on Friday 24 April.

For more information and an application form contact Civic and Community Facilities at bookings@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 8571 1000.

Community Calendar

Council News

Climate Emergency Council has committed to taking action on climate change and has followed other local government bodies in declaring a climate and ecological emergency.

At a recent Council Meeting, Councillors also called on the state and federal governments to declare a climate emergency and commit to establishing a National Climate Response Plan.

Save on solar Greater Dandenong residents can reduce their energy bills and take advantage of solar power through the Local Government Solar Savers Program.

Led by the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) in partnership with 10 Victorian councils, the program supports all members of the community, from low income households to home businesses.

The program allows elligible residents to access the Solar Savers bulk buy program, with an associated lowinterest loan for pensioners and low-income households. This now puts solar power within the reach of residents who otherwise may not be able to afford the up-front costs.

All Greater Dandenong residents can access the Solar Savers program by registering online before Sunday 31 May. With so many solar options around, this program takes the confusion out of going solar with detailed checks to ensure the best solar system for each user.

Solar Savers participants may also be eligible for the Victorian Government Solar Rebate. Households are encouraged to register their interest in the state rebate.

Visit solar.vic.gov.au for more information.

Reuse, recycle and declutter

To support our community Council is offering two free waste minimisation events this month.

Every day we are faced with opportunities to reuse or recycle waste we create at home, work or school.

If you have far too much ‘stuff’ and are overwhelmed at the thought of decluttering, this workshop can help.

Led by Australia’s leading clutterfree lifestyle coach Tanya Lewis, this workshop will help you gain a better understanding of what your clutter is and how to responsibly dispose of it.

By placing common waste items such as paper, cardboard, plastic containers, cans and jars into your yellow lidded recycling bin you are already helping to reduce waste, conserve energy and save money.

Reusing or repurposing existing items is an even better way to reduce our environmental footprint.

Clutter Chaos to Calm Workshop

Join this interactive workshop at Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, on Wednesday 15 April, from 6.30–8.30pm.

Greater Dandenong Council has a vision of being one of Australia’s most sustainable cities by 2030, but Council cannot achieve this alone. Reducing the risks of climate change will require all levels of government and the community working together.

There are many benefits to becoming more sustainable. For residents the benefits can include being healthier, saving money, learning new skills and developing greater connections with your community. For businesses the benefits can include lowering costs, increasing productivity and helping to retain and attract staff.

Over time climate change has the potential to impact many of the basic elements of life, such as access to water, food production, health and wellbeing, use of land and biodiversity.

This means we all have a role to play in making Greater Dandenong a more sustainable city.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ sustainability for more information.

Follow Your Waste Tour Find out what happens to your recycling, household rubbish and garden waste once the bins get emptied by the trucks on this free tour.

Learn more about reducing your waste and how to become a better recycler.

Tour departs from Ross Reserve, Memorial Drive, Noble Park on Monday 27 April from 9.30am–2.30pm.

Bookings for the workshop and the tour are essential.

For more information phone 8571 1702.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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Council News

k e e W h t u o Y n Victoria Join in Victorian Youth Week activities and help celebrate the contribution young people make to our community.

There is a range of activities designed to help young people get active and connect to family, friends and the community.

Youth Fest Saturday 4 April, from 11am–3pm At Hemmings Park, 61A Princes Highway, Dandenong

celebrate

Featuring entertainment and activities including a FReeZA live youth stage, skate and scooter workshops, airbrush tattoo, arts workshops, sports and a chill out zone.

Indoor Basketball and Volleyball Tournament Thursday 9 April, from 10am–4pm At Dandenong Stadium Calling all basketball and volleyball players aged 12–25 to join in the 3v3 basketball or 4v4 volleyball tournament.

Four divisions are available in each competition, under 16 male, under 16 female, under 25 male and under 25 female. Choose your sport, choose your division, choose your team mates and register to compete.

Visit youth.greaterdandenong. com for more information.

2020

Community clean up Get to know your neighbours and help keep Noble Park clean at Council’s annual Community Clean Up. Learn about the impacts of graffiti and litter on your community and the environment at this familyfriendly, free event.

The interactive day has fun activities for all ages. Try your hand at painting and graffiti removal or take part in a planting workshop and enjoy some free food.

Join in the Community Clean Up Day at Ross Reserve, Memorial Drive, Noble Park on Saturday 4 April, from 11am–3pm. A movie screening will also take place after the event from 3pm.

Visit greaterdandenong. com/sustainability for more information.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Youth Showcase Recognise the personal or community achievements of an outstanding young person via the Youth Showcase.

Nominations close on Sunday 12 April. For more information visit greaterdandenong.com/youth or phone Youth and Family Services on 9793 2155.

What do young people value? ► Friendships ► Family

relationships (82%)

► School

or study satisfaction (81%)

What are the top issues of personal concern to young people? ► Coping

with stress (48%)

► Personal ► Mental

FAST FACTS

Visit youth.greaterdandenong.com for more information.

safety (42%)

Health (41%)

Who do young people ask for help? ► Friends

Victorian Youth Week is now in its fourth year. It will be held from Friday 3 April to Sunday 12 April in 2020. The week is a chance to recognise and value young people aged 12–25. Greater Dandenong’s Youth and Family Services support young people through a range of programs and services.

(84%)

(83%)

► Parent/guardian ► Brother/sister ► Internet

(66%)

(60%)

(57%)

Results from the 2019 Mission Australia Youth Survey of 15–19 year olds.

Community Calendar

School Holidays in the libraries Looking for something to entertain the children these school holidays, then look no further than the Greater Dandenong Libraries.

Not only is there a world of adventure on the book shelves, but there are also some fun workshops and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Games and LEGO Join family and friends for a fun session with board games, puzzles and LEGO at the Supper Room, Springvale City Hall on Wednesday 1 April, from 2pm–3.30pm. For ages 5+.

Council News

Open Day Join us for a day of creative children’s activities across two Dandenong locations within a short walk of each other.

The free Get Creative Open Day will be held at Drum Theatre and Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens on Tuesday 7 April, from 11am–2pm.

Enjoy an African drumming workshop followed by a cardboard city activity at Drum Theatre, or enjoy free face painting, story time and art and craft activities at Heritage Hill. Bring a picnic and explore the beautiful gardens at the historic Dandenong location.

Heritage Hill is at 66 McCrae Street, while Drum Theatre is at the corner of Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong.

Fairytales with a Twist Help untangle these twisted fairytales in the latest performance by CARP Productions, at Dandenong Library on Thursday 2 April, from 2pm–3pm.

For ages 5–12.

Connection Arts Space Art Workshop Nurture your inner artist in this creative workshop at Dandenong Library on Friday 3 April, from 2pm–4pm. For ages 12–25. Bookings through Youth and Family Services on 9793 2155.

Robogals Learn the basics of programming to control a robot and compete in a robotic sumo tournament at Dandenong Library on Monday 6 April, from 2pm–3pm. For ages 7–12.

Bookings essential on 1300 630 920.

African Drumming Join this interactive show exploring traditional West African culture and music at the Supper Room, Springvale City Hall on Tuesday 7 April, from 2pm–3pm. For ages 5–12.

Fizzle and Pop Science Show Be inspired and wowed by 60 minutes of explosions and chemical reactions cleverly concocted by the Sciencetwists, at Dandenong Library on Thursday 9 April from 2pm–3pm.

For ages 5–12.

For more information visit greaterdandenonglibraries. com or phone 1300 630 920 for bookings.

Dandy-Con 2020 After an awesome inaugural event in 2019, Dandy-Con Comic Festival is returning to Dandenong with a bigger and better program.

This free event will showcase a world full of imagination from anime and superheroes, to gaming, pop culture and much more.

There will be fandoms, cosplay competitions, workshops, artist exhibitions, comic book sellers, amazing roving entertainment and food stalls.

Bring your family and friends, and dress up in your best costumes.

Dandy-Con will be held at Dandenong Library and Harmony Square on Saturday 2 May, from 10am–4pm. Entry is free and some workshops will require bookings so please visit the library website for more information.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ dandycon or phone 1300 360 920 for more information.

www.greaterdandenong.com

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10 Council News COMMUNITY CALENDAR

What’s On April 2020 MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

1

► Reading

► Discover

Circle Dandenong Library 11am–12pm Ph: 1300 630 920

81 2 Dandenong Creek Festival Tirhatuan Park, Kriegal Way, Dandenong North 11am–2pm

Little India

Easter 6 7 8 9 ►

ombined Probus Club of C Noble Park Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park 10am Ph: 9546 2346

►

ibrary Tech Assist L Dandenong Library 10am–12pm (every Monday) Ph: 1300 630 920

► Dandenong

Evening VIEW Club Dandenong RSL, 44–50 Clow Street 7pm–10pm Ph: 0417 511 588

► Social

Knitwork Dandenong Library 10am (every Wednesday) Ph: 1300 630 920

13 14 15 EASTER MONDAY Probus Club of Sandown Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park 10am Ph: 0438 363 000

►

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

►

Council Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

► Combined

►

tride and Strive Carers S Walking Group Burden Park, Heatherton Road, Springvale South 9.30am

►

reater Dandenong G Neighbourhood Watch Committee Meeting Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 6.30pm Ph: 0407 325 030

16 ► Libraries

After Dark Games Night Dandenong Library 7.30pm–9pm Ph: 1300 630 920

20 21 22

23

► Dumplings and Dessert Tour Springvale 11am–1pm Ph: 8571 1666

►

►

ossum Family Fun Playgroup P Dandenong Library 12.30pm–2.30pm Ph: 1300 630 920

►

reating a Food Empire: C The Carman’s Story Brick Lane Brewing 41 Imagine Way, Dandenong South 8am Ph: 8571 1550

Library Tech Assist Dandenong Library 3pm–5pm Ph: 1300 630 920

27 28 29

30

► Council

► Up,

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

www.greaterdandenong.com

►

onversation Circle – C Advanced Dandenong Library 6pm Ph: 1300 630 920

►

aby Bounce outreach B Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 10.30am Ph: 1300 630 920

Up & Away Drum Theatre 10.30am Ph: 8571 1666

Community Calendar CITY OF CELEBRATION

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

81 3

► Alex

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

Contact:

SUNDAY

81 4

► Little

India Cultural Tour Dandenong 12pm–2pm Ph: 8571 1666

Council News

81 5

► Greater

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

City of Greater Dandenong Ph: 8571 1000 Drum Theatre Ph: 8571 1666 Dandenong Library Ph: 1300 630 920

10

11 12

GOOD

► Welcoming

FRIDAY

the Golden Years Menzies Hall, 41 Menzies Avenue, Dandenong North 10am–4.30pm wtgy.eventbrite.com

April

EASTER SUNDAY ►

Dandenong Market open 9am–4pm

Jan Wilson Community Centre Ph: 8571 1436

17

18 19

► S isters

► D andenong

of Mercy English Tutoring Dandenong Library 9am–11am Ph: 1300 630 920

► S tephen

K Amos – Everyman Drum Theatre 8pm Ph: 8571 1666

Parkrun Dandenong Park, corner Wilson and Pultney streets 8am (every Saturday)

►

► O ur

Story Drum Theatre 7.30pm–8.30pm Ph: 8571 1666

24

Greater Dandenong Sustainability Festival Dandenong Market 9am–3pm Ph: 8571 1000

Springvale Library Ph: 1300 630 920 Springers Leisure Centre Ph: 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery Ph: 9706 8441

25

26

ANZAC DAY

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

Sustainability Festival

Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens Ph: 9793 4511

Send your event listings to news@cgd.vic.gov.au

List your community event online at greaterdandenong.com/ listyourevent

www.greaterdandenong.com

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12 Council News

Discover Dandenong Creek Dandenong Creek is an important wildlife corridor running through our city, and residents are invited to explore the life it supports.

Now in its third year the Discover Dandenong Creek Festival is held at Tirhatuan Park and is sponsored by Council and Living Links.

Celebrate the wildlife that lives in and alongside the creek and take part in activities such as bird watching, fishing, nature crafts and science-based experiences. Hear from native fish experts, enjoy live entertainment and meet Council mascot Harry Habitat.

Council will also launch a public art project led by local Aboriginal artist Ian Harrison in conjunction with the Strong and Deadly youth group.

Join us for this free event, which includes a barbecue, at Tirhatuan Park, Kriegel Way, Dandenong North, on Thursday 2 April from 11am–2pm.

FAST FACTS Dandenong Creek is an important waterway that flows through Melbourne’s urban landscape, providing an important habitat link for fauna and flora. Starting in the Dandenong Ranges, the creek makes its way through the City of Greater Dandenong, joins the Patterson River and flows into Port Phillip Bay.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Baby Bounce Join library staff for stories, songs and rhymes with your little ones during Baby Bounce.

This fun and engaging early literacy program is designed for children under the age of two, and helps them explore language, as well as develop their motor skills and confidence.

The sessions also give children and parents a chance to socialise.

Sessions run weekly during school terms at the Dandenong Library, on Wednesdays at 10.30am, and at the Springvale Library, on Fridays at 10.30am.

Play in nature Nature play is a term used to describe simple play opportunities in the natural environment.

A walk outside, visit to the local park or even a game in the backyard are all examples of nature play.

Council recognises the importance of outdoor play for children and the benefits it has to children’s development, as well as their health and mental wellbeing.

Every Tuesday from 10–11am, Council runs a Natureplay playgroup at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve in Springvale South. The session begins with a nature walk followed by a visit to the ‘Sense Trail’ where the children are encouraged

The popularity of the sessions has led to the introduction of outreach sessions held at community locations.

During Term 2 and Term 4 sessions will be held at the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18–34 Buckley Street, Noble Park, on Wednesdays at 10.30am.

During Term 3 sessions will be held at Tatterson Pavilion, Cheltenham Road, Keysborough, every Friday at 10.30am.

Visit greaterdandenong libraries.com or phone 1300 630 920 for more information.

to explore the sights, sounds, smells and textures of the Australian bush.

We have a small pond with tadpoles and plenty of sticks to build with and logs to turn over and investigate. Natureplay generally runs in all weather and the children have learnt to enjoy play in the rain as well as sunshine.

The Natureplay playgroup is suited for children aged 0–5 years and is run by a qualified ranger.

For more information phone 8571 1702.

Community Calendar

big …two y comed shows

Experience the universal language of laughter…

Council News

Up, Up and Away Join a riotous cabaret world tour as this crazy cabin crew perform hits from the Swing and Retro eras.

The sassy stewardesses are your live in-flight entertainment system and will keep the crowd entertained as they leap through the skies on an unmissable musical journey. Join them at Drum theatre on Thursday 30 April, at 10.30am.

Comedy at Drum Theatre The laughs continue in 2020 as two big comedy shows come to Dandenong directly from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Experience the universal language of laughter at Stephen K Amos – Everyman.

The UK comedian is on a mission to bring about world peace, or at least bring about an evening of peace. See his latest show at Drum Theatre on Friday 17 April at 8pm.

See a collection of Australia’s favourite all-star comedians when the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow comes to the Drum.

Tickets will sell fast – so book now for the Friday, May 8 show at 8pm.

The all killer, no filler line up features Australian and international talent, and the best newcomers in this show aimed at audiences aged 15 plus. With a show time of more than two hours, you are sure to enjoy this stellar night of stand-up. Check out the Drum Theatre’s subscription and membership options for the best ticket prices.

This performance is part of the Encore Program, and tickets include complimentary morning tea and parking vouchers. Save on tickets by subscribing to the Encore Program with tickets starting at just $18.

Visit drumtheatre.com.au or phone the Box Office on 8571 1666 for information.

Visit drumtheatre.com.au for more information or phone the Box Office on 8571 1666.

Immunisation Timetable – April 2020 Date

Time

Location

Monday 6 April

4pm–6pm

Springvale City Hall (Supper Room) 18 Grace Park Avenue, Springvale

Tuesday 7 April

3.30pm–6.30pm Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong (enter via Harmony Square)

Wednesday 15 April

10am–11.45am Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park

Monday 20 April

4pm–6pm

Tuesday 21 April

10am–11.30am Jan Wilson Community Centre, Halton Road, Noble Park North (BJ Powell Reserve)

Wednesday 22 April

10am–12pm

Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

Springvale City Hall (Supper Room) 18 Grace Park Avenue, Springvale

www.greaterdandenong.com

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14 Council News

Business

The story of sli Carman’s Mue has become iconic in the … business world

Meet the Muesli Queen At just 18, Carolyn Creswell purchased a muesli company for only $1000.

The story of Carman’s Muesli has become iconic in the business world, with Ms Creswell going on to build a thriving business that exports to more than 30 countries and has an annual turnover in excess of $100 million. Now a mother of four, Ms Creswell also won the 2012 Telstra Australian Business Woman of the Year.

She is now coming to Dandenong to share her story of success and lessons learned along the way.

Creating a Food Empire: The Carman Story will be hosted at Brick Lane Brewing in Dandenong South, on Wednesday 22 April, from 8am–9.30am.

Visit greaterdandenong.com/ creatingafoodempire to book tickets.

Local manufacturer marks two milestones Volgren, Australia’s largest bus body builder, had two big reasons to celebrate recently.

The business marked 40 years as a bus body manufacturer and the roll-out of the 5000th bus built in Dandenong.

The 5000th vehicle was handed over to operator and long-time Volgren partner Ventura, which is another Dandenongbased business.

Volgren Chief Executive Thiago Deiro said the 40 year milestone was a proud moment in the company’s history.

“You don’t produce this many vehicles over this many years without dedicating yourself to manufacturing excellence and to providing operators with buses they can trust.”

www.greaterdandenong.com

Mr Deiro said that given the history between the two companies, it was fitting Ventura received the milestone bus.

“Our factories in Perth and Brisbane are superb manufacturing facilities, but Dandenong is the engine room of Volgren’s manufacturing operations. In fact, the suburb of Dandenong is one of Victoria’s great manufacturing hubs.”

Mayor Jim Memeti said he was proud of Greater Dandenong’s strong manufacturing industry, which produces more than half of our city’s total economic output.

“We have a lot to be proud of, and it is businesses like Volgren that add to our reputation as a manufacturing heartland keeping people in jobs,” Mayor Memeti said.

Community Calendar Community

Council News

15

Hand Brake Turn Local attraction wins honours Melbourne Cable Park has been recognised as a top tourist destination, winning two major awards at the recent RACV Victorian Tourism Awards.

…gain ing practic al life ski lls

Based in Bangholme, the attraction won the Gold Award for Excellence in Accessible Tourism and the Silver Award for Adventure Tourism, a first for the City of Greater Dandenong.

Disengaged youth are gaining practical life skills, while building a career pathway via Concern Australia’s Hand Brake Turn Program.

Park owner Ian Clark was thrilled with the honours.

Operating out of Dandenong and Braybrook in Melbourne’s West, Hand Brake Turn last year celebrated its 10,000th graduate.

“We love bringing tourism to the City of Greater Dandenong and look forward to building on our awards in the years ahead,” Mr Clark said.

Good Friday Appeal Local businesses have joined forces to create a family fun day raising funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Take part in silent auctions, raffles and spinning wheels, while you enjoy face painting fun and special appearances by popular children’s characters.

The Fun Day will be held at Lollipops Playground and Crazy Climb Indoor Rock Climbing Centre, 6 Elonera Road, Noble Park North, on Friday 10 April, from 9am–5pm.

Phone 9862 3400 for more information.

The program assists people aged 15–21 to transition into education and employment pathways through a seven-week training program combining technical skills practice and life skill development.

The program boasts a completion rate of 90 per cent and has helped participants increase engagement with their families and communities.

Hand Brake Turn began operating from a car yard in South Melbourne in 1994 when Reverend Dr John Smith and the God’s Squad Christian Motorcycle Club identified that young men coming out of the criminal justice system were disengaged from community.

They had no positive role models to steer them in the right direction and lacked opportunities for employment or education.

More than 25 years later the program continues to provide opportunities for young people who have disengaged with school or community to gain a sense of purpose.

In late 2019 Hand Brake Turn introduced a mobile program which travels into schools to give students a

taster on the basics of automotive knowledge and car maintenance. It is hoped this program can be rolled out to schools across Victoria, but particularly in Dandenong. The mobile program was warmly received at Sunbury College recently with the Deputy Principal Craig O’Bree saying her was keen to give his VCAL students an opportunity to learn more from the program.

Concern Australia would like to hear from people who want to take part in the program and from people who can help support the program through the donation of cars, bicycles, tools and other resources.

Visit concernaustralia.org.au/ hand-brake-turn/ or phone 9470 2972 for more information.

FAST FACTS Greater Dandenong is home to about 27,000 young people aged 12–25 years. Nearly half of them were born overseas and nearly two-thirds speak a language other than English at home.

Statistics show that 13 per cent of young people in Greater Dandenong leave school before completing Year 11, compared to 10 per cent of students across metropolitan Melbourne.

www.greaterdandenong.com

Dandenong Market Sunday 19 April, 9am-3pm

Free even t

# Growing Our Future Together greaterdandenong.com/sustainabilityfestival

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