Stakeholder March 2018

CITY OF GREATER DANDENONG'S BUSINESS NEWS

MARCH 2018

The name of this bear and friends can be found on page 7

Facey turns 100 Page 9

Business Award winners Page 12–13

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CONTACT

FOCUS

Greater Dandenong Business Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong, Victoria 3175

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Enquiries to 8571 1550 www.greaterdandenong.com business@cgd.vic.gov.au Adrian Boden South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) Ph: 9768 2524 www.semma.com.au Tiffany Murray Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Ph: 9768 3283 www.greaterdandenongchamber.com.au Emilio Di Sisto Stakeholder Editorial Ph: 8571 1550 business@cgd.vic.gov.au Views expressed by individual contributors in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the City of Greater Dandenong.

Material from Stakeholder, Greater Dandenong‘s business news may be reproduced for noncommercial purposes provided the source is acknowledged, e.g. ‘This material first appeared in the City of Greater Dandenong’s Stakeholder publication, March 2018.'

elcome to the first edition of Stakeholder for 2018.

In this edition we introduce two innovative businesses who have just been awarded City of Greater Dandenong Business Grants for the 2017-2018 period. Congratulations to Live VR and Green & Co Farms. Their stories are featured on pages five and 10 respectively.

Congratulations also go to the recent winners of the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Awards Lifestyle Brands International, South East Brewing Company, Buildsafe, Illusion Australia, Jurgen’s Swiss Bread Company and Chisholm student Caitlin Whitney. The award categories were corporate social responsibility, small business, large business, employment, retail, innovation and youth enterprise. See pages 12 and 13 for an overview.

In this edition we feature RJ Sanderson & Associates, Café Noir, Gateway Industries, Facey Industrial Commercial, innovation from SEA Electric, Nissan Casting, Selfie Café,

Paul Kearsley.

and an “In Focus” on businessman Gerry Ryan plus many more local success stories and business opportunities and networking events for your business.

Paul Kearsley Group Manager, Greater Dandenong Business

Cover: Gerry Ryan and the Creature Technology Co. staff in front of the giant animatronic Sochi Bear.

To receive your copy of Stakeholder electronically, email business@cgd.vic.gov.au

Business Grants Awards T he latest round of City of Greater Dandenong’s Business Grants program has delivered two outstanding businesses reward and recognition for their excellent submission.

Grants were awarded to Live VR, virtual reality entertainment provider to stimulate mental and physical engagement for aged care facility residents and Green & Co Farms Pty Ltd a green wedge-based market

KEEP YOUR ABN INFORMATION UP TO DATE

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f your personal or business details change, you have 28 days to update your Australian Business Number (ABN) details.

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Your ABN details can be used by your customers and other businesses to confirm they are dealing with the right business.

If any of the following details have changed since you registered your ABN, you’ll need to update them: • legal name • postal address • business location

garden to produce fresh, healthy produce for local cafes, restaurants and farm-gate sales.

Greater Dandenong Mayor, Youhorn Chea wished the grant recipients all the very best for their future business aspirations.

Profiles of the winning businesses can be found on pages five and 10 in this edition of Stakeholder.

• email address • main business activity and industry code • entity type • contact information and associate details.

You can update your ABN details through the Australian Business Register. www.abr.business.gov.au

LOCAL NEWS

DANDENONG FIRM RANKED AMONG NATION’S BEST R

J Sanderson & Associates was recently included in Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Accounting Firms in Australia – 2017, ranked number 40. The list highlights organisations that “have invested in technology and recruited or trained staff up in technical skills” as well as revenue growth.

With its head office in Dandenong, RJ Sanderson & Associates achieved 13.4 per cent growth in the financial year 2016–17 with revenue of $11.59 million. Managing Director Roy Sanderson attributes this success to client referrals, from which 97 per cent of new business is generated.

“The AFR ranking enhances our firm’s credibility in the market; we’ve since been approached by two businesses that currently use one of the ‘big six’ accounting firms,” Mr Sanderson said.

Beating the trend for female representation in the Top 100 list, where on average one in five women were partners, five of RJ Sanderson’s

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seven partners are females (in addition to four male directors).

RJ Sanderson & Associates currently has nine Victorian offices plus one based in Albury and one in Brisbane, with plans to open or acquire five more over the next three years.

In preparation, the firm has been recruiting junior to intermediate staff as “leaders of the future”. Once a month, all staff undergo a training day at the Dandenong office. www.rjsanderson.com.au Roy Sanderson from RJ Sanderson & Associates

A recent survey asking clients their likelihood of referring RJ Sanderson & Associates to a colleague or friend returned a ‘Net Promotor Score’ of 83 per cent (compared with the benchmark of 8 per cent for Australian accounting practices), according to Mr Sanderson.

“Our management look after staff, staff look after our clients and clients look after us through referrals. We aim to exceed clients’ expectations around tax refunds, accounts, finance and superannuation – the pillars of our business.

SUPPORT OUR GROWING REGION

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outh East Melbourne’s population is growing by 120 new families a week, and it is vital this population growth is matched by jobs growth.

To bring regional strength to these efforts, the City of Greater Dandenong is part of SEM, a group of seven local councils, community and business leaders, advocating for issues which will impact the future of our region.

Almost half of Melbourne’s shipping containers pass through the south east. Action is needed now to secure the future of a South East Freight Hub to enable a potential 6,100 new local jobs and to prevent our roads becoming increasingly clogged by container trucks.

The South East Freight Hub would be a key part of the Port Rail Shuttle scheme which is designed to directly connect Port of Melbourne by rail to three hubs, at Dandenong South, Altona and Somerton.

With soaring population and jobs on the line, there’s never been a better time to make your voice heard.

Find your local MP’s contact details at southeastmelbourne.org and let them know you care about jobs for the south east.

Councillor Jim Memeti

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LOCAL NEWS

NEW CAFÉ OPENS AND IT’S NOT DARK AT ALL K eysborough single mum Ilana Offman knew she had to do something to ensure her young son Austin, diagnosed with autism, ADHD and a sensory processing disorder had a promising employment future.

She quit her job, threw all her savings at the Café and signed the lease with two goals in mind – firstly to have a

business and a job that could provide a good life for her kids and secondly, to make sure that Austin would always be able to get into sustained employment.

She’s trying to change the perceived notion of workers with special needs and make sure they’re not overlooked.

Illana Offman (middle front) with her team from Cafe Noir.

Café Noir opened in August 2017 in Kirkham Road West, Keysborough and Ilana has already hired 20-year-old Justin Burton, a kitchen hand who has autism. Justin has excelled at keeping things neat, clean and organised and has tried his hand at making pies and serving customers. A stickler for not breaking the rules, Justin has been known to time his breaks to the minute to make sure he’s not wasting company time.

Ilana has been very impressed with Justin’s work and has been advocating for more local businesses to take on workers with special needs. A local business in the industrial estate has hired a personal assistant with special needs after seeing Justin’s work ethic.

Ilana wants people with special needs to not be treated differently and be paid a normal wage.

She hopes the café does well so she can hire another worker with special needs and eventually open more cafés, giving access to employment opportunities for workers with special needs.

Café Noir is open from 6am to 2.30pm and is at 2 Kirkham Road West, Keysborough.

Image of railcar

Bombardier secures new VLocity contract for regional Victoria B

ombardier Transportation will build and deliver an additional 27 VLocity diesel multiple unit railcars for Transport for Victoria and the Victorian State Government. This will bring the total fleet to 264 railcars in passenger service by 2019. The total value of the contract is approximately $146 million.

"These trains will help address the mobility needs of a rapidly growing population. This order demonstrates confidence in our VLocity vehicle platform which was designed, engineered and manufactured in Victoria, for Victorians,” said Andrew Dudgeon, Managing Director of Bombardier Transportation in Australia.

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The new trains will incorporate 69 per cent local content and support over 600 jobs across the rail industry.

As part of the Victorian Government’s recently announced $18 million Regional Rail Connectivity Project, Bombardier is also installing in-train 4G signal technology in the regional fleet following the successful completion of a pilot program this year.

Operating on V/Line's Regional Rail Network since 2005, Bombardier has been building VLocity trains in Dandenong for more than 10 years. www.bombardier.com/australia

LOCAL NEWS

Liz De Nittis (far right) with the team at Gateway Industries

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Gateway Industries has ISO 9001 certification for processing and servicing at its Dandenong production and manufacturing facilities. It has a dedicated forklift driver, loading bay and storage facilities but staff can also work off-site for organisations.

A GATEWAY TO EMPLOYMENT G

ateway Industries has a 35-year history providing quality services to the community while employing individuals with mild disabilities. With Liz De Nittis filling the newly created position of Corporate Partnership & Marketing Executive, the organisation is aiming to attract new business in 2018.

Ms De Nittis attributes Gateway’s longevity to the organisation’s reputation. “Rotary initially recognised a need for a local Australian Disability organisation and continues to remain involved. We provide a Supported Wage System environment for

enthusiastic workers who are diligent and loyal.”

Gateway’s services include: • garden and grounds maintenance for retirement villages and other clients • woodworking, with major retailers and Vic Rail as customers • litter collection and bin cleaning for local Councils • mail-outs with competitive prices due to its concession discount with Australia Post • product assembly, collation, processing and packaging.

“Some people have been with us for 20 years because they can choose from a variety of jobs and settings. We have great supervisors ensuring work is of a high standard and our workers have great personalities – we can learn a lot from them,” Ms De Nittis said.

Employees are trained through Box Hill Institute and obtain certificates that assist them in future workplaces.

“People want to be part of not-forprofits and feel like they’re giving everyone a go. We always acknowledge our Partners through our website and events. The Dandenong community is very supportive, which has been a great door opener. Our recent open day attracted major manufacturers like Hilton Manufacturing, as well as SEMMA, Nissan Foundation Australia and Greater Dandenong Council.” www.gatewayindustries.com.au

Tech duo brings virtual reality to seniors T

he height of technology is being used to re-energise senior citizens thanks to new business LiveVR. Dr Eugene Gvozdenko and friend Alam Bhuiyan started the company in late 2016 and have recently moved to a Dandenong office.

“Eugene told me about VR in gaming, health and safety training, and in education,” said Mr Bhuiyan.

“We discovered VR can benefit residents in aged care who have fragile bodies but an active spirit. Those people still want to see new places and VR makes it possible.

“We found VR is the perfect platform for providing entertainment for the elderly who can’t leave their house or have limited eyesight.”

ensure they understand how it works.

Virtual reality gives the elderly physical and mental stimulation because they reach out and interact during the experience,” Mr Bhuiyan said.

Until now LiveVR has been working with existing software but has a team of developers as well as psychologists working on a new program. “We believe virtual reality can actually bring back memories for sufferers of dementia and assist with phobias or depression," Mr Bhuiyan said.

In addition to business mentoring, the City of Greater Dandenong business grant will assist Live VR to purchase office equipment, conduct marketing activity, and engage experts such as psychologists. Mr Bhuiyan said the recognition of the award was equally as important.

“We hope to give back to the community eventually in the form of a social enterprise for those who can really benefit health-wise from virtual reality.” livevr.com.au Dr Eugene Gvozdenko and Alam Bhuiyan receiving their award from Councillor Angela Long

Alam and Dr Gvozdenko partnered with Federation University in Melbourne to conduct feasibility studies on their proposal.

The university has undertaken research into virtual reality for health and safety, as well as nursing homes and residential care.

“We currently take the equipment to the client to give them the experience and STAKEHOLDER

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IN FOCUS

Making business look like a work of art “I

’ve got a little Philosophy: we have one journey and you don’t get to pass this way again, so I try to make every day a masterpiece,” says thriving entrepreneur Gerry Ryan.

As the founder of caravan manufacturer Jayco in 1975 and with business interests in sports, technology, entertainment production and even a theme park, Mr Ryan seems to have the magic touch for new ventures.

Starting out “I think it’s partly in the genes but my mother is a very encouraging woman and influenced the positive, ‘never give up’ attitude I have in life.

“We’ve got some scale and have flexibility in our manufacturing that others don’t. European and American companies have looked at the market here and they just can’t get over the number of products and floor plans we build. We look at value for money and customer choice and that’s where our success has been.”

The power of people Mr Ryan believes people are a business’ greatest asset, which includes suppliers, employees, distributors and customers.

“When I was 24, I became frustrated with the company I was working for because they didn’t want to listen to my ideas and didn’t want to change. I decided to build a better product and started Jayco,” Mr Ryan said.

“It’s so rewarding to see people develop and I hope that I’m making a difference in people’s lives. The secret to success is surrounding yourself with people that share the same passion and vision as you do, and have drive and ambition. I’ve been very fortunate to have good partners and managers across different businesses and operations.”

The Dandenong South-based business now builds 11,000 caravans per year and employs around 1,200 staff.

As someone who encourages professional growth and with an increasing number of commitments,

Mr Ryan put someone else in the driver’s seat of Jayco in 2015, stepping down as CEO but remaining involved as Chairman.

The evolution into entertainment and technology It was in 2015 that Mr Ryan invested in Marketplacer, a global technology platform for businesses wanting to create online marketplaces. Although information technology was not necessarily his strength at the time, he says he was no stranger to the increasing importance of online advertising and selling to reach customers.

“When investing in a business, you’ve got to look at how the company is positioned in that market and the size of that market. Look at the people involved in the business, the vision they have and their capabilities. You also need to look long term – I always say if you’re in it for a quick dollar, forget it.”

He has also been part of the phenomenal success of Global Creatures since 2004, an international entertainment group that develops new theatrical productions. “What we’ve achieved from basically being an Australian animatronics company focussing on the engineering and manufacturing side of things is incredible.

“We began with Walking with Dinosaurs and now we’ve got King Kong opening up in November in New York; we’ve got Moulin Rouge! in Boston from July, and Strictly Ballroom in the West End in London. Global Creatures is booked out for the next five years with work that is all export.”

Sporting prowess

Gerry Ryan

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Mr Ryan believes one of his biggest achievements was getting an Australian road racing team onto the world scene and ultimately to the Tour de France.

His interest in cycling stemmed from his roots in “cycling town” Bendigo. “It was pretty special – you’ve got to get a license so it took 18 months to set up in the late ‘90s.”

IN FOCUS

He has also managed to win two Melbourne Cups with his interest in racehorses, has worked on the board of St Kilda Football Club, and is a part owner of rugby league club Melbourne Storm.

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Gerry Ryan and the Creature Technology Co. staff in front of the giant animatronic Sochi Bear they made for the 2014 Winter Olympic Games opening ceremony

Business challenges When asked about his greatest business fear, Mr Ryan says it’s always the economy. “Without a strong economy and strong leadership from the government, it’s always tough on business. We’ve had challenging times during the recession and then the GFC (global financial crisis), but the industry is very healthy and has experienced growth every year since.

We also think too much regulation is coming in. The cost it adds to doing business is a big concern for building and manufacturing industries.”

Big business, big heart Mr Ryan has contributed to many not-for-profit organisations, such as Murdoch Children's Research Institute, and has worked on the boards of Sacred Heart Mission in St Kilda, Visit Victoria, Wine Victoria and The Ross Dennerstein Foundation (Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute).

“You’ve got to give back to the community and I’ve been very fortunate that I’m in a position where I can do that,” he says.

Onwards and upwards In just 12 months, Mr Ryan and his business partners purchased the 40-year-old Gumbuya World theme park in Tynong, rebuilt it and relaunched it in December 2017. Stage two and three of the new development is planned to include a hotel, glamping

at the park itself, a brewery, distillery, chocolate factory and conferencing facilities.

For Jayco, the future looks bright under CEO Garry Moore with plans to grow rental company ‘Let’s Go Motorhomes’, which it acquired in early 2017.

“We’re looking to expand our motorhome division to develop a new complex in Dandenong South and employ another 250 people in that division. We’ll be building manufactured homes and affordable housing, especially targeted to people retiring, selling homes and moving into lifestyle villages,” Mr Ryan said.

NUMBER OF BUSINESSES WITHIN GREATER DANDENONG BY TURNOVER

Zero

$50k

$100k

$200k

$500k

to less than $2m

$2m

to less than $50k

to less than $100k

to less than $200k

to less than $500k

22%

18%

17%

17% 14% 12%

or more

Source: REMPLAN

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TECHNOLOGY

Electric innovator transforms commercial vehicle industry A

$517,000 Victorian Government contribution has seen a fleet of electric trucks hit the road via a new technology expected to revolutionise medium-sized vehicles covering metropolitan areas.

“We established there would be a certain point in the future where the cost of electric vehicle technology would become economically viable for operators of commercial vehicles,” said Tony Fairweather.

Dandenong automotive technology company SEA Electric established its Electric Trucks arm in 2015 after Co-Founders Warren Fairwethaer and his son Tony identified an opportunity for electric vehicles in the commercial vehicle space.

“In 2010 a range of automotive analysts looked at the cost of lithium-ion cells (basic components of batteries), which were US $1,000 per kilowatt-hour at the time. At US $300 per kWh, they calculated the economics for electric vehicles would stack up and they forecast this would take 15 years – but it’s actually only taken six and that’s why we launched the technology in 2017.”

SEA has developed and patented six SEA-Drive™ models released last year, with each model customised to a specific category of commercial vehicle.

“We have an adaptable solution because it can ultimately fit into any cab chassis rail product despite the manufacturer. It’s aimed at a 200km per-charge range for start/stop vehicles, and a 3-4 hour charging window for up to 25 tonne vehicles, which is the

size of the electric garbage truck we’re producing in Dandenong.

“It’s ideal for a delivery-type vehicle, particularly metropolitan, where someone may be picking up items in the morning, and delivering in the afternoon. Once they return to their depot, the vehicle can be charged with reasonably low-cost infrastructure. It’s extremely exciting from an economic and environmental perspective, and it also cuts down on noise pollution.

“We’re not manufacturing major components – we’re integrating large components from around the world into our complete drive system to optimise it in Australia,” said Tony.

With the average upfront cost of an SEA electric truck currently costing $40,000 more than a diesel truck, but saving more than $10,000 per year in costs, Tony said after four years of ownership the vehicle savings would be significant.

“No maintenance is required on our electric models. We predict by the end of 2019 lithium-ion cells will be down to US $100 per kWh and the majority of small, light and medium duty trucks will be purchased as electric vehicles, so this transition is happening much faster than anyone forecast."

www.sea-electric.com

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LOCAL NEWS

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ONE CENTURY ON

Dandenong still sold on Facey T hree generations of the Facey family have built a real estate company into a success story, thriving despite wartimes and The Great Depression.

In November 2017, Facey celebrated 100 years of business in Dandenong.

In 1917, Frank Facey established ‘F.Facey House, Land and Estate Agent’. He handed the business over to son Angus Facey in the 1930s, then Angus on to his son Andrew in 1974, generating a number of successful ‘spin-off’ agencies over the years. In 1987 Facey Industrial Commercial commenced trading to specialise in commercial real estate. Today it remains the only agency with a Facey involved, with Andrew as shareholder.

Directors Mark Bond and Graham ‘Josh’ Kendall lead the company’s

sales, leasing and property management activities and the business employs more than 35 staff.

“Our longevity is due to the strong ethics founded by Frank and Angus that remain a vital cog in our business today. When we make a decision, it’s not about our profit, it’s about enhancing our clients’ profit, setting us up for a long-term relationship – that’s why you succeed,” Mr Bond said.

Facey was a winner at the REIV Commercial & Industrial Marketing Awards in 2016 and 2017.

“We use a mix of social media, print advertising and online. We were probably the first commercial agency in the south east to do videos, and we use geo-targeting so our EDMs (electronic direct marketing) are targeted.”

Graham Kendall Director

Facey’s 100 year celebrations last year included a special logo used in marketing collateral and stationery, a commemorative video, website with historical timeline, and a gala function for staff, clients and business partners.

“We were really proud to be able to mark such an occasion but we’re only as good as what we do next,” Mr Bond said. www.faceyindustrial.com.au

ICN Marketplace Unlocking More Opportunities for SMEs

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CN Marketplace powered by VendorPanel is a new and exclusive procurement platform that provides ICN registered suppliers with the opportunity to bid for more work.

The new ICN Victoria Marketplace complements ICN’s existing services provided through ICN Gateway and will target lower-value general procurement, and recurring operational procurement activity such as Maintenance, Repairs and Operations (MRO), minor civil works and small construction.

“ICN is all about unlocking opportunities for SME’s in Victoria and through this partnership with VendorPanel and the ICN Marketplace we are looking forward to increasing the number of SME’s engaged in local procurement,” said Don Matthews, Executive Director of ICN Victoria.

ICN Marketplace, at a glance…

What's in it for you?

• Win work with governments and corporates • Get invited to quote on small tenders (typically $2,000 - $250,000+) • You must be registered ICN Victoria Marketplace before you can be invited to bid.

How is it different from Gateway?

• Focus on smaller projects (<$1m) • Innovative technology powered by VendorPanel • Buyers can invite you directly (both government and large companies) • You can directly submit quotes and win work.

“This is an exciting initiative. We expect it will be especially valuable for early-stage local businesses and SMEs which are the lifeblood of the economy. The ICN Marketplace is designed to unlock the massive number of smaller projects, typically worth $5,000 to $150,000, that are below tender threshold and often better suited to SMEs than big tenders,” said James Leathem, VendorPanel Chief Executive Officer.

More information and details on how to join the ICN Marketplace can be found at www.icn.org.au/content/victoria/ icn-marketplace

ICN Marketplace is FREE and exclusive to Victorian suppliers registered with ICN. STAKEHOLDER

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LOCAL NEWS

Market garden to enrich Dandenong’s dining scene W

illiam Green is living true to his name, establishing ‘Green & Co Farms’, a five-acre permaculture farm on ‘green wedge’ land in Bangholme.

Mr Green aims to produce fresh, healthy produce for local cafés and restaurants, and offer farm-gate sales.

He began preparing the land and building infrastructure in August 2017 after securing a six-year lease on a vacant block.

“I’ve been working full-time in Chelsea until recently in research and development for a large baked-goods manufacturer,” said Mr Green, who has also worked as a chef. “We’ve been planting annual and perennial crops such as fruits and berries that will take a little while to mature.

“We’re aiming for the farm to produce seasonal produce and will concentrate on businesses around

Greater Dandenong – not many agricultural businesses like this exist in the area – and Brunswick, where I currently live.”

Mr Green’s interest in all areas of food and farming was ingrained from a young age, working with his mother on her vegetable garden in Benalla, through to completing a Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Sciences. He has maintained a greenhouse garden in Wonthaggi, and waited five years to obtain a garden plot at CERES in Northcote.

“Working in restaurants for as long as I did, you really appreciate that the best produce and knowledge comes directly from farmers. We’re aiming to be organically certified within two years, which is an intensive process, and we’re beginning to build our new greenhouse to offer seasonal produce for longer periods.

“The business grant will fund some of our infrastructure, a cool room, and small scale farming equipment to help in harvesting and planting. We’ve just begun small business mentoring and they have extensive experience to share,” Mr Green said.

Ashley Inglis representing Green & Co Farms and Councillor Angela Long

For further information, phone 0410 703 302.

MANUFACTURING

Manufacturing is a key economic driver in terms of exports, employment and value-added.

Greater Dandenong’s biggest industry sector

ABS 2016 industry quick facts:

• Manufacturing contributes 21.1% to Greater Dandenong’s GRP per annum • Manufacturing contributes 66% of total regional exports per annum

VALUE ADDED

REGIONAL EXPORTS

billion

$ 2.7

$10.6

BUSINESSES

EMPLOYMENT

WAGES & SALARIES

1,385

22,694

OUTPUT

$15.2

billion

• Manufacturing makes up 23.1% of total regional jobs.

• Employs 45% of Melbourne south’s manufacturing workforce and 10% of the state’s manufacturing workforce.

Source: REMPLAN

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billion

$1.7 billion

ACTIVITY CENTRES

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MASONIC HALL ART GALLERY REDEVELOPMENT

Artist impression

T

he Masonic Hall Art Gallery Redevelopment at 5 Mason Street is an exciting new initiative celebrating art and culture in Greater Dandenong.

Masonic Hall to create a new centre featuring spaces for local and touring exhibitions and artists, as well as community and creative events.

Recognising the importance of cultural experiences for people, the project will contribute to making central Dandenong a great place to live, work and visit.

The Masonic Hall is a significant heritage building in central Dandenong.

In view of that, the proposal has been designed to respect the heritage and cultural importance of the site, while introducing a contemporary art space that contributes to the city’s rich arts and cultural heritage. Advocacy for funding

The proposal includes a refurbishment and extension to the existing 1920s

for the project will commence soon.

The proposal includes: • State-of-the-art exhibition spaces for touring and local artists • Community, creative and workshop spaces • Cafe and retail opportunities • Active outdoor spaces along Halpin Way and Mason Street • New and engaging public art.

ACTIVITY CENTRE HISTORIC NARRATIVES

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o understand the present, many people look to the past for clues to why things look, feel and function a certain way.

The City of Greater Dandenong has developed a ‘Historic Narrative’ for its three Activity Centres to create an accessible document that traces the

evolution of Dandenong, Springvale and Noble Park from their indigenous beginnings to the present day.

Using information, books and references from a variety of sources the Historic Narratives reveal key insights into each place, including, its value to the indigenous community, natural

landscape qualities, early settlement characteristics, establishment of community infrastructure, retail, commerce, development and expansion.

The text captures key milestones, and describes the local dynamics that have either been the catalyst for change in the centres, or that provide clues as to each centre's unique characteristics.

Carefully selected photos from as early as 1870, through to more contemporary images, bring the journey of each centre to life.

Designed for easy reading at under 3,000 words each, the Historic Narratives will assist people to better understand their place and become a valuable reference to inform future decision making. www.greaterdandenong.com STAKEHOLDER

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BUSINESS AWARDS

AWARD-WINNERS HIGHLIGHT

TALENT & SUCCESS

IN GREATER DANDENONG

Five leading businesses and one enterprising young woman won their categories at the 2017 Greater Dandenong Chamber Business Awards in November. The presentation night at Atura Hotel Dandenong was the culmination of four business breakfasts held in 2017 to recognise outstanding local businesses.

OVERALL WINNER & CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD Lifestyle Brands International Beginning as a retailer in a shopping centre, Directors Uri and Roni Palti identified an opportunity to import their own products around 35 years ago.

Lifestyle Brands International is now one of Australia’s leading home décor marketers with the family business distributing more than 6,000 products to over 4,000 trade customers including Harvey Norman, Myer and Matchbox.

Big W has awarded the company Overall Supplier of the Year twice and the company employs 80 staff at its Noble Park facility. Lifestyle Brands has always demonstrated a high level of community engagement and support to organisations including The Royal Children’s Hospital, Impact for Women and Cambodia Rural School Trust. www.lifestyleb.com

Uri and Roni Palti Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD South East Brewing Company

Greg Cusack from award sponsor Ashfords with Cheryl Reeves and her sons, South East Brewing Company owners Callum and Nat Reeves.

Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal

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A small-scale batch of cider that two brothers made for a friend’s wedding saw the inception of South East Brewing Company in 2012 (home to Kaiju! Beer).

With Callum Reeve’s background in wine, and Nat Reeve’s in science and home brewing, they impressed at the Australian International Beer Awards with their first attempt, ‘Hopped Out Red’, taking a trophy. In 2015 the company moved into its own brewery in Dandenong South, purpose built to produce its craft beers and apple cider.

The company has grown rapidly with revenue close to tripling between the 2015-17 financial years, and has begun selling to Asian markets. www.kaijubeer.com.au

BUSINESS AWARDS

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LARGE BUSINESS AWARD AND EMPLOYMENT AWARD Buildsafe Buildsafe stands as an innovative leader in the height safety industry across many of Australia’s capital cities.

Since 2001, it has offered a simple, holistic service that compliments the construction process so clients can be sure of a compliant build. The company’s experienced team of 400 employees seek to eliminate the risks associated with construction through product design, engineering and smart working methods. Buildsafe excels in edge protection and offers fallguards, platforms, scaffolding and fencing, with a responsive operations team.

Peter Horton from Buildsafe with Jason Ashton from Macpherson Kelley.

Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal

www.buildsafe.net.au

RETAIL AWARD

INNOVATION AWARD Jurgen's Swiss Bread Company

Illusion's Nicholas Smith accepting the company's nomination Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal

Illusion Australia

Family-owned lllusion Australia is a supplier and local manufacturer of gas and wood heating products with more than 25 years’ experience. Its newly renovated headquarters in Dandenong has an extensive showroom, office, and distribution and manufacturing facilities under one roof. The business operates a further nine retail showrooms throughout Australia. All products are designed and manufactured in Dandenong and Illusion Australia applies Lean practices to ensure high levels of efficiency. Over the past five years the business has grown on average 17 per cent year-on-year and now has around 150 employees. illusionfires.com.au

A group of bakers started Jurgen’s Swiss Bread Company as an outletbased business in 1995 and Eduardo and Maria Rate purchased the company in 2003. The family-run business now employs around 100 staff and is focused on making high quality ‘handmade’ bread-based products but on a large scale, producing around 200 different types. In recent years the business has begun dealing with national customers such as Goodman Fielder and Subway, and has grown sales by 35 per cent since moving to its new Dandenong premises. Jurgen’s has a dedicated product development team that constantly works on improving existing products and developing new products, and has also acquired innovative automation equipment.

YOUTH ENTERPRISE AWARD

Caitlin Whitney Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal

www.jurgens.net.au

Caitlin Whitney

Edward Rato and Nelissa Sousa from Jurgen's Swiss Bread Company Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal

Caitlin commenced her studies at Chisholm in July 2016 and is currently completing a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Despite having visual dyslexia, Caitlin has developed coping strategies so her learning disability does not affect her work or trade school learning. Caitlin’s passion for mechanics began as a young girl, working with her father to fix cars, trucks and motorbikes, and to build their own go-carts. Caitlin’s next steps are to finish her apprenticeship and become fully qualified, before returning to school to become qualified in diesel and hydralics and ultimately have a career in the mining industry.

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SEBN (SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS)

The New Face of Poverty – Greater Dandenong Council & Industry partner for the 9th annual ‘Take a Swing for Charity’ Golf Day.

WHY NOT JOIN ONE OF OUR NETWORKS IN 2018 Including Manufacturers only events from CEO to Operations • Building Young Leaders • Women in Business • Common Interest Groups

LOOKING FOR LOCAL TALENT?

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t the time of going to print, we are on track for another great event which this year was held on Monday 26 February at Settlers Run Golf Course. The day supported two wellknown charities in the local community, Avocare and Cornerstone, addressing ‘The New Face of Poverty’ – families, singles, youth living in cars, on the streets, in boarding houses and caravan parks.

Unfortunately, many people today are just ‘one pay day’ away from poverty.

With more than $350,000 raised to date, we look forward to helping both charities provide a range of material aid for the local community – in particular food and hygiene essentials. Funds will also go to

establishing breakfast clubs for a number of local secondary colleges as each year there are hundreds of secondary school students who don’t have access to breakfast – let alone nutritional food needed to set them up for the day. While many primary schools receive funding, secondary schools are less likely to.

This event is a wonderful showcase of business and community working hand in hand and thanks to our amazing sponsors, players and donors, funds raised at the event really do make a difference.

For information go to www.greaterdandenong.com/sebn

worklocalgreaterdandenong.com.au Register today to: › Place your vacancy on the portal free of charge › Access local job seekers › Search resumes of registered job seekers.

For more information contact SEBN on: Ph: 8571 1576 Email: sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au Work Local Greater Dandenong

Newsflash!!

The City of Greater Dandenong is a proud recipient of VicHealth’s ‘Bright Futures’ funding.

Through SEBN’s Business-Employment activities, young unemployed jobseekers and business leaders STAKEHOLDER

VUCA – what does it mean to you?

Today, we’re all used to working in what is commonly known as a ‘VUCA’ environment – volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. Whilst we may be managing day to day – how sustainable is this environment, and your business, in the longer term?

What should you do? What can you do NOW to ensure the ongoing sustainability of your business into the next decade and beyond?

together will share a leadership development journey as they participate in Kitchen CHALLENGE! Delivered by the UK’s Rob Rees MBE DL, the participants undertake an eight day program learning to cook, make healthy food choices and develop their leadership skills - finally delivering a restaurant quality lunch for 50.

The Bright Futures funding has made this opportunity available to local young people and business leaders and we will be calling for nominations later this year.

If you’re interested in finding out more about this special workshop series, email sgeorg@cgd.vic.gov.au today.

kitchenchallenge.com.au www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/brightfutures

INDUSTRY

SMART MANUFACTURING 2018 Building on the success of the 2016 spectacular, the Committee for Dandenong, together with SEMMA and the City of Greater Dandenong look forward to once again demonstrating the powerhouse that is Australia’s manufacturing heartland – Greater Dandenong and the south east!

The proposed major exhibition and symposia to highlight the economic strength, vibrancy and innovation and

manufacturing prowess of the region will be held in September. As part of this event, the Victorian Department of Trade is looking to attract a delegation of more than 150 overseas companies. You can have input into the invitees for this inbound trade mission by completing this survey at www.surveymonkey. com/r/XJ9S7RQ and identifying businesses, sectors or countries that you would like to supply to.

Cars for the community F

rom humble beginnings, Booran Motors has grown to nine car dealerships employing around 400 people since it began over 50 years ago. Despite this success, the familyowned company still retains a personal touch, reinforced by its ongoing contribution to the community.

Booran Motors has utilised the latter to support OzChild in its mission to provide young people with a better future. Fleet Manager Malcolm McPhee won OzChild’s President’s Award for his idea of providing free car servicing to carers to ensure their older vehicles are roadworthy.

The business has had a presence in Dandenong since 1995, and Managing Director Steve Cadden is now based there. With side-by-side dealerships for Mitsubishi, Holden, Suzuki, Hyundai and Peugeot, Booran Motors has made Lonsdale Street a car shopping paradise.

As an ambassador for the cause, Mr Cadden said Booran Motors decided to focus its charitable efforts on one organisation 10 years ago, and selected OzChild when it approached the dealership to purchase cars.

“When my father started out, Holdens made up 40 per cent of the Australian car market. As tariffs started winding down in the early 2000s, we sought out Japanese and Korean brands fairly aggressively.

“Today 40 per cent of our sales are Hyundai models and 25 per cent are Holden. We do a lot of rental and fleet business, used car sales, and also offer parts and car servicing,” Mr Cadden said.

“Our partnership is an approach of ‘ring us if you have any problems’.

We support OzChild through financial contributions, providing cars and in sending our staff to assist with trades.”

Booran Motors also employs disabled workers on a casual basis, and provides a regularly serviced car for the VicRoads L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program to teach young adults to drive in Dandenong. www.booran.com.au

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Greater Dandenong Goods and Services sectors OUTPUT

57%

43%

Value Added

22% 78% Employment

24% 76%

Goods sector Services sector Source: REMPLAN

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BUSINESS

Café plans to make unforgettable coffee impression

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new local café is set to become a social sensation by printing its customers’ pictures in coffee beans and chocolate powder.

The Selfie Café is located on the ground floor of Buckley Central promising a Lygon Street experience with its glass frontage in the heart of Noble Park.

Owner Miad Fakhra said although the venue had opened in July, its launch event occurred in February after delivery of the specialised technology.

“We’re currently finalising the deal in the US to have exclusive rights for the

machine in Australia and we plan to later franchise our business. Customers will be able to send their selfie to the machine and have their own picture created on their coffee.

“Another Australian café is doing this in colour but it affects the taste of the coffee. The beauty of the machine

we’re purchasing is the coffee still tastes great,” Mr Fakhra said.

The family business has experience in running restaurants in both Iran and Australia but aims to appeal to a multicultural clientele with a menu covering Mediterranean and Indian cuisine, mocktails, ice creams, plus crowd favourites such as the beef burger.

As part of its ‘all are welcome’ policy, the café also has halal and gluten-free options, and is also pet-friendly.

“We have 10 teachers from a local school who come by almost daily because they love our Persian food so much,” Mr Fakhra said.

The Selfie Café seats 100 people indoors and outdoors, provides catering, and has already accommodated special events such as weddings.

Alliance adds strength to Victorian defence industry

V

ictorian Defence Alliances (VDA) provide valuable opportunities for local companies seeking to supply products and services to the national and international defence industry markets.

VDA were established through a partnership between the State Government of Victoria and the Australian Industry & Defence Network – Victoria.

The Alliances assist member companies to bid for work in defence industry supply chains, as well as connecting them with industry prime contractors and key government stakeholders.

Five separate groups each represent major defence market domains: VDA – Aerospace, VDA – Digital, VDA – Land Systems, VDA – Maritime, and VDA – Submarines. This provides an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration between member companies, and

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the opportunity to connect to major businesses bidding for defence projects.

It’s free to join VDA for all Victorianbased defence industry businesses, but educational and other institutions may also apply.

Other membership benefits include: • sharing knowledge, experience and advice • advice on pathways and programs for companies to improve competence, capability and competitiveness • accessing critical information and analysis of defence market opportunities • invitations to VDA events. www.victoriandefencealliances.org.au

Aside from the soon-to-be ‘selfie coffee’, the venue offers everything from a latte to a Turkish coffee with a professional barista on the premises. www.facebook.com/theselfiecafe or @theselfiecafe on Instagram

The Board of Chisholm Institute announced recently the appointment of Rick Ede as their new Chief Executive Officer following the retirement of Maria Peters.

Dr Rick Ede has come to Chisholm Institute after being the Chief Executive of Unitec, New Zealand’s largest Institute of Technology, after leading the institution for almost 10 years.

An in depth interview with Rick will feature in the June edition of Stakeholder.

BUSINESS

17

New multi story residential development for Dandenong

W

ith the launch of its latest high-density development on the site of a former cattle saleyard in Dandenong, the Burbank Group continues to diversify the area’s housing offering.

The architecturally-designed building offers 72 one and two bedroom apartments, as well as 10 ‘maisonettes’ or double-storey apartments.

Workers at Nissan Casting

NISSAN DEFIES THE ODDS WITH

35-YEAR ANNIVERSARY N

issan celebrated 35 years of ongoing local manufacturing in November with its dedicated casting plant in Dandenong still delivering.

Sitting on 90,000 sqm, the Nissan Casting Plant (NCAP) employs 192 skilled workers and runs three shifts a day, seven days a week. It makes approximately 2.6 million die-cast aluminium parts and more than 16,000 tow bars with an export value of $82.5 million annually.

Parts are distributed to Renault-Nissan (Alliance) vehicle assembly plants, Nissan affiliate powertrain plants globally, and companies such as Calsonic Kansei.

“We have exclusive supply contracts awarded by Nissan Global that will keep the plant operating well into the next decade,” said Nissan Casting

Australia Managing Director Peter Jones. “Nissan is still a fully integrated OEM car brand in Australia defying the belief that automotive manufacturing doesn’t have a place in our country.”

“We are thrilled to be officially launching Cumulus to the public and look forward to seeing our latest vision for Dandenong come to life over the next couple of years,” explains Burbank Group managing director Jarrod Sanfilippo.

The apartments are expected to be complete by the close of 2020.

Experts in high and low-pressure die casting, precision machining, component assembly and accessories manufacturing, NCAP currently creates 60 different parts specific to oil pans, gearbox and final-drive housing, and electric vehicles.

Nissan has worked with organisations like CSIRO to develop technologies that guarantee the best in workmanship.

“Our quality department uses the same kind of measuring machines and granite tables used by Formula One teams. These parts are so precise that they match up exactly with parts made in Japan to a tolerance of 15 microns, less than the diameter of a human hair,” said Mr Jones.

As it heads towards 2025, Nissan continues to invest in its facilities, with $11 million committed to NCAP over the past two years.

“This investment was supported by financial grants from the State Government of Victoria and the Federal Government, both of which understand the importance of continued local manufacturing.” www.nissan.com.au STAKEHOLDER

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LOCAL NEWS

City goes to the Country T

he City of Greater Dandenong is cohosting a Melbourne Food and Wine Festival - Regional Longest Lunch at Acheron, on Friday 16 March.

This event is showcasing products from Greater Dandenong businesses and the following took up the opportunity to be showcased at this dedicated foodie’s event.

Kaiju Beer, Craft and Co, Uncle’s Smallgoods, Rob’s British Butcher, A1 Bakery, From Granny, Moondarra Cheese, Punjab Sweets, Tease Tea, Kez’s Kitchen and Cobs Popcorn.

As part of the business participation they also had the opportunity to set up a stall in February in Harmony Square, the public space near the Civic Centre in Dandenong.

These businesses were featured alongside businesses from the Murrindindi Shire, including Little River Winery and Marian Rennie who is the restauranteur for the 5 course lunch.

All guests will receive a show bag at the end of the lunch and if you want to get your product into the hands of 150 dedicated foodies, please contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au

Bookings for the lunch go to: www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au

Yoshi from Moondarra Cheese.

Photo courtesy of Dandenong Star Journal.

Continued support for members in 2018 S

EMMA finished 2017 with a bang with their Christmas function held at Nissan Casting and sponsored by Vative and AB Phillips. The evening was a great opportunity to meet and network with SEMMA members, politicians, industry people and have a drink together.

This year’s event saw record attendance of over 210 guests.

This year the event was attended by many MP’s from both sides of the political spectrum. As SEMMA is apolitical they were happy to host parties from all sides of politics.

Peter Jones, Managing Director of the host sponsor Nissan Casting, opened the evening event and enlightened us

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all on the Nissan Casting plant and their industry changes. He also welcomed the SEMMA guests to their facility, with the opportunity to take a tour of their factory.

Over 70 guests took the opportunity to take the enlightening tour of their factory and see their automation processes.

On behalf of the SEMMA team and Board, thank you for attending the end of year event and celebrating another year working together to support manufacturing.

Council, Committee for Dandenong and SEMMA are all working on the upcoming Smart Manufacturing event for 2018 to be held in Dandenong in September.

Planning is now underway for the SM18 September event, along with other interesting events hosted by SEMMA and in collaboration with their members and Council partners.

LOCAL NEWS

THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY produces 13% of GD’s output Value Added $1379m

$

+ 895m

Job

Regional Export

9852

+ 5999

$1186m

2016

+

2011

2016

2011

Backward linkages • It is estimated that 57 cents of every dollar of output generated by the sector is spent on locally sourced intermediate goods and services.

Employment • Represents 10% of total regional employment.

Regional Exports • Contributes 7.4% of total regional exports

Value-added

$1022m

2011

19

• Contributes 11% in terms of marginal economic value to the GD region.

2016

Source: REMPLAN

THE TRANSPORT, POSTAL AND WAREHOUSING industry produces 6% of total GD’s output Backward linkages Value Added

$

+ 405m

$ 981m

Job

+ 2541

Regional Export

7575

$

+ 374m

$755m

• It is estimated that 39 cents of every dollar of output generated by the sector is spent on locally sourced intermediate goods and services.

Regional Exports • Contributes 5%of total regional exports.

Value-added • Contributes 7.5% of marginal economic value to the GD region.

2011

2016

2011

CHAMBER CHAT

T

he Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce saw an influx of new life in 2017 with the revamp of their image, strategic direction and a 50 per cent increase in membership numbers.

For 2018 the Chamber has a fantastic calendar of events planned, beginning with monthly networking evenings. These events continue to gain momentum with the February event receiving a record number of 125 RSVP’s.

March will see the Chamber co-host its second event with SEBN to support International Women’s Day with, a Women in Business Breakfast event on Friday, 9 March, featuring inspirational guest speaker Samantha Gash.

2016

2011

2016

Source: REMPLAN

The 2018 Business Awards Breakfast’s will also commence in March. This year will continue to build on the success of the 2016 and 2017 awards program.

If you believe that you have a great business story and are in the Greater Dandenong area – then please consider nominating yourself for an award. Alternatively, if you know of an outstanding business in the area – nominate them.

The full program consists of four Business Award Presentation Breakfasts through the year with the final Awards Presentation event being held in November.

September brings the 19th Annual Grand Final Charity Awards Lunch.

The 2017 event raised, with the support

of valued sponsors and guests, a total of $13,000 which was distributed to Make-a-Wish Foundation and The Caroline Chisholm Foundation.

The Chamber is currently in the process of developing a community program with local schools to develop sponsorship, mentorship and educational opportunities between students and local business. If you are interested in partaking as a school or business, then please contact us with your expression of interest. www.greaterdandenongchamber.com.au STAKEHOLDER

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GOVERNMENT

AUSINDUSTRY OVERVIEW AusIndustry is the Australian Government’s ‘business shopfront’ helping firms that want to innovate, undertake R&D, commercialise new technology, grow and become more internationally competitive to access the government information, grants and services that can help them. Contact AusIndustry via www.business.gov.au or their contact centre support line 13 28 46

A

ustralian makers of traditional Asian foods have no fears about trying to sell dumplings to the Chinese market – in fact, it makes perfect business sense to Dandenong South based food company Crazy Dragon.

The Asian market in general, and the Chinese in particular, are massive fans of Aussie ingredients. Our lamb and beef, in particular, is trusted and respected the world over for its quality.

That was the clincher for Crazy Dragon to tackle a new market. They hope to launch product in China by mid-2018.

Juy Hepner, Crazy Dragon Business Development Manager, said the company’s food lines that have been a hit in Australian supermarkets can’t be exported to China as such, but they can export meat and ingredients to China and have local kitchens manufacture their lines.

The Crazy Dragon packaging for its China-made foods will be a little different, too, featuring a QR code that enables consumers to view videos of the Aussie farm, farmer, landscape and livestock that has contributed to the product – complete with Chinese subtitles.

Six product lines are sold here in Australia in 2500 supermarkets nationally. Crazy Dragon’s range of frozen foods include

Mercedes Packaging P/L

dumplings, spring rolls, steam buns, empanadas, shu mai and dim sims.

The reputation that Australia’s produce is clean and green nature really hit home for Crazy Dragon management after they joined a large delegation backed by the Australian Government at HOFEX 2017 in Hong Kong – Asia’s leading food and hospitality trade show creating contacts and networks across Asia.

The Australian Government’s Industry Growth Centres initiative funds Food Innovation Australia Limited. FIAL took the Aussie contingent to HOFEX 2017. FIAL helped Crazy Dragon find networking opportunities and assisted with their promotion and marketing.

The Industry Growth Centres Initiative is an industry-led approach driving innovation, productivity and competitiveness by focusing on areas of competitive strength and strategic priority. This will help Australia transition into smart, high value and export focused industries.

The Initiative enables national action on key issues such as collaboration, commercialisation, international engagement, skills and regulation reform. It drives excellence, not dependence. www.crazydragon.com.au

Sypharma P/L

T

he Australian Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund (AMGF) is supporting Dandenong businesses in advanced manufacturing. Two local examples include Mercedes Packaging P/L for a Digital Manufacturing Transformation project and Sypharma P/L to develop a centre of excellence in pharmaceutical manufacturing – and both exciting projects are underway.

AMGF Round 2 (worth $16.4 million) recently closed, and funding decisions are expected later in the year.

Crazy Dragon dumplings

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www.business.gov.au/assistance/ advanced-manufacturing-growth-fund

LOCAL NEWS

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NOBLE PARK SHOP LOCAL CAMPAIGN A

Shop Local campaign has been implemented by the trader care team on the Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project. The campaign is encouraging local residents and visitors to support traders while construction works continue.

All workers on the project sites are encouraged to support local businesses too. This is evident when you walk down the street and see all the people in high vis vests enjoying the diverse range of food and shopping in the area.

During the works the project is also offering free mentoring support to traders via the Small Business Mentoring Service, which is an independent not-for-profit association. levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/crossings/ caulfield-to-dandenong

As part of the campaign, traders have been provided with a Shop Local pack which includes branded collateral to help them share the message via small reusable bags, badges, stickers, and a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Still Openâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; door hanger.

The team also developed a local business directory with a parking map and discount vouchers from local traders who opted in to the free advertising. The directories were placed in reusable Shop Local bags and letterbox dropped to 13,000 Noble Park residents to encourage people to continue shopping locally.

Tales of Brick and Mortar I

n an age of modern technology, a partnership of the old and the new is coming together on a website.

Aron Lewin is a modern day journalist and he is using social media to introduce businesses that have been trading for many years and are part of the fabric of communities across Melbourne.

Aron started the website Tales of Brick and Mortar in May 2017 profiling Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s older retail outlets and has visited and interviewed over 30 businesses so far.

Recently Aron completed three interviews of iconic Greater Dandenong businesses including Roshans Fashions based in Little India cultural precinct on Foster Street, (established in 1995), Dandee Donuts in the Dandenong Market, (established in 1968) and Afghan Rahimi Restaurant on Walker Street, Dandenong, (established in 2001).

Aron captures the essence of the business owners from when they first set up their business and their journey along the way.

If you are a retail business that has been around for a long time and have a story to tell, contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au

Shahid Syed from from Roshans Fashion. Photo courtesy of Tatiana C C Scott.

talesofbrickandmortar.wordpress.com STAKEHOLDER

OPPORTUNITIES

Two businesses in Dandenong, Chobani Pty Ltd and Moondarra Cheese, were recently awarded $21,500 in grants to help reduce their energy usage under the Victorian Government’s Boosting Business Productivity Program.

MAJOR INVESTMENT D

Yoghurt manufacturer Chobani received $12,800 and Moondarra Cheese received $8,600 of grant funding.

Nutribiotech, a leading nutritional supplement producer with factories in China, Korea and the US, has chosen Dandenong South as the location for its fourth global manufacturing. The organisation has received support from the Victorian Government.

GR EA

G ON

For more information on the program, please contact Sustainability Victoria’s Sustainable Business advisors on 1300 363 744 or email grants. enquiries@sustainability.vic.gov.au

The new facility is a complete manufacturing system that takes products from concept and R&D right through to manufacture and final R DANDEN packaging.

TE

MAJOR INVESTMENT

NG

AT E

E

The program, delivered by Sustainability Victoria, supports businesses with three different efficiency grants, including a sustainable finance service, training events, and information resources.

The Energy Assessment Grants are open to businesses spending more than $20,000 a year on energy.

The Korean-based company makes vitamins, minerals and nutritional supplements for several major Australian brands. It also produces its

own products and exports to more than 25 countries around the world.

GR

Both businesses are now working with an experienced energy consultant to further identify potential energy efficiency improvements, review pricing tariffs, and suitable renewable energy options.

andenong South will be home to a new state-of-the-art facility that will create 150 new full-time jobs over the next three years.

O

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R DANDE

N

Staff and friends of Dandenong South company Chobani, participated in the recent Clean Up Australia Day at the Dandenong wetland site.

to being active members of our communities where we live and work. Participating in the Clean Up Australia Day was a great way for us to give back to our community.”

According to Sandy Gain Sustainability Manager from Chobani “at Chobani, we believe that business can be a force for good, from how we make our products

If you would like to organise for your business to participate in next years’ Clean Up Australia Day, please visit www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au

Small Business Bus dates The Victorian Government's Small Business Bus provides free mentoring and face-to-face assistance to help you start or build your small business.

Wednesday 14 March Dandenong – Palm Plaza Thursday 15 March Springvale – Multicultural Place To book a mentor session contact Business Victoria on 13 22 15 or business.vic.gov.au/sbb

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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Visit greaterdandenong.com/events

MARCH

APRIL

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival – Regional World’s longest Lunch

Tax Essential Workshop for Small Business

Enjoy multiple dishes over five courses featuring Greater Dandenong and regional produce.

• Friday 16 March • 12pm – 4pm $150 per ticket (incl. GST) www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au

The Airplane Game A simulation game to Lean Concepts • Tuesday 20 March • 9am – 4.30pm FREE Event Bunjil Place, Library 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren Contact Bruno Bello on 0409 123 701 for more information on this workshop

Reinvent; Refresh; Realign – Tools to take your business to the next level Presented by Danielle Storey, CEO Eastern Innovation Business Centre • Thursday 22 March • 6pm – 8pm Eastern Innovation Business Centre 5a, Hartnett Close, Mulgrave $20 per participant Contact 8571 1550 or business@cgd.vic.gov.au to register

Greater Dandenong Chamber Business Awards Breakfast Guest Speaker – David Corduff – beyondblue Ambassador • Friday 23 March • 7am – 9am Punthill Dandenong Members – $50 Non-Members – $65 Contact 9768 3283 or events@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au to register

Presented by Australian Taxation Office • Monday 16 April • 10am – 12pm Westall Community Hub 35 Fairbank Road, Clayton South Free Contact 9581 4786 or business@ kingston.vic.gov.au to register

Bombardier Networking Night • Wednesday 18 April • 5.30pm – 7.30pm Bombardier Dandenong Members – Free Non-Members – $15 Contact 9768 3283 or events@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au to register

Top Social and Digital Marketing Tips Presented by Jade Roberts from raraPR • Thursday 19 April • 6pm – 9pm Dandenong Civic Centre Level 2, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong $35.00 per participant Contact 8571 1550 or business@cgd.vic.gov.au to register

MAY KPMG Networking Night • Wednesday 9 May • 5.30pm – 7.30pm Venue TBC Members – Free Non-Members – $15 Contact 9768 3283 or events@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au to register

Greater Dandenong Chamber Business Awards Breakfast Guest Speaker to be confirmed • Friday 18 May • 7am – 9am Punthill Dandenong Members – $50 Non-Members – $65 Contact 9768 3283 or events@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au to register

JUNE Platinum Partner Networking Night • Wednesday 6 June • 5.30pm – 7.30pm Venue TBC Members – Free Non-Members – $15 Contact 9768 3283 or events@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au to register

Record Keeping Workshop for Small Business Presented by Australian Taxation Office • Thursday 26 April • 10am – 1pm Westall Community Hub 35 Fairbank Road, Clayton South Free per participant Contact 9581 4786 or business@kingston.vic.gov.au to register

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