Stakeholder September 2017

September 2017 Victorian Young Manufacturer of the Year Page 3

Agribusiness Summit Page 4

Addressing energy costs Page 11

Waste exchange opportunities Page 15

IS ENERGY C STING YOU YOUR BUSINESS?

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 1346 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.

n this edition we highlight some of the issues and opportunities that our businesses face in regards to energy and waste costs. We celebrate the achievements of Anne Koopmann from Bombardier Transportation, in winning the Young Manufacturer of the Year award at the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame awards.

We feature an evolving Social Enterprise PAWS (Picking and Warehousing Solutions) based in Dandenong South which is assisting youth to become job-ready.

Read about recent events: the Victorian Agribusiness Summit held in Dandenong, and Springvale Snow Fest.

Strong attendances at Council's business workshops and seminars has continued. Refer to the Calendar of Events section to find a workshop or seminar for you.

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, September 2017.'

Our centre pages put the spotlight on technology, highlighting business tech trends and how innovative use of technology is providing visualisation of a local major project.

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

Businesses such as Volgren, Rob’s British Butchers, Nissan Casting, Campeyn Group and Southern Colour are profiled.

Paul Kearsley.

On pages 14 and 15 you will find the latest activities brought to you by the South East Business Networks (SEBN), including a must read ASPIRE case study.

Finally, I encourage you to read the Food and Tourism pages, which highlight the diverse activities occurring in these sectors.

Paul Kearsley Group Manager, Greater Dandenong Business

Property professionals explore energy issues at forum O

ver 80 real estate and development professionals took time out on 9 August to attend Council’s annual Real Estate and Developer Forum.

of Property, Construction and Project Management set the scene, providing research-based projections on the nature and attributes of future industrial and commercial property developments.

Plastics Australia rounded out the presentations with a practical overview of the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers in their efforts to reduce energy costs.

Forum attendees were provided the opportunity to learn more about the future direction of the industrial and commercial property market and the increasing role that energy use efficiency will play in attracting and retaining building owners and tenants, and maintaining asset values.

Scott Bocskay, CEO of the Sustainability Melbourne Fund then outlined the benefits of Environmental Upgrade Agreements, a mechanism for both property owners and tenants to finance energy cost reduction investments (refer to article on page 11).

The Forum concluded with a lively Q and A session where a panel, comprising the three presenters and senior council executives, responded to a broad range of insightful questions and comments.

Professor Chris Eves from RMIT’s School

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Simon Whiteley, Managing Director of Dandenong South based Corex

Refer to pages 10, 11 and throughout the edition to read more about energy issues and opportunities.

MANUFACTURING

Young manufacturer goes from strength to strength

Anne Koopmann on stage at the awards night answering questions.

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Anne Koopmann with her award.

from my current manager, David Collomb, has been paramount in developing me as a more effective people manager.”

ombardier Transportation’s Anne Koopmann has utilised her education, passion and problem-solving skills to be recognised as ‘Young Manufacturer of the Year’ at the 2017 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame awards.

countries in 18 months before moving to Australia in 2012 as a Methods Engineer. Today, after three promotions, Ms Koopmann is Bombardier’s Head of Quality and LEAN Australia.

The 33 year-old completed her Master’s degree in Germany, studying mechanical engineering and business management, and choosing to major in manufacturing engineering after a fourmonth internship with Ford.

“I believe there is always room for improvement. I enjoy working in teams and a career in manufacturing enables you to constantly work with colleagues from several different functions, exchange ideas and drive improvement together.

“I found the process of production set-up fascinating and I was absolutely amazed by the whole assembly line process,” Ms Koopmann said

“I am good in connecting dots quickly and that helps me foresee risks and opportunities. I would say I am a creative problem solver and have the ability to influence outcomes.

She began with Bombardier in Germany as a Global Graduate Trainee, working across three

“I’ve had several great mentors throughout my career, but the support

Ms Koopmann helped implement a supplier development program that supports Bombardier’s most critical suppliers to reach quality targets, achieving savings of more than $2.4 million and generating production savings of 6000 hours on the Melbourne LRV project.

“This award is hopefully a great example for other young engineers and females in male-dominated industries, and it’s also a win for Bombardier, which has given me so many opportunities,” she said. www.bombardier.com

LARGE CONTRACT AWARDED TO LOCAL COMPANY

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ombardier Transportation in conjunction with CPB Contractors has formed the Rail Systems Alliance to deliver the $1 billion Metro Tunnel project. The Alliance will undertake a roll-out of a high capacity signalling and communications system. The 55km of the high-capacity signalling will allow trains to run closer together.

A dedicated control centre will also be built in Dandenong to support the new technology. The centre will allow the staff to monitor trains on the new Metro Tunnel line.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Transport, Jacinta Allan with Alliance representatives.

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AGRIBUSINESS SUMMIT

Victoria’s best meet locally for Agribusiness Summit F

ood producers, manufacturers and students from around the state met in Dandenong on 17 and 18 August for the Victorian Agribusiness Summit 2017.

The theme for this year’s event was ‘SMART Technologies 4 Food’ with the increasing need for agribusinesses to be nimble in their business practices, allowing the adoption of innovation and efficiencies in production.

According to Executive Officer for the Victorian Agribusiness Council Inc. (VAC) Bronwyn Debenham, the annual Summit has developed a reputation as a ‘not-to-be-missed networking event’ for agribusinesses such as producers, food and packaging manufacturers, all levels of government, and service providers.

“The VAC welcomed the visionary approach shown by the City of Greater Dandenong to hold the Summit in an area representing the meeting of minds between those in food production and those in food manufacturing and the association supply chain. As businesses look to improve their competitiveness, the information provided throughout the Summit offered the opportunity for

them to look at new and better ways of producing,” she said.

Former Victorian Premier John Brumby, National President of the Australia China Business Council, was guest speaker, sharing his expertise and stories of conducting trade in both Victoria and China.

Other speakers included: • Gavin Smith, President and Chair of Robert Bosch Australia, on how the application of artificial intelligence, block chain and the 'Internet of Things' will impact business, and can facilitate improvements for smart operators throughout the food value chain.

all areas of the business has seen him recognised as Australian Young Farmer of the year (2011), the Coles Rising Star (2015), and Rabo Bank Emerging Leader of the Year (2016).

• Clive Larkman, Chair of VAC and Chair of Agribusiness Yarra Valley. As owner of Larkman Nurseries, he has grown the business from producing 400,000 plants per year to one of the top specialist propagation nurseries in Australia with a production level of 2 million tubes per annum. www.vicagsummit.com.au

• Dr Anne Astin, Chair of Food Agility Cooperative Research Centre, a scientist with a thorough understanding of the complex food supply chain from production to consumption, outlined the opportunities provided through the new Food Agility CRC. • Jan Vydra, co-founder of Fresh Leaf Herbs, a business that has experienced year-on-year growth.

Jan’s focus on driving innovation in

Food and Agribusiness Roadmap

K

eeping a greater share of food processing onshore and better differentiating Australian food products are major themes across the new CSIRO Food and Agribusiness Roadmap, which calls on businesses to act quickly or risk losing future revenue streams to the competitive global market.

Developed with widespread industry consultation and analysis, the Roadmap seeks to assist Australian food and agribusinesses with the desire to pursue growth and new markets.

Deputy Director of CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Dr Martin Cole said Australia was well positioned to act as a

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delicatessen of high-quality products that meet the needs of millions of informed and discerning customers both here and abroad.

“Australian businesses are among the most innovative in the world, and together with our world-class scientists, can deliver growth in the food and agribusiness sector amid unprecedented global change,” Dr Cole said.

“Less predictable growing conditions, increasingly global value chains and customers who demand healthier, more convenient and traceable foods are driving businesses to new ways of operating.

The Roadmap was developed in collaboration with the governmentfunded food and agribusiness growth centre: Food Innovation Australia Limited (FIAL).

“This Roadmap will set us on the path to sustainable growth in the sector.”

Visit www.csiro.au to view a copy of the Roadmap.

SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY

Social enterprise proves fulfilling in many ways

OUR PEOPLE. OUR COMMUNITY

C

hill is a national logistics company that specialises in cold storage, transport, event logistics, custom vehicle builds, experiential activations and mobile coolroom hire.

“What I’m most proud of is the people in our team” says Grant Peters, Chill’s Operations Manager for the Dandenong office. “We place a huge amount of importance on hiring local people, using local suppliers and helping the community we live in”.

Chill's Team Vic work with the City of Greater Dandenong, assisting in the delivery of Council’s Food Safety Management Plan. “Certain situations call on our team’s high level of professionalism and rapid response rate,” says Grant, “this is a critical program to keep the community safe and ensuring food businesses are compliant with Australian Food Standards Code.”

Managing Director Colin Stimpson, with Operations Supervisor Brett Young.

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Dandenong South social enterprise is assisting youth to become job-ready. PAWS (Picking and Warehousing Solutions) Fulfilment began in 2013 to work with long-term unemployed individuals.

PAWS Fulfilment was the first of Whitelion’s four social enterprises, according to PAWS Managing Director Colin Stimpson. “It came from a strategic review of White Lion, a support agency for youth at risk, and the sustainability of our efforts to support disadvantaged youth,” said Mr Stimpson.

“We found a great study from 2011

by The University of New South Wales (Australian Stories of Social Enterprise) and saw that servicerelated social enterprises need to have a clear business strategy and good governance.

“We now invest all profits back into the business and have been in surplus since the day we started, gradually building up PAWS Fulfilment and not falling into the risks of expanding too quickly.”

PAWS Fulfilment provides third-party logistic services for partners such

Volunteer Zac Barry.

as Australia Post and Active Display Group as well as operating online retail stores for sales of donated endof-line goods.

Grant’s mantra is, “don’t underestimate how much your job can impact others."

He and his team take part in Chill’s ‘Community Give Back Program’, whereby each member gives their time to the community on a project they are passionate about.

The organisation has further benefited from support from local company Active Display Group, which shares some of its facilities and sub-leases its building to PAWS Fulfilment.

A social worker supervises the operation, which targets 18-26 year olds but also includes older adults and work-for-the-dole placements.

“It’s the butterfly effect” says Grant, “it may be small gestures, but by passing on our benefits and skills to others we hope to have a larger impact on the community."

Participants are sourced through Berry Street, Whitelion, the Department of Human Services and the Federal Government's Work For The Dole program.

www.chill.com.au

Chill is involved in local organisations such as Lifeline, the RSPCA as well as supporting local food vans feeding the homeless.

The team from Chill.

“We had one participant who hadn’t worked for eight years so we identified his road blocks to successfully gain employment. Our goal is to have participants progress through the program well within six months and in that time get them job-ready through job search skills, job application and interviews practice, and our relationships with employers in the Industrial Park,” said Mr Stimpson. onlinepaws.whitelion.asn.au STAKEHOLDER 5

EXPORT

One of Volgren's buses in operation in Japan.

VOLGREN DIALS UP EXPORTS OF ARTICULATED BUSES TO JAPAN V

product they choose, especially when going outside of Japan.

olgren’s patient approach to Japan’s bus market and a growing reputation for manufacturing high-quality bus bodies is paying off with the delivery of two new articulated buses (artics) to bus operator Nara Kotsu Bus Lines.

“The delivery of the two artics for Nara Kotsu is the result of 18 months of hard work, and reinforces Volgren’s ability to deliver world-class buses that meet Japan’s rigorous compliance regulations.”

This latest partnership between the Dandenong-based company with Nara Kotsu located in the South of Japan, near Osaka, is one of several relationships Volgren now has including their ongoing association with the Nishitetsu Railway Company who ordered an additional five artics last year.

Articulated buses are rare in Japan with only a handful operating in the country up until Volgren’s entry into the market in 2014.

There’s currently no local Japanese bus body manufacturer producing articulated buses with the only other option being buses from Europe, that are non-compliant to Japanese regulations and not equipped with any Japanese accessory equipment upon delivery to the customer.

Volgren has also forged partnerships with global trading company Mitsui & Co and Scania Japan who provide the service and support of the complete bus.

Volgren Business Development Manager Jon Tozer says the two 18-metre long articulated buses, built on a Scania chassis delivered to Nara Kotsu, represent an important milestone for Volgren’s export credentials.

“Since first entering the Japanese market, we’ve found that operators are closely watching the operation and public acceptance of the artics and there’s definitely renewed interest, especially as they face driver shortages and also the costs associated with light and heavy rail means Bus Rapid Transport systems are now becoming a more financially viable and attractive solution,” Mr. Tozer says.

Mr. Tozer said the Japanese bus market is very conservative and they’re extremely careful about the

The Australian Government's Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (Efic) is a specialist financier that assists local companies win business, grow internationally and achieve export success.

Further details can be found at www.efic.gov.au

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“They need to trust that your solution won’t break down and passengers are accepting of it.”

While the Japanese market presents a more boutique market of bespoke product solutions, Volgren believes Japan offers continuing export potential for articulated buses.

“The articulated buses that we are producing for the Japanese market are 100 per cent compliant to their vehicle regulations complete with Japanese equipment.”

“This ready to roll solution is well received by the operators and is one of the key planks to our success in Japan” Mr. Tozer explains.

LOCAL NEWS

VICTORIA’S BEST BACON FOUND IN DANDENONG Rob from Rob's British Butchers.

An Ice Occasions sculptor in action at Snow Fest 2017.

“We’ve been experimenting for 12 months after I saw it on one of Rick Stein’s TV programs,” said Mr Boyle.

“It’s a Suffolk specialty; the pork is cured in salt, brown sugar and molasses, and we turn it every day for 14 days.”

Rob’s British Butchers took the product to the Good Food and Wine Show with City of Greater Dandenong in early June and sold out within three hours.

“We saw chefs, small supermarkets and consumers at the show. We’re still looking at growing and we might export in the future.”

With the product proving so popular as well as being time consuming, the business prepared 30kg of the awardwinning bacon in preparation for the announcement. It sold out in two days.

Rob’s British Butchers also sells Irish sausages, smallgoods, pork pies, pastries and specialty pantry items.

“My daughter manages our social media now and word gets around.

We started making brekky rolls about six months ago after some Irish boys requested them and after posting the photos on Facebook, we’ve had customers seek us out from as far as Geelong.”

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n its 25th year of business in Dandenong, Rob’s British Butchers was awarded Victoria’s best short cut bacon and placed second nationally on 25 June at the Australian PorkMark Bacon Awards.

The winning short cut Suffolk black bacon takes two weeks to make, according to co-owner Rob Boyle.

Once again, Springvale Snow Fest proved a major hit with visitors. Now in its fifth year the event attracts an average of 40,000 visitors each year. The award winning event provides an economic boost and demonstrates the diversity of the municipality and its capacity to deliver events of this scale.

The business is no stranger to awards and has appeared on SBS’s Food Safari. Despite aspirations for growth, Mr Boyle says he wants to continue their handmade tradition using Australian pork. “I enjoy coming to work every day. My products have to be for me. If I like it I hope the customers will.” www.facebook.com/robsbritishbutcher

Local business wows the audience at Snow Fest 2017 S ince 1999, Paul Lowcock and the Ice Occasions team of master ice sculptors have created the most stunning works in ice for Melbourne's events and celebrations.

Located in Keysborough, Ice Occasions is the only full-time ice sculpture company operating in Melbourne, and delivering throughout Victoria.

Patented machines produce a popular range of designs like swans, dolphins and mermaids, although the company is renowned for bespoke one-off carvings and live action performances.

The team from Ice Occasions performed at Snow Fest 2017, demonstrating their talents, as can be seen in the picture above.

The theme for this year was Alice in Wonderland. www.iceoccasions.com.au

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EMPLOYMENT TASKFORCE

F CUS ON EMPLOYMENT A collective and collaborative response to unemployment

What are the issues?

Unemployment rates (2016)

A major study on disadvantage has been completed by Regional Development Australia and its partners. The study identified some key contributors to a lack of engagement in employment:

21.8%

DANDENONG

12.4%

GREATER DANDENONG

21%

Transport – access to employment

DOVETON

5.9%

Shift to hi-tech manufacturing – loss of unskilled jobs

VICTORIA

Lack of access to informed job planning 8 STAKEHOLDER

EMPLOYMENT TASKFORCE

What are we already doing?

Greater Dandenong Regional Employment Taskforce which is chaired by SEBN is comprised of key local community, State government departments and employment organisations dedicated to securing employment prosperity in the south east region.

Local Governments

State Government

Education & employment service providers

Community organisations & business associations

The Taskforce has been granted State Government funding for new and innovative employment projects focusing on disadvantaged jobseekers.

3175 & 3177

LOOKING FOR LOCAL TALENT?

THE POSTCODE PROJECT

Region-wide focus on encouraging business to employ disadvantaged jobseekers – this project is being expanded under the new funding arrangement.

Prototypes under development aim to assist disadvantaged jobseekers keen to work to overcome the barriers that prevent them from gaining and maintaining employment.

Jobseekers can quickly and easily browse jobs available in the Greater Dandenong area via Council’s employment portal which brings together in one location jobs from other online jobs boards for easy access.

worklocalgreaterdandenong.com.au

We need your support With a focus on building a capable workforce to meet your needs, the One Percent Project provides an opportunity for every employer to play a part and there are many ways you can help including:

Attend a One Percent session and meet local jobseekers keen to work.

Place your recruitment ad on the City of Greater Dandenong’s employment portal to highlight local opportunities to local jobseekers.

Get involved in SEBN’s school to industry program linking education to business.

Offer jobseekers a window into your business/industry through industry tours, skills testing, paid work trials or internships or tell us how else you’d like to participate!

SEBN are building a database of employers willing to become involved in the above projects.

If you would like further information or to be added to the database email SEBN@cgd.vic.gov.au STAKEHOLDER 9

FOCUS ON ENERGY

NISSAN CASTING TAKES ON THE WORLD A

mid the turmoil reported about our country’s manufacturing sector, especially in the local automotive industry, Nissan has been working away in the background. Famous for its sports cars, SUVs and off-roaders, the Japanese auto giant isn’t widely known as one of Australia’s major automotive manufacturers. With planned closures announced by Toyota, Ford and General Motors-Holden, Nissan’s local manufacturing business has defied its competitors’ trends and flourished since its inception 35 years ago.

Despite plenty of head-winds, with energy prices the most recent to surface, the Melbourne-based operation continues to thrive.

Nissan established its aluminium casting operations in Dandenong South back in 1982.

The plant specialises in high and low pressure die-casting, precision machining, component assembly and accessories manufacturing.

The facility employs around 170 staff and is on the look-out for more if additional business is secured. The plant is currently running three shifts a day, six days a week and produces around 2.2 million aluminium castings annually.

The company also produces 25,000 Nissan automobile accessories, mainly tow bars for Nissan vehicles. In total, the operation makes 49 separate components, 39 castings and 10 vehicle accessories. The Dandenong South plant is also an important market for local supplies in the automotive supply chain.

All of Nissan Australia’s high-quality, aluminium castings are exported to a mix of Nissan assembly plants in Japan, Thailand, the USA and Mexico, plus other members of the global Renault-Nissan Alliance.

What sets the company apart in such a competitive market place is its focus on

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innovation, ability to manage complexity and solve customer’s problems, quality products, quick turnaround times, and of course pricing. “We are very proud to say these are the reasons our customers source from us,” said Peter Jones, Managing Director, Nissan Casting Australia.

The company is currently in the process of securing more business from Nissan Global, some of it exclusive to Nissan Casting Australia. This new business includes driveline components for future models not yet released or announced, particularly in the burgeoning Electric Vehicle (EV) powertrain market. These developments will see Nissan Casting Australia operating well past 2020.

Despite the company’s achievements, the challenges are huge. “The extraordinary increase in energy costs makes it increasingly difficult to compete on a global level. The company can’t pass on these rising energy costs and we could end up in a loss making business in the future if something isn’t done,” Mr Jones said.

Nissan Casting Australia’s new gas contract price has nearly doubled. Adding additional pressure on costs is its upcoming electricity contract, where it’s feared it will also double in price generating millions of dollars in additional production costs.

“Manufacturers are doing their bit by investing in energy efficient equipment and processes but there is also an opportunity for governments to assist,” said Mr Jones. “Besides the growing need for future government programs to financially assist companies with grants and investment funding, the cost of energy needs to be quickly addressed so that our competitiveness is not eroded.” www.nissan.com.au

FOCUS ON ENERGY

Council supports energy initiatives as businesses hit by rising costs C

ity of Greater Dandenong has partnered with the Sustainable Melbourne Fund to provide local businesses with finance via Environmental Upgrade Agreements (EUAs) for sustainable initiatives relating to building work.

But what are EUAs and how do they work?

According to Adrian Boden, Executive Officer for South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance Inc. (SEMMA), “power, whether gas or electricity, is now one of the major cost drivers for our manufacturers.”

According to Darren Wilson, Principle Sustainability Officer for Council, EUAs are designed to help businesses reduce their financial exposure to increases in energy costs and reduce their impact on the environment.

Leveraging the buying power of over 40 sites, SEMMA has been negotiating electricity contracts for its members for over eight years with the last threeyear contract – which finished in June 2017 – saving more than $1 million for participants.

Eligible projects must implement an upgrade to a property that helps increase energy efficiency, reduce waste, cut water or produce energy.

The agreement is made on the rateable property, so the EUA is tied to the building rather than the business. Finance is not capped and repayments are made through Council rates over approximately 10 years. It means the arrangement is cash-flow positive from day one, making loan repayments manageable

“Our new power contract saw a price increase of 280 per cent when compared to our last three year deal with the cost of peak electricity rising from 5.2 cents per kilowatt hour to 14.5 cents, and this is a good deal by today’s standards. Gas prices have risen by over 100 per cent as well so we are also looking at how to package a gas deal for our members.

This is a national problem where decisive actions must be taken to address the issue,” Mr Boden said.

“Building upgrades have been focussing on solar panels as they can often have short payback periods of

less than seven years,” said Mr Wilson.

“Another example is lighting, with a payback within a year or two, but the project could include cogeneration systems, HVAC systems [heating, ventilating and air-conditioning], building fabric and insulation upgrades or rainwater tanks.”

Over in the Mornington Peninsula, Rye Hotel was the first business to take advantage of EUAs, installing 329 solar panels at a total cost of $157,000. Financial modelling demonstrated a positive cash flow from year one as electricity costs could be reduced by approximately $26,000 per year, compared with a first year loan repayment of $22,400; $560,000 is expected to be saved over the 25-year asset life.

If you are a tenant EUA's provide a good opportunity for you to lobby your landlord for an upgrade which will save you money, and leave them with a higher value asset. www.greaterdandenong.com/ document/25291/sustainable-builtenvironment STAKEHOLDER 11

TECHNOLOGY

Noble Park Information Hub (photo courtesy of Level Crossing Removal Project, July 2017).

Info hub hits the spot as level crossing works forge ahead A

level crossings information hub at Noble Park station has proven popular with locals and commuters, with more than 300 visitors coming through its doors in its first two months.

The colourful hub, built by Dandenong South social enterprise TRY Build, is helping locals stay up to date with level crossing removal works during the most intensive construction phase.

Staff are happy to chat, answer questions and even take visitors on a virtual 3D computer tour of the rail line and brand new train station.

The new elevated rail line is being built to take trains over the top of busy Corrigan, Heatherton and Chandler roads, freeing up traffic flow and allowing trains to run more often.

Raising the rail line through Noble Park will also create hectares of open space – not only providing new parks, paths and facilities but reconnecting the suburb and providing easier access to shops.

Local trader Gerard said: “at the moment there’s a bit of a wall separating the other side to this side, but when they join the streets (on either side of the rail line) I think it will be good for the community".

Around half of Noble Park's elevated rail beams have already been installed, in readiness for all three level crossings to be removed in 2018.

With designs for the new public open space under the rail line likely to be released soon, these will no doubt be a hot topic of conversation in and around the hub.

A community survey run throughout May showed strong support for proposals including a dog park at Ross Reserve, and bouldering/ climbing equipment near Heatherton Road.

The Level Crossings Information Hub is located in the train station car park off Douglas Street.

Opening hours: Mondays (9am-5pm), Tuesdays (3pm-7pm), and Saturdays (fortnightly 9am-12pm).

More information: 1800 762 667

Virtual Tour taking place (photo courtesy of Level Crossing Removal Project, July 2017).

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TECHNOLOGY

Business tech trends Given the rapid rate of change in the sector, now more than ever it is important for businesses to stay on top of digital and technological trends.

Following are some of the online trends currently being embraced around the world to assist improved business efficiency and competitiveness.

Improvements in mobile and page loading One of the keys to a successful mobile web page is page loading time. Recently Google noted that 53 per cent of users will abandon a page when viewing it on their mobile if it doesn’t load within three seconds. Further, mobile sites that load within five seconds earn up to two times more mobile ad revenue than sites that take up to 19 seconds to load.

Local outsourcing Australian businesses are outsourcing a growing number of tasks to the freelance community.

Accounting, tech support, deliveries and even graphic design are all functions being outsourced in order to cut costs and improve business flexibility and efficiency. The growth of this new Access Economy sector is also creating a culture of ‘side hustlers’ turning their hobby or skill into a business by sourcing and servicing clients online.

Video, video, video Forbes contributor, Ian Altman adds the growing use of video to his list of business trends, highlighting that “video is becoming a critical source of information". He references Forbes research, which reveals that 80 per cent of people are watching more video now than a year ago and 75 per cent watch work related videos on business related websites at least once a week.

Perhaps most significant, Forbes found 65 per cent of people have visited a website after seeing a video posted by the business. 360 degree video and interactive video that allows customers to click-to-buy is having the most impact. Branded banners on YouTube clips inviting buyers to “find out more” or “buy now” are also proving increasingly effective.

Digital payments and digital security Making it easier to pay for goods and services online is also proving a winner. The rise of the mobile wallet and the ability to ‘click to pay’ via social media means that customers are expecting ever more convenient ways to pay for goods or services. The flip side of this trend is the growing importance of digital security. Major global organisations like Tesco and Groupon have been the victims of hacking scandals in recent times, demonstrating that no business is immune to this kind of crime. IT and online development teams will need to focus more on keeping their customers and their business safe from the devastating effects of being hacked. According to sources referenced

by PC Mag, 2017 will be the year “security cements its role as a competitive differentiator”.

Going paperless and going email-less Everywhere you look there is a new service that takes your business activities onto the cloud and reduces the need for hard copy documents. Apps allow you to snap a photo and create a PDF with text that can be easily searched, e-signatures are now legally binding, and pay-by-the-month tools let you automatically stay in touch with customers. With cloud based services such as Slack, Evernote, Trello and Workplace by Facebook allowing for multiple group chats, document sharing and personalised news feeds, email is becoming less relevant.

Content provided by nbn™ Community Affairs Team

STAKEHOLDER 13

SEBN (SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS)

CATERING

FOR SUCCESS G WHY NOT JOIN YOUR PEERS IN A MANUFACTURING NETWORK IN 2017 THAT INCLUDES: • Manufacturing Leadership • Workplace Health & Safety • Manufacturing ‘Xcellents’ (Shop Floor) • Export / Globalisation • South East Quality Network (SEQN) • Young Leaders (under 40) • SE Women in Business • CEO Mentoring

LOOKING FOR LOCAL TALENT?

ood company, good food and raising money for charity - what more could 100 or so women in business ask for at a business lunch? An amazing speaker and that's just what they got with Chyka Keebaugh. Smart, warm and engaging, Chyka managed to entertain and inspire at a special luncheon organised by SEBN and the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce.

Held at the Atura Hotel, guests were privileged to hear from one of Australia's most successful business women as co-founder and owner of The Big Group. Like most business owners, Chyka talked about the many successes and challenges she has faced over the years - and about your options for life and business. “There are normally two ways you can go. You can close the door, but acknowledge that the door is closed and move on. Or you can go through the door with 100% conviction and take all that it brings (both good and bad)” said Chyka.

SEBN Women in Business and the Chamber look forward to further collaboration to bring you special events for women in business.

Have you ever been to court on an OH&S matter?

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t the time of going to print, SEBN's Moot Court event with Macpherson Kelley Lawyers was sold out with more than 100 registrations and a wait list.

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

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The facts will be fictitious, but drawn from real cases in this Mock Safety Trial. With highly skilled lawyers presenting witnesses and making submissions - just like in safety prosecution before the County Court - the moot court brings common organisational risks to life by involving expert witnesses, trial lawyers and a judge - all before a jury who decides

guilt or innocence. Participants could be part of the jury, sit with counsel or the judge - or just sit back and watch.

Whilst highly entertaining, a moot court is also a serious and educational experience - after all, there is no better way to experience what it would be like if you had to appear in court on a Safety Trial.

The court will also include a commentary that explains what is happening and why - so organisations are fully aware of what they need to do to mitigate safety risk.

SEBN – Building better businesses.

This page features stories from Council’s Business Networking Department. SEBN (South East Business Networks) highlighting their work with industry and the diversity and innovation typical of the manufacturing sector in this region.

SEBN (SOUTH EAST BUSINESS NETWORKS)

Get a glimpse of the manufacturing future T

he Victorian Government, SEMMA, C4D and SEBN/City of Greater Dandenong have joined forces to present the Transforming Manufacturing Industry Forum Opportunities and Challenges on 12 September 2017 at the Drum Theatre in Dandenong.

Demonstrating how automotive supply

chain businesses are transitioning into new industry sectors - as well as embracing global market opportunities - the morning session will deliver case study presentations which will be followed by an afternoon focussing on 'The Future is Now' including technologies with Swinburne and CSIRO .

ASPIRE – The eHarmony of Waste Management How it works • Businesses create a user account at aspire.csiro.au listing the Company’s details and the waste materials they wish to dispose of and/or acquire.

• ASPIRE then matches companies who have a mutual benefit in exchanging the waste material.

• Rather than going to landfill, the materials are recycled and reused.

What is ASPIRE? ASPIRE has been developed in response to manufacturing companies talking to their local councils about high waste disposal costs, particularly those associated with increasing landfill levies. ASPIRE is a software tool that identifies potential business to business (B2B) resource exchanges.

It is based on the old principle of “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”.

What’s in it for Business?

• Reduced landfill costs.

• A potential new revenue source from the sale of waste materials.

• Materials that would otherwise have been thrown away can be reused/ recycled • Creation of new supply chain partnerships.

• Connections with other businesses/ manufacturers in the Greater Dandenong Region.

ASPIRE is a free service for businesses to use. For more information contact sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or sign up online at aspire.csiro.au.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from key manufacturers and organisations.

To register for individual or multiple sessions sep12forum.eventbrite.com.au For more information regarding the event please contact Rozi Parisotto 9938 0115 or rozi.parisotto@ecodev.vic.gov.au

COREX CLOSES THE LOOP ON POLYMERS C

orex Plastics (Australia) Pty Ltd have developed their own closed loop program to provide a socially responsible, 'cradle to cradle' waste solution for reclaiming and recycling their own solid sheet thermoplastic products. The company encourages clients to return clean polypropylene and high density polyethylene for reuse, including products made by Corex Plastics, such as Corflute® and Fluteboard®.

Corex is now using ASPIRE to source addition waste polymer product as feed stock for its growing recycling operations. Source companies are saving money otherwise spent on disposal costs and Corex has found a reliable, cost-effective and sustainable source of feed stock using the ASPIRE platform.

The environmental benefit is also significant as one tonne of recycled plastic saves approximately 5.7 cubic metres of landfill space.

STAKEHOLDER 15

ACTIVITY CENTRES

SPRINGVALE LANEWAY REVITALISATION

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he City of Greater Dandenong is upgrading laneway connections in the Springvale Activity Centre, including Post Office Lane.

This project presents a unique opportunity to change not only the appearance of the laneway but also make a positive contribution to the centre through its revitalisation. The project will consider accessibility, safety and maintenance, as well as the existing character of Springvale.

Did you know that the Post Office has been located at this site since the 1930s? Although the building has changed over time it remains a key destination for people and businesses in Springvale.

More than 13,000 pedestrians use the laneway per week.

restaurant 323

SPRINGVALE ROAD L

ocated on the corner of Springvale’s most travelled pedestrian laneways; Restaurant 323, has a renewed focus with owner Thai Le having recently taken over.

Mr Le was born in Vietnam arriving in Melbourne more than 20 years ago after fleeing his country as a refugee at a young age of 16. He sewed garments for Bendon underwear, became a fish monger in Hong Kong and ran a fish shop for many years.

However, the early mornings to secure the freshest fish drove him to embark on a new venture, last year, in the heart of Springvale.

“For many years, I came to Restaurant 323 to eat with my wife and five children.

I would always say that if the restaurant came up for sale, I would buy it.”

“It has a lot of space for a lot of people”.

The resurfacing of the laneway, drainage and electrical provisions for future lighting have been completed.

Stage Two works are planned for completion by the end of the year and will include installation of bench seats, table tops for playing Xiangqi, planter boxes and a new irrigation system.

“Last year the opportunity to buy the restaurant came up and I took it” said Mr Le.

In 2018 a special lighting canopy will be designed with a view to support Springvale’s night time experience.

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For more information visit www.greaterdandenong.com or contact the Activity Centre’s Revitalisation team on 8571 1421.

Laneway artist impression.

Today Mr Le and his wife of 28 years, daughter and daughter in-law run

Having lived in the Springvale area for more than 20 years Mr Le has witnessed the Springvale community grow and change into the thriving, diverse and culturally rich neighbourhood we know today.

Although the community has changed over time, Mr Le’s commitment to providing authentic meals for his family, friends and patrons remains his priority.

The personalised and holistic approach to meal preparation means that the chefs at Restaurant 323 are traditionally trained in the culinary art of Chinese, Vietnamese, and south-east Asian cuisine. Each dish is prepared from traditional recipes for an authentic taste; including Lemongrass and Chili Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork and traditional Pho. Restaurant 323, Springvale Road is open Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 9pm.

Delivery and takeaway services are happily provided. www.restaurant323.com.au

THE CHANGING FACE OF SPRINGVALE ROAD oasting strong Asian influences, Springvale Road has become a much-desired destination. It is also a barometer of change in the community.

This vibrant and diverse shopping strip has continually evolved with each wave of migration introducing new cultures, skills and energy to Springvale.

Over the next few years the Springvale Road Boulevard Project aims to transform Springvale Road into a signature boulevard and make the suburb stand out as one of Melbourne’s leading cultural destinations.

The proposed improvements take into account feedback from local businesses and will give Springvale Road a new look featuring kerbside garden beds and trees, improved street lighting, artwork, safety enhancements and more footpath space for trader activities.

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Restaurant 323 “We pride ourselves on serving the finest Asian cuisine in Springvale.”

The project will take several years to fully complete. Stage One designs are being reviewed in consultation with key agencies, including Vic Roads and will soon go on public exhibition.

For more information visit www. greaterdandenong.com or contact the Activity Centre’s Revitalisation team on 8571 1421.

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Road cros C e e, al bl gv si vi in pr nt S tillation Pla Emptor Dis

BUSINESS

In data we trust?

ADMA CEO Jodie Sangster.

remain if people can see the transition to a more transparent data approach,” Ms Sangster said.

In July, DGA Chair Graeme Samuel delivered a keynote address on the future of data at the National Press Club in Canberra, saying data presented the most significant postindustrial opportunity for innovation and value-creation.

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range of organisations have joined together to address the use of consumer data and privacy in the form of Data Governance Australia (DGA) The Association for Data-driven Marketing & Advertising (ADMA) is a sister association to DGA. ADMA CEO Jodie Sangster said big data was moving and progressing rapidly. “We have a challenge as an organisation to re-engender trust with consumers as to what is happening with their data.

“ADMA looks after advertising and marketing, where as the DGA is much broader and looks at how data is used in business generally.”

“Ninety per cent of the world’s data was created in just the last two years alone. The potential opportunities for business and industry in the future are unimaginable; with more data comes more ability to predict and anticipate needs,” Mr Samuel said.

The organisation’s top three tips for data use are: 1) Think through what you will do with data when you collect it and be transparent – obtaining permission later isn’t ideal.

2) Be open with customers if you will be sharing their information and let them decide whether they want that – don’t hide it in the small print.

3) Use the data to help customers – give them better rewards and you’re less likely to face a backlash. www.datagovernanceaus.com.au

SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS REPORT T

he City of Greater Dandenong’s Business Workshop and Seminar series is proving once again to be a hit with those who attend. The series has included diverse business topics such as Tendering success made simple, Pricing for maximum profit, Top social and digital marketing tips and Export opportunity China – where does the opportunity lie?

The sessions provide prospective and current business operators the opportunity to engage with the expert presenter in an informal and easy learning setting.

Workshop details for the remainder of the year can be found at www.greaterdandenong.com search > business workshops

Want to build your digital skills?

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here are two exciting small business workshops scheduled for October and November aimed at improving your digital skills. Your business in a digital world and Advanced digital strategies for your business, are workshops that can’t be missed.

To book your spot at either (or both) of these workshops please see page 22.

DGA is a not-for-profit association and has 12 board members including Insurance Australia Group, Woolworths and Qantas Loyalty. “This helps our credibility when talking to government.

“Our organisation has been well received and that confidence will Is your company subject to the Privacy Act 1988?

If so you may be affected by the upcoming introduction of the Privacy Amendment (Notifiable Data Breaches) Act 2017.

Prepare your company by learning more about the Act at www.legislation.gov.au STAKEHOLDER 17

BUSINESS

SEMMA stands strong and continues to support manufacturing in the South East

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CAMPEYN CELEBRATES th

EMMA strives to remain the leading voice in Victoria representing the interests of the manufacturing community in the region. SEMMA engage with state and federal governments on key issues facing their members and collaborate and engage with the region's councils to reinforce the message on a local scale. Through collaboration with R&D organisations such as CSIRO and Swinburne, SEMMA introduce technology opportunities to the manufacturing community.

with new CSR initiative

In essence, we strive to achieve our goal of “working together as one team” says Adrian Boden, SEMMA Executive Officer.

30 BIRTHDAY D

andenong South’s Campeyn Group has celebrated its 30th year in business with an awards ceremony and a new corporate social responsibility initiative.

The family-run business, started

by David Peynenborg, delivers facility maintenance services to local governments – including City of Greater Dandenong – hospitals, schools and the health care sector.

General Manager Ben Peynenborg said the company held an end-offinancial-year event annually and selected Sandhurst Club this year to celebrate Campeyn’s milestone.

“We invest a lot back into our people, who are predominately employed from the local community. We’re really proud of our culture and our annual award event celebrates employees who most uphold our values. Jo Robinson received the Campeyn Award as voted by staff, which recognises our two core values: internal and external relationships, and innovation.

“At the function we announced to our team a significant increase in our social

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responsibility budget allowing us to bring online new local initiatives,” said Mr Peynenborg.

As we enter the next financial year SEMMA Membership has reached over 210 members.

Campeyn Group began a mentoring program recently partnering with the TRY Australia charity, which is putting at-risk youth through a building preapprenticeship course.

If you’re not yet a member of SEMMA please visit their website or phone them to get more information on how SEMMA can support your manufacturing business on 9768 2524.

“Our skilled tradespeople work a few hours each week and train them in new skills. Staff were apprehensive to sign up at first but now we have almost too many wanting to be involved. They get a lot out of it and TRY Australia is really excited about it.”

Campeyn is also proactive about mental wellbeing with senior staff and speakers presenting to employees around the topic and their personal experiences.

Mr Peynenborg said one of Campeyn’s key successes was investing in innovation, being the first in its industry to have a service technology where information for each job is recorded via a digital tablet in the field. www.campeyngroup.com.au

Maximise your SEMMA membership by communicating your needs, working together with the SEMMA team to support your business and participating in SEMMA networking events.

Please call us! “If we can’t help you directly we can find somebody who can.” www.semma.com.au

INDUSTRY

A NEW look for the Chamber T Nick Lee from the Jodi Lee Foundation and Rod Dawson from Southern Colour

Making a positive out of testing times fter his 44-year-old wife was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer and treated, Rod Dawson decided to provide free bowel cancer screening tests for his staff.

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in June. He tells the moving story of his wife who passed away from colon cancer at 41 and provides the opportunity for companies to buy prescreening tests for employees.”

As Managing Director for printing company Southern Colour, Mr Dawson believes many of his staff fit the age group for bowel cancer risk, despite being seen as “an older person’s disease”.

Southern Colour extended the initiative to partners of staff as requested, with the at-home test designed for ease of use and discretion.

“My group of companies has 100 staff, with 75 based in Keysborough,” Mr Dawson said. “I discovered the Jodi Lee Foundation and its CEO Nick Lee conducted a one-hour information session at our workplace

“We want to invest in our staff’s wellbeing. The results go straight to the employee’s GP. We will never know what results come back. We do know that early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes, so we hope this initiative will save a life one day." jodileefoundation.org.au

ASSISTANCE FOR REDUCING ENERGY BILLS he Boosting Business Productivity program will now include large businesses.

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one-on-one mentoring and business coaching run by the Australian Industry Group.

Grants of up to $25,000 are available to improve gas efficiency for gas-related projects including capital equipment upgrades, nonroutine maintenance and repairs, fuel switching, and improved metering.

Funding to help businesses is also available through Energy Assessment grants, the maximum grant value will rise from $9,000 to $18,000 per business.

A series of Gas Efficiency Masterclasses will be held throughout Victoria, with

For more information visit: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au

he Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce is proud to present our new logo as part of our ongoing evolution of our brand and services we provide to our members and the wider Greater Dandenong Business Community.

The Chamber has grown and evolved over its seventy-year history, and we have refreshed our logo to reflect who we are today and to symbolise our dynamic future.

The three “C’s” are an evolution of our previous logo. The circular aspect represents the all-encompassing nature of the Chamber, providing comprehensive support to our members and the business community.

Chamber President, Paul Broom is excited to announce the new logo, and our recommitment to the Chamber’s values.

“The Chamber exists to coordinate, develop and facilitate opportunities for regional businesses to work together, thrive and contribute to the local community,” Mr Broom said.

Over the last 70 years, we have been an integral part of the business community of Dandenong. The Chamber offers the opportunity to meet other local business people in one of the largest growth corridors in the country.

"We connect through a variety of networking events and workshops, by showcasing businesses through our Business Awards program, by assisting with council access, by being involved in community functions, and by helping connect business with local and state governments."

For more information contact Amanda Checken or Tiffany Murray on 9768 3283, or visit www. greaterdandenongchamber.com.au STAKEHOLDER 19

FOOD AND TOURISM

Tobacco reforms F

rom 1 August amendments to the Tobacco Act have banned smoking in outdoor dining areas. This ban covers all outdoor dining areas at restaurants, cafes, take-away shops, licenced premises and any other venues serving food.

These reforms also included regulation of shisha tobacco and e-cigarettes in the same way as other tobacco products.

This means that shisha tobacco and e-cigarettes cannot be smoked anywhere that is smoke free. They must be sold in plain packaging, hidden from view at shops and cannot be sold to people under 18 years of age.

Smoking has also been banned at food fairs and is not permitted within 10m of food vendors at other festivals and events.

These changes have been introduced to reduce the impact of smoking on the community. Smoke-free areas are important as they: • protect the community from secondhand tobacco smoke • make smoking in the community less acceptable • support people who have quit or are trying to quit smoking.

Resources, including guides, fact sheets and free new ‘No Smoking’ signs are available through the City of Greater Dandenong’s Public Health Unit or the tobacco reforms website www.health.vic.gov.au/tobaccoreforms

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n June, Council partnered with four businesses to have a presence at the Good Food and Wine Show. The event was held over three days at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Over 35,000 people attended including food connoisseurs and trade buyers.

This provided extensive exposure to a wide audience mainly from Victoria but from across Australia and beyond.

The businesses were, The Craft and Co Farm, Bangholme, Rob’s British Butcher and Uncle’s Smallgoods, in Dandenong and manufacturer Future Bake from Noble Park.

All businesses said that this was a great experience for them with exposure to potential new customers and that they made important contacts over the three days.

Council will be coordinating a stand next year at Fine Food Expo so if you are interested in participating, email: business@cgd.vic.gov.au

Great Bites T

he ever popular Great Bites publication has just had another 10,000 print run with updates and introduction of new businesses within the three major activity centres of Greater Dandenong.

FOODIES GUIDE

This publication is distributed to Council facilities, accommodation venues and visitor information centres including Federation Square in Melbourne. This takes the print run to a total of 40,000 providing free marketing for local eateries.

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This is another project showing Council’s Economic Development Unit’s support to food businesses and the area.

FOOD AND TOURISM

An example of what is coming to Bangholme.

Tourism options grow in

GREATER DANDENONG M

elbourne Cable Park based in Bangholme has recently been awarded a Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure Program grant.

Supporting more than 150 people per hour, the High Ropes facility is expected to attract over 100,000

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eysborough shoppers can now enjoy a new and modern shopping experience with the opening of the new Woolworths Keysborough South.

The new centre, on the corner of Chapel and Hutton roads, provides an exciting shopping environment for the everyday needs of local Keysborough residents.

The Woolworths and BWS stores sit alongside eight adjoining specialty shops, including a medical centre, pharmacy and real estate agency.

The funding will be allocated to the construction of the outdoor High Ropes course which is due to be completed around Christmas time.

Consisting of five levels, the High Ropes will include a course for children and three levels containing 90 challenge based elements and a viewing platform offering a 360 degree view of South East Melbourne.

KEYSBOROUGH CELEBRATES OPENING OF NEW WOOLWORTHS STORE

people to the area and provide a boost for the local visitor economy.

The High Ropes course joins the other outdoor recreational activities currently available at the park which includes the Aqua Fun Park and Cable Wakeboarding lakes. www.melbournecablepark.com

LIGHTS, CAMERA AND ACTION...

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o showcase local businesses and raise the profile of this area as a tourist destination, the Economic Development Unit has recently produced a number of videos this includes: • Four tourism videos have been developed highlighting themes of Eat, Do, See and Shop in Greater Dandenong.

• Celebrating Start Ups features the journey of four local start up businesses that were awarded City of Greater Dandenong business grants.

Go to www.greaterdandenong.com to view these videos.

Woolworths identified the site as being in a significant growth area and amongst the key features at Woolworths Keysborough South, customers can look forward to an extensive international foods section to reflect the diverse local demographic.

The new store has also brought significant employment opportunities to the local area, creating 110 new jobs.

Woolworths Keysborough South Store Manager, Aaron Ezekiel said: “The store has been designed with the customer at heart following a great deal of time spent understanding what local shoppers are looking for.

“Our aim is to always provide great quality, value and fresh options for all our customers and to make meal shopping and preparation easier. With 100 per cent of our fresh meat and 96 per cent of fresh fruit and vegetables sourced from Australia, the store showcases the wonderful seasonality of our produce and provides further food inspiration for our customers.”

Opening hours for Woolworths Keysborough South are 7am until midnight.

STAKEHOLDER 21

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Visit www.greaterdandenong.com > search events

SEPTEMBER SEBN Lunch with the Winners A celebration of local young people’s successful journey through school and work life.

• Tuesday 5 September • 12pm – 2pm

Dandenong Civic Centre Level 2, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact admin@sbms.org.au or phone 1300 816 817 for more information and to register your interest.

Food Manufacturer’s Collaborative Network (FMCN) IP and Brand Protection Presented by FIAL • Thursday 14 September • 9am – 1pm Kingston City Council Woodlands Golf Club, Mordialloc

Contact 8571 1576 or sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au for more information.

Contact business@kingston.vic.gov. au or phone: 9581 4786 for more information and to register your interest.

Platinum Partner Networking Night Presented by the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Co-hosted with Bombardier Transportation

Grand Final Charity Lunch Presented by the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Guest Speaker – Dane Swan

• Tuesday 5 September • 5.30pm – 7.30pm

• Wednesday 27 September • 12pm – 2.30pm

Bombardier Transportation

Southern Golf Club

Contact 9768 3283 or info@greaterdandenongchamber.com.au for more information.

Contact 9768 3283 or info@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au for more information

Financial Security for Women in Business

OCTOBER

Small Business Mentoring and SEBN • Wednesday 6 September and Wednesday 11 October • 9.30am – 12.30pm

Greater Dandenong Chamber Business Awards Breakfast • Wednesday 18 October • 7am – 9am

Sandhurst Golf Club Contact 9768 3283 or info@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au for more information.

Small Business Workshop and Seminars Develop your Online Strategy – Digital workshop series presented

by Small Business Victoria • Wednesday 24 October • 6pm – 8pm Dandenong Civic Centre Level 2, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 1550 for more information and to register your interest.

Food Manufacturer’s Collaborative Network (FMCN) Agribusiness Forum bringing together food producers and processors - in partnership with Agribusiness Gippsland • Wednesday 25 October • 9am – 1pm Dandenong Civic Centre Level 2, 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 5373 for more information and to register your interest.

Platinum Partner Networking Night Presented by the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Co-hosted with the Australia Taxation Office

Join us for a walk to oppose family violence.

Tuesday 21 November, 10.30am Meet at the Dandenong Market and walk to Harmony Square.

Guest speaker: Kevin Sheedy With a performance from With One Voice Choir and an inspiring talk from a family violence survivor advocate.

Be part of the solution #iwillbreakthecycle 22 STAKEHOLDER

greaterdandenong.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • Wednesday 25 October • 5.30pm – 7.30pm

• Tuesday 14 November • 5.30pm – 7.30pm

ATO Building Dandenong

Contact 9768 3283 or info@ greaterdandenongchamber.com.au for more information.

Contact 9768 3283 or info@greaterdandenongchamber.com. au for more information.

NOVEMBER Small Business Workshop and Seminars Advanced Digital Strategies For Your Business – Digital workshop series presented by Small Business Victoria • Tuesday 14 November • 6pm – 8pm Dandenong Civic Centre Level 2, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Contact business@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone: 8571 1550 for more information and to register your interest.

Platinum Partner Networking Night Presented by the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce and co-hosted with Yarraman Village

Greater Dandenong Chamber Business Awards Presentation Night Join us for the culmination of our four Business Breakfasts – where we will present the 2017 Chamber Awards.

• Wednesday 22 November • 6.30pm – 10.30pm Contact 9768 3283 or info@greaterdandenongchamber.com. au for more information.

DECEMBER SEBN Christmas Industry Breakfast Event • Thursday 7 December • 7.15am – 9.15am

Contact 8571 1576 or sebn@cgd.vic. gov.au for more information and to register your interest.

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.

Monday 16 October Springvale - Multicultural Place Tuesday 17 October Noble Park - Noble Park Civic Space Tuesday 21 November Keysborough - Parkmore Shopping Centre Wednesday 22 November Dandenong - Dandenong Palm Plaza Thursday 23 November Dandenong - Harmony Square To book a mentor session contact Business Victoria on 13 22 15 or www.business.vic.gov.au/sbb.

Grants and Opportunities Access Program VIC The Access Program offers exportrelated assistance and in-country expert advice to Victorian company agents visiting overseas markets.

Victorian businesses planning to establish new export markets in key countries and regions, including the USA, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, India, Japan, Middle East and Southeast Asia can apply.

To find out more visit www.business. gov.au/assistance/access-program-vic

Business development plan and business strategic review The Business Development Plan provides businesses with an opportunity to undertake a comprehensive strategic plan for future growth.

The Business Strategic Review helps individual businesses to identify operational goals.

To learn more about this program visit www.business.vic.gov.au and search > business development plan and strategic review

DON'T PAY FOR GOVERNMENT GRANT INFORMATION

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ere’s some key points to consider when seeking government grants:

• businesses will never be asked to pay money to access government grant information - be wary of any websites that charge fees for grant-related information.

• government grants are awarded based on merit - you can't pay money for special access or consideration to get a government grant • it’s possible to pay a third party provider to help you with writing your grant application, however it’s important to choose a reputable service.

Source: www.business.gov.au STAKEHOLDER 23

REMPLAN

ECONOMIC PROFILE FOR

GREATER DANDENONG Online economic data on Greater Dandenong is just one click away.

To access the data, visit www.economicprofile.com.au/greaterdandenong