September 2014

Children’s Festival page 3

Be Happy, Be Healthy, Be Here pages 8-9

Blossoming Art Scene page 12

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

Street Lighting Faults/ Non-operational Alinta Hotline ......................... 13 20 99

Traffic Signal Faults/ Non-operational .................. 8571 1000

Hoon Hotline ................. 1800 333 000

Hard Waste Collection WM Waste Management Services ........ 9721 1915

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

RSPCA ............................... 9224 2222

Nurse on Call ................. 1300 606 024

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

New Dandenong office 225 Lonsdale St Dandenong

Springvale customer service 397–405 Springvale Road Springvale

Keysborough customer service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre Keysborough

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

All correspondence to:

The City PO Box 200 Dandenong VIC 3175

Email: news@cgd.vic.gov.au

Phone: 8571 1000

Fax: 8571 5196

www.greaterdandenong.com

@greaterdandy

facebook.com/greaterdandenong

youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong

TTY: 133 677 Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 Internet: www.iprelay.com.au

TIS: 13 14 50

council@cgd.vic.gov.au

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Cover photo: Performers from the Dreaming Space enjoy last year’s Little Day Out with local residents

It’s September in Greater Dandenong – which means it’s time for the annual Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival.

Now in its third year, this much-loved annual event celebrates our young people with a host of activities and events during the September school holidays.

So come along and join in the fun.

This month’s edition of The City also features information on performances and exhibitions taking place this month plus updates on a number of Council projects.

Each month we also highlight some of the many community groups who are helping make a positive difference in our community.

This edition highlights a Council initiative to help residents become fitter, healthier and happier and also profiles a Dandenong playgroup that is helping young mothers meet, network and learn new ideas for positive parenting.

Happy reading and have a great month.

Mayor Jim Memeti

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

my CITYCrs Roz Blades AM, Jim Memeti, Angela Long and Matthew Kirwan officially opened the redeveloped Whittell Pavilion at George Andrews Reserve in Dandenong South recently.

The revitalisation of one of Greater Dandenong’s premier sporting venues was funded by Council at a cost of $760,000.

This redevelopment has provided four new unisex, multi-purpose change rooms, upgraded the amenities and referees’ rooms and given a fresh new look to the Pavilion’s social space and kitchen facilities.

Crs Roz Blades AM, Jim Memeti, Angela Long and Matthew Kirwan with Mark Dreyfus, Federal Member for Isaacs, at the opening of the George Andrews Reserve.

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It’s time to celebrate our young people with a whole lot of fun and

festivities at the 3rd annual Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival.

The September school holidays will be action-packed with plenty of free and low-cost events at a range of venues across Greater Dandenong.

You can join in craft workshops, see a kid’s show at the Drum Theatre, watch children’s programs on the big screen and much, much more.

Highlights include:

• puppet shows & storytelling

• guided night park tours and wildflower walks

• a special children’s safety day event

• LEGO events

• school holiday activities at Heritage Hill and the libraries

• Fairytale Cookbook, Annie Jr and Goldilocks shows at the Drum Theatre

• art workshops with Arts Access Nebula in the Dandenong Civic Centre’s outdoor civic space.

Further information on what is happening during the Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival and the school holidays is listed on the events calendar on page 10 and 11 of this edition of The City. Information is also available on Council’s website at www.greaterdandenong.com

It’s CHILDREN’S Festival time

A wide range of activities are on offer for Greater

Dandenong’s youngest residents during the Children’s Festival.

Little day outJoin us for the festival’s main event – the Little Day Out – for BIG imaginations on Sunday 28 September at Noble Park’s Ross Reserve.

Come along to enjoy live performances, dance clinics, magic shows, storytelling, puppetry, sports, games and a whole lot of fun.

So grab the family and join us for the fun-filled Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival.

For a full list of Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival events see the events calendar at www.greaterdandenong.com

INTRODUCING OUR CHILDREN’S These five festival friends will be making regular appearances during Greater Dandenong’s Children’s Festival. The characters sum up everything the Children’s Festival aims to be – fun, creative, healthy, interesting and entertaining.

Mona Beeza is the creative one in the group. She is an artistic and imaginative bee and loves drawing.

Birdtoven is the actor of the group. He loves to perform and enjoys keeping people entertained.

Bob the reader is quite an intellectual pooch. He loves books and enjoys learning about new people, places and things.

Blinky Belle is the healthiest koala around. She always makes sure she eats her five vegetables and two pieces of fruit each day. She loves being a role model for healthy eating and nutrition.

Puss ‘n’ Hoops is a cat with lots of energy. He loves being active, is always on the go and his enthusiasm is catchy.

FESTIVAL FRIENDS

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Red Gum WardCr Jim Memeti – MayorPh: 8571 52300434 560 239jim.memeti@cgd.vic.gov.au

Paperbark WardCr Peter BrownPh/Fax: 9584 51490408 138 939 peter.brown@cgd.vic.gov.au

Lightwood WardCr Loi TruongPh: 0466 004 618loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au

Lightwood WardCr Youhorn CheaPh: 9547 5745 Fax: 9547 35860417 320 645ychea@cgd.vic.gov.au

Lightwood WardCr Sean O’Reilly0422 523 258sean.oreilly@cgd.vic.gov.au

Paperbark WardCr Heang Tak0403 072 291heang.tak@cgd.vic.gov.au

Red Gum WardCr Matthew Kirwan0403 072 295matthew.kirwan@cgd.vic.gov.au

Paperbark WardCr Roz Blades AMPh: 9701 5821 Fax: 9798 59270417 053 612roz.blades@cgd.vic.gov.au

Red Gum WardCr Angela LongPh: 9795 6574 Fax: 9795 44120466 004 616angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au

Silverleaf WardCr Maria SampeyPh: 9790 1291 Fax: 9790 61040438 800 027maria.sampey@cgd.vic.gov.au

Silverleaf WardCr John KellyPh: 9793 1777 Fax: 9706 01860418 350 743john.kelly@cgd.vic.gov.au

Council has given notice of its intention to lease two retail tenancies in the City of Greater Dandenong Civic Centre building to Bendigo Bank. Bendigo Bank intends to relocate from its current premises in Lonsdale Street to contribute to the range of services now offered on the corner of Lonsdale and Walker Streets.

As part of its considerations on the future use of the former Clow Street Council offices and Dandenong Library, Council resolved to support a preferred position based on:

• Re-using the former Dandenong office with a mix of commercial lease and Council services, and

• Demolishing the former library to allow for better parking and traffic movement at the Dandenong Market and the creation of an alfresco dining extension.

Council is currently seeking community views on its preferred position. Views are sought by 15 September 2014.

COUNCIL DECISIONS

Council meetings are held on the second and the fourth Monday of the month.

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

Basement parking is available for visitors, enter via Garnar Lane.

The September meetings will be held:

• Monday 8 September, 7pm

• Monday 22 September, 7pm

To view meetings online see www.greaterdandenong.com

COUNCIL MEETINGSCOUNCILLOR CONTACTS

Councillors Youhorn Chea, Roz Blades AM, Sean O’Reilly, Peter Brown, Loi Truong and Angela Long joined forces with Mayor Jim Memeti and local refugees for the signing of the City of Greater Dandenong’s Refugee Asylum Seeker Statement.

your COUNCILLORS

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Paperbark Ward

Cr Roz Blades AMLightwood Ward

Cr Youhorn Chea

Copas Park is a lovely park at the corner of Buckley Street and Leonard Avenue, Noble Park and an ideal

place for a welcome picture. It is important as a city with 165 nationalities to make everyone feel welcome.

Visitors to the Noble Park Shopping Centre will notice some changes around Frank and Douglas Streets, making the area safer for both pedestrians and vehicles. Additionally, there is a nice streetscape developing which will enhance the look and feel of Douglas Street.

In the Noble Park Civic Space (adjacent to the Noble Park Railway Station) shoppers can now sit down comfortably in all sorts of weather with the installation of a new shade structure. Improvements like this are enhancing the amenity area for everyone, making Noble Park an even more attractive, convenient and friendly neighbourhood. The area certainly is buzzing with activity, especially on weekends.

In response to your requests, you will also notice new bicycle hoops have been provided, in addition to those already provided at Noble Park Railway Station.

I recently spoke to students at St Anthony’s School in Noble Park about the services Council provides and the children told me their favourite things about Noble Park were the water play park and water slide at our Aquatic Centre.

There’s a lot to look forward to at this time of year. The Noble Park Community Action Forum will hold the Noble Park Gala Awards at the Noble Park RSL on Saturday 1 October, as well as hosting an event at the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre to celebrate Seniors Week. The Noble Park Art Show is also coming up in October.

We are also proceeding with the designs of the new skate park at Ross Reserve, following on from those undertaken at the Noble Park Aquatic Centre and the new Springvale Little Athletics track.

There is much to celebrate and be involved in. Please don’t hesitate to visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rozblades so I can share news and events with you.

S ince the new premium Springvale Railway Station opened back in April this year, thousands of Springvale

residents and traders, as well as those who work, study, or commute in and out of the area have benefited from the major improvements it has made to the amenity of the whole precinct.

Springvale now boasts a fresher, more vibrant shopping and commercial district, improved transport access for motorists, public transport users and pedestrians, and enhanced safety measures, all of which are helping to strengthen the area’s reputation as the best precinct in the south-east in which to experience the delights of Asian food, culture and language.

It is especially exciting to see the flow-on effect that the upgrade has had for our local businesses and traders. The removal of the level-crossing has really opened up Springvale Road for shoppers, who can travel through the area with greater ease now that serious traffic congestion has been alleviated and estimated travel times are proving much more reliable. Motorists have reported faster and smoother journeys, particularly during peak times, which is great news for all road users.

With the re-opening of the car park at Springvale Station and the completion of nearby road works in recent weeks, commuters can look forward to faster and smoother journeys, including more efficient connections between trains, buses and taxis.

I am looking forward to watching Springvale continue to thrive, both culturally and economically, as the few remaining developments around the station take place over the coming months.

Cr Roz Blades AM features in the City of Greater Dandenong Welcomes All video currently showing on the big screen in the civic space in Dandenong.

Cr Youhorn Chea inspecting the major improvements made to the Springvale Railway Station

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working FOR YOU

FUNDING FOR MENZIES AVENUE

Council has helped secure a $250,000 Victorian

Government Public Safety Infrastructure Funding grant to upgrade Menzies Avenue in Dandenong North.

The grant will help boost the area’s shopping and recreation precinct and forms part of Council’s exciting Dandenong North Community Strengthening Project.

The project includes improving public lighting, seating, paths, signage and landscaping in the area.

A new public toilet, community garden beds, trees and shade structures will all help to beautify the precinct and provide safer and better connections to facilities around Menzies Avenue.

Mayor Jim Memeti said the project was part of Council’s commitment to develop local solutions in partnership with local communities to address local issues.

“This project has brought together a whole range of people: different levels of government, Victoria Police, local traders, residents, the Lyndale Community Reference Group, Avocare and other key community groups,” Cr Memeti said.

“By working together we are helping strengthen our unique neighbourhoods and creating safer, more connected communities for all.”

Other improvements already completed in Menzies Avenue include:

• a new BBQ, shelter, seating and landscaping

• improved playground and games area

• introduction of CCTV cameras, and

• a strong graffiti management program.

Council is changing the way it manages car parking within the

major activity centres of Dandenong, Springvale and Noble Park.

We’re looking to support local traders, shoppers and visitors by making better use of available car parking spaces.

The review of parking will develop guiding principles to set out where short-term and long-term parking is provided and to find a fair balance between the needs of residents, visitors, shoppers, traders and workers.

Although Council receives many requests for additional car parking that is cheap, convenient and secure, it’s not always an achievable or sustainable outcome.

However, we can make immediate improvements by better managing existing parking spaces to get the most out of them.

Council will be focusing on maximising short-stay parking (stays of 2 hours or less) in the core retail and business areas. This will encourage higher turnover of these parking spaces, giving greater priority to shoppers and visitors.

In the areas surrounding the core precincts, Council will be aiming to provide a mix of both short-term and longer-stay parking. This will allow for longer shopper or business stays, while also providing some long-term worker parking.

In nearby residential streets, Council will continue to liaise with local residents to determine if restrictions are necessary and to ensure residential amenity is maintained.

As part of this upcoming work by Council there will be a comprehensive communication strategy with the community. You will have the opportunity to add your comments or suggestions on ways to better manage existing parking in our major activity centres.

Council’s review aims to make the city more accessible for traders, shoppers, workers and residents.

IMPROVED PARKING FOR ALL IN DANDENONG, SPRINGVALE AND NOBLE PARK

Council believes everyone has a right to be an active member of

their community.

To ensure everyone in our community has access to quality playgrounds, Council has recently upgraded the Liberty Swing at Hemmings Park in Dandenong.

This innovative swing ensures children and adults with a disability can safely and easily enjoy the fun of swinging.

Written instructions on how to use the swing are located at the park and while

there you can also enjoy BBQ facilities, accessible toilets, the skate park and children’s playground.

The Liberty Swing requires a MLAK key to be unlocked and fully operational. If you require a MLAK key you can collect one from any of Council’s customer service centres.

For more detailed video instructions on how to use the swing visit the City of Greater Dandenong website at www.greaterdandenong.com

Accessible community for all

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The Great Bin Swap is coming to a close with your new red-lid garbage

bins to be delivered this month.

The Great Bin Swap will see around 135,000 old and new bins collected or delivered over a three-month period.

In July the yellow-lid recycling bins were delivered and your old recycling bin removed.

In August new green-lid garden waste bins were delivered and your old garden waste bin removed.

In September new red-lid garbage bins will be delivered and your old garbage bin removed.

Your new garbage bins will be delivered one week before the old bins are removed.

Keep using your old bin for the next week. On your next waste collection day your waste and bin will be taken

away. You can then start using your new bin.

The new bins will include information stickers to explain this process.

Please note there will be no change to your collection day.

All new bins include an identifying property number, serial and barcode and they should not be swapped between addresses.

If you are yet to receive your new recycling bin these will also be delivered during September.

The Great Bin Swap is taking place as part of Council’s efforts to reduce the amount of waste the community sends to landfill.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Great Bin Swap news at www.greaterdandenong.com/greatbinswap or phone 8571 1000.

Final phase of THE GREAT BIN SWAP

The final phase of The Great Bin Swap will see new red-lid garbage waste bins delivered to households throughout the city during September.

THE

SWAPGREAT BIN

W ith The Great Bin Swap almost complete – with thousands of

new recycling, garden waste and rubbish bins rolled out across Greater Dandenong – now is the perfect time for our community to ‘get it right on bin night’.

There are plenty of hints and tips available to help you put the right rubbish in the right bin.

Please remember that Council conducts regular audits of bins and will not empty contaminated bins as this would contaminate an entire truck’s worth of recycling or garden waste.

Recycling tips (yellow bin):

Do not put recycling in plastic bags, instead simply throw your items loose into the yellow recycling bin.

GET IT RIGHT ON BIN NIGHTYou can put dozens of household items in your recycling bin, including clean foil trays, empty cans, aerosol spray cans, milk/juice cartons, empty glass bottles/jars, plastic bottles/containers including lids, newspapers, magazines, papers and cardboard boxes.

Garden waste tips (green bin):

You can put grass clippings, weeds, garden prunings, flowers, leaves and small branches in your green garden waste bin.

Do not put food, soil, bricks, building materials, general waste, nappies or recyclable items in your garden waste bin.

For more information see the websites at: www.getitrightonbinnight.vic.gov.au or www.greaterdandenong.com

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A s part of Council’s campaign to improve the health and wellbeing

of its residents it has launched Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be Here.

This simple message will start appearing across the city in a bid to encourage people in Greater Dandenong to do what they can to Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be Here.

Council aims to provide opportunities that promote and support health and wellbeing across Greater Dandenong.

These include:

• Parks and open spaces where residents can relax, be active or share a family BBQ

• Playgrounds, libraries and facilities where children and adults can play, learn and connect

• Festivals and events for all to enjoy, and

• A range of programs and services for residents of all ages to improve and support health and wellbeing.

Council is also encouraging residents to share the different ways they are embracing the message Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be Here.

Encourage your friends, family and neighbours to get involved by sharing with us how you are healthy in Greater Dandenong on Facebook or Twitter #behealthybehappybehere. The most creative posts and tweets will receive a prize.

Check out what is happening across Greater Dandenong in the events calendar in this edition of The City or visit www.greaterdandenong.com for more information.

Greater Dandenong celebrates food and healthGreater Dandenong will be a hive of activity over the next two months with the arrival of the Jamie’s Ministry of Food Mobile Kitchen. Food, cooking and health will be celebrated through a range of programs and activities listed below:

• Children’s Festival – Little Day Out

• Community Planting Day

• ‘Living and Learning’ Dandenong Library

• Cubby Pear at the Dandenong Market

• Pop Up Garden and composting workshops

The City of Greater Dandenong’s Healthy Together Team at Dandenong Market’s ‘Cubby Pear’ interactive art project. Visitors are encouraged to share their photos of the cubby pear on social media using #cubbypear, like the visitors pictured here.

Did you know?Greater Dandenong is home to more than 75 parks and reserves. Why not visit one with your friends and family and have a picnic. Tell us or show us which is your favourite and why by posting a picture on Facebook or Twitter, #behealthybehappybehere.

There are over 100 playgrounds for children and families to enjoy across the municipality. Tell us where your children love to play and upload an action shot of them enjoying the play equipment on Facebook or Twitter, #behealthybehappybehere.

There are hundreds of ways you can get involved in our community – visit our Community Directory or website to find out more.

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HEALTH CHAMPIONS SPREAD the word in Greater Dandenong

T he City of Greater Dandenong and the

Dandenong Market have built ‘The Kitchen’ to showcase fresh market produce, healthy cooking and a healthy lifestyle.

The Kitchen is about taking great locally available fresh produce and using some simple techniques to get great healthy meals on the table at home.

Every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday from 12pm to 1pm chef Russell Bald demonstrates how to cook quick, cheap and healthy recipes in the Food Hall of Dandenong Market.

Free recipe cards are available from The Kitchen and many of the ingredients used are available from the market.

This health initiative is funded by the Australian Government.

Dandenong Market is open Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and is located at the corner of Clow and Cleeland streets in Dandenong.

www.dandenongmarket.com.au

COOKING UP A HEALTHY

RECIPE AT DANDENONG

MARKET

A Health Champions program has been launched in the City of Greater Dandenong as part of a state-wide effort to improve health and wellbeing in the community.

Ranging in age from 16 to 81, Greater Dandenong has 37 Health Champions participating as part of the program.

All participants either live, work or study in the city.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti said the Health Champions had received training about how to promote their health and wellbeing messages.

“This program has given a voice to people who are keen to make a positive difference,” he said.

“The program supports local people to improve their own health and to influence the health of their family and friends.”

Cr Memeti said many of the people involved had inspirational health stories to share.

“From surviving breast cancer to losing 50 kilograms, our Health Champions are the perfect people to inspire our community to lead healthier and happier lifestyles.”

HEALTH CHAMPIONS Spread the word in Greater Dandenong

Spring Superfood Smoothie (Serves 8 to 10)

Ingredients:

• 500ml Indian yoghurt

• 400ml light milk

• 100ml honey

• 3 tablespoons chia seeds

• 3 tablespoons quinoa

• 1.5 cups oats

• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds

Combine all ingredients together in a blender and serve.

• 80 grams toasted almonds

• 3 bananas

• 1 punnet strawberries

with the tops cut off

• 4 tablespoons

pomegranate syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste

Two of Greater Dandenong’s

Health Champions.

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MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Library Toddler Time10.30amPh: 1300 630 920

Koori Youth Group4pmPh: 9793 2155

Top Cat dances Rock & Swing Dance ClassesEdinburgh Hall7.30pmPh: 0413 393 345

Dandenong Evening View ClubDandenong RSL7pm Ph: 9791 6807

Sandown Race DaySportingbet Park

Library Storytime10.30amPh: 1300 630 920

Afghan Bazaar Cultural Tour6pmPh: 9771 5777

Dandenong Plaza Pacers Walking Group7.30am-8.30amDandenong Plaza Shopping Centre

Friday Walking Group9.30amSpringvale Neighbourhood HousePh: 9548 3972

U3A Karaoke1pmPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9711 1888

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve – Spring Opening and Planting Day10am-2pmPh: 8571 1702

Market Week6-14 SeptemberDandenong Market Free tours and expanded cooking programs

Greater Dandenong Environment GroupDandenong Wetlands9.30amPh: 8571 1702

Noble Park Country Women’s Association Craft Day10amPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9547 7261

Council Meeting7pm225 Lonsdale Street

Noble Park Community Action Forum6pmPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9701 5821

TAIKOZ Crimson Sky8pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Night Light Sounds Committee Meeting6.30pmThe Castle, Hemmings ParkPh: 9793 2155

Dandenong & District Orchid Club Meeting7pmAgricultural Building, Greaves ReservePh: 0412 188 263

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day9amPh: 8571 1702

Me & My Dad ‘Our Digestive System’ Science Workshop2pmDandenong LibraryPh: 1300 360 920

Sandown 50012 to 14 SeptemberSandown Motor Raceway

Springvale Computer Market Swap Meet10amSpringvale Town Hall

Springvale Rotary Sunday market8amOpposite Sandown Park Railway Station

Full Moon Festival10am-4pmDandenong Market

Jamie’s Ministry of Food – Cycle 2 StartsPalm Plaza

WotOpera7pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Ramblers Walking Group9.15am-11amNoble Park Community Centre

Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch Public Forum Annual General Meeting7.30pmPaddy O’Donoghue Centre

Little India Cultural Tour6pmPh: 9771 5777

Redlegs Walking Group10amDandenong Oasis Leisure Centre

Growing Spring Veggies7pm-8pmDandenong Librarywww.greaterdandenong.com/healthytogether

Chilean Latin American Festival10amSandown Racecoursewww.septemberfestival.com.au

Marina Prior ‘Songbird’8pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Dandenong Community Cemetery Tours2pmPh: 0411 399 449

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day10am – 12pmPh: 8571 1702

Chilean Latin American Festival10amSandown Racecoursewww.septemberfestival.com.au

Noble Park Country Women’s Association General Meeting10amPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9547 7261

Council Meeting7pm225 Lonsdale Street

The Fairytale Cookbook10.30am, 1.30pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Kids Gardening – Plant a veggie garden10am-12pmHeritage Hill

The Wizard’s Tale11am-11.45amSpringvale Library

Dandenong Food Lovers Tour9.50amPh: 8571 1377

Cinderella11am-11.40amDandenong Library

Annie Jr1pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Stars, Whiskers & Secret Eyes6pmFotheringham ReservePh: 8571 1702

Cathy’s Sing-a-long Storytime 7pm-7.45pmDandenong Library

Annie Jr1pm, 7pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day9amPh: 8571 1702

Get Moving! With Koala Gymnastics10am-2pmHeritage Hill

Old time/new Vogue Dancing8pmKeysborough Senior Citizens CentrePh: 9547 8615

Sandown Race Course Grand Final Day Sportingbet Park

Fotheringham Reserve Environmental Awareness Day10amPh: 8571 1702

Little Day Out11am-4pmRoss Reserve

Annie Jr3pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Goldilocks1.30pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Showko11am-11.45amSpringvale Library

Australasian Gaelic Games30 September to 4 OctoberGaelic Park, Perry Rd, Keysborough

SEPTEMBER

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Submit your community event

online at www.greaterdandenong.com

community CALENDAR

Dandenong Food Lovers Tour24 September

Kids Gardening – Plant a veggie garden Heritage Hill23 September

Drum Theatre25 and 26 September

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✆ City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000

Drum Theatre 8571 1666

Dandenong Library 1300 630 920

Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511

Jan Wilson Community Centre 9795 9279

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 9238 1436

Springvale Library 1300 630 920

Springers Leisure Centre 9701 5900

Walker Street Gallery 9706 8441

Dandenong Market 9701 3850

Cultural Tours 9771 5777

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Library Toddler Time10.30amPh: 1300 630 920

Koori Youth Group4pmPh: 9793 2155

Top Cat dances Rock & Swing Dance ClassesEdinburgh Hall7.30pmPh: 0413 393 345

Dandenong Evening View ClubDandenong RSL7pm Ph: 9791 6807

Sandown Race DaySportingbet Park

Library Storytime10.30amPh: 1300 630 920

Afghan Bazaar Cultural Tour6pmPh: 9771 5777

Dandenong Plaza Pacers Walking Group7.30am-8.30amDandenong Plaza Shopping Centre

Friday Walking Group9.30amSpringvale Neighbourhood HousePh: 9548 3972

U3A Karaoke1pmPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9711 1888

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve – Spring Opening and Planting Day10am-2pmPh: 8571 1702

Market Week6-14 SeptemberDandenong Market Free tours and expanded cooking programs

Greater Dandenong Environment GroupDandenong Wetlands9.30amPh: 8571 1702

Noble Park Country Women’s Association Craft Day10amPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9547 7261

Council Meeting7pm225 Lonsdale Street

Noble Park Community Action Forum6pmPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9701 5821

TAIKOZ Crimson Sky8pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Night Light Sounds Committee Meeting6.30pmThe Castle, Hemmings ParkPh: 9793 2155

Dandenong & District Orchid Club Meeting7pmAgricultural Building, Greaves ReservePh: 0412 188 263

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day9amPh: 8571 1702

Me & My Dad ‘Our Digestive System’ Science Workshop2pmDandenong LibraryPh: 1300 360 920

Sandown 50012 to 14 SeptemberSandown Motor Raceway

Springvale Computer Market Swap Meet10amSpringvale Town Hall

Springvale Rotary Sunday market8amOpposite Sandown Park Railway Station

Full Moon Festival10am-4pmDandenong Market

Jamie’s Ministry of Food – Cycle 2 StartsPalm Plaza

WotOpera7pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Ramblers Walking Group9.15am-11amNoble Park Community Centre

Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch Public Forum Annual General Meeting7.30pmPaddy O’Donoghue Centre

Little India Cultural Tour6pmPh: 9771 5777

Redlegs Walking Group10amDandenong Oasis Leisure Centre

Growing Spring Veggies7pm-8pmDandenong Librarywww.greaterdandenong.com/healthytogether

Chilean Latin American Festival10amSandown Racecoursewww.septemberfestival.com.au

Marina Prior ‘Songbird’8pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Dandenong Community Cemetery Tours2pmPh: 0411 399 449

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day10am – 12pmPh: 8571 1702

Chilean Latin American Festival10amSandown Racecoursewww.septemberfestival.com.au

Noble Park Country Women’s Association General Meeting10amPaddy O’Donoghue CentrePh: 9547 7261

Council Meeting7pm225 Lonsdale Street

The Fairytale Cookbook10.30am, 1.30pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Kids Gardening – Plant a veggie garden10am-12pmHeritage Hill

The Wizard’s Tale11am-11.45amSpringvale Library

Dandenong Food Lovers Tour9.50amPh: 8571 1377

Cinderella11am-11.40amDandenong Library

Annie Jr1pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Stars, Whiskers & Secret Eyes6pmFotheringham ReservePh: 8571 1702

Cathy’s Sing-a-long Storytime 7pm-7.45pmDandenong Library

Annie Jr1pm, 7pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day9amPh: 8571 1702

Get Moving! With Koala Gymnastics10am-2pmHeritage Hill

Old time/new Vogue Dancing8pmKeysborough Senior Citizens CentrePh: 9547 8615

Sandown Race Course Grand Final Day Sportingbet Park

Fotheringham Reserve Environmental Awareness Day10amPh: 8571 1702

Little Day Out11am-4pmRoss Reserve

Annie Jr3pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Goldilocks1.30pmDrum TheatrePh: 8571 1666

Showko11am-11.45amSpringvale Library

Australasian Gaelic Games30 September to 4 OctoberGaelic Park, Perry Rd, Keysborough

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Marina Prior ‘Songbird’Drum Theatre20 September

Taikoz, Drum Theatre, 11 September

Goldilocks, Drum Theatre 30 September

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Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre is proud to present a

stunning exhibition of indigenous artists this month.

Black art, white walls draws on the extensive indigenous art collected by Adrian and Anne Newstead – owners of Australia’s oldest Aboriginal art gallery.

They have worked with Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander artists over the past 30 years resulting in a vast personal collection.

Their art collection is a personal one, built through personal relationships, serendipity, and a keen sense of historical and cultural importance.

As such the collection stands

distinctly apart from those of casual collectors.

It is a platform by which a different narrative can be told: that of art as an expression of relationships, culture, spirituality, the land and kinship.

Black art, white walls is on show at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre from 4-27 September at the corner of Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong.

Join us at the opening night event at 6.30pm on Thursday 4 September.

Details: 9706 8441.

If you’re interested in the arts why not check out your local library to view a range of exquisite books in the Arts and Culture collection.

Jimmy Pike, Yakarn 1990, synthetic polymer paint on canvas, 64 x 79 cm

BLACK ART, WHITE WALLS

A ustralia’s world-acclaimed taiko drumming ensemble TaikOz

presents a stunning new work at the Drum Theatre this month.

Introspection, meditative melodies and sheer explosive might sit alongside light-hearted exuberance in TaikOz’s Crimson Sky.

The thunderous drumming of the taiko is interwoven with the hypnotic melodies of the shakuhachi and shinobue bamboo flutes, voice and a rare performance on the bass koto, a traditional Japanese 17-stringed plucked instrument to be played by special guest artist Satsuki Odamura.

Based on a haiku by Japanese poet

Miura Yuzuru, Toward The Crimson Sky has been written by TaikOz Artistic Director Ian Cleworth, evoking the poem’s sensual, dramatic and often playful imagery of a cloud of dragonflies ascending into a deep red sky.

The program will also feature new works by the two youngest TaikOz members: from the peaceful meditation of Solace by Tom Royce-Hampton to the dynamic high energy of Exploration by Anton Lock, featuring the virtuosity of the drum set pitted against the dynamic high energy of the taiko.

TaikOz is on show at the Drum Theatre 8pm Thursday 11 September.

Bookings: 8571 1666.

Take a look inside the secret world of wildflowers in a stunning new

exhibition at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens.

Artist John ‘Bushie’ Alcock presents a series of stylised photo media prints and paintings in a complex look at Australian wildflowers – through his camera lens.

The Secret Life of Plants features the bold colours and delicate details of our stunning native wildflowers.

It was inspired by Alcock’s early years growing up in the Mallee.

“As a child I played in the bush straight outside the door, gaining a great love and understanding of the nature of things,” he said.

“I have always been influenced by the rhymes of nature and the universe.

“I try to capture delicate changes in season that bring with them an explosion of colour, from the soft colours of early morning, to the deep rich colours of the fading evening light.

“My works are about our existence in this very ancient land we inhabit. I want you to come to know her love and understand her as we should all do.”

The Secret Life of Plants is on show 5 September – 5 October at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong.

Art scene BLOOMING

the drum at Drum Theatre

Artist John ‘Bushie’ Alcock’s new exhibition will feature at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens this month.

Toward the Crimson Sky, TaikOz’s new show, will be performed at Dandenong’s

Drum Theatre in September

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T he transformation of one of Greater Dandenong’s most

beloved playgrounds continues at Springvale’s Burden Park.

Stage 2 works at the Burden Park playground are now complete – adding a host of new improvements to the family-favourite park.

The project has breathed new life into the iconic timber fortress playground.

The latest round of works added new equipment to the playground including a flying fox, spinners and a multi-purpose tyre swing.

Stage 2 also included improved all-abilities access to the playground, a new toilet facility, improved paths and new landscaping.

Mayor Jim Memeti said community reaction to the improvements had been overwhelmingly positive.

“Council is working hard to provide great playgrounds and open spaces that help add to our happy, healthy, family-friendly community,” he said.

Burden Park is at the corner of Heatherton and Springvale Roads, Springvale South.

To find out more about playgrounds in Greater Dandenong see www.greaterdandenong.com.

Playground receivesMAGICAL MAKEOVER

Burden Park in Springvale has been given a new lease of life

SPRING HAS SPRUNG There’s no place better to welcome

the arrival of Spring than at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve’s season opening.

This surprising little pocket of remnant bushland is a unique piece of Greater Dandenong that allows you to step back in time and see what the area looked like 100 years ago.

The reserve is closed during winter but will throw open its gates on Saturday 6 September for a Spring celebration between 10am-2pm.

The annual event is a fun-filled, activity-packed day for all the family featuring tree plantings, a free BBQ, live animal show, rides and games.

This beautiful reserve was named

after the former City of Springvale parks and gardens superintendant, the late Mr Alex Wilkie.

He was the driving force behind the creation of the reserve when the Springvale South Community Association purchased several hectares of land in 1950.

By day the reserve is home to blue tongue lizards, skinks, parrots and a wide variety of other birds. By night it comes alive with possums, tawny frogmouth owls and microbats.

One of Greater Dandenong’s most valuable environmental heritage areas, the reserve has picnic facilities and amenities in a natural bushland setting and is located in Mackay Street, Springvale South.

In addition to the season opening event, Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve is open 9am-3pm every Friday and 10am-5pm on the third Sunday of the month.

Welcome Spring at a special September celebration at Springvale’s Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve.

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The City of Greater Dandenong’s Free City Shuttle bus service has

received an upgrade.

A new stop has been added to the route and the bus also has a new look and feel.

The bus is now adorned with illustrations of the city’s main attractions and landmarks.

This includes Dandenong Oasis, Drum Theatre, Dandenong Market and Dandenong Plaza.

The new stop has been added on Walker Street, directly opposite Dandenong’s new Civic Centre. It is being trialled until October, when a decision will be made about whether the stop is added to the route permanently.

The City Shuttle is a free service provided by the City of Greater Dandenong. It takes residents and visitors to the main shopping areas of central Dandenong, allowing them to enjoy everything the city has to offer.

The service commences at the Dandenong railway station and operates between the hours of 9.15am and 5.15pm Monday to Saturday. There are now eight designated stops before the bus returns to the station (approximate 30 minute round trip).

The bus seats 32 passengers and has two doors and a low-lying floor allowing easy access for prams and shopping jeeps.

TAKE A FREE RIDE

business NEWS

A new stop on the Free City Shuttle bus service makes getting around Dandenong even easier. Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti has given it his tick of approval.

The City of Greater Dandenong is leading a business delegation to its

Sister City in China in October.

Invitations have been sent to seek interest from local businesses to attend the China Xuzhou 17th Investment Fair, where they will be able to network with like businesses in the region and meet

with representatives of AusTrade and the Victorian Government Business Office in Shanghai.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) Chairperson Simon Whiteley said China was emerging as an important regional player for business, trade and consumer opportunities between Australia and Asia.

“Developing international contacts and connections with this region is vital in ensuring the longevity and future growth of Greater Dandenong’s manufacturing and business sectors,” he said.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti said Council already had a well-established relationship with China through its Sister City relationship.

Council has forged exciting business relationships within the region, the benefits of which are now coming to fruition.

“Our long standing relationship with Xuzhou provides local businesses with an unprecedented opportunity to tap into established overseas markets and to harness emerging investment potential,” Cr Memeti said.

The Business and Industry Delegation will visit China in October 2014.

Council will coordinate a number of high-level meetings with key business and industry leaders in China during the visit. If you are interested in being part of this exciting business opportunity please call Paul Kearsley on 8571 1571.

CHINA DELEGATION TO FORGE NEW LINKS

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community NEWS

IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – SEPTEMBER 2014

DATE TIME LOCATION

1 September 5pm-6.30pm Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, SpringvalePlease be advised that the McFees Rd Immunisation sessions are cancelled for 2014 due to building works. They will re-commence early 2015.

9 September 10am-12pm Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

11 September 10am-11.30pm Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

16 September 1pm-2pm Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

17 September 4.30pm-6.30pm Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

24 September 10am-12pm Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, Springvale

27 September 10am-12pm Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

The Immunisation Timetable for the City of Greater Dandenong is available from Council’s customer service centres or Maternal and Child Health centres. Phone Council on 8571 1000 for more information on the upcoming immunisation sessions:

Young mums can join with others in a fun, free and supportive

playgroup held each week in Dandenong.

The Young Mum’s Playgroup is a supported playgroup for young women aged 25 and under who are either pregnant or caring for children up to four years of age.

The playgroup provides young mums with opportunities to learn from one another and a safe space

to discuss concerns and explore positive parenting techniques.

You can also join in a range of hands-on, fun activities and excursions with your children.

The free playgroup runs 10am-12pm Tuesdays at The Castle.

A young mum’s worker is also available to meet with you prior to joining the group.

For further information, please contact Greater Dandenong Youth Services on 9793 2155.

Support for YOUNG MUMS

Young mums from a special Dandenong playgroup

participate in a fun, free excursion with their children.

CHINESE BOOK DONATION BOOSTS GREATER DANDENONG LIBRARY

The Government of the People’s Republic of China has made a

substantial book donation to the City of Greater Dandenong.

The donation has boosted Greater Dandenong’s collection of Chinese books by approximately 200.

The new books cover topics including traditional literature, culture, history, art and science, as well as bilingual content.

The City of Greater Dandenong has approximately 8500 Chinese speaking residents and of these more than 2500 are library members.

Greater Dandenong’s Chinese book section is one of the most heavily borrowed collections.

The books were presented to Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti by the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Yu Ming Song.

Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Yu Ming Song, presents a special

collection of Chinese books to Greater Dandenong Mayor, Jim Memeti.

Detox Your Home is a free mobile collection service offered to Greater

Dandenong residents wishing to safely dispose of common toxic household chemicals.

Households should be aware that a few important changes to the collection service will occur at the beginning of 2015. The mobile collection service will no longer accept household paint, batteries, fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).

Instead, you will be able to dispose of

these very common waste items all year round at a number of Victorian permanent drop-off sites. The closest disposal facilities for Greater Dandenong residents are:

• Monash Waste Transfer and Recycling Station 380 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill

• Mornington Waste Disposal Centre 134 Watt Road, Mornington

To make it even easier, a new site will soon be opening in Hampton Park.

DETOX your home

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