December 2014 and January 2015 Meet your new mayor page 3

Merry Christmas Greater Dandenong pages 6 & 7

Celebrating Australia Day pages 8 & 9

Summer safety page 17

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES

MAYOR’S MESSAGE Hello and welcome to the December/January bumper edition of The City.

Springvale office 397–405 Springvale Road Springvale

It’s an honour to be elected as your new Mayor and I look forward to serving our community over the coming year.

Dandenong office 225 Lonsdale St Dandenong Keysborough centre 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: [email protected] Phone: 8571 1000

Fax: 8571 5196 www.greaterdandenong.com

@greaterdandy

I am excited to work with local residents, businesses, schools and community groups in creating an even stronger Greater Dandenong. I’ll share more about my goals and focus for 2015 on page 3 of this edition of The City. This edition also features details of the many activities occurring in Greater Dandenong during Christmas and the summer holidays. I hope you’ll join us for: • Dandenong Chamber of Commerce’s annual Carols by Candlelight (pages 6 & 7) • a host of Christmas events in the Dandenong Civic Centre’s outdoor space including Santa and a giant reindeer, our nativity scene and a variety of Christmas messages on the big screen (pages 6 & 7) • the much-loved Australia Day in the Park celebrations at Dandenong Park where thousands of people from all walks of life come together to celebrate this great nation (pages 8 & 9). I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Happy reading!

facebook.com/greaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong

Mayor Sean O’Reilly

 TY: 133 677 T Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 Internet: www.iprelay.com.au TIS: 13 14 50 [email protected]

IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency calls Police/Fire/Ambulance.................... 000 Street Lighting Faults/ Non-operational Alinta Hotline.......................... 13 20 99 Traffic Signal Faults/ Non-operational................... 8571 1000

my CITY Greater Dandenong’s dedicated carers were honoured at a recent Carers Week lunch at the Dandenong Civic Centre. Local carers make a positive difference in our community supporting and caring for older people, people with a disability, people struggling with mental illness or those with ongoing medical conditions.

Hoon Hotline.................. 1800 333 000 Hard Waste Collection WM Waste Management Services......... 9721 1915

Cover photo: Dandenong Chamber of Commerce’s annual Carols by Candlelight is on Friday December 19. See page 7 for details. Picture: Hilton Stone.

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

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This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

Introducing Your New Mayor L

ightwood Ward Councillor Sean O’Reilly has been elected Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong for the coming year.

Mayor O’Reilly was first elected to council in 2012, with a desire to give back to his local community and to work closely with his fellow residents to identify their needs. He believes strongly in the idea that Greater Dandenong should be a place where everyone receives a fair go and is passionate about supporting projects that will help further develop our city as a vibrant, connected and caring place to live and work. “I’m immensely proud of our diversity, our sense of community, and the achievements of all of our residents, however I’m also committed to keep striving for improvement,” he said. In particular, Mayor O’Reilly is committed to advocating for the closure of the Lyndhurst Landfill site – continuing the work of his predecessor, Cr Jim Memeti. He also hopes to see Council working closely with the State Government to implement the planned removal of level crossings throughout the city, as a matter of priority. “The completion of the grade separation at Springvale has opened up so many opportunities for Springvale by making our local businesses more accessible and improving the safety of those who travel through the area,” he said. “I’d like to see these benefits extended to the rest of Greater Dandenong through the removal of level crossings at Corrigan Road, Heatherton Road and Chandler Road. I will continue advocating for these projects to be delivered.” During his term as Mayor, Cr O’Reilly will focus on finding new and better ways to support all sectors of the Greater Dandenong community – residents as well as local business, industry and manufacturing bodies who all contribute to the success of our city as an enviable place to live, work and play. “The opportunity to represent one of Australia’s most vibrant municipalities is one I take very seriously and I look forward to working alongside my fellow Councillors to lead our great city and to build upon its strengths and opportunities,” he said. Mayor O’Reilly lives in Springvale with his wife and two children and is actively involved in the wider Greater Dandenong community.

City of Greater Dandenong councillors with Mayor Sean O’Reilly.

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COUNCILLOR CONTACTS Lightwood Ward Cr Youhorn Chea Ph: 9547 5745 Fax: 9547 3586 0417 320 645 [email protected] Lightwood Ward – Mayor Cr Sean O’Reilly 0422 523 258 [email protected]

Lightwood Ward Cr Loi Truong Ph: 0466 004 618 [email protected]

Paperbark Ward Cr Roz Blades Ph: 9701 5821 Fax: 9798 5927 0417 053 612 [email protected] Paperbark Ward Cr Peter Brown Ph/Fax: 9584 5149 0408 138 939 [email protected] Paperbark Ward Cr Heang Tak 0403 072 291 [email protected]

Red Gum Ward Cr Angela Long Ph: 9795 6574 Fax: 9795 4412 0466 004 616 [email protected] Red Gum Ward Cr Matthew Kirwan 0403 072 295 [email protected]

Red Gum Ward Cr Jim Memeti Ph: 9792 4683 Fax: 9792 4683 0434 560 239 [email protected] Silverleaf Ward Cr John Kelly Ph: 9793 1777 Fax: 9706 0186 0418 350 743 [email protected] Silverleaf Ward Cr Maria Sampey Ph: 9790 1291 Fax: 9790 6104 0438 800 027 [email protected]

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COUNCIL MEETINGS Council meetings are usually held on the second and the fourth Monday of the month. All Council meetings are now held at the city chambers, Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong. The December meeting will be held: • Monday 8 December, Dandenong, 7pm.

COUNCIL MEETINGS ON WEB-CAM Did you know you can watch Council meetings live online via our web-cast service? You can keep up-to-date with all the latest decisions, hear questions from residents and find out the many ways your local councillors are serving the community. To view meetings online simply go to www.greaterdandenong.com and look for the ‘Watch Council Meetings Live’ page in the Your Council section. Over the past 12 months 319 people have tuned in to watch a live Council meeting. You can also watch at a later time that suits you. More than 1700 people have watched an archived meeting video during the past year.

COUNCIL CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS Opening hours at the City of Greater Dandenong’s customer service centres at Dandenong, Springvale and Parkmore will be impacted by the Christmas and Australia Day holidays. Wednesday 24 December Service centres open 8.30am-12pm. Call centre open until 5pm. Thursday 25 December CLOSED Friday 26 December CLOSED Saturday 27 December CLOSED Monday 29 December Open normal hours Tuesday 30 December Open normal hours Wednesday 31 December Open normal hours Thursday 1 January CLOSED Friday 2 January Open normal hours Monday 26 January – Australia Day CLOSED

working FOR YOU

New Emergency Services Hub A

new $5 million emergency management complex has opened in Dandenong South – providing our community with state-of-the-art facilities right on our doorstep.

It brings together emergency management functions previously spread across Oakleigh, Dandenong, Pakenham and Moorooduc into the one location.

Vido said the new complex will ensure our community – and neighbouring areas – receive the best support during emergency events including floods and fires.

The Southern Metropolitan Region Emergency Management Complex will house the CFA and other emergency management agencies – including Victoria Police, MFB, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, SES, Department of Human Services and VicRoads – during emergencies.

The new 2,357 square complex includes two levels of offices and a goods and distribution centre on the ground floor. It also houses a CFA Incident Control Centre, District Command Centre and Regional Control Centre with capacity for 72 staff and volunteers.

“The City of Greater Dandenong is incredibly proud of the strong working relationship we enjoy with the CFA – both through CFA headquarters and our local units,” Mr Vido said.

Greater Dandenong’s Municipal Emergency Resource Officer Oliver

SPEAKING UP FOR SPORT C ouncil is calling for Victorian Government funding assistance to help develop Tatterson Park into a regional sports complex of excellence.

the next stage of development is the inclusion of a high-quality, multipurpose sports pavilion and community centre.

Tatterson Park boasts three full size multi-purpose sportsgrounds which can be configured for a wide range of sports including soccer, AFL and more.

Council is seeking State Government funding support to implement this $7.5 million state of the art regional sports complex.

To maximise Tatterson Park’s full potential as a regional sports precinct and meet a wide range of quality sporting and community expectations,

Council has completed all the necessary planning and design work to allow this project to go ahead as soon as funding is confirmed.

“I want to commend and thank the staff and volunteers of the CFA for playing such a proactive and inspiring role in our community.”

The planned sports centre will incorporate innovative design and flexible spaces including: • provision for up to eight uni-sex change rooms • community meeting rooms and social spaces • a commercial kitchen • umpire and official amenities • spectator viewing capacity covering two large multipurpose sports fields.

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Merry Christmas Greater Dandenong D

ecember is a fantastic time to get out and about in Greater Dandenong, with Christmas cheer working its magic to bring our most loved venues, streets and shopping precincts to life. No matter how you celebrate the festive season, take time out to embrace joy, festivity and community at this special time of year. Deck the Halls

Street decorations

Dandenong’s newest public space, the civic square at the new Dandenong Civic Centre, will be the centre of Christmas fun and frivolity this year.

Key shopping precincts in Dandenong, Springvale and Noble Park’s major retail areas will be adorned with the colours of the festive season - green, red, and gold.

The square will be decked out for Christmas with impressive new decorations, including Santa atop one of his reindeer reaching 9 metres high. Featuring hundreds of warm LED lights and dressed with a coat of crystal and sequin drops, the North Pole’s most famous resident will be lighting up the night for all the local girls and boys. The Civic Centre’s window display will also feature a traditional nativity scene displaying the birth of Jesus while the neighbouring Drum Theatre will be bursting with baubles and stars.

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Decorations featuring Christmas trees, presents and traditional doves of peace will be displayed to help celebrate Christmas and promote local shopping areas. In addition, musicians and entertainers will be roving the streets on a number of occasions throughout the month – watch out for Christmas Gizmo on his unicycle, Tubby the Christmas Robot performing his favourite Christmas songs, a cheeky elf bringing balloon creations to life, and more. See http://www.greaterdandenong. com/events for all the details.

Christmas on the big screen On the big screen you’ll find details of our daily events and activities program as well as a very special Christmas message from our local retailers, many of whom will also be getting into the spirit of the season by participating in a festive window display competition.

Merry Christmas from your Councillors As another festive season approaches many in our community will be making plans to celebrate Christmas with family, friends and neighbours, to take a much-needed break, to reflect on the year that has been, and to welcome a bright new one. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you, our residents, for your help and support in making Greater Dandenong such a wonderful, vibrant

community in which to live, work and play. As Councillors of the City of Greater Dandenong it has been our pleasure to represent you and we look forward to a promising and productive 2015 for our great city. Merry Christmas, and may you enjoy a safe, happy and hopeful new year.

The Greater Dandenong Band’s group of talented local musicians will provide the musical backdrop to this evening of celebration and song, which will also feature children’s entertainment identities The Workers. So grab your rug, your candle and a twilight picnic and begin your Christmas season in good company with your family, friends and neighbours.

From all of your City of Greater Dandenong Councillors.

Friday 19 December 7.30pm Dandenong Park Pultney Street, Dandenong.

Get your selfie on

Carols by Candlelight

Bring in the New Year

Our giant reindeer’s not camera shy, and no visit to see it would be complete without the ever-present selfie. Strike a pose at the official selfie spot, and share the Christmas joy on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #reindeerselfie. We’ll share them on Council’s social media sites and you might even see your face on the big screen!

Beautiful, leafy Dandenong Park will once again play host to the 67th annual Carols by Candlelight this Christmas, inviting the community to come together to enjoy live music, festivities, food stalls and even a muchanticipated visit from Santa. This special event is a great opportunity to gather with loved ones, to relax and to celebrate the holidays in one of our city’s finest outdoor precincts.

It’s New Year’s Eve – grab the kids, put on your party hat and head to Civic Square for Greater Dandenong’s inaugural new year’s celebration. There’ll be plenty to do on the ground but everyone’s eyes will be drawn skyward as the night ends with a magnificent fireworks display. 5.30pm-9.30pm. Details: www. greaterdandenong.com

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Australia Day Celebrations

A

ustralia Day is always a cause for significant celebration for the Greater Dandenong community. With residents coming from more than 150 countries, Australia Day presents a great opportunity for people of different backgrounds and experiences to gather together, to reflect on what it means to be Australian, and to celebrate everything we have in common. Council’s major Australia Day celebrations will be held at Dandenong Park, where you’re invited to come and enjoy what promises to be an enjoyable and entertaining summer’s day full of activity, entertainment and good cheer. There will be live music, roving performers, interesting food and market stalls, and a range of activities on offer for the whole family. While most activities are free, some of the rides will require a small cost of $2 or $4 for entry. The Australia Day celebrations will culminate in a magical fireworks display just as evening falls. Ride your bike to the Australia Day Festival and receive two free ride tokens. Free valet bike parking at event. 3pm-9.30pm Dandenong Park Pultney St, Dandenong 8 the CITY

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS E

ach year a much-anticipated part of Australia Day celebrations in Greater Dandenong is the announcement of our Australia Day Award winners. Council presents awards to six outstanding local citizens to honour their involvement and commitment to making a difference in our community in a range of categories: • Citizen of the Year (26 years of age and above) • Young Leader of the Year (25 years of age or under) • Volunteer of the Year • Leadership Award • Multicultural Award • Sportsperson of the Year • Corporate Citizen of the Year. The Awards Ceremony will take place during the Greater Dandenong Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at the Drum Theatre.

Past winner hits great heights Australia Day Award winners display values of generosity, passion, initiative and commitment and often show outstanding leadership potential. It is no surprise, then, to learn that some past winners have gone on to achieve remarkable things in the wider Victorian community. Guillaume Nyakaboyi, who was named 2014’s Young Achiever of the Year, was recently inducted onto the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll for his tireless work in representing and advocating for young people and the issues they face. His outstanding achievements

were recognised by Governor the Hon Alex Chernov AC QC and Premier the Hon Denis Napthine MP in a special reception at Government House in September. Guillaume (pictured above) arrived in Australia from the Eastern African state of Burundi in 2010 after spending 10 years in a Tanzanian refugee camp, and has accomplished much for the community in such a short time. During the past four years he has been involved in a range of volunteer programs, committees and advisory groups, including the Youth Think Tank and Young Leaders Program that have made a real difference to the interests and wellbeing of both the Burundian and wider community. Council congratulates Guillaume on achieving this great honour.

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Citizenship a popular choice

T

he City of Greater Dandenong is a popular destination for residents who choose to become Australian citizens.

With 12 ceremony dates held in 2014, and each consisting of two ceremonies with approximately 150 candidates, there is an ongoing waiting list for citizenship within Greater Dandenong. While Council conducts the citizenship ceremonies, it does not administer citizenship enquiries and applications. These must all be directed to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. Just over half of Greater Dandenong’s Australian citizens were born overseas arriving from over 150 countries including Vietnam, Cambodia, China, India, Sri Lanka, Bosnia, Greece, Italy and Afghanistan. Among the 2,700 recently-arrived migrants who settle in Greater Dandenong each year (the highest number of settlers in any Victorian municipality) approximately 700 are refugees or other humanitarian settlers. Greater Dandenong has been a Refugee Welcome Zone since 2002. This is a local government area that has made a commitment to welcome refugees into the community and demonstrate compassion and cultural diversity within the community. In the life of our community, refugees continue to make a significant economic, social and cultural contribution and Council is committed to promoting inter-cultural diversity, harmony and respect. After fulfilling certain conditions, settlers may apply to the Australian Government for Australian citizenship. Within ten years, almost four-fifths of applicants receive citizenship and after two decades, most are Australian citizens. For information and advice on becoming an Australian citizen please contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection on 131 880 or go to: www.citizenship.gov.au

New citizen profile – Julie Anne Canoza

I

come from Baliuag, Bulacan in the Philippines which is about an hour and a half drive from Manila. Life in the Philippines is much more crowded and hectic than in Australia! Before coming to Australia, I lived with my parents and worked as an elementary teacher in one of the public schools for nine years. My dad was a Chief of Alternative Learning System in Region III; my mum was also a teacher but resigned to become a full-time mother. My sister is a doctor and my brother is also a public school teacher. I have family in Melbourne who all told me of what a great place Australia is. I came to visit in 2007 for three months and then decided to migrate – this was granted and in 2009, I arrived to start a new life.

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I now work as a disability support worker and nothing thrills me more than to call Australia home with my partner Mathew and my son Cameron. I have such a deep love for this country and having my own family here, it’s now double. I want to give back to Australia what it has given me so freely. This country and its people are so generous and caring in nature.

Julie Anne Canoza, originally from the Philippines, arrived to start a new life in Australia in 2009 and now calls Greater Dandenong home.

I like living in the City of Greater Dandenong because of all the different cultures here. The multicultural environment helps me adjust in so many ways and I learn so many things. It is a wonderful place to live and a privilege to be here.

UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL AT THE LIBRARY G

reater Dandenong Libraries is excited to announce the long-awaited launch of The Vault – a 24-hour online gateway that is making it even easier to access the libraries’ rich collections and significant online resources. You can use your library membership anytime, anywhere to access greaterdandenonglibraries.com/thevault and discover resources to help you improve your knowledge and skills and unlock your potential, whatever your interests or stage of life. The Vault is tailored specifically to the diverse needs of the Greater Dandenong community, making

available information that is interesting and relevant for a broad range of audiences, from children and families to students or local businesses. A powerful new search function puts information right at your fingertips, drawing upon detailed databases, encyclopedias, leading ejournals, popular newspapers and magazines, and more. Staff from Springvale and Dandenong Libraries will be happy to show you how to navigate the new portal and get the most out of everything The Vault has to offer. Until 12 December they will run a number of dedicated library drop-in sessions offering training and support for users.

INSPIRATION FOR EVERYONE: No matter your age, background or ability, The Vault has something to engage, interest or inspire you: Students and language learners can access a range of online reference tools to support their study and improve their literacy, research and writing skills. Young children and families will benefit from easy access to books, games and other interactive activities to help them learn and play.

Businesses are also catered for with a number of technology and software tutorials and information on taxation and more. Readers and booklovers will be spoilt for choice with the libraries’ extensive range of print, ebooks and eaudio titles. They’ll also be kept up to date with a range of book-related news, including reviews and upcoming author events. See greaterdandenonglibraries.com/ thevault and unlock your potential today.

Library Summer Opening Hours Wednesday 24 December 9am-5pm Thursday 25 December Closed Friday 26 December Closed Saturday 27 December 10am-5pm Sunday 28 December 12pm-5pm Monday 29 December 9am-5pm Tuesday 30 December 9am-5pm Wednesday 31 December 9am-5pm Thursday 1 January Closed Friday 2 January 9am-9pm (normal opening hours resume) the CITY 11

January

Australia Day Celebrations Residents celebrated Australia’s national day with a range of events, including Dandenong’s very successful Festival in the Park. Five outstanding Greater Dandenong citizens - Twanny Farrugia, Guillaume Nyakaboi, Nhar Leng, Annmarie Lochery and Sky Thomas - were also honoured for their positive contributions to our community in the Citizen of the Year Awards.

Local Mums, Local Stories Project Council joined forces with local families to encourage pre-schoolers to make healthier food choices. Council’s Maternal and Child Health Nurses ran a number of workshops on healthy eating and five local mums offered family-friendly food and cooking demonstrations to patrons at Dandenong Market.

February

Council Wins Three Prestigious Awards The City of Greater Dandenong had a very successful start to the year, receiving three prestigious awards. Council was named best in the state in the Excellence in Family Day Care Awards, the Noble Park Aquatic Centre (NPAC) was awarded the Innovation in Facility Design Award, and the Youth Services Team won a Victorian Local Governance Award for its Community Links Project, which helps young people living in community detention. 12 the CITY

2014 IN REVIEW Charity Golf Day and Auction The fifth annual ‘Take a Swing for Charity’ golf day saw the City of Greater Dandenong and local industry join forces to raise money for Hanover Welfare Services. Funds raised went towards upgrading laundry facilities at Hanover’s Dandenong Crisis Accommodation building, to establishing a dental fund for disadvantaged children, and to assist in supporting homeless mums to return to work.

March

April

Civic Centre Grand Opening A highlight of our community calendar in 2014 was the official opening of the new Dandenong’s Civic Centre and library. Council celebrated the building’s launch with a community fun day, filled with exciting performances, guided tours, children’s games and activities and a much-anticipated countdown to unveiling the big screen.

Springvale Level Crossing Opening April saw the long-awaited removal of the Springvale level crossing and the opening of a new premium station, which greatly improved the daily commute and public safety of those travelling through Springvale by bus, train or car.

May Family Sustainability Festival Held at the Dandenong Market, Greater Dandenong’s Family Sustainability Festival gave families great ideas and practical solutions for reducing their environmental footprint through a range of activities, games, and demonstrations from environmental, planning and sustainability specialists.

Cultural Diversity Week Stories of cultural diversity were brought to life on the big screen as part of the second annual Greater Dandenong Film Festival, run as part of Cultural Diversity Week. Featuring films from local and national film makers, the festival offered a unique opportunity for people from a wide range of backgrounds to share their unique stories and experiences with others.

National Volunteer Week Council held a series of events to thank the hundreds of volunteers who provide valuable services to our community every year. Events included a celebratory afternoon tea with the Mayor as well as the Greater Dandenong Volunteer Recognition Awards.

Speak Out Youth Summit Council invited local secondary students to have their say at SpeakOUT, where they participated in a series of hands-on workshops which enabled Council to better identify the needs and concerns of Greater Dandenong’s young people and to develop relevant programs and services to address those needs.

June

August

October

The Hive Launch Council launched a new creative network for artists – The Hive – to improve opportunities for them to network, collaborate and develop ideas with like-minded people.

George Andrews Reserve Redevelopment Council opened the redeveloped Whittell Pavilion at the George Andrews Reserve. Funded by Council at a cost of $760,000, the project made a remarkable difference to this well-regarded sporting venue with the addition of new unisex, multi-purpose change rooms, upgraded referees’ rooms and improved kitchen facilities.

Cultural Threads Council held its first ever monthlong celebration of textiles, Cultural Threads. Artists and craftspeople engaged in a variety of textile-based initiatives, traded skills, and shared stories through the mediums of dyeing, weaving, needlepoint, and yarn art, to name just a few.

September

July

Self(y) Film Festival Hundreds of local students gathered at the Dandenong Civic Centre for the Self(y) Film Festival to promote mental health. Students watched 34 films produced by eight local schools that promoted seeking help to improve mental health.

China Delegation Council and local business leaders headed a business delegation to our Sister City in China. Delegates met with key industry leaders to forge partnerships and increase trade opportunities.

November Jamie’s Ministry of Food

Springvale Snow Fest Springvale was transformed into a winter wonderland in July as part of Greater Dandenong’s second annual Snow Fest.

World Cup Celebrations Greater Dandenong residents gathered in the wee small hours of the morning to celebrate the World Cup Final live on the big screen, taking advantage of a fantastic opportunity to build community spirit.

Great Bin Swap New bins were rolled out as part of Council’s Great Bin Swap. 135,000 old and new bins were swapped over a three month period, with the aim of reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill.

Jamie’s Ministry of Food Mobile Kitchen sets up in Dandenong’s Palm Plaza for 10 weeks, providing cooking classes and practical tips on meal planning and food preparation to more than 500 people in our community.

Children’s Festival The 3rd Annual Greater Dandenong Children’s Festival featured free and low cost events to celebrate young people. The festival’s main event – the Little Day Out – at Noble Park’s Ross Reserve featured live performances, dance clinics, magic shows, storytelling, puppetry, sports and games.

Walk Against Violence The community turned out to show their support for the 2nd annual Walk Against Family Violence. People from all walks of life joined together to speak out against family violence and stand in support of families experiencing violence.

Good Food Month Greater Dandenong’s reputation as a growing centre for exciting food and restaurants was celebrated during Good Food Month. Visitors from across Melbourne flocked to our exotic, affordable ethnic restaurants to sample new delicacies and explore our thriving food scene. the CITY 13

Healthy Together Achievements O

ur community took considerable steps towards a healthier, happier future during 2014 thanks to the City of Greater Dandenong’s Healthy Together initiative. Healthy Together is a partnership between Council and the Victorian Government involving local schools, early childhood services, businesses and families in promoting the importance of healthy living practices. A number of programs and events that ran throughout the year succeeded in achieving greatly-improved outcomes for the people who live, learn, work and play in Greater Dandenong. Just a few of our proud highlights and success stories included: • encouraging 74 per cent of early childhood services, primary and secondary schools in our city to commit to the Healthy Together Achievement Program and to make positive changes in their environments to encourage greater physical activity, healthy eating, oral health, sun protection and emotional wellbeing

• 26 workplaces participating in workshops about the harmful effects of prolonged sitting, where organisations learned strategies to get their staff moving more during their work day • 60 workplaces participating in the popular 10,000 Steps Walking Challenge

• a number of schools and early childhood settings involving their children in the process of growing fresh fruit and vegetables

• empowering local Aboriginal people to become health champions – protecting, promoting and advocating for the health and wellbeing of others in their community.

• local primary schools partnering with the local dental health service to show children how to look after their teeth

To find out more about Healthy Together activities and programs visit www.greaterdandenong.com

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School Holiday Fun This Summer T

he December/January school holidays are long, but they don’t have to be boring if you live in Greater Dandenong. Council is running a number of activities and programs over the summer to keep kids of all ages happy and entertained.

At the libraries Get ready to read when the libraries roll out this year’s Summer Reading Club. If you’re aged 5 -13, join the club and choose your own adventure from our library shelves to get started and go into the draw to win some amazing prizes. The program will conclude with an award ceremony for prize winners and a special performance by Duck Cameron, Australia’s master magician, on Sunday 25 January at Dandenong Library. Dandenong and Springvale Libraries will also run special Bedtime Storytimes during January, featuring stories, rhymes and songs for little ones, as well as a range of free activities and performances throughout the holidays – including Mojo the Clown, Professor Deejay and Captain Ace. For further information check out our summer events calendar at www. greaterdandenonglibraries.com

Youth Services Council’s youth services team runs a range of local events and excursions for young people aged 12 to 25 during the summer school holidays. If you live, study or work in Greater Dandenong, or have another significant connection to the community you are eligible to participate in this popular program. Events are free or low cost, but bookings are essential. For a full list as well as booking information see the Youth Services what’s on page at www. greaterdandenong.com

Get out and about If you’re after something more low key that’s fun for the whole family get out and enjoy the great outdoors in one of our wonderful parks and playgrounds. Greater Dandenong boasts over 500 hectares of beautiful open space with 150 parks, 96 playgrounds, 30 sportsgrounds, four bushland areas and 50km of bike paths. See www.greaterdandenong.com for details on parks and playgrounds in your neighbourhood. Or, if indoor action is more your style, why not visit Dandenong’s Slot Car Mobile Raceway, the very popular Shark and Ray Centre or watch the latest holiday blockbuster at the cinema? There’s always plenty to do and plenty to see in this great city of ours.

BECOME A FRIEND OF THE DRUM D

rum Theatre is very excited to announce its new Friends of Drum Theatre program. We have listened to our patrons and transformed our previous Membership program into the Friends of Drum Theatre. It’s a simple and less complicated loyalty program that immediately returns you the full value of joining! Becoming a Drum Friend is easy and you receive a voucher to the value of your annual fee – which can be used by you or given as a gift. You will receive special Friends of Drum Theatre ticket prices, exclusive offers, events and newsletters.

Launch of Season 2015 2015 is set to be an exciting year for the Drum Theatre with its new Friends of Drum Theatre program making attending the theatre even more accessible than before, our fantastic line-up of Encore performances and our amazing 2015 Theatre and Family season. Please visit our website www. drumtheatre.com for a full list of these wonderful events to be launched on 4 December.

Looking for a gift this Christmas? Why not give a Drum Theatre gift voucher or purchase a Friends of Drum Theatre program for 2015, both make the perfect present for theatre lovers of all ages! the CITY 15

GO GREEN this Christmas C

hristmas is a great time to celebrate with family and friends, but it’s also the season when we spend the most money and generate the most waste.

At this time of year, a few simple actions can make a big difference to the environment.

Here are 10 simple tips to help lessen the impact on the environment this Christmas: 1. B  uy quality decorations that can be reused, or make your own.

6. Compost  or worm farm your unavoidable food scraps.

2. U  se paper wrapping (rather than foil or plastic) and reuse or recycle it afterwards.

7. S  ort and recycle all your aluminium cans, cartons, glass and plastic bottles and other packaging.

3. G  ive a recharger pack with any battery-operated gifts

8. F  latten items to save space in your recycling bin.

4. G  ive low-impact gifts like experiences.

9. R  ecycle any old mobile phones, TVs, computers or printer cartridges that get replaced.

5. P  revent food wastage – only open what you need, serve smaller portions, store and use left-overs.

FOLLOW YOUR WASTE TOUR

H

ave you ever wondered what happens to your recycled waste, household rubbish and green waste once it gets emptied by the trucks? The City of Greater Dandenong is giving you the chance to find out when it hosts a free Follow your Waste tour on Tuesday 9 December. The tour will leave from the Springvale Town Hall at 9.30am sharp and will be due to finish by 3pm. To make a tour booking please contact Council’s Operations Centre on 9797 1702. Places are limited.

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10. Check your work Christmas party organiser sets up well-signed recycling options for the event.

Christmas shopping at the Market D

andenong Market is the perfect place to shop this Christmas with a host of bargains, fabulous produce and a range of Christmas entertainment.

The Dandenong Market is open Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays to make it easy and convenient for you to find the perfect time to shop.

Santa will be making regular visits to the market to meet, greet and take photographs with the young and youngat-heart. Meet Santa on market days from 6-24 December. He’ll be available 10am2pm for photographs in market square.

Best of all, the market has added a special trading day on Christmas Eve so you can pick up the freshest seafood, meat, deli items, fruit and vegetables for the big day.

Plus every Sunday there will be a diverse range of roving Christmas entertainment to help you embrace the festive season during the coming weeks. Dandenong Market’s chef-in-residence Russell Bald will also be featuring Christmas-themed recipes in The Kitchen throughout the month of December.

The market will open 7am on Christmas Eve and will trade until 4pm – or until items sell out. So get in early to grab a bargain. For full details of the many Christmas events taking place at Dandenong Market see www.dandenongmarket.com.au

Water Safety Campaign

KEEPING YOUR COOL W

ith the hot weather approaching, Council is reminding our community to take care during heat waves. The Department of Health and Human Services advises that elderly and vulnerable people take special care during extreme weather. Rather than risking travelling to cooler places, it recommends taking some simple steps at home including: • Drinking plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty

Y

MCA Victoria and the City of Greater Dandenong are launching a campaign aimed at encouraging all parents to ensure their children are safe around water this summer. YMCA Manager Simon Beqir said the campaign aimed to increase the awareness of water safety across the local community and encouraged parents to teach their children to swim. “Every summer we read or hear of drowning tragedies that involve children and there’s nothing more heartbreaking,” he said. “We are absolutely committed to doing everything possible to reduce that risk and I firmly believe that the ability to swim along with basic water safety skills is vital for every parent and child.” YMCA will run the successful ‘Watch Around Water’ parental supervision program at Dandenong Oasis and Noble Park Aquatic Centre this summer. The program centres on parents

remaining responsible for the direct supervision of their children in the water at all times. In particular young children are a focus with parents required to remain in the water within arm’s length of all children under five. Mr Beqir said constant vigilance was a key to safety in the home pool or at the beach. “Little things like not swimming alone, always watching children, keeping an eye out for potentially dangerous situations – it all revolves around common sense. Safety around water is everyone’s responsibility in the end,” he said. Dandenong Oasis and Noble Park Aquatic Centre are managed by the YMCA in partnership with the City of Greater Dandenong. For more information on the ‘Watch Around Water’ program see www. nobleaquaticcentre.com.au or www. dandenongoasis.com.au

• Keeping one area of the house cool using portable air conditioner/fan • Close awnings, blinds and curtains the day before hot temperatures • Putting your feet in a bucket of cold water • Place damp face washers in the fridge and then use on your neck or chest to cool body temperature. Council’s Emergency Management Co-ordinator Scott Hilditch encouraged residents to monitor the news for any warnings in the lead-up to a heat wave. He said people should, if possible, try to rearrange their schedules to avoid working or travelling outdoors, particularly in the midday or afternoon. If it is safe to travel, the community can use Council’s air-conditioned libraries to escape the heat. “Once the heatwave has passed you should also continue to drink water regularly, as the body can take several days to recover.” the CITY 17

community CALENDAR

DECEMBER MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 2

1 Art from the Heart Heritage Hill Museum 10am Ph: 9793 4511

Library Toddler Time 10.30am Ph: 1 300 630 920 Basketball Program Noble Park Community Centre 4.30pm Ph: 9547 5801

8

9 Wreath Making and handmade Christmas Decorations 10am Heritage Hill Ph: 9793 4511 Follow Your Waste Tour Springvale Town Hall Departs 9.30am Free Bookings: 9797 1702

Council Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre 7pm

15

22

10

11

17

18

Exercise Group for Over 55s Men and Women Dandenong Oasis Centre Wednesdays 9.30am – 10.30am Ph: 9795 9018

24 Dandenong Market Open Cleeland St, Dandenong 7am until sold out Council offices close at 12pm

29

30

31

New Year’s Eve in the Square Dandenong Civic Centre 5.30pm – 9.30pm www.greaterdandenong.com

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Night Light Sounds Committee Meeting The Castle 6.30pm Ph: 9793 2155

Noble Park Community Action Forum Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 6pm Ph: 9701 5821

23

Ballroom Dancing Burden Park Bowling Club 6.30pm – 10pm Ph: 9798 1784.

4

Interfaith Network Tour 8.45am Ph: 9546 8441

16 Top Cat Dancers Rock & Roll & Swing Dance Classes 7.30pm Edinburgh Hall, Springvale Ph: 0413 393 345

Koori Youth Group The Castle, Princes Hwy Dandenong 4pm Ph: 9793 2155

3 Australian Traditional Nativity Scene St Elizabeth’s Parish, Dandenong North On show until 11 Jan. Details: 9795 6217

Dandenong Evening View Club Dandenong RSL 7pm Ph: 9791 6807

Noble Park Country Women’s Association Craft Day Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 10am Ph: 9547 7261

THURSDAY

Christmas Day

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www.greaterdandenong.com/Calendar

2014 FRIDAY

SATURDAY 5

Friday Walking Group Springvale Neighbourhood House 9.30am Ph: 9548 3972

SUNDAY 6

Santa arrives at Dandenong Market www.dandenongmarket.com.au

Greater Dandenong Environment Group Tirhatuan Park, Dandenong North 9.30am Ph: 8571 1702

Ballroom Dancing Burden Park Bowling Club 8pm Ph: 9798 1784

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day 9am Ph: 8571 1702

12

7

13

Dandenong & District Orchid Club Meeting Greaves Reserve, Dandenong 7pm Ph: 0412 188 263

Carols in Harmony Liberica Coffee 1.30pm Ph: 9791 4415

City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000

14

Springvale Computer Market/ Swap Meet Springvale City Hall 10am

20

Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511

21 Jan Wilson Community Centre 9795 9279

Dandenong Community Cemetery Tours 2pm Ph: 0411 399 449

Carols by Candlelight Dandenong Park

Drum Theatre 8571 1666 Dandenong Library 1300 630 920

Springvale Rotary Sunday Market Opposite Sandown Park Railway Station 8am

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✆

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 9238 1436

26

27

28

Springvale Library 1300 630 920

Boxing Day YouthAmania Samoan Cricket Tournament 2014 Greaves Reserve, Dandenong 26, 29 and 30 December www.youthamania.com.au

Springers Leisure Centre 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery 9706 8441 Dandenong Market 9701 3850

Submit your community event online at

Cultural Tours 9771 5777

www.greaterdandenong.com

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community CALENDAR

JANUARY MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY 1

New Years Day 5 Youth Services Holiday Program – laser tag and go kart ride Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155 Drum Theatre, Paddy O’Donoghue Centre and Jan Wilson Community Centre resume normal hours

12

6

Youth Services Holiday Program – Cooking Ages 11 to 14 years Ph: 9793 2155

13

Youth Services Holiday Program – Indoor Rockclimbing Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

Youth Services Holiday Program – NPAC waterslide rides and swimming Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

Combined Probus Club of Sandown Club Noble 10am Ph: 9791 6807

School Holiday event – Mr Ants and the Magic Circus Dandenong Library 11am Ages 4 – 8

School Holiday event – Professor DeeJay Dandenong Library 11am, Ages 5 – 10

19

Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens and Walker Street Gallery resume normal hours Youth Services Holiday Program – laser tag, video arcade and bowling Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

26 Australia Day Public Holiday Australia Day celebrations Dandenong Park 3pm-9.30pm www.greaterdandenong.com

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20

Youth Services Holiday Program – live breakdancing competition Multicultural Place, Springvale 1-4pm, Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155 School Holiday event – Bedtime Storytime Springvale Library 7pm Ages 3 – 5

27 The Kitchen Chef Russell Bald demonstrates healthy recipes Dandenong Market Tuesday lunchtimes

7 School Holiday event – Musicians of Bremen Theatre Dandenong Library 11am Ages 5 – 10 Youth Services Holiday Program – Video Games Tournament Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

8 Youth Services Holiday Program – Beach day Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

14 Exercise Group for Over 55s Men and Women Dandenong Oasis Centre Wednesdays 9.30am – 10.30am Ph: 9795 9018 Youth Services Holiday Program – Iceskating Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

21 Youth Services Holiday Program – Springers sports day challenge Ages 11 to 14 years Ph: 9793 2155

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15 School Holiday event – Mojo the Clown Springvale Library 11am Ages 5 – 10

22

Youth Services Holiday Program – Mt Dandenong scenic photography bus tour Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155 School Holiday event – Captain Ace Springvale Library 11am Ages 4 – 8

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www.greaterdandenong.com/Calendar

2015 FRIDAY

SATURDAY 2

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay St, Springvale Ph: 8571 1702

SUNDAY 3

4

Australian Nativity Scene St Elizabeth’s Parish Dandenong North On display until 11 January www.stelizabethsparish.org.au

Greater Dandenong Libraries resume normal hours

9

✆ City of Greater Dandenong 8571 1000

10

11 Dandenong Market Clow St Dandenong Open Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday www.dandenongmarket.com.au

Drum Theatre 8571 1666 Dandenong Library 1300 630 920 Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens 9793 4511

School Holiday event – Bedtime Storytime Dandenong Library 7pm, Ages 3 – 5

16

17

18 Jan Wilson Community Centre 9795 9279

Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve Open Day Mackay St, Springvale Ph: 8571 1702

Youth Services Holiday Program – Photo t-shirt design Ages 11 to 14 years Ph: 9793 2155

Paddy O’Donoghue Centre 9238 1436

Youth Services Holiday Program – Pop up soccer Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

23

24

25

Youth Services Holiday Program – Oasis gym circuit and swimming/Pop up soccer Ages 12 to 25 years Ph: 9793 2155

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

30

31 Dandenong Market 9701 3850

Submit your community event online at www.greaterdandenong.com

Cultural Tours 9771 5777

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business NEWS

HELPING HAND W

ater 2 All is a social enterprise benefitting society in two ways: donating goods and services to charities; and helping individuals enter the workforce. Director Keith Kasimiotis established the organisation in Dandenong four years ago with wife Margaret, a registered trainer. Water 2 All also has a branch in Melbourne’s north-west. “All of our work goes into the not-for-profit community,” said Mr Kasimiotis. “We do a lot of clothes sorting, prepare food items and water bottles and give them all away to charities. We also train people that are long-term unemployed, through Corrections Victoria, or through school-based traineeships. “Trainees spend half a day a week in a classroom environment achieving their certificate in warehousing or food processing, and half a day in the workplace doing the work that goes to the charity sectors. “We constantly have people thanking us for helping them get a job. Some people have been unemployed for many years and they get into a rut. They come to us for a ten or twelveweek period and gain skills and a routine.” So where does the “water 2 all” come into play? “A lot of homeless people can’t access clean water and either rely on take-away soft drinks or go into others’ yards and drink out of the tap, so providing them with bottled water is important,” Mr Kasimiotis said. The organisation employs up to 100 trainees at any one time as well as eight permanent staff across its two sites. “We are reliant on philanthropic donations or donations from any companies who have excess stock… anyone who wants to donate things that are useful and will help people, please contact us.” www.water2all.org.au

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NEW DANDENONG PLAZA REINVIGORATES RETAIL D

andenong Plaza opened a brandnew shopping precinct on 15 October incorporating nine new retailers including Aldi, discount superstore Daiso, JB Hi-Fi, fashion retailer Trade Secret, and several new cafés. Owner The GPT Group spent $40m on the works that took around a year to complete and saw the old Myer tenancy completely redeveloped and expanded into 6,800 m2 of floor space across two levels.  “Dandenong’s culture and history has played a large role in shaping the redevelopment, with the aim of bringing customers the convenience and value of national and international retail brands, while adhering to the values of the people who live and work in the area,” said Mark Tannahill, Dandenong Plaza Centre Manager. “Dandenong was historically a huge trading and agricultural hub and that’s come through in the new design, especially with the new children’s area which has a farm theme. “We wanted to create a one-stopshop for lots of people; we envisage

that Aldi will attract routine patronage throughout the week and more repeat customers.” The opening featured four days of special offers, giveaways, entertainers, face painting, workshops, community group performances, and even champagne and nibbles. Dandenong Plaza has maintained an active event calendar since its opening including activities around National Children’s Week, Multicultural Week and a visit from Cricket Victoria. The Dandenong Plaza redevelopment has created around 50 new, long-term jobs for the region, with over 500 jobs created throughout the redevelopment program. The project complements the $290m Revitalising Central Dandenong initiative with an additional $1b in private sector infrastructure upgrades also being invested to rejuvenate Dandenong trade and public spaces to re-establish the area as the heart of Melbourne’s south-east. www.dandenongplaza.com.au

REAL ESTATE AND DEVELOPMENT FORUM

C

ouncil’s Economic Development Unit held a very successful Real Estate and Development Forum at Dandenong’s Drum Theatre recently. More than 60 land development companies and industrial/commercial real estate agencies gathered to hear more about the strategic settings and initiatives driving the property market in Melbourne’s south-east. Guest speakers included: • City of Greater Dandenong CEO John Bennie outlining Council’s key planning and infrastructure initiatives

• Places Victoria CEO Gregory Anderson who updated current initiatives including the Revitalising Central Dandenong project and the Logis Industrial Park development • Metropolitan Planning Authority CEO Peter Seamer CEO who explained key elements of Plan Melbourne that will drive development in Melbourne’s southern region, Dandenong South’s status as a National Employment Cluster and central Dandenong’s continuing role as a key Metropolitan Activity Centre. The forum concluded with a lively Q&A style panel discussion.

community NEWS

FUSION THEATRE F

usion Theatre has a proud history in our community spanning almost 18 years. As Dandenong’s only inclusive theatre company, Fusion not only welcomes people with disabilities, but provides them with powerful opportunities to be creative and to express their unique perspectives through original theatrical works and involvement in community projects. During 2014 Fusion Youth Theatre presented two public performance works in the City of Greater Dandenong with great success: Mind the Light – a roving performance

exploring the connections between minds and bodies. Colours Project: Red/Yellow/Blue – a visual and sensory exploration of colour performed at Civic Square. With 2015 firmly on the horizon Fusion Youth Theatre is welcoming enquiries from potential new members and performing artists interested in working with the company. Actors currently meet Wednesdays for drama workshops and rehearsals. For more information please contact Fusion’s Artistic Director, Jo Raphael on 0407 301 378 or visit www.fusiontheatre.com.au

Greater Dandenong Band brings carols to life this Christmas

T

he Greater Dandenong Band – a 30-piece brass ensemble with a long tradition of performing for our community at events, festivals and concerts – will once again help bring Dandenong Park to life at Christmas by performing at the annual City of Greater Dandenong Carols by Candlelight on Friday 19 December. Hear them perform a range of traditional and popular seasonal songs and bring your singing voice along to celebrate the festive season at Dandenong Park.

IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – December 2014 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 following immunisation sessions: DATE 1 December 9 December 11 December 16 December 17 December

TIME 5pm-6.30pm 10am-12pm 10am-11.30am 1pm–2pm 4.30pm-6.30pm

LOCATION Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, Springvale Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong

IMMUNISATION TIMETABLE – January 2015 DATE

TIME

LOCATION

5 January 8 January 13 January 20 January

5pm-6.30pm 10am-11.30am 10am-12pm 10am-11am

Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, Springvale Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

21 January 24 January 27 January 28 January

4.30pm-6.30pm 10am-12pm 10am-11am 10am-12pm

Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Dandenong Municipal Offices, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Jan Wilson Community Centre, BJ Powell Reserve, Halton Rd, Noble Park North Springvale Service for Children, 23–28 Lightwood Road, Springvale

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