March 2021 Talking Business - X South East scores first A league and W league for the region X Compelled By Love through good times and bad Pages ...
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TalkingBusiness
March 2021
X South East scores first
A league and W league
for the region
Page 3
X Compelled By Love
through good times
and bad
Pages 6
X Greater Dandenong
celebrates International
Women’s Day
Page 12
2
FEATURES
4
Paul’s Corner
Welcome to the first edition of Talking Snapshot of our tourism industry
Business for 2021. in Greater Dandenong
Last year gave us scores of new words,
phrases, expressions and metaphors.
Some new to the popular vernacular
whilst others comical and others usually
reserved for the medical industry. As I
write this I am thinking of how many of
these ‘trigger words’ I use.
I would be glad to never hear or
use phrases such as ‘its been an
unprecedented year’ and ‘you’re on
mute’ for a long time. However, as
we continue through these uncertain
times we know this year will have
6 7
some similarities to the last. On a
positive, Australia is rolling out its
vaccine program and case numbers Compelled By Love through Business Grants
continue to remain low compared to good times and bad Program
the rest of the world. My team are
remaining hopeful for a better year
ahead and we’ve seen this notion
reflected in many of our businesses
who have been so resilient.
In this edition, we celebrate International
Women’s Day, sharing some fabulous
stories about women in business which
you can read throughout the magazine.
10 11
In particular, our front cover story is of
Navy trailblazer Captain Mona Shindy
who is our keynote speaker at the Dandenong Market Is your business
International Women’s Day event, learn Trader stories disability confident?
more about this virtual event on page 12.
South East Melbourne finally has an
A-League and W-League club to call its
own. You can read about this on page 3.
We extend our congratulations to our
local businesses who received one of
Council’s Business Recovery Grants in
2020. We check-in with three of these
12 14
recipients to see how they are doing
on page 7.
We hope this quarter is productive for Free and low-cost ways to
you and your business. Remember if upskill your business online
you need support please don’t hesitate
to reach out to our Greater Dandenong
Business team via business@cgd.vic.
gov.au or 8571 1550.
Paul Kearsley
Director Business, Engineering
Cover: Australian Navy trailblazer, Captain Mona Shindy.
and Major Projects
3
South East scores first A-league
and W-league for the region
Artistic impression of the City Football Academy at Casey Fields.
After four years of advocacy and toil And in relation to the long-mooted The club’s charitable arm, City in the
South East Melbourne finally has an plans for a boutique rectangular Community, which runs community
A-League and W-League club to call stadium to be built next to outreach programs harnessing the
its own. Dandenong Train Station, Greater power of football, will also relocate.
Dandenong Mayor Cr Angela Long
On December 15 2020, Melbourne Melbourne City’s junior teams
said, “The Dandenong Sports
City Football Club announced it had started training at existing facilities
and Events Centre (DSEC) was an
signed a Heads of Agreement with at Casey Fields in February, with all
important part of the ‘Team 11’ bid
the City of Greater Dandenong and of the players and staff planning to
and this announcement marks a step
the City of Casey, paving the way for officially relocate mid-year ahead of
forward in bringing that plan to life”.
it to relocate to the south-east. an anticipated completion of its new
The Greater South East Melbourne training base in March 2022.
This outcome follows in the footsteps
(GSEM) organisation representing
of the ‘Team 11’ A-League bid,
South East Melbourne’s eight local
spearheaded throughout 2017-18
councils also endorsed the move and
by the Greater Dandenong, Casey
said it creates the perfect opportunity
City and Cardinia Shire councils
to construct a new purpose-built
in conjunction with the region’s
sports and entertainment venue in
business and football communities.
the south-east.
While Melbourne City’s relocation
If DSEC were to come to fruition the
spells an official end to ‘Team 11’,
venue would be a major catalyst
planning for the club’s move came
project that would complement the
after an exhaustive period of work
Revitalising Central Dandenong
with the councils involved. This
initiative and boost the local
outcome has been fully endorsed by
economy with job creation
‘Team 11’ stakeholders.
and tourism.
Melbourne City will co-develop with
As per the mantra of ‘Team 11’,
the City of Casey a new training and
Melbourne City intends to embed
administration base at Casey Fields
itself firmly within the region’s football
in Cranbourne East that will house all
and business communities. Artistic impression of proposed Dandenong Stadium
of the club’s teams and staff. which accompanied the Team 11 bid in 2018.
4
A Snapshot of our Greater
Dandenong Tourism sector
Tourism is not new to Greater Dandenong, but it is new to Talking Business. We now have a regular segment sharing
the tourism offerings we have in our city. This will include articles on our tourism operators, what’s happening in our
accommodation venues and let’s not forget the adventure/action venues across our municipality.
If you’re a local tourism operator and have a story you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you or if you
have a tourism question, send an email to our Food Enterprise and Tourism Officer, Helen Beekmans via
Helen.Beekmans@cgd.vic.gov.au.
Ibis Budget across all areas was achieved.
Regular inspections and audits
brewing community in Australia
and to create a place where all
Dandenong are completed to maintain these
standards with three dedicated
makers and lovers of good beer can
come together.
secures ALLSAFE staff members enlisted as ALLSAFE
Officers who have undergone
Their purpose-built facility in
Dandenong South is one of the most
accolade additional training as an extension
innovative and flexible independent
to their current responsibilities. An
breweries in the world, showcasing
ALLSAFE Officer will always be
the highest standards in brewing
available onsite at the hotel 24/7.
and sustainability. The brewery
Congratulations to the team at Ibis has been built (and continues to
Budget Dandenong for completing this expand) with state-of-the-art brewing
training during exceptionally difficult facilities, process and packaging
circumstances. It’s a testament to the equipment. The BLB team ensure
team in securing this accolade. quality and consistency is the norm
Learn more: with a reduced environmental
Ibis Budget Dandenong footprint a key focus.
185-193 Princes Highway, Dandenong The facility was engineered to reduce
We can all relate to the repercussions
all.accor.com/hotel/3584 primary energy consumption, reclaim
of COVID-19 and the accommodation
industry is no exception. energy from kettle vapour and
minimise waste streams. BLB is the
Despite the devasting impacts this
global health crisis has had, there
Lovers and first independent Australian brewery to
adopt cross-flow filtration technology
are still moments to celebrate and be makers of beer by the Pall Corporation which reduces
grateful for. For example, Ibis Budget energy and water usage, improves
Dandenong, located on Princes united at Brick beer quality and eliminates the need to
Highway, Dandenong reached out
to us to share their great accolade Lane Brewing use non-renewable filtration aids like
diatomaceous earth.
throughout this tough period in time.
The Brick Lane Brewing Community
The global brand Accor which Ibis includes all those who enjoy good
Budget Dandenong belong to, beer - drinkers, customers, partner
launched a global initiative in May brewers, suppliers, friends and
2020 for all Accor hotels to be other independent brewers. The
certified ALLSAFE – a new safety business has an amazing home
label. The ALLSAFE label has been base in Dandenong. They believe in
developed and verified with Bureau inclusivity and diversity in brewing
Veritas, world leaders in testing, and have an obligation to do good in
inspections and certification. their local community.
On 4 July 2020, Ibis Budget The Brick Lane Brewing (BLB) BLB actively engage with a broad
Dandenong became an approved Community began when 25 friends range of partners across a variety of
ALLSAFE hotel, after successfully came together with an idea.
areas – from brewing great beers,
undergoing extensive audits and The Brick Lane Community started to helping community organisations
inspections, ensuring full compliancy with an idea to celebrate the great and charities.
5
They strive to have a beer for The drive-in has four screens Drive-ins are now a rarity in most
everyone, no matter where you showing all the latest Hollywood other parts of Australia and the
are on your craft beer journey. blockbusters, including frequent world. Australia once boasted 350
From their bloody good Draught, screenings of classic and retro titles. drive-ins and yet, just 17 remain
through to the award winning One The business is open every night in 2021. David says, “there are no
Love Pale Ale and Lager, through of the year, except Christmas night. parking problems, no babysitter
to their IPAs, limited releases and Charging only $30 per carload (for concerns and you can come
Someday Sours. They’ve always got up to 7 people) its quite a steal. dressed as you are and enjoy a
something new in the plans and love David Kilderry owner of Lunar Drive- night watching movies under the
introducing their beers and different In says, “films should be affordable stars in your cars. The Lunar Drive-
styles to everyone. The BLB bar is for every family, this way they can In; entertaining you since 1956 in
open on Thursdays and Fridays, with afford to visit often, making it a Dandenong.”
plans to develop the space further family tradition.”
Learn more:
for events and functions.
When the global COVID-19 health lunardrive-in.com.au
Learn more: crisis arrived in Australia the drive-
bricklanebrewing.com in was forced to shut its gates like
many businesses. At the peak of
Victoria’s first COVID lockdown, the Did you know?
An iconic business had just completed its $4
Greater Dandenong
million expansion. A new Lunar Café
institution in and upgraded facilities were all ready has...
to open with the café boasting 10
Dandenong
3.23%
customer service points, catering for
worthy of a hungry crowds with over double the
floor space.
pitstop As restrictions eased towards the
of our businesses are
end of 2020, Lunar Drive-In was tourism operators/
ready to welcome back customers. related
David and his team have added extra
ticket boxes and entry lanes which
assist with a speedier entry and
expanded parking areas add much
619
needed extra space. Online ticketing accommodation
is also available along with the still and food service
popular nightly sales at the five ticket businesses
boxes.
Lunar Drive-In is famous for its
animated neon rocket sign above
The Lunar Drive-In is one of the
city’s major tourist attractions
attracting over 400,000 people in
154
the ticket box, which is constantly 2019. The drive-in attracts most of year old traditional
photographed and shared on social its patrons from a 20km radius, but working Market
media. That’s not all the drive-in is also from country Victoria, interstate
renowned for, based in Dandenong it is (Dandenong Market)
and overseas visitors each day of
the largest drive-in theatre in Australia. the week.
6
Anastasie receives food
as part of COVID-19
relief work in Rwanda
by Compelled By Love
and their partners.
Compelled By Love through
good times and bad
These have been trying times for Adventure Therapy and CBL. Karen continued, “…it would have
many and local Dandenong South Explore Adventure Therapy deliver been an easy time for The 3fold
organisation, Compelled By Love the program, whilst CBL provide Group to step back and focus only on
(CBL) is no different. the funding, connect volunteers their business. They are an incredible
to the program and contribute to organisation who have a wider
Speaking with Karen Visser, CEO
ongoing reviews and development perspective, supporting not only
of Compelled By Love confirmed
of the program. their employees, but both their local
2020 drove home the reason for the
community and communities in need
organisations existence. Working Projects abroad – Rwanda
around the world.”
across three communities in India, Many families in Rwanda who
Rwanda and locally here in Victoria, CBL work with were literally going Projects abroad – India
the focus is all about empowering without food because lockdown Compelled By Love partners
people and empowering communities. restrictions meant all income was with a local non-governmental
CBL partner together with local cut off and they were not provided organisation (NGO) in Nagpur,
organisations, who are experts in their government support. Karen India. The primary focus of CBL’s
field to design and deliver projects commented, “…we (CBL) have been work in India is education - giving
with the aim to empower people and able to continue to provide all of children an opportunity to receive
provide opportunities for growth, our partners and projects, despite an education which leads not only to
change and transformation. the challenges we have also been employment, but to the development
Local projects – Keysborough facing here on home soil.” of the whole person. Karen added,
“we’ve been able to provide family
Secondary College This support was not possible
support to our students, alongside
The team have been supporting without the generous assistance from
the normal education support and
the No Limits (NL) program at another local Greater Dandenong
help them access online materials
Keysborough Secondary College, business – The 3fold Group who
for their studies.”
working with both at-risk youth, as are a key donor partner for CBL.
well as emerging leaders, to discover This business is made up of 3fold This project provides education
their potential and encourage positive Resources Pty Ltd and Orchid support to students through the
life choices. The program works with Furniture Pty Ltd. provision of funding to quality,
year 9 and 10 students, with a goal English-medium schools, as well as
Karen added, “As a result of their
of early intervention, to strengthen books, stationery, uniforms, transport
ongoing support we’ve been able
individuals and families, to prevent and private tutoring as required.
to provide emergency food relief to
homelessness for youth at risk, and to
over 2,195 people and 1,284 masks Learn more:
develop young leaders in schools.
to enable people to leave their compelledbylove.org.au
NL is a three-way partnership homes for essential items and social
between the school, Explore connection.”
7
Business Grants Program
The Business Grants Program during The grant has made it easier Lucia Sofia Malejko
2020 aimed to provide immediate to separate this new product (Beauty Therapist)
financial assistance to eligible Greater development from the existing Local Dandenong South beautician,
Dandenong small to medium sized business. At the time of this interview, cosmetic tattoo artist and beauty
businesses affected by COVID-19. the team had engaged a web trainer, Lucia Sofia Malejko, found
designer and were in the process of like many others, last year to be
Council ran two rounds of applications
developing the artwork. one of her most challenging. Lucia
which saw a combined total of over 360
successful applicants. This equalled an Looking ahead, WC knows it will commented how she was forced to
investment of over $600,000. take years for the aviation industry to close her business for six months last
recover to pre-COVID-19 levels. year until restrictions began to ease.
See below a few stories of some of
our successful applicants below. There are also many positives to Lucia submitted her grant application
look forward to for WC and his and was successful in securing
No Bolt team who are currently working in funding. Lucia recently wrote into
29 Union Rd, Dandenong South a design capacity on the West Gate Council to express her gratitude
To get any job done safely and Tunnel project. WC said, “we expect and showcase her product she
efficiently, you need the right to have three business streams in had purchased as part of the
equipment. Dandenong South 2021 – Design and Manufacturing grant requirements.
manufacturing and engineering of Height Safety Solutions, Design Lucia said, “I would like to say a huge
business, No Bolt, understands this and Engineering Advice and thank you to the Greater Dandenong
taking an engineering-led approach Outdoor tables.” Council as I was able to purchase this
to design and manufacture work and Learn more: (photo inset) beautiful Cosmetic Electric
access platforms. nobolt.com.au bed. I have always had a big issue
Like many, Will Collie (WC) Managing with my massage table which wasn’t
Director of No Bolt was faced with designed for cosmetic tattooing.”.
The Bubble Express
new challenges when the pandemic 3 Buckley St, Noble Park Operating as an individual sole trader,
reached Australian shores in 2020. Lucia wasn’t able to access many of the
The Bubble Express is a laundrette
“Around 40-50 per cent of our located in Noble Park. Director of The State and Federal Government grants.
revenue came from our work in Bubble Express, Wayne Hawkins tells “When I realised my local Council
Aviation. We previously designed, us how during the lockdown he was were offering a grant program
manufactured and supplied a range faced with the challenge of needing targeted at small business including
of height safety equipment to airlines to desperately update his note to coin people like myself, I couldn’t believe
Qantas and Jetstar,” WC said. machine which had been vandalised it. I cannot say thank you enough for
numerous times. helping my little business,” said Lucia.
COVID-19 put a freeze on both
domestic travel and international Hawkins said, “Not having a change In February, Lucia found out she had
travel and as a result there was (and machine put my coin laundry at a been nominated for two awards,
continues to be) an effective freeze significant disadvantage to other like ‘Beauty Therapist of the Year’ and
on spending. As such, the business businesses in the area. ‘Sole Trader in the Beauty Industry
has seen sales drop by 40 per cent of the year’ at the Australian Beauty
“I was suffering a 50 per cent income
and specifically in the Aviation sector, Industry Awards.
reduction at the height of the COVID
almost back to zero. No Bolt applied
lockdown.” Learn more:
for Council’s Business Grant program
and was successful providing the Hawkins credited Council’s Business luxuryeyebrow.com.au
business with an opportunity to work Grants Program which had enabled
on marketing their other product lines. him to replace the change machine.
WC added, “..we are using these funds Hawkins added, “I gratefully received
to build a new website to support a $2,000 grant from Council, and I
our new product line, outdoor tables, want to thank them enormously for the
which is quite different to our core grants program, to assist in purchasing
focus of safety and aviation. Our a note to coin change machine and
focus has typically been the design, custom made security cabinet.”
engineering and manufacture of falls Looking forward, Hawkins is seeking
from heights solutions, we view this to consolidate his business by
grant as an opportunity to develop providing his customers with the
a new business unit outside our cleanest, most efficient and best value
typical markets.” Coin Laundry in the area.
8
Re-onshoring Australian
manufacturing
Adapting to radical change is and collaborating with architects, Peter Angelico said, “Cost is a one-
nothing out of the norm for local designers, and artists. dimension aspect of a procurement.
manufacturer, D&M Auto Industrial Quality, environmental, and ethical
D&M Auto have a staggeringly
Spray Painting. considerations are increasingly
diverse resume, from painting
shaping consumer choice.
Over the years, Director of D&M Auto, non-chip wheel rims for HSV, GH
Michael Van Dort and his business Mumm’s Bird Cage marquee at the They should also be a considerable
partner Darren King, used their Melbourne Cup, graffiti-resistant influence on government
strong background in panel beating cladding for schools, installation procurement for major projects.”
and spray painting to boldly take on art for Pullman Hotels, to dresses
Van Dort also emphasises this
the big names such as Holden HSV, for the Commonwealth Games and
point stating his business wants to
Toyota and Ford. Australian Ballet.
continue to promote better quality
In recent times, the departure of Van Dort commented, “we take up Australian products.
automotive passenger vehicle the challenge to meet our clients’
“COVID reinforced onshoring for us
manufacturing in Australia forced needs with our network of local
and taking a collaborative approach
the businessmen to overhaul their suppliers and chemist. Utilizing
to our work. We couldn’t have started
organisation when facing the reality automation has helped us attain
without the auto industry, they were
of losing 90 per cent of their work. greater control and repeatability
the seed – from there, we grew,”
while reducing cost. If we had to
Today, we’ve seen the global Van Dort said.
return to the old ways, we simply
pandemic forcing many local
wouldn’t be around.” This story was supplied by
manufacturers to evolve to a set of
SEMMA. SEMMA is the peak
constantly changing conditions which Australian suppliers are now working
industry association representing
has ultimately further highlighted the hard to close the price difference
over 200 leading manufacturing
risks of Australia’s heavy reliance on between local production and imports
companies located in South East
offshore manufacturing. - with greater security, communication
Melbourne, Australia’s most dynamic
and responsiveness being the key
D&M Auto are an early example of manufacturing region.
competitive selling points.
a successful pivot, converting from
Learn more:
spray painting small auto component President of the South East Melbourne
semma.com.au
parts to expanding their offering Manufacturers’ Alliance (SEMMA)
ATO Online services for business is here
Online services for business is the You can now manage your tax and • Make a payment plan
Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) super obligations in a secure, modern • Receive copies of income tax
new service replacing the Business channel which can be accessed on returns
Portal and electronic superannuation multiple devices, including a smart
• View your communication history
audit tool (eSAT). device such as your phone or tablet,
at a time that is convenient to you. In • Use ‘Switch ABN’ to move
It has been co-designed with business addition to all of the current Business between your businesses with
to improve the user experience and Portal functions, some of the new a single login.
make it easier for businesses to things you can do via online services Learn more:
interact with the ATO online. for business include: ato.gov.au/OSB
9
Forever Fest 2021
Council staff have been busy
continuing to plan the upcoming
Forever Fest which will be held
virtually from 22–30 May.
Monday 24 May will be a day
dedicated to talking business and
economy and how through small
sustainable actions you can make
a difference. Make sure you mark
it down in your calendar and like
our Facebook Event Page (link at
end of article) to stay up to date
Artistic Impression of proposed development – Subject to Change. with festival announcements.
Image courtesy of Development Victoria and Capital Alliance Investment Group.
As well as Dianne McGrath who will
The Victorian Government’s Revitalising be the ambassador for the festival,
Council is excited to announce
Central Dandenong (RCD) project is a some additional key speakers
gamechanger for the region. throughout the nine day event:
• Jodi Boylan (Executive Producer
As many of you may have seen just • Deliver 470 new dwellings and 2,500
of ABC’s program ‘War on Waste’)
before Christmas, Development square metres of community space
Victoria announced the Foster • Alice Zaslavksy (TV Celebrity
• Deliver new commercial and
Street Redevelopment as the next Chef)
retail spaces, including a new
phase of the Revitalising Central supermarket and food market hall • Charlotte Connell (Founder of
Dandenong project. the Sustainability Collective)
• Further contribute to transforming
Following a competitive Expression central Dandenong into a vibrant • Barney Swan (Founder of
of Interest and Request for Proposal and thriving destination ClimateForce).
process, led by Development • Deliver social enterprise initiatives If you can’t tune in for the whole
Victoria, Melbourne-based developer nine days then there’s no need to
• Improve public safety and amenity.
Capital Alliance has been selected stress, Council will be launching
for the project. Construction of the first stage is a ‘Taking Action Kit’ on the last
expected to begin in 2023 following day of the festival. This tool kit will
The redevelopment area covers
community and stakeholder have links to all the elements of
both sides of Foster Street from
consultation on the proposed master the festival so you can catch up,
Settler’s Square to Thomas Street/
plan in 2021. plus information that will help you
Cheltenham Road and includes the
Little India precinct. This redevelopment will complement develop your sustainable goals for
Council’s nearby redevelopment your business endeavors now and
The proposed redevelopment is into the future.
of the former Masonic Hall into the
expected to:
Greater Dandenong Gallery of Art Learn more:
• Deliver a new Little India precinct and the former Precinct Energy Plant, greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/
• Inject $600 million into the creating multiple opportunities and forever-fest
Dandenong economy during its key destination points for visitors and
development and construction phase the community within a short walk of Contact: Lily Martyn
the train station. Event and Engagements Officer
• Create 2,600 construction jobs Email: lily.martyn@cgd.vic.gov.au
• Create around 5,000 ongoing jobs Learn more: Phone: 8571 1445
when it is operational development.vic.gov.au
Jobmaker their career prospects and support
Australia’s economic recovery.
employers need to complete three
easy steps:
Hiring Credit Eligible employers can claim up 1. Register
to $10,400 for each new eligible
2. Nominate their additional eligible
The JobMaker Hiring Credit is here employee hired between 7 October
employees
and is giving businesses and young 2020 and 6 October 2021.
people impacted by COVID-19 a 3. Claim.
The first claim period for the
helping hand. JobMaker Hiring Credit opened on Learn more:
Helping young people secure jobs 1 February 2021 and closes on 30 ato.gov.au/General/JobMaker-
now will build their skills, improve April 2021. To receive the payments, Hiring-Credit/
10
Dandenong Market Trader stories
Known as the world market, apples picked from the orchard. You the global pandemic. In this issue
Dandenong Market is a 154-year can shop and experience the world as of Talking Business, we asked the
old traditional working market set in a local and get insider tips from expert Dandenong Market to share some of
Melbourne’s south east. Dandenong traders, score amazing bargains and their traders success stories.
Market offers everything from source seasonal produce.
Learn more:
honeycomb fresh from the beehive, The market traders, like so many dandenongmarket.com.au
flowers cut straight from the farm, and businesses, have been hit hard by
The pair made the difficult decision Market day; French omelette, French
Cafe Marketto to close the cafe which operates toast with wild berries and Marketto
out of Dandenong Market’s Bazaar, style benedict.
following announcements restaurants
Cafe Marketto offers affordable
could only remain open for takeaway.
breakfast and lunch dishes made
“I watched the dream I worked so with love and 100 per cent locally
hard for disappear in front of my eyes. sourced ingredients, with some
We tried offering takeaway options, coming from the Market itself.
but it didn’t work,” Chandi said.
This year has started a new chapter
First established in 2009, Cafe for Chandi, Naresh and Cafe
Marketto remains one of the Market’s Marketto as business begins to adapt
Cafe Marketto Co-Owner, Chandi Kulasinghe.
top coffee spots. Tucked away from the to a ‘COVID-Normal’ scenario.
The pressures of owning a new hustle and bustle of the food market,
business in 2020 were amplified for Chandi says Cafe Marketto is the The duo are positive yet cautious for
new owners of Dandenong Market’s perfect spot to enjoy a quiet meal or a the year ahead, stating they are looking
Cafe Marketto, Chandi Kulasinghe coffee and cake with friends and family. forward to having a fair chance to prove
and husband Naresh, as COVID-19 themselves and their business.
Since changing hands the husband
restrictions forced them to close Customers can dine in or takeaway
and wife duo have updated the menu
their doors. with Cafe Marketto on Tuesdays,
to be more inclusive to a wider range
The husband-and-wife duo began of customers by adding delicious Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from
operating Cafe Marketto under new vegetarian and gluten free breakfast 8am until 4pm.
ownership in March last year, days and lunch options. Hours of operation are subject to
prior to Victoria’s first lockdown.
Foodies are invited to delight in change as guided by the Victorian
“I was devastated” said Chandi. some of Chandi’s favourite meals any Chief Health Officer.
everything in between. The team Despite this, the team adapted
Peninsula Organic grow their deliciously fresh produce to overcome these unforeseen
Farmgate locally at their farm in Baxter on the circumstances.
Mornington Peninsula. The business began offering delivery
Natasha opened her stall to help to allow customers to continue
customers cut out the middleman. “We supporting small business despite the
wanted to connect with consumers” distance. Deliveries from the shop and
she said. Natasha comments how from the farm were sent out along the
she loves being able to sell Certified Mornington Peninsula and into the
Organic produce at an affordable price. south, east and south eastern suburbs.
The Peninsula Organic Farmgate range This year presents Natasha and her
is based off customer feedback. Some team with the opportunity to finally
fan favourites include heirloom carrots, grow the business within Dandenong.
Peninsula Organic Farmgate Owner, Natasha Shields.
beetroot, and cauliflower but Natasha’s “I’m looking forward to meeting
Natasha Shields opened Peninsula more people who are interested in
go-to is her crisp lettuce varieties.
Organic Farmgate at Dandenong shopping organically” she says.
Market amid Victoria’s second Peninsula Organic Farmgate’s first few
months at Dandenong Market might Peninsula Organic Farmgate is
COVID-19 lockdown in July 2020. located in the Meat, Fish and Deli
not have been as busy and bustling as
Peninsula Organic Farmgate is one they had first hoped, with as many as Hall at Dandenong Market next to NZ
of the Market’s only fully Certified half of Natasha’s fellow Market traders Street Food and is open 7am-4pm.
Organic stalls stocking Australian forced to close their doors and many Hours of operation are subject to
sourced fruit and vegetables, regular customers restricted by a change as guided by the Victorian
meat, bread, grocery items and 25km travel ban for essential items. Chief Health Officer.11
A new radio
station created by
women for women
Is your Broad Radio is radio for women,
by women, who love deeper
business
conversations, who are seeking
content that expands their world
and news they might not get
disability anywhere else.
Broad Radio is the brainchild of CEO
confident? Jo Stanley, who had a simple idea –
a radio show for women, by women.
Jo already had the experience she
Becoming disability confident makes This paid internship is open across needed to make it happen, as she
good business sense, and has all industries and has become a has been making radio in Melbourne
been shown to improve outcomes, highly valued talent pipeline for for 20 years, including 12 years of
innovation and productivity. However, organisations actively seeking to breakfast radio and two number one
even if your organisation is open to employ people with disability as part shows. She knows better than most
the idea of welcoming people with of their recruitment strategy and in what her listeners have been craving.
disability you may be unsure about their graduate programs.
exactly what to do. Jo started talking to anyone who’d
AND Relationship Manager, listen about this radio station which
There are many resources available Amber Tratter said, “City of Greater didn’t exist - yet. Today, Broad Radio is
to businesses to learn and grow. Dandenong have been a valuable real. Jo Stanley and her colleagues are
Council has an existing partnership member of AND since 2013, building their station ‘from the ground
with The Australian Network on committed to advancing the inclusion up’ beginning with one hour per week,
Disability (AND) which has proven to of people with disability in all aspects streaming live on Facebook and
be highly successful. of Council. Six university students Youtube. The radio show has stories
with disability have completed about inspirational women. The team
AND is a national, membership
internships at Council, and some plan to expand into longer hours and
based, for-purpose organisation
have gone on to secure casual across more days in the near future.
which supports organisations to
employment within Council.”
advance the inclusion of people with The growing radio station isn’t all
disability in all aspects of business. It’s widely agreed the most valuable talk, they have big hearts, clear with
They are the national peak body way to improve employment their intent explaining they are here
assisting Australian businesses to outcomes for people with disability is to support all women. Their website
actively include people with disability through innovative programs that help stating one of their missions ‘we love
as employees and customers. set them up for a lifetime of work. a laugh and a gasbag. But we also
AND has assisted Council to adopt a Internships, mentorships and want to make a difference. Older
“Reasonable Adjustment Policy” as employer-led recruitment strategies women are the fastest growing group
well as assist Council in updating the build a business’ disability confidence of homeless people in Australia.
Council website to encourage people and gives vital work experience to Support our charity partner, Women’s
with disability to consider Council jobseekers. Housing Limited, as they provide
as an employer of choice for people low-cost housing to women at risk of
Learn more: homelessness. Together, we aim to
with disability.
and.org.au/pages/resources.html raise $50,000 for Women’s Housing
Furthermore, Council continues Limited this year.’
to encourage increased access to JobAccess
employment opportunities for people If your business has been looking to
JobAccess is an Australian Government
with disability by providing: support a startup the team are always
initiative that provides workplace and
grateful for partners and sponsors.
• Annual hosting of graduates with a employment information and resources
You can contact Jo and her team via
disability for work experience. for people with disability, employers and
hello@broadradio.com.au to start
service providers.
• Training for managers responsible a conversation.
for employment at Council. JobAccess provides funding through
To listen to the show, tune in
• Ongoing revision of employment the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF)
9am Tuesdays (AEDT) via
processes and documents to to cover the costs of making workplace
www.facebook.com/BroadRadioAus.
ensure equal opportunity standards changes. This can include buying
are met. equipment, modifications or accessing
services for people with disability.
Another program of AND’s that
Council is involved in is the Learn more:
Stepping into Internship program. https://www.jobaccess.gov.au12 SEBN (South East Business Networks)
A better match – working together to build your workforce
Last year created many challenges job opportunities while also giving employers. These will be promoted
and impacted us all. Despite this, the attendees a chance to ‘Ask via the Council website to provide
the Community Revitalisation project an Employer’ their job readiness jobseekers a window to the many
explored a range of ideas to build questions. and varied businesses in the region.
jobseeker’s knowledge of local The outcome of this work aims to
Jobseekers heard from
business and industry, plus give provide better employment matches.
representatives of the
them the opportunity to connect
manufacturing, warehousing and Why not showcase your business
directly with employers they might
logistics, horticulture, labour hire, and participate in an interview?
not otherwise meet.
health and local government sectors Contact Project Officer, Jennifer
Through a series of workshops, as well as attending a session Ebdon on 0438 510 840 or
employers from various sectors providing recruitment insights. jebdon@cgd.vic.gov.au
generously donated their time.
Feedback from jobseekers was Together, we can continue to build
They informed jobseekers about
overwhelmingly positive which the capacity of local jobseekers to
their sector, showcased their
has prompted us to produce a meet the needs of local employers.
businesses and highlighted their
series of video interviews with local
Network Chat Australian Navy trailblazer,
Captain Mona Shindy.
2021: Can you
afford not to be
involved?
As many of you know, the
SEBN networks mantra is ‘local
manufacturers learning and sharing
together’, and so with 2021 getting
off to yet another uncertain start, it’s
even more important we focus on
assisting and supporting companies
to not only survive, but take full
advantage of the opportunities
currently on offer.
Some of the key themes we’re
exploring include the new global
Celebrating International
opportunities for SME manufacturers Women’s Day
and expanding on our activities
around waste and the environment. This years International Women’s Day theme is ‘a challenged world is an
If you’re interested in capability alert world and from challenge comes change’. At the time of going to press,
development and sharing learnings SEBN is looking forward to celebrating International Women’s Day with a
with your peers, then get involved in breakfast on the morning of Wednesday 10 March. Held in conjunction with the
the suite of networks available with Dandenong Chamber of Commerce, this event is free and hosted online. Our
SEBN. Offerings range from CEO guest speakers this year are Captain Mona Shindy, a fascinating speaker and
to production, quality, Work Health Australian Navy trailblazer and The Hon Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Women.
Safety (WHS) and Developing Young
Leaders - there’s something for all
levels of your business. Women In Business network
Networks meet regularly to SEBN Women in Business has a new look with an exciting program
enhance and embed awareness of network sessions and speakers planned throughout the year.
and learnings. To join in the fun and learning email sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au.
To be involved please email
sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au or SEBN
Manager, Sandra George via
sandra.george@cgd.vic.gov.au.
greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/sebnSEBN (South East Business Networks) 13
The quiet achiever
the event over the years and the rule 12th Take
is, enter with a smile and leave with
a smile!” a Swing for
A global upbringing Charity
Born in Kenya, raised in the United
Despite another lockdown at
Kingdom with an Indian background,
the time of going to print, final
and having moved to Australia in 2001,
preparations were in place
Mr Shah illustrates the invaluable
and excitement mounting
contributions immigrants can make to
for this year’s CGD-Industry
Greater Dandenong and Australia.
Take a Swing for Charity
Dandenong businessman Nirad Shah “A lot of migrants come from that Golf Day. Once again being
believes everyone is “inherently sort of culture where family and held at Victoria Golf Club,
good”, and it’s this goodness that has community are incredibly important. this fun-filled day will raise
seen the annual CGD-Industry charity In Dandenong, certain communities funds for two local charities –
golf day, ‘Take a Swing’ flourish for can get a bad rap, but we need to Keysborough Learning Centre
more than a decade. understand where they’ve come and Asylum Seeker Resource
from, what hardships they’ve been Centre – whose work benefit
Since its inception, the event
through, and find the right support for so many of those most in
has raised almost $500,000 for
them,” he says passionately. need in our community.
organisations doing incredible work
for the local community. Mr Shah was recently awarded
Corporate Citizen of the year at the
Tee-ing up the Take a Swing event
2021 Greater Dandenong Australia
Mr Shah’s family business, KPJ Group,
Day Awards for his contribution to
dreamed up the initial concept for the
the Take a Swing for Charity Golf
golf day in 2009, saying it has always
Day, recognising the hundreds of
been part of his “family DNA” to give
thousands of dollars KPJ and other
back to whichever community they
major sponsors have raised for the
are living in.
event over the past 11 years.
“We wanted to do something for
the community that was not only
According to Mr Shah, SEBN enables Under
him to meet people from different
sustainable, but also fun and involving
groups. In reality, it’s been a huge
worlds and different types of construction
organisations, and to identify where
group effort driven by a lot of people,”
Mr Shah says of the event’s success,
he can add value. – website
refusing to take credit for any key role When corporate social employment
in SEBN’s Take a Swing event. responsibility can help children
“The things you do in life are all
of the world space coming
“As a family, we’ve worked with
about teamwork and for me, it’s the
joy of seeing players come and enjoy
different charitable organisations soon
and focus on causes where all of the
the day and seeing recipient charities The Community Revitalisation
money goes straight to the recipient
bring their clients to assist.” team is also working on an
rather than to administration costs. In
integrated ‘Employment’ space
The team to which Mr Shah refers essence, it’s about whatever little we
on the new Council website.
includes organisations such as can do to help and bring others along
Incorporating links to our
Grenda Group, Erntec, Norden on the journey,” Mr Shah says.
existing Work Local Greater
Group, Future Recycling, Wadeson IP,
“We’re passionate about causes Dandenong employment
Telstra Technology Centre South East
focussed on the welfare of children, portal and other employment
and Dandenong Nissan & KIA, as well
including those supporting survivors related resources, this space
as City of Greater Dandenong and
of family violence, and education. is intended to provide an
South East Business Network (SEBN).
employment hub for both local
“More recently, we’ve also been
“We have a genuine desire to work jobseekers and local employers.
supporting the School For Life
together and support the community,
Foundation, which educates more Watch this space!
rather than having our names up in
than 1,000 students in Uganda across
lights, which is what makes it work.
three schools.”
“The event is really well organised by
www.kpjgroup.com
Sandra and her team and we pitch
in when we can. A lot of companies Inset image: Local Dandenong Businessman,
Nirad Shah.
and people have been involved with
greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/sebn14
Free and low-cost ways to
upskill your business online
As a small business owner, you’re already responsible for so many things.
Where do you find the time and money to invest in furthering your business skills?
If you’re managing fine as you are, upskilling might not seem necessary, but
think of upskilling as an investment with long-term returns. It’s not just the best
way to grow your business, it’s also a way to sustain your business in the face
of a changing market economy, encroaching competitors and new technology.
Today, you can upskill your business without having to do a TAFE course
(although there are many great TAFE courses available), with both in person
and online options available.
We’ve compiled a list of a few places to help you in your search.
Council led initiatives External offerings
One on One Business Mentoring Upskill My Business LinkedIn Learning
Price range: Free Price range: Free Cost: $24.99 to $39.99 per month,
Delivery method: Online or in person
Delivery method: Online plus a free one month trial. If you’re a
(pending current restrictions).
Last year the Victorian Government Greater Dandenong Library member
Each local business is entitled to you can access this resource for free
released Upskill My Business,
receive three 45-minute mentoring using your membership.
a free learning platform to help
sessions with a professional of their
small businesses develop relevant Delivery method: Online
choice, for free.
business skills to help them recover
LinkedIn Learning, formerly Lynda.
To receive your voucher email from the impacts of coronavirus
com, is an online learning and
Council via business@cgd.vic.gov.au (COVID 19).
professional development platform.
with your business name, address
Upskill My Business connects you Through short videos that come in
and contact information.
to short courses, virtual events a range of expertise levels, you can
South East Business Networks and resources from Victoria’s top learn everything from communication
(SEBN) industry experts and education and strategy to how to use certain
Price Range: Free providers – including universities. computer programs.
Delivery method: Online or in person Learn more: Made by experts in their fields,
(pending current restrictions). upskill.business.vic.gov.au courses often supply work materials
Few organisations allow you to leverage and are broken into bite-sized
Victorian Chamber of videos so you can squeeze in a few
the positive impact of collaborative
Commerce and Industry (VCCI) minutes of learning a day or binge a
networking as effectively as SEBN does.
training and events whole course.
SEBN has been enabling the sharing
Price range: $50+ (members receive
of ideas for the region’s manufacturing Learn more:
discounts)
sector for over 20 years. linkedin.com/learning
Delivery method: Online or in person
Learn more: (pending current restrictions). Google Ads certification
greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/south-
VCCI is a business membership Cost: Free
east-business-network
organisation that offers a range Delivery method: Online
Greater Dandenong Library of services, including advocacy, The search engine Google has
Price range: Free consulting, networking and training. become a staple in day-to-day life. So
Delivery method: Online or in person If you’re a member of the Greater much so that ‘google it’ has become
(pending current restrictions) Dandenong Chamber of Commerce a generic catch-all to mean ‘search
Its free to become a Greater you can receive 50 per cent off your the internet’.
Dandenong Library member. Your VCCI membership.
If you want people to find your
membership gives you free access to Their courses cover topics such business, you need your website
computers and online learning courses as finance and productivity, and Google My Business listing to
such as LinkedIn Learning and Ibis Microsoft Office skills and personal be optimised for Google to find you,
World. Our Libraries also play host competencies like leadership and also known as SEO (search engine
to English language classes, resume emotional intelligence. optimisation).
writing support, technology classes,
Learn more: Learn more:
creative and business workshops.
victorianchamber.com.au/training skillshop.withgoogle.com
Learn more:
greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/libraries15
A fresh upgrade on tradition
for the Greater Dandenong
Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Dandenong Chamber of operators to connect with. The sharing amazing business stories
Commerce is shaking things up with Chamber is now offering entry with the broader community.
new offerings whilst respecting the level membership for those with
The Chamber was unable to host its
successes of their impressive 73-year little capital and time, who might
annual Chamber Business Awards
history. want to dip their toe in the water
program due to the pandemic in 2020
of membership benefits.
A refresh of the existing website but this year will see the relaunch of
offers additional business resources President of the Greater Dandenong the program - with new and innovative
and streamlined membership access Chamber of Commerce, Lisa Moore initiatives on show. Be sure to get in
for events, advice and support. commented, “Our membership levels touch if you want to be a part of the
provide a way for us to facilitate Business Awards in 2021.
That’s not all they are doing – there
connection between all business
is plenty more. Lastly, extending upon the 2020 timely
leaders in our community. We often
COVID reopening business advice,
There is no argument on whether forget big businesses would’ve
the Chamber is engaging experts
or not the hospitality and tourism started small too. We wanted to reflect
to support business challenges in
industries suffered throughout 2020. this in our membership tiers, giving
what is the current ‘COVID Normal.’
The Chamber is focusing on making the small businesses the chance to
Subjects will include the importance
the foodie industry a key focus for mingle with the big business leaders.”
of wellbeing, belonging and place-
2021. At the time of printing, the
Moore continued, “There are so many making (both in the office or home-
Chamber was planning on inviting
opportunities for our members to help office) for staff. A business is only as
members on a Dandenong Food Tour
one another by working together on good as its people – and the Chamber
hosted by Council to celebrate the
projects. We certainly want to see that prides itself on helping businesses
diversity of offerings available from
local support continue to grow this thrive in Greater Dandenong.
our vibrant local community. However,
year and we’re keen to help facilitate
due to the Victorian Government Learn more:
these introductions.”
quick five day lockdown in February greaterdandenongchamber.com.au
plans have had to be put on hold. The Chamber know how to celebrate
great businesses. This year they are
For those entrepreneurs and new
developing professional resources
business owners, the Chamber has
- to celebrate and further promote
a bevy of experienced business
their success. This will include
In the spotlight This issue, we’d like to feature
Executive Officer, Tiffany Murray and
a sense of pride in knowing the work
they were delivering to members
Ever wondered who wrote the Events and Marketing Officer, Tamara was invaluable.
Greater Dandenong Chamber of Moore. Tiffany has been with the
“In a time of absolute uncertainty, it was
Commerce newsletters, was the Chamber for five years and Tamara
comforting to know we were playing
friendly voice on the end of the recently joined the team in 2019.
our part in helping both our community
phone when you called with a Both women have a love for bringing and in turn local economy continue to
membership enquiry or arranged events to life which is what originally hang in there,” Tamara said.
a networking night where you met drew them to their respective roles.
some fabulous connections and took However, as the Chamber continues
home a cheeky donut or two? to grow and expand its services their
There is lots of work that goes roles have grown too.
on behind the scenes that you Tiffany stated, “It certainly isn’t a
often don’t see that makes an boring role. We’ve met so many
organisation tick. wonderful businesses and it has
Last issue we introduced the newly been great to watch them grow
appointed President of the Greater over the years.”
Dandenong Chamber, Lisa Moore and Tamara adding whilst last year was
Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce’s Executive
learnt a bit about her background and tough as everyone navigated their Officer Tiffany Murray and Events and Marketing Officer,
hopes for 2021. way through a pandemic, there was Tamara Moore.From paper to pixels...
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Material from Talking Business, Greater /cityofgreaterdandenong
225 Lonsdale Street Dandenong‘s business news, may be
Dandenong, Victoria 3175 reproduced for non-commercial purposes /greaterdandy
Ph: 8571 1550 provided the source is acknowledged, for
greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au example, ‘This material first appeared in
business@cgd.vic.gov.au the City of Greater Dandenong’s Talking
Business publication, December 2020'.
Talking Business Editorial Email business@cgd.vic.gov.au
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