September 2019 Talking Business - X Grand designs for Dandenong - City of Greater Dandenong
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TalkingBusiness
September 2019
XXGrand designs for
Dandenong
Page 4
XX‘Intangible’ skills
predicted as priority
for workforce of
the future
Page 9
XXSPEE3D steals
spotlight on global
printing stage
Page 11
2
FEATURES
7
Propharma adds organic to
Paul’s Corner its production portfolio
Are we really approaching the last
quarter of 2019? This is the September
edition of Talking Business, so I guess
that must be the case. Please tell me I
am not alone in finding this a little hard
to digest?
As always, this magazine takes pride
in showcasing the developments
and achievements of our diverse
local business community. In this
8 10
edition, we dedicate a full page to
those that have been recognised for
excellence across many industry award The power of Targeted support to
bodies, including HM Gem Engines, the hashtag start-up businesses
Woolworths Distribution Facility, Caps
and Closures, Ego Pharmaceuticals and
Kuga Electrical.
We also highlight those businesses
that are expanding or are leading the
way in innovation such as Propharma
achieving its Australian Certified Organic
certification, Fine Food Holdings’ 11 12
$10 million investment into a new
manufacturing facility, and Spee3D’s
revolutionary technology that is taking
SPEE3D steals spotlight on
the world by storm.
global printing stage.
Starting and sustaining a small business
can be a difficult but rewarding road,
and we recognise the need for strong
support throughout the various phases
of growth. To this end, we have shared
some case studies for three popular
programs including the Dandy Markers
Market (p.3), Launch Me (p.9), and 14 15
Ignite Greater Dandenong (p.13) – each
offering contrasting and complementary
supports for different markets. A Cracker of a Company
Please enjoy the variety of articles in Events calendar now Manufacturing in
this edition, and we shall be back in Dandenong
touch with you again in December.
Paul Kearsley
Group Manager,
Greater Dandenong Business
(Includes Economic Development, SEBN
Cover: Couture Mantra on 109 Foster St. Model featured in one of owner and designer, Kiran Lally’s silk
and Activity Centre Revitalisation) lengha sets.
3
Dandy Makers Market
paves way for aspiring
stallholders
Dandy Makers Market is a handmade starting my very own Ethiopian coffee
craft and artisan food market with roasting business. This space has
a difference. allowed me to bring my product to
the community, and has also assisted
A social enterprise of the Southern
me with my packaging, marketing
Migrant and Refugee Centre (SMRC),
and pricing,” said Ms Abyssinia.
the market was born from the desire
to ignite the passion of business for The Dandy Makers Market is located
clients who showed unique cultural on the terrace of Dandenong Market
talents. With the help of Dandenong and held on the second Sunday of
Market, SMRC now offers both ‘get the month, adding a novel addition
market ready’ business courses plus to the thriving market. When buying
the opportunity to become a regular from a maker you are buying a piece
stallholder – selling unique one-off of a heart, part of a soul, a moment
creations in a mentored environment. of someone’s life, a livelihood made
from a passion.
“Without the Dandy “Having my homeland tradition in
Makers Market, I this market is very exciting and I’m
confident by its potential and grateful
couldn’t have pictured for the support,” said Ms Abyssinia.
myself starting my very
If you are keen to turn your skill or
own Ethiopian coffee hobby into a small business and
roasting business.” would like to find out more about
free short courses, please contact
Graduate of the business course, Alem dandymakers@smrc.org.au or
Abyssinia, said The Dandy Makers 9767 1900.
Market was instrumental in helping
The Dandy Makers Market
establish her business, Coffeeland.
reopens from a winter hiatus on
“Without the Dandy Makers Market, 13 October 2019. Coffeeland owner, Alem Abyssinia
I couldn’t have pictured myself
Noble Park Activity Centre pilots new Shopfront
and Improvement Scheme
Noble Park Activity Centre will to gauge their early interest in being signage were part of a suite of outcomes
soon see some enhancements with involved in the pilot program. for traders to use in future multimedia
the rollout of new pilot Shopfront and promotion of their business.
This was followed by a formal,
Improvement Scheme.
competitive expression of interest
Council’s economic development process, where 21 businesses were
team engaged local brand and visual selected to undergo targeted changes
merchandising experts, Pop Creative to their shopfront, visual merchandising
Collective, to deliver a program aimed and painting.
at improving the visual appeal of
Pop Creative Collective had a hands-
shopfronts within the shopping precinct.
on approach and created an ‘instant’
The program surveyed more than 46 makeover. Proposals were developed
businesses to gain their existing views and implemented with business owner
on the condition of the precinct, and collaborations. New branding and
4
hand work. I’ve found this Council
really responsive to businesses.”
A building designer by profession,
Ms Lally originally intended to study
fashion design but instead chose a
more ‘reliable’ vocation. After a trip
to India, Ms Lally’s love for design
was reignited and Couture Mantra
was born.
“It’s currently all fast
fashion so a lot of
people are heading
overseas to shop for
quality garments. I’d
like to see more stores
of my kind open so
we can keep people
shopping local.”
“If you’ve got a passion, you can make
it work. I’m learning new things every
week – more than I did at school and
Grand designs
university,” Ms Lally explains.
Couture Mantra has utilised
Instagram and Facebook to generate
for Dandenong interest in the brand. “I’ve realised
the customer needs to know the
details of how to style the outfits.
“Social media is still how people find
An innovative designer is keeping retail shop for quality garments. I’d like to me these days, but what you post
dollars in Melbourne with a unique see more stores of my kind open so needs to be relevant. I get a strong
fashion offering. In January, Kiran we can keep people shopping local.” response when I’m in the picture, and
Lally opened Couture Mantra next to this might be because people can
Ms Lally designs the hand-made
Dandenong’s Little India precinct. relate to a curvier model.”
garments down to the fabrics, which are
“No one else has this in Australia in 90 per cent silk with cotton-silk lining. Couture Mantra has been featured in
terms of Indian-ethnic wear,” says Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, and
“It’s a lot of work but the pieces are
Ms Lally, who originally launched the has since held its own fashion show
timeless – they can be passed onto
business online in 2013. featuring a Bollywood actress. Ms
your kids. The Mayor visited during
“It’s currently all fast fashion so a lot my store launch and I liked that she Lally plans to hold a similar event in
of people are heading overseas to had knowledge of embroidery and Dandenong later this year.
Noble Park Railway Station
honours its history
A series of large scale panels Combining historical photographs with
installed at Noble Park Railway thematic words depicting the spirit of
Station tell the story of Noble Park’s Noble Park in its early days, the panels
early settlers and the lives they lived. now greet commuters at this modern
state-of-the-art railway station.
The panels represent the final
touches to the newly built railway http://www.greaterdandenong.com/
station as part of the Victorian levelcrossingremovalproject
Kindness, Tolerance, Tenacious, Spirited, Resilient, Government’s Level Crossing
United, Fellowship, Determined – the making of
Noble Park. Removal Project across Melbourne.
5
Game on for Rigby Cooke
Melbourne Football Lawyers
backs vision
Club and Dandenong for dispersed
Melbourne Football Club (MFC) has
further cemented its commitment
South East and other networks to
encourage and develop talented
Melbourne
to the south east region by joining
the Greater Dandenong Chamber
players. All programs include on-field
skill development and educational
with South
of Commerce.
MFC’s community initiatives include
components with an additional focus
on creating more opportunities
East Business
collaborations with Victoria Police in
the south east area.
for multicultural and indigenous
participants. For example, highly
Hub
talented players who have graduated
Accommodating a growing
“We want to immerse ourselves in through the Melbourne Academy
client base in Melbourne’s
the community and have this area be Zone and meet certain criteria are
south-east, Rigby Cooke
an extension of our football club as a eligible to be drafted to Melbourne’s
Lawyers has opened a business
whole,” says Josh Mahoney, General AFL side.
hub in Dandenong South to
Manager of Football and Casey
“We have been able to partner serve businesses located in
Operations for MFC.
already with many great, local the region.
“Initial discussions have identified businesses on our network programs
Managing Partner, Bill Karvela,
numerous opportunities to help such as ‘Leadership in Business’,”
said the firm was making a
the business network of Greater says Mr Maynard. “Expanding
strategic move as planners
Dandenong, either through that reach to Greater Dandenong
looked towards a decentralised
the development of programs businesses with similar community
future for Melbourne.
or partnerships.” mindsets is an important opportunity
for MFC. “We want to meet our clients
Peter Maynard, General Manager
where they are. Not just to
Casey Football – a VFL club affiliated “We believe our new, $8 million
provide more convenient
with MFC – says the organisation development and surface upgrade
service, but also to better
recently celebrated its 10th year of planned at Casey Fields is a terrific
understand their needs and their
partnership with City of Casey. “We achievement for the whole South
industries,” said Mr Karvela.
want the best facilities possible in East community. We’re looking
the Casey/Dandenong area, not forward to bringing events and Located in Monash Drive,
only to grow the game of Australian programs to Greater Dandenong that Dandenong South, the new
Rules but to increase physical activity benefit the wider community.” space will provide Rigby Cooke
within the community.” with a base to interact with its
clients in the growing region,
MFC also runs the ‘Melbourne
including manufacturers, hotel
Next Gen Academy’ in partnership
and accommodation providers,
with the Dandenong Stingrays, AFL
health, logistics, clients and
trade exposed businesses and
other commercial clients.
Mr Karvela said this venture
was a genuine investment in
the new business hub, and a
serious commitment to their
clients and future clients in the
South East.
“We want to support the growth
aspirations of our clients outside
of the CBD, and with a number
of clients already in the South
East, this is an expansion that
makes sense for us” he said.
6
Dandenong engineering and
remanufacturing business wins
elite industry award
Victorian Automobile Chamber of
Commerce (VACC) Chief Executive,
Geoff Gwilym said that the industry
Awards demonstrate VACC members
commitment to quality and customer
service.
“It is a huge accolade to be named the
best in Victoria and these businesses
have all proved themselves worthy of
that title,” said Mr Gwilym.
Eight expert judges evaluated
entries based on business
management, workplace practices,
customer service, marketing and
communication and an independent
From left to right: HM GEM Engines Managing Director, Bruce Parker and General Manager, Dean Taylor
standards representative audited the
judging ensuring that only the finest
City of Greater Dandenong business, With its head office and principle
of VACC’s 5,500 members would be
HM Gem Engines, has been awarded engine reconditioning and
announced as finalists.
Best Engine Reconditioner (large remanufacturing plant located in
business) in the prestigious 2019 Dandenong, HM Gem Engines is As a multiple winner of this award
VACC Industry Awards. recognised as the largest engine since its inception, HM Gem Engines
remanufacturer in Australia was recognised among four
2019 category winners and other
with engineering service plants other outstanding companies and
outstanding Victorian businesses
strategically located along the east individuals with induction into the
were formally recognised at a black
coast of Australia, employing in VACC Automotive Industry Hall of
tie event on Saturday 22 June at the
excess of 100 people. Fame, the industry’s highest honour.
Grand Hyatt, Melbourne.
Local businesses take out range Clunies Ross Entrepreneur of the
Year Award – Dr Jane Oppenheim,
of prestigious awards Ego Pharmaceuticals
The award, organised by the
The past quarter has seen a number sustainability benefits. The collaboration Australian Academy of Technology
of Greater Dandenong businesses with development partners, suppliers and Engineering, recognised the
recognised for excellence across a and store operations has reset the leadership and innovation provided
range of industry awards, and we benchmarks of what can be achieved by Dr Oppenheim, which has seen
extend our sincere congratulations in distribution centre development in an Ego manufacturing plant expand
to all. Australia and worldwide. 10 times, creating valuable jobs and
Award for Development Innovation – International packaging award – a significant export market.
Woolworths Distribution Facility Caps and Closures Energy Efficiency Project of the Year
The Kone Award for Development Caps and Closures achieved Award – Kuga Electrical
Innovation was awarded to international recognition for their Congratulations to John Kurta and
Woolworths and Charter Hall for innovative and unique packaging the team at Kuga Electrical for
Woolworths’ new Melbourne South design at the prestigious 2019 winning the Energy Efficiency Project
Regional Distribution Centre at the WorldStar Packaging Awards held of the Year Award, presented at the
Australian national property awards. in Prague, Czech Republic. The 2019 Excellence Awards by Master
company won in the domestic and Electricians Australia. These awards
Woolworth’s latest state of the art facility
household category for Precise Pour, recognize outstanding achievements
uses world class automated technology
described as a leap forward in the in the electro-technology industry at
to deliver enhanced customer,
functionality of the simple tap. a state and national level.
safety, supply chain, economic and
7
Propharma adds organic New Business
to its production portfolio Growth Fund to
After more than 40 years in business, The founders of Propharma had
help businesses
Dandenong South’s Propharma
achieved Australian Certified Organic
a farming background and good
knowledge of the nutritional
expand
certification in April 2019, opening requirements of animals, starting The Victorian Government
the already successful business up to the business in 1976, according to recently confirmed it will
new markets. Ms Azizsoltani. establish a $250 million Victorian
The company, which brands itself “They commissioned a purpose-built Business Growth Fund, the
as “Dry Powder Specialists,” works factory in Dandenong South in 1986, largest of its kind in Australia,
in the animal nutrition, food and establishing a separate facility for for small and medium enterprises
pharmaceutical industries, assisting human nutrition and therapeutics.” (SMEs) to help them access
small businesses through to capital and create jobs to grow
The company obtained a Therapeutic
global brands. the economy.
Goods Administration licence in 1991.
“We’re set up to handle all varieties On 7 June 2019, Treasurer Tim
“Since that time, multiple manufacturing
of dry powder milling, blending, Pallas announced a $50 million
licences have been achieved, as well
sieving and packaging,” says contribution towards the Fund,
as formal supplier accreditation with
Propharma’s QA/NPD Manager, which will be developed with
several multi-nationals.”
Ladan Azizsoltani. leading industry superannuation
The organic certification comes groups First State Super and
“Management’s thinking was as a result of customer demand VicSuper.
always to focus on quality rather and interest at food exhibitions.
than volume. We’re contract Propharma recently expanded the “The Victorian Business Growth
manufacturers and because we don’t food side of its business with a food Fund will give some of our best
have any minimum quantities in our technologist recruited and extra SMEs the incentive to take on
orders, that’s attractive for start-up casual workers added to the team. new ventures and employ more
businesses seeking trial batches. Victorians,” said Mr Pallas.
The company has also been
“Multi-nationals are confident of the collaborating with Monash University’s The Labor Government, First
calibre of the quality systems we food incubator since 2017 to develop State Super and VicSuper are
have in place, knowing they can products in larger batches, with continuing to work together to
trust our step in the chain of their the aim to commercialise the ideas finalise the design of the fund,
manufacturing processes.” generated from the incubator. which is subject to a formal
agreement.
First State Super CEO Deanne
Stewart said many Victorian SMEs
find it difficult to access affordable
capital, limiting their ability to
expand their business.
“As one of Australia’s largest
super funds, we have long been
looking for innovative ways
to invest in successful SME
companies that are ready to
expand, in turn creating new jobs
and economic growth in regional
and metropolitan communities,”
said Mr Steward.
A high-quality, independent
fund manager will be appointed
through a competitive process.
The Fund will complement other
business support programs,
such as the Victorian Jobs and
Investment Fund and the payroll
tax cuts announced in the
Victorian Budget for 2019-20.
From left to right: Champi Thotamunige, Norma Garner, Lesley Smith, Ladan Azizsoltani, Alf Staffa
8
The power of the hashtag
You will never find a better sales
representative than your customers
– and those loyal and engaged will
post unsolicited images without
you having to ask. Consumers are
more likely to ‘tell your story’ when
your brand aligns to a strong set of
values, issues or experiences that
go beyond your product.
This can be seen in the case of KOH
Clean Living whose brand story
matched the values of a new mother,
Sally. With a newborn in the home,
Sally began researching eco-friendly
cleaning products to create a safer
living environment for her child,
and came across the business KOH
Clean Living.
In reading their story, Sally found
a personal connection to their
purpose and decided to purchase
their products to clean her home.
While she wouldn’t normally post
an Instagram photo about cleaning
products, she was proud of her
conscious decision to create a safer
home environment for her family,
while also helping to protect the
planet – this post was free UGC for
KOH Clean Living.
‘Consumers are more likely to In delving into the world of
Instagram, here are a few facts
‘tell your story’ when your brand aligns to consider:
to a strong set of values, issues or
Instagram now has a shopping
experiences that go beyond your product.’ feature, making it even easier
for users to make purchases in
By the time you read this article including that delicious avocado a few simple clicks
there will be approximately three smash, the house transformation
million images uploaded onto or the new outfit of the day Instagram posts with at least
social media applications (apps). On (#OOTD). According to Hootsuite, one hashtag boast 12.6 per
Instagram alone, there is an average 60% of users also (approximately cent more engagement than
of 80 million images uploaded daily. 600 million people) seek out those without a hashtag
and discover new products on
Instagram is a social media app that Identifying and leveraging the
Instagram, making it a powerful tool
can be loosely described as a photo trending hashtags (those that
for businesses.
sharing tool used by both individuals have a lot of traction) is a great
and businesses. We all know the So what is the most effective marketing tactic to consider
timeless adage “a picture speaks a way to translate users to
thousand words,” and Instagram’s consumers? Research shows So why not have a play and see what
rising success and popularity shows that User Generated Content Instagram can offer your brand or
this is the case, so we better pay (UGC) is outperforming traditional should we say #whynot.
closer attention. advertising, meaning consumers References
find peer-created content more
Instagram has 1.1 billion users who https://www.marketingsociety.
influential in their choices than com/the-gym/how-harness-power-
open the app at least once a day
business marketing images instagram#FXF3B13dXGm5SEmd.99
on average, many of which post
(Marketing Society). https://blog.hootsuite.com/instagram-statistics/
images showcasing life’s joys
9
‘Intangible’ skills predicted
as priority for workforce
of the future
According to the World Economic Farha Momandwall, Senior HR these jobs. I think one area we’ll see
Forum’s (WEF) Future of Jobs Report Manager SC/IR for Nissan Casting growth in is self-education.”
released late last year, at least 54
per cent of all employees will need
reskilling and upskilling by 2022. “The real challenge is how fast the jobs of the
In-demand skills that WEF predicts future will be created and how quickly we can
for 2022 include: re-skill people for these jobs.”
• analytical thinking and innovation
• active learning and learning (Australia), predicts the manufacturing
“With all of this technology we have,
strategies workforce of the future will need to
it’s a bit of a double-edged sword.
• creativity, originality and initiative be multi-skilled.
Nothing is all good or bad – it’s
• technology design and “Soft skills are becoming more what we choose to do with it that
programming critical. An area we are investing in ultimately matters.”
• complex problem-solving is around people-management skills,
City of Greater Dandenong is
such as communication, coaching
• leadership and social influence proactively supporting businesses
and leadership. Investment in this
• emotional intelligence and their workforces to adapt to
area will enable our workforce to
technological advancements. For
• reasoning, problem-solving identify how to bring out the best
example, South East Business
and ideation in people, and provide room for
Networks recently held a series of
Simon Waller, a speaker, author and creativity and innovative thinking,”
workshops on the future of work
advisor in the technology space says Ms Momandwall.
targeted to business leaders and
predicts technology-related jobs will Similarly, Mr Waller believes we need educators.
be more important in the short term. to look at intangible elements to
Visit www.greaterdandenong.com
“But large chunks of that work will predict the in-demand skillsets
and click on ‘work’ then ‘South East
become automated as well,” says of the future.
Business Networks’ to subscribe to
Mr Waller. “It’s any type of work that can’t be further workshop information.
“Technology doesn’t take jobs, it coded into ‘ones’ and ‘zeros’, that
takes tasks, so you face greater risk can’t be easily measured such as
if you’re a specialist and that one compassion, creativity, collaboration
thing you do gets automated. Those or even love.”
middle-management-type roles, “The real challenge is how fast the
which are relatively standardised, are jobs of the future will be created and
also ripe for automation.” how quickly we can re-skill people for
Local Jobs First Supplier Forum
Do you want to learn how your important first step to participating To register for this event visit
business can participate in Victorian in public sector projects. https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/
State Government projects? local-jobs-first-supplier-forum-
Come along to hear presentations
registration-67632726305
The Department of Jobs, from DJPR and the Local Jobs First
Precincts and Regions (DJPR) is Commissioner. In addition, get an
hosting an information session insight into upcoming government
to help suppliers understand the projects and hear from a Tier 1
Local Jobs First and the Social Contractor about a successful
Procurement Framework. It is an project utilising local businesses
10
Love Food Targeted support to
Halve Waste
Did you know the average food
business in Victoria throws away
start-up businesses
more than 100 kilograms of wasted
food every week? Not only is this a
waste of food and lost profits, but it
also ends up in landfill.
While many businesses understand
the problem, they do not know how
to improve the situation. Love Food
Hate Waste is a free short program
to help Victorian hospitality venues
combat this issue by learning how
to prevent food waste, reduce
costs and increase profits.
Open to all Victorian hospitality
businesses such as cafes,
restaurants, pubs, clubs, hotels
and takeaway venues, program
participants receive a kit including
food waste trackers, action plan
templates and other tools and
resources to help them reduce
food waste in their business.
Delivered online via email,
business owners, managers and
head chefs can follow the simple
three-step program over several
weeks. The program will help you:
1. Track your food waste to see
where it is really occurring Business owner of Myella Believe and Achieve, Sabrina
2. Identify and take actions to
Residents of Dandenong and help take the confusion out of the
prevent waste before it happens
Doveton starting their own small process,” said Ms Hayes.
3. Measure and share success business can receive coaching and
Myella Believe and Achieve is a
with staff and customers support in the LaunchME program
business that has developed through
from Good Shepherd Microfinance.
More than 150 Victorian hospitality the program. Business owner, Sabrina,
Developed to help people on low
businesses have already joined the is a mum and legally blind with
incomes, the coach works with
Love Food Hate Waste Business 3 per cent vision. Her business runs
participants to create business and
program to start seeing the programs in schools for young people
marketing plans to help get their
benefits of reducing food waste. teaching disability awareness, and
business concept off the ground.
she also sells a range of motivational
Sign up at the following link to
Resident coach, Yvette Hayes, said t-shirts. Sabrina said the LaunchME
make food waste your business:
starting a business is a daunting program has been a godsend.
https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.
process so the program provides
au/campaigns/love-food-hate- “It is wonderful having a coach/mentor
access to a supportive team,
waste/business to bounce ideas off and having the
together with education on practical
communication, support and guidance
essentials like accounting software to
is extremely helpful,” she said.
make tax time easier.
Participants meet with their business
“In our 12-month program, we work
coach for 1.5 hours each fortnight
with participants on all elements
for 12 months. Limited places are
from business plans through to sales.
currently available.
Most of us look at a Sunday Market
stand and assume a business is just Please contact Yvette Hayes via email:
making things, but there’s so much yhayes@gsmicrofinance.org.au or
more going on and we’re here to visit launchme.org.au for more details.11
SPEE3D steals spotlight on
global printing stage
SPEE3D has stolen the spotlight “Typically, 3D printers of this size and complexity
on the 3D-printing global stage,
having recently installed machines in require up to two weeks to install and set up,
Germany, the USA and Australia. however we’ve had Spee3D machines delivered
The relatively young, Dandenong- at 9am and printing parts by lunch time.”
based company is a former grant
recipient of Council’s Business
hours, whereas the competing of work with the U.S. Department of
Grants Program, and its innovative
NASA technology took 28 days to Defence,” says Mr Kennedy.
technology and practical application
do a very similar thing,” Mr Kennedy
for rapid manufacturing is being Swinburne University also recently
lauded at international trade shows. reports.
purchased a LightSpee3D and
SPEE3D Co-founder and CEO Byron “Typically, 3D printers of this size officially launched it at an industry
Kennedy says, “We’re the only ones and complexity require up to two event in July.
using this technology for parts. weeks to install and set up, however
“Interested parties can approach us
Traditional 3D printing is slow but we’ve had Spee3D machines
or Swinburne to use the technology
specialised – what we focus on is delivered at 9am and printing parts
and discover how it can benefit
making metal parts fast and at a very by lunch time.”
them. It could be individuals through
low cost.” WarpSpee3D compliments the to defence contractors undertaking
The company launched its new original LightSpee3D model, which part development, material testing or
WarpSpee3D printer in December is ideal for smaller parts and material corrosion testing.”
2018, which enables manufacturers development. Both printers can work
According to Mr Kennedy, Spee3D
to produce parts weighing up to 40kg with copper or aluminium.
has a “roadmap of products coming
and measuring up to one metre wide. The University of Delaware is out” but is currently focussing on
“We recently printed some copper reportedly using the LightSpee3D expanding the range of materials
rocket nozzles in about seven model daily. “Primarily they do a lot available with its printers.
From left to right:
Dr. Nick Shevchenko, Byron Kennedy,
Dr. Austin Good, Bruce Colter, Steve Camilleri12 SEBN (South East Business Networks)
Australia’s mobro moment
impacts all waste disposal
in Australia
When China announced a ban on long, long third. Flipping that rating that could come of this (unwanted)
receiving waste from foreign countries prompts a question: what products item? The mantra now is on Reduce
as of 1 January 2018, many Councils, could we make from this resource? initial use, RePurpose one object into
recyclers and producers of waste another, Re-use the product in another
For over a decade SEBN have been
were caught on the hop, but the ever- location, or Recycle a product at the
urging our manufacturers to consider
growing problem of waste disposal end of its consumer life.
the strategic implications of waste
was earmarked over 30 years ago.
streams. Prior to the opening of Now we are looking to the upgraded
For example, On 11 July 1987, a barge the LOGIS business park in South ASPIRE program that has just been
that traversed United States east Dandenong, we ran a full breakfast spun off from the Commonwealth
coast for almost four months, laden workshop discussing the benefits Scientific and Industrial Research
with New York City’s trash finally of industrial symbiosis (waste as Organisation (CSIRO), and of which
found a home. The ‘mobro’ was a input sharing between companies). City of Greater Dandenong has been
harbinger of a problem now being We have run networking sessions an early member. An online portal,
seen across Australia – how do we looking at waste water, even it allows manufacturers (and others)
manage our waste effectively? prompting some manufacturers to to flag their desire for a waste by-
look at donating their cleaned, used product as a raw input, or to flag a
We must get smarter and more
water during the last major drought, waste product output for others to
committed to ‘end of use value’
and we have flagged the challenge access. By reducing raw ingredient
before things like Take Back
of rising costs of waste disposal. inputs at one end and the ‘to waste’
Legislation become embedded in our
outputs at the other we create win-
approach to consumption. But in the long run we need to
win-win outcomes.
answer: should we be upgrading
It can be argued that much of our
the tech that already works for us? You can contact SEBN for more
problem is in our mindset – we see
Should we be carrying a reusable details about the ASPIRE portal
unwanted goods as ‘rubbish’ first,
bottle rather than buying more single or go to www.aspiresme.com for
‘waste’ second, and ‘resource’ a
use plastic? Is there some other use further information.SEBN (South East Business Networks) 13
It takes a village to raise a startup
Local entrepreneur, Riz Akhtar, is ‘there has to be an easier way, there
a participant in the Ignite Greater has to be a better way’. From that,
Dandenong program (funded by he started to develop an idea that
LaunchVic) and has an innovative would revolutionise the automotive
Interested in capability
startup in the automotive service sector. Riz has used the program to development and
sector. Riz is a strong advocate of develop his business and ensure sharing learnings with
the program and shared some of his all facets are covered – including
thoughts on his experience to date. financials, promotion, attracting
your peers?
investors and customers and future- If so, then get involved with SEBN –
“I’m involved in the startup and
proofing his product. from CEO to Production with activities
entrepreneurship space. In the
for all.
south east we have so much talent, “Now the community exists and you
we have hubs popping up like the have that support that didn’t exist a Specific networks that meet regularly to
Ignite program. The best thing is the couple of years ago. If you’re thinking enhance and embed learnings include:
mentorship - to help founders with about checking out the Ignite
• Manufacturing Leadership (targeting
ideas, solving real problems and program, really get involved with the
CEO/Senior Management)
taking them to the next level. I’ve community because it takes a village
been in the ecosystem for about four to raise a startup,” he said. • Manufacturing ‘Xcellents’ (targeting
plus years and I haven’t come across production managers / shop floor
SEBN is always looking for business
many programs that offer that,” said • SEQN (South East Quality
speakers for our masterclasses
Mr Akhtar. & CI Network)
and mentoring. If you would like
An engineer by trade, Riz started to be involved, contact the team at • Workplace Health & Safety
his business journey by thinking ignitegreaterdandenong.cgd.vic.gov.au • Developing Young Leaders
• SE Women in Business
• CEO Series (quarterly)
Building future leaders for the region • CEO Mentoring (quarterly)
Professional development, confidence those types of professionals, and All enquiries to sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au
building and knowledge sharing are participate in a hands-on workshop or SEBN Manager sandra.george@
the big benefits of SEBN’s Developing environment. cgd.vic.gov.au
Young Leaders Network, according to
“Scott and I have grown through the
two local professionals.
process together and benefited from
Human resources manager Rachelle it. If I’m sitting at my desk and have a LOOKING
Mechielsen and lawyer Scott Fitzgibbon particular issue, I can pick up the phone FOR
have been involved with the Network and ask for his perspective. We’re now
since its 2016 launch and have since looking for that next generation of
LOCAL
progressed to a more senior level within leaders to come through.” TALENT?
their respective companies.
Mr Fitzgibbon, Senior Associate
“The Developing Leaders Network – Commercial for Macpherson
provides a fantastic way for young Kelley, says, “The Network is an
leaders to develop their skills,” says investment in your people. All of the
Ms Mechielsen, who works with companies sending people to our
AL-KO International. sessions are motivated in seeing
their potential new leaders grow and
“Young leaders are often isolated
hopefully accelerate their ascent to a
within organisations – they might be
leadership position.
the only one in their particular field
within an SME – so this also provides “To have points of reference from worklocalgreaterdandenong.com.au
an opportunity to really open up around 15 companies around the Register today to:
those peer networks.” region is one of the big advantages,
I think. • Place your vacancy on the portal
With the group meeting monthly free of charge
at no cost, Ms Mechielsen says a “Another benefit is the quality of
challenge is communicating the the presenters and content. The • Access local job seekers
Network’s value to businesses so workshops invite participation in real, • Search resumes of registered job
they can enable their young leaders practical issues of leadership facing seekers.
to participate. emerging leaders,” Mr Fitzgibbon says. For more information contact SEBN on:
“The beauty is that each meeting For more information on Ph: 8571 1576
has a different topic focus and SEBN and the Developing Email: sebn@cgd.vic.gov.au
expert guest speaker, so it’s a Young Leaders network, email Work Local Greater Dandenong
very convenient way to access sandra.george@cgd.vic.gov.au.14
Events calendar 2019
CITY OF GREATER DANDENONG RUN EXTERNALLY RUN
BUSINESS EVENTS BUSINESS EVENTS
2 September 25 September
Understanding Superannuation Business Breakfast: Samuel Johnson
SEPTEMBER
26 September Pakenham, Casey-Cardinia Business
Part 1: Introduction to Energy Management 4 September
Single Touch Payroll – introduction
City of Kingston
17 September
Marketing your business
City of Kingston
7 October OCTOBER IS
Part 2: Building a Business Case WORK SAFETY
(for energy efficiency) MONTH
OCTOBER
9 October
Worksafe Business Breakfast
23 October
Young Workers Breakfast
22 – 25 October
Small Business Bus visits Greater Dandenong
22 October
29 October Victorian Manufacturing Showcase 2019 (VMS2019)
Cash Flow Improvements Industry Capability Network Wantirna South
13 November 12 + 13 November
Start me, Grow Me Small Business Bus visiting Casey-Cardinia region
NOVEMBER
29 November
Intellectual Property and International Brand Protection
Please refer to the respective websites for full details
Greater Dandenong Business events - greaterdandenong.com/businessworkshops
Library events – Phone 1300 630 920
External run events - please visit the respective Council website.
Small Business Bus visiting Greater Dandenong this October
Operated by Small Business Tour dates
Victoria, the Small Business Bus visits
Melbourne and regional Victoria as Tuesday 22 October Thursday 24 October
a ‘travelling office on wheels’. Parkmore Shopping Centre, Buckingham Avenue, Springvale
Keysborough (near Multicultural Place)
This service offers friendly, professional
assistance and expert advice from an Wednesday 23 October Friday 25 October
experienced business mentor from the Harmony Square, Dandenong Dandenong Market carpark,
Small Business Mentoring Service. (Corner of Lonsdale and Walker Street) DandenongThe Fine Food Holdings team
15
A Cracker of a company now
Manufacturing in Dandenong
Dandenong South is the new home through innovation and creativity and have additional delicious
of Fine Food Holdings (FFH), a according to CEO, Todd Wilson. innovations planned for release
division of Gourmet Food, after an by October.
“Already, Fine Food Holdings is
investment of over $10 million in new “As an Australian food manufacturer,
acknowledged as a deli market leader
manufacturing facilities. we are proud of our achievements
in premium crackers within Australia
The custom-designed operation more and New Zealand,” says Mr Wilson. and excited about how the larger
than doubles its previous Keysborough capacity and creative flexibility of our
FFH also gained recognition as Top
capacity with FFH - believing it will be new premises will enable us to take
Ranked Supplier 2018 in the Australian our future plans to greater heights
able to manufacture the largest range
Grocery Deli Category of the Advantage globally,” explains Mr Wilson.
of premium crackers products under
Report, a “360-degree survey” that sets
one roof globally. The move to Dandenong South
the supplier performance benchmark
Gourmet Food’s journey as across the retail sector. from Keysborough enabled easy
relocation for all employees.
the ‘entertaining’ specialists Set for success
“As new product development plans
Following the success of MaxFoods Mr Wilson attributes the company’s are implemented and new markets
and its Ocean Blue seafood brand – success to a strong focus on building are tapped, we will be in a better
an importing food business launched retail partnerships and understanding position to continue to grow our
in 2009 – the business owners the demands of consumers. current 250-strong workforce.
identified an opportunity to diversify
from ‘seafood entertaining’ to the “The premium OB Finest ranges are “While Australian and New Zealand
‘entertaining deli cracker’ market. certainly an Australian favourite. They markets continue to grow, we
embrace various cracker styles from already have export commitments
FFH’s production began in wafer crackers to specialty crackers from retailers in the USA, United
Keysborough in early 2015. From the such as Cranberry & Pumpkin Seed Kingdom, Chile, Canada, Hong Kong,
outset, FFH sought to manufacture and Fig & Almond. Ireland, Singapore and South Korea,
not only the most appealing, quality with other counties on the horizon,”
deli crackers, but also ones that lead “Recently we launched OB Finest
explains Mr Wilson.
Parmesan Crisps and 3 Seed Crisps
Transforming Springvale Road into a Boulevard
The Springvale Boulevard Project
will transform Springvale Road into a
signature boulevard, reinforcing the
shopping district as one of Melbourne’s
leading cultural destinations.
Council conducted extensive
community consultation to gain ideas
for Springvale Road’s future. From
the input of over 1,000 participants,
a design proposal for Springvale
Boulevard has been developed which
reflects the community’s aspirations. Once a contractor is appointed, on Council’s website and by direct
Improvements include widened construction is expected to engagement with affected traders.
footpaths for pedestrians and trader commence in 2020. When For further information visit http://
activities, new garden beds, more construction dates are set, the www.greaterdandenong.com/
trees, more seating, improved street Springvale community will be aboutspringvaleblvd
lighting and new public artwork. provided regular project updatesFrom paper to pixels...
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Greater Dandenong Business the views of the City of Greater Dandenong. /greaterdandenong
Dandenong Civic Centre
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
www.greaterdandenong.com example, ‘This material first appeared in
business@cgd.vic.gov.au the City of Greater Dandenong’s Talking
Business publication, September 2019'.
Catherine Cunningham
Talking Business Editorial To receive your copy of
Ph: 8571 1455 Talking Business electronically,
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