Six things to do in Greater Dandenong

Pets can receive individual blessings in Dandenong.


Blessings for pets
For the first time, the St James Anglican Church is welcoming animals to attend a special service. Pets will receive personalised blessings from the priest to mark St Francis of Assisi’s feast day.

  • St James Anglican Church, 53 Langhorne Street, Dandenong. Sunday 9 October, 2pm. Call 9793 3898.


Spring renewal
This spring day retreat will celebrate the return of the light and encourage participants’ expansion by breathing in the spring time. Meditative practice opens us up to the renewal of energy and intentions for the warmer months to come.

  • The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Sunday 9 October, 9.30am to 2.30pm. A $10 donation is suggested and includes a light lunch. Bookings are essential. Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664.


Church sale
St James church in Dandenong will sell furniture, soft toys, carpets, mats and more in good condition.

  • St James Anglican Church, 53 Langhorne Street, Dandenong. Saturday 8 October, 10am to 2pm.


Deborah Kelly exhibition
No Human Being Is Illegal (in all our glory) is a life-sized portrait project, initially commissioned for the 19th Biennale of Sydney in 2014. The 20 photographic portraits have evolved into collage works.

  • Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong. Thursday 6 October to Saturday 29 October. Monday to Friday, 11am to 5pm, and Saturdays, 11am to 3pm.


International food and music
This event will welcome and celebrate the region’s diverse ethnic groups. The church will provide non-alcoholic drinks, music and entertainment.

  • Potters House Christian Church, 216 South Gippsland Highway, Dandenong South. Saturday 8 October, 7pm. Entry is free. Food is $5 per plate. Call 0421 955 363 for more information.

 
Lilly enjoys last year's Dandenong Festival of Lights.

Festival of Lights
This event celebrates Chinese culture through 32 silk lanterns, some 20 metres wide and eight metres high. Windmills, dinosaurs, flowers, insects, animals and more will feature. There will also be roving performers and a dumpling bar.

  • Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Until 9 October, 6pm to 10pm daily. Tickets are $12 for children, $18 concession, $20 for adults and $60 for a family of two adults and two children. Bookings are essential. Visit lightfestival.com.au