What’s on

Noble Park students Matthew, Helnay, Esraa and Ryan at last year's Multicultural Day. 98570 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

NOBLE Park Secondary College invites the community to celebrate its cultural diversity.
The school will hold a multicultural celebration to raise money for State Schools’ Relief, which helps needy students with school clothing and footwear.
– Noble Park Secondary College, 3 Callaghan Street, Noble Park. Thursday 22 May, 7pm to 8.30pm. Gold coin donation. Call 9546 9066 for more information.
Tom Hawkins in town
GEELONG star forward Tom Hawkins will meet fans in Keysborough this week.
– Keysborough McDonald’s, corner Cheltenham and Perry roads, Keysborough. Wednesday 14 May, 4pm to 5.30pm.
Green thumbs
SPRINGVALE Garden Club’s guest speaker this month is Rod Noonan, who’ll present on propagating, mounting and caring for elkhorn ferns.
– Senior Citizens Hall, The Crescent, Springvale. Wednesday 21 May. Doors at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. The $2 entry includes door prizes, supper and trading table. Call Cheryl Johnson on 9551 3197 for more information.
Meditation retreat
AUTUMN is considered the season of balance, a time to restore harmony and give gratitude.
Join The Open Door on its autumn retreat day for connection, meditation and a creative opportunity.
– The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Sunday 18 May, 9.30am to 2.30pm. A $10 donation to take part is suggested, including a light lunch. Bookings essential. Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664.
Car club champs
SPRINGVALE’S Sandown Racecourse will host round two of the VIC State Circuit Racing Championships (VSCRC).
The MG Car Club event will cover nine categories and feature Mustangs, Camaros, GT Falcons, Monaros, Cortinas, Minis and much more.
– Sandown Racecourse, 591-659 Princes Highway, Springvale. Friday 16, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May, 10am to 5pm. Call David Vernall on 0418 596 847 or email davidvernall@bigpond.com for more information.
Child’s play
MR MCGEE and the Biting Flea presents six of Pamela Allen’s best-loved stories in a theatre adaptation inspired by children’s play and found objects.
The play uses ladders, apple peelers, balloons, buckets, mops and much more and won a national award.
– Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Tuesday 20 May, 10am and 1pm. The show runs for 45 minutes. Tickets are priced from $14.50. Free parking is available – ask when booking. Call 8571 1666 or visit www.drumtheatre.com.au for bookings.
Footy with a twist
AUSTRALIAN playwright David Williamson is bringing Managing Carmen to the stage in Dandenong.
Through an AFL player, Brownlow medallist and cross dresser, the play takes a satirical look at the characters behind the nation’s favourite sport.
– Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Thursday 22 May, 8pm to 10pm with interval. Tickets are priced from $30. Call 8571 1666 or visit www.drumtheatre.com.au to book.
Great Scot!
DANDENONG will host a Scottish Heritage Day this month.
There’ll be Highland bands and dancing displays, Scottish horses, dog parades and more.
– Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Sunday 25 May, 10am to 3pm. Visit www.dandyshow.com.au for more information.
Food loving
THE Dandenong Food Lovers Tour features cuisine from around the world – all within walking distance in central Dandenong.
Participants can sample Indian and Sri Lankan delicacies, Afghan bread and food and an authentic Polish lunch.
– Tuesday 27 May, 9.50am to noon. $45 per person. Bookings essential. Call 8571 1377 or book at www.greaterdandenong.com. A confirmation letter with the meeting location will be sent following booking and payment.
African food tour
EXPERIENCE the warm hospitality of central Dandenong’s African traders on a two-hour tour.
They’ll prepare a feast with spices and share traditions that have been passed down for generations.
– Tuesday 27 May, 11am to 1pm. $45 per person. Bookings essential. Call 8571 1377 or book at www.greaterdandenong.com. The starting location is advised on booking.
Book club
THE Open Door’s book club is a way to enjoy a wide and varied array of books in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
It’s held on the third Monday of the month.
– The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Monday 19 May, 7pm to 8pm. Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664 for more information. A gold coin donation is suggested.