Commuters get a colourful welcome

By Shaun Inguanzo
NOBLE Park is showing its true colours thanks to a vibrant piece of artwork that now dons the wall of a pedestrian underpass.
The underpass at Noble Park Train Station is now more colourful than ever thanks to a $25,000 mural painted by internationally renowned artist Anu Patel.
Titled River Flow, the launch attracted the attention of Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky, whose government granted the $25,000 to the City of Greater Dandenong Council to run the project.
“Railway stations are a central part of the community and it is important for users to feel safe in their environment,” Ms Kosky said.
“That is why we provided funding to improve the commuter experience and deter vandalism around the station.
“This is all part of the Brumby Government’s ongoing commitment to improve the safety and accessibility of Melbourne’s public transport system. We are taking action to improve rail safety and security and boost confidence in Melbourne’s train network with improved passenger facilities and security services.”
Ms Kosky said that safety issues had been addressed with extra staff, too.
Additional Connex customer service staff have been available at the station from morning until late at night.
The artist of River Flow, Ms Anu Patel created two concept designs that were displayed at the station and a local multi-cultural community centre for public feedback.
“River Flow reflects Noble Park’s multicultural history and its function as a centre for trade,” Ms Kosky said.
“I commend the City of Greater Dandenong for consulting closely with station users and the community on their preferred mural design.
“The mural was well received by the community with 80 per cent of people endorsing the final design.”
Other recent improvements to Noble Park Station include updating the mobility access to the station underpass for DDA compliance, the installation of CCTV and improved lighting around the station.