Dandy’s bazaar plan

By Bridget Cook
DANDENONG’S Afghan Bazaar is on its way to becoming one of Victoria’s most vibrant precincts.
Dandenong MP John Pandazopoulos announced $400,000 last week for the Thomas Street precinct, to help it reflect the Afghan cultural heritage of the area.
The funding, part of the StateGovernment’s Cultural Precinctsand Community Infrastructure Fund, will go towards transformingthe precinct to include a themedgateway and public art, lighting and street furniture.
Mr Pandazopoulos said Dandenong’s Thomas Street is the heart of Victoria’s Afghan community and the funding will encourage more visitors to experience the rich cultural traditions of the area.
“Dandenong through VicUrban is going through a major transformation,” he said. “This latest funding will make Dandenong even better.
“The Afghan Bazaar is an exampleof how we are working with dedicated community organisations andcouncils to preserve our multicultural heritage by developing or enhancing community infrastructure andcultural precincts.
“The Afghan Bazaar was a key part of the Melbourne International Food and Wine Festival, which included Dandenong for the first time.”
Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti said the announcement was wonderful news.
“For a long time the council has wanted to revitalise Thomas Street,” he said.
“The $400,000 will go a long way and make sure the Afghan Bazaar becomes something we are very proud of.”