By CASEY NEILL
“WHEN you’re young and you see things like this it’s a lasting memory.”
Councillor Peter Brown couldn’t speak highly enough of the Dandenong civic centre’s grand opening celebrations, held last Saturday.
Mayor Jim Memeti said more than 20,000 people took part in the festivities over the course of the day, including 11,000 visitors to the new library.
Rain was forecast to dampen plans during the lead-up to the 12 April event, but the crowds enjoyed sunshine throughout the day.
“I’d never looked at the weather so many times,” Cr Memeti said.
“But when 100 faiths get together and wish for something … ”
He said a highlight was children in pyjamas laying out blankets to enjoy the screening of movie The Lorax on the square’s big screen.
He said Federation Square team members commented that the Dandenong screen was “much, much better” than theirs.
Cr Memeti received requests for New Year’s Eve fireworks in the square, following a dazzling display to wrap up the opening.
He’s looking at the possibility, keen to encourage families to dine in the Dandenong CBD then attend the festivities.
Pictures: ROB CAREW
