By CASEY NEILL
HARNESSING multiculturalism is the key to building a sustainable Dandy Show, a working group has found.
The Dandenong Agricultural and Pastoral Society and Greater Dandenong Council representatives came up with ways to do just that, and other room for improvement to keep the show viable.
Cr Matthew Kirwan told the 22 February council meeting that the society found the working group’s five meetings since September 2014 “very beneficial”.
He said the show committee trialled some changes at last year’s show and attendance was up 14 per cent.
A council report on the working group said that “should this trend continue, it is expected that the Dandenong Show could remain viable and relevant into the future”.
The event is in its 145th year and is held at Greaves Reserve each November, following long-established Victorian Agricultural Society rules.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) community market research will shape new promotions and show programming, including cultural performances and diversity in arts and crafts.
There’s a new Dandy Show Facebook page and an Instagram account is in the works to harness renewed public interest in cake decorating and handicrafts.
The council’s youth services team will work with Rotary to develop a youth-led music initiative along the lines of Battle of the Bands.
The review identified new corporate networks that could generate sponsorship.
Feedback collected from 2014 show attendees recommended a more pedestrian-friendly layout, different attractions and a desire for more seating and shade.
The working group also prompted the society to create a detailed business plan.
The investigation followed a notice of motion from Cr Kirwan in July 2014 seeking a report on ways the council could work with the society to grow the show into a key regional event.
The council has supported the show over the past 11 years with funding totalling $167,000.
It granted $20,000 last year, plus support in the form of assistance from officers, ground preparations and reserve maintenance.
Do you attend the Dandenong Show? What would make you more likely to go? Visit www.facebook.com/Dandenong Journal and share your thoughts.
