Kitchen garden for migrant mums

Greater Dandenong migrant mums are gathering in Government House to build confidence and community connection.
Women from three Greater Dandenong community hubs have been taking part in the eight-week Government House Peace and Prosperity Garden Kitchen Garden Program since 24 July.
Victorian Governor Linda Dessau and her husband Anthony Howard personally funded the project and worked with Community Hubs Australia to open Government House to migrant women.
Women from the hubs at St Anthony’s Catholic, Springvale Rise and Dandenong West primary schools meet each Monday and hop on a bus to Government House.
The program aims to develop a sense of belonging; help participants build community connections, grow confidence and learn skills; and foster cross-cultural connections and understanding.
St Anthony’s hub co-leaders Debbie Vivian and Lisa Occhietti said the women were thoroughly enjoying the program.
“Each week they are excited by the range of activities including a tour of the state apartments, Government House Gardens and lunch with the governor and Mr Howard,” they said.
“The day is always filled with laughter and fun.”
St Anthony’s Community Hub participant Danijela Buth said: “I feel proud to be Australian.”
Another woman from the St Anthony’s hub, Sokhom Mao, said she was very lucky.
“I really appreciate coming to this program,” she said.