LOCAL ambassadors sharing their favourite spots in Greater Dandenong are featuring on a tourism video.
Dandenong mother Despina Karatzias explores the city’s parks, picturesque gardens, and playgrounds; chef Russell Bald takes viewers on a tour of the market to discover fresh produce at purse-pleasing prices; and tour guide Bashir Keshtiar reveals the city’s cultural precincts.
Residents are asked to be personal ambassadors for Greater Dandenong by helping spread the word about the sounds, sights, and tastes that abound. It is suggested they invite family members and friends to a local restaurant, festival or special event.
Promoting healthy eating
Greater Dandenong is one of 14 councils to receive funding under the Healthy Together Victoria initiative to improve health in the community and prevent chronic disease.
A team of 13 is conducting meetings in the Greater Dandenong community, reaching people where they learn, work, and play by attending workplaces, schools and early learning centres.
A major focus is the health of people in the workforce, as Greater Dandenong is a hub of employment for the south-east, boasting more than 11,000 businesses and 74,000 workers.
Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said: “By improving the health and well-being of the workforce we can improve productivity, increase job-retention rates, reduce sick leave and boost job satisfaction.
“Good health is important for people of all ages, for learning and development of children and young people, for a strong and resilient workforce, and for a vibrant and productive society.’’
Recognition, reconciliation
An art exhibition with a difference is the drawcard at Heritage Hill Museum, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong, from June 21 to July 21. It features young Aboriginal people who will talk about, express, and share what recognition through reconciliation means to them.
Artworks at the exhibition focus on respect, relationships and opportunities. The public is invited to vote on their favourite piece of artwork.
School holiday fun
With school holidays fast approaching, Heritage Hill Museum and Historical Gardens staff are planning free workshops for children.
Bookings are essential and participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For details and bookings, call 9793 4511 or email heritagehill@cgd.vic.gov.au.
At the end of the busy 10-day program, on July 11-12 Heritage Hill will stage Yalka Dayan (Child’s Play) as part of its NAIDOC Week celebrations. July 11 is for children aged five to 12 and July 12 for children aged eight to 12.
