As a Council, we recently adopted the Council Plan 2025-29, which guides our services and planning over the next four years. One of our key objectives is to create a “socially connected, safe and healthy city”.
Recently I was invited to a site where local people are helping us to achieve this objective. I visited the Vespertine Gardens – a newly created community garden in Dandenong.
The project was created by West Alchemy Collective, a mix of local residents, business owners and creatives who are working together to benefit Dandenong West and surrounding areas. The project is being funded by the State Government’s Empowering Communities program and is supported by Council.
The garden is creating a beautiful green space at 6 Cadle Street, Dandenong, and will give members a place to explore their creativity and connect with nature.
The Collective is also working on plans for a street music festival in Dandenong West later this year, celebrating what makes this part of our community unique.
If you would like to find out more about Vespertine Gardens or sign up to be a member you can find them on social media including Facebook and Instagram.
In further community safety news, there are several roadwork projects happening across the Dandenong Ward in the coming year. These projects will help make our roads safer for all users.
Under the Federal Government’s Blackspot Program major upgrades will take place at McCrae Street, Dandenong ($1.375 million) and Clow Street, Dandenong ($725,000).
We have also set aside $1.39 million in the 2025–26 Budget to complete upgrade works at the intersection of Clow and Cleeland streets in Dandenong.
If you would like to discuss any Council related issues please contact me via email at Jim.Memeti@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone me on 0434 560 239.
