Community connection is important, and Council is proud to offer many opportunities for connection.
I hope many locals attended and enjoyed the recent Keysborough’s Big Picnic at Frederick Wachter Reserve. The annual event is one of our biggest community celebrations and gives everyone an opportunity to connect and socialise in a family and pet-friendly environment.
Speaking of connection, the Kindness Community is a volunteer-led charity offering nourishing food in a caring and uplifting environment to boost health, reduce loneliness and build community for our most vulnerable residents.
Many residents are facing financial stress, food insecurity or mental health challenges and the Kindness Community is just one of many local organisations helping those in need. As a volunteer with the group, I see firsthand the difference they are making to people in our city.
The service offers a free meal every Tuesday evening from 5pm at Hemmings Park, 61A Princes Highway, Dandenong, and provides a supportive space and referrals to support services for those who need it. Visit kindnesscommunity.org.au to find out more.
Another way to connect is by enjoying the great outdoors. Every Saturday at 8am a group of people dedicated to being more active meets at Dandenong Park for the Dandenong Parkrun.
The free, fun and friendly event gives you the chance to complete a 5km course at your own pace. Participants can walk, jog, run or simply spectate, and volunteers are always welcome.
There is no cost to join in, but participants must register before their first event. It would also be appreciated if you could volunteer at some events. Visit parkrun.com.au/dandenong to find out more.
If you would like to contact me about local issues, please email Melinda.Yim@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 0428 331 557.
