Greater Dandenong City Council is inviting community feedback on proposed new road names in central Dandenong that would honour two extraordinary local women – the late Mrs Pat Dow and the late Mrs Merle Mitchell.
The State Government’s Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) has removed the level crossing on Webster Street, permanently closing the road and reshaping the local road network. As part of the project, a new road is being constructed under the rail line to connect Cheltenham Road to Lonsdale Street, along with a new connection linking Thomas Street to the Lonsdale Street service road.
Council is proposing to name these roads in honour of Mrs Pat Dow and Mrs Merle Mitchell. These two women were honoured as Greater Dandenong Living Treasures in their later years, in recognition of their lifelong service, leadership and advocacy, that helped shape the social fabric of the municipality.
Both women dedicated themselves to strengthening community life in Greater Dandenong. Their work supported local families, championed inclusion and helped build the sense of connection and belonging that defines the city today.
Greater Dandenong City Mayor, Cr Sophie Tan, said it’s important we take opportunities to recognise the people who built the heart of our community.
“Pat and Merle were extraordinary women whose lifelong commitment to community helped shape the Greater Dandenong we know today. Naming these roads in their honour ensures their legacy continues to guide and inspire future generations.
“This proposal is about more than naming roads – it’s about acknowledging the service, compassion and leadership that Pat and Merle gave so generously.”
Chris, Mike and Greg Dow, sons of Pat Dow said:
“Our family is honoured by the proposal to introduce Dow Court in celebration of Mum. Pat devoted her life to supporting and uplifting others, and she cared deeply about the Dandenong community. Knowing her legacy will be recognised in this way
means a great deal to us. We’re proud of everything she achieved, and we know she would have been truly touched by this tribute.”
Rick Mitchell, son of Merle Mitchell said:
“Merle was strongly connected to the City of Greater Dandenong. She spent her childhood living in Dandenong, mostly in Foster Street, just around the corner from the proposed Merle Parade.
“For 55 years she lived in Springvale and dedicated her working life to supporting and broadening the multicultural Greater Dandenong community she loved. We know she would have been absolutely delighted and honoured that a street be named after her.”
As the responsible naming authority for local roads, the City of Greater Dandenong is working with the Victorian Government’s Department of Transport and Planning and LXRP to progress the proposals.
Community members are invited to provide feedback on the proposed road names by 13 March 2026.
To learn more about the lives and contributions of Pat Dow and Merle Mitchell, visit, greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/history-and-cultural-heritage/living-treasures.
Feedback can be provided via yoursay.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au.
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Pat Dow -
Merle Mitchell
