The City of Greater Dandenong successfully secured funds from the Public Records Office Victoria’s Local History Grant Program for a heritage interpretation project that celebrates the diversity of our region’s heritage and the lesser-known histories behind sites. The project named, 'We Built this City', celebrates the stories of some of Greater Dandenong’s favourite heritage sites as chosen by our community.
Our municipality is not widely acknowledged for its historic architecture, however there are a wide range of architectural periods present, from Victorian-era through to late 20th century and contemporary. Likewise, with our history, but there are many fascinating stories behind the sites and the people connected with them- including how different waves of migration, particularly post-war migrants, have shaped the places we enjoy today.
This project knowledges and activates community support for heritage places, whilst enhancing social connectedness within the community. It provides our culturally diverse community and newly arrived residents with opportunities to connect with the history of their new home.
The outcomes also provide resources for school groups, tourists and locals alike.
The project was undertaken in collaboration with Dandenong and District Historical Society and Springvale and District Historical Society.
City of Greater Dandenong gratefully acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government and Public Record Office Victoria for making this project possible.
Built in 1936, Benga is an architecturally designed house modelled on both the Tudor Revival and modernist styles.
The Dandenong Civic Centre and Harmony Square was developed in 2011.
For over 130 years, the Dandenong Livestock Market was one of the State’s biggest and busiest markets.
Dandenong Market has shaped the unique market town character of Dandenong for almost 160 years.
In 1954, General Motors Holden was one of the ‘big three’ industrial giants to establish here.
The Heinz Dandenong site was praised as ‘the largest food processing plant in the Southern Hemisphere’.
International Harvester was a major manufacturer of motor trucks, tractors, farm machinery and construction equipment.
The Keysborough Church of Resurrection remains much loved and utilised by its current church community.
Laurel Lodge is a grand old beauty that has witnessed so many events for more than 150 years.
The Springvale Municipal Offices were built in 1959 and the Springvale community continues to enjoy the space today.
St James’ Anglican Church has served a diverse and active Anglican congregation for over 150 years.
