Kings Park resident David Vuong, 23, chooses to spend his spare time volunteering. “We have a responsibility to help rectify injustices in our community,” the law student says.
What volunteer work do you do?
I volunteer through Edmund Rice Community and Refugee Services as a tutor to primary school kids helping them with English, maths, life skills and their work ethic. I started in July last year and volunteer once a week at the Errington Community Centre in St Albans with the aim of being a good role model. I also volunteer for the Make a Wish Foundation’s western Melbourne branch and my role is to help out through fund-raising events such as barbecues, trivia nights and balls.
What’s your favourite “retreat” spot?
I like to go to Derrimut Gym to work out and clear my mind.
What’s your favourite place to get coffee or a bite to eat?
There aren’t many places that do a good coffee in my area; I’d like to have a good cafe nearby. I’ve been getting take-away pizza from Il Padrino’s in St Albans for 10 years and, if I feel like Indian food, the butter chicken at Priya in Sydenham is great.
What would you change in your neighbourhood?
There are a lot of new migrants from Africa, so I’d like to see more African restaurants in Brimbank for them.
What wouldn’t you change?
My connection to Brimbank. I’ve always wanted to help out in the community by helping younger kids achieve their goals and reach their potential. I’ve lived in Brimbank all my life and grew up with kids from different backgrounds who I’m still friends with today. I love the multiculturalism of the area and its community feel.
