Art brings cultures together
Art lovers can celebrate NAIDOC Week at the Hunt Club Community Arts Centre in Deer Park until July 12. Overlay II – Intercultural Space is an exploration of cultural respect and understanding as artists Karen Sandon, Susan Hall and Patrice Muthaymiles Mahoney delve into the cultural space between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. More information on 9249 4000 or at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au. The Hunt Club is open Monday-Thursday, 9am-5.30pm.
Businesses warned of fake ads
A scammer is swindling small businesses by ‘selling’ fake advertising sponsorships with local sporting clubs. Consumer Affairs Victoria has been told a Balwyn business received a cold call from a person offering advertising with North Balwyn Bowls Club. After paying by credit card, the victim called the club and was told it had no connection to the person selling the sponsorships. A spokesman for Consumer Affairs Victoria said victims usually lost between $500 and $1000 in a scam of this nature and warned businesses to be wary. Consumer Affairs Victoria director Claire Noone said: “Scams attacking small businesses can come in various forms, from bills for advertising or directory listings that your business never ordered, to ‘tax-free’ investment offers.”
Upgrade pays its way
Vacancy rates at Sunshine Plaza shopping centre have now fallen to under 5 per cent after an extensive $1 million upgrade that attracted a raft of new tenants. The upgrade included exterior painting, installation of lifestyle imagery and television monitors throughout, new interior shopfronts, an upgrade of mall furniture and plants, and installation of new mechanical plant and equipment for air-conditioning and heating. Leasing agent Colliers International said the landlord had invested more than
$1 million in the overhaul.
Grants offer for kiddy services
Brimbank schools, community groups and children’s service providers can apply for a further $15 million in state government grants for new children’s facilities and upgrades. Communities will be able to apply for five types of children’s capital grants, which support the building of new centres offering kindergarten, day care, maternal and child health and early childhood intervention services. For the first time, grants will be open to non-government schools, while preference will be given to schools whose centres meet local demand for kindergarten places. Applications opened on June 18. Interest for main grants closes on July 11, and applications for minor and IT grants close July 25.
Learn how to cut energy bills
Brimbank residents can get their hands on an energy saver kit and understand all about high electricity bills. Available on loan with a $50 deposit, $25 concession, from Brimbank libraries, the kits explain where electricity goes and helps identify whether your home is energy-efficient.
To book, visit www.brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au or phone your nearest library.
