A new Village Township Group has been convened comprising local community groups and Village Traders working together to actively promote a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable Village community.

The group want to support local business by providing coordinated and effective advocacy to all levels of government, on matters affecting all stakeholders in the Ferntree Gully Village precinct.

Long term resident, Seamus Smith, who is also the Ferntree Gully CFA Captain has been appointed as President of the group with local owner of Foodworks, Michael He as Vice President.

‘We want to build on recent improvements to create a thriving community where residents, businesses and visitors feel connected and valued’, Seamus said. ‘A key focus of our motivation is to foster an inclusive and collaborative partnership with community-based organisations, government bodies and business owners to address the community’s needs effectively.’

Michael, who purchased Foodworks earlier this year, said that Ferntree Gully Village had such potential given its unique location at the base of the Dandenongs.

‘I want everyone to feel part of this amazing local community and encourage patronage of the Village businesses and artisans to boost the local economy and business activity in the precinct. We want to participate and lead the development of the Ferntree Gully Village township to deliver increased services and encourage investment in the local area,’ he said.

An invitation will be extended to the local community to attend a public meeting in late October, where the Township Group will seek feedback on the Village potential and prioritise an advocacy program.

The Group can be contacted via their Facebook page or by email: villagetownshipgroup.ftg@gmail.com