One conversation can change everything

A simple conversation at Dandenong Market connected Mr Knower to much needed support

For a long time, Mr Knower walked past the SMRC building on Clow Street in Dandenong without ever realising that the organisation could support people like him. Like many locals in Melbourne’s southeast, he assumed SMRC only provided services for newly arrived refugees. It wasn’t until a chance encounter at Dandenong Market that he learned SMRC’s programs and services were also designed to support the broader migrant community, people from diverse cultural backgrounds who may need connection, or practical support at various stages of life.

Mr Knower’s story started on a typical Saturday in March 2026, at the local market during a Harmony Day event hosted by SMRC. Drawn in by the sound of guitarist, Alejandro Aguanta performing nearby, Mr Knower stopped at the SMRC stall interested to learn more. There, he met Shanki, one of SMRC’s team members.

“I didn’t know exactly about the services and programs… until I met Shanki at Harmony Day.” Mr Knower

Support that goes beyond expectations

What started as a simple conversation about gardening assistance quickly opened the door to a much wider understanding of the services SMRC provides. Shanki explained that SMRC supports community members through a variety of programs, including social support groups, diverse care services, and carer support.

Encouraged to visit the office, Mr Knower soon discovered that while he did not initially meet the criteria for one particular service he was interested in, the SMRC team did not stop there. Instead, Shanki worked with him to explore other forms of support that suited his needs.

At the time, Mr Knower was preparing for surgery and faced a challenge many families know well, transport. His adult children, usually his main support, were unavailable on the day of his procedure. Through SMRC’s Support for Carers program, Shanki organised safe transport home after surgery, providing reassurance and practical help exactly when Mr Knower needed it most. For him, the experience was about more than assistance. It was about connection. Attending SMRC’s Move, Nourish Flourish Lunch, he found himself surrounded by people from many cultures and backgrounds, all sharing stories, laughter, and information that helped them feel supported and included.

A story worth sharing

Although Mr Knower’s journey with SMRC is only just beginning, he is already passionate about sharing his experience with others. He wants the local community to know that SMRC is here for them too, for migrants and culturally diverse communities who may need support, connection, and understanding.

“Even if it comes to anyone I know who needs this help, I will most certainly introduce them to this program.” Mr Knower

At SMRC, our programs are designed for the people in our community. Our multicultural workforce understands the cultural values, needs, and experiences of the people we support, helping create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Thank you, Mr Knower, for sharing your story with us. We look forward to continuing this journey together. One step at a time, one story at a time.

If you are interested to learn more about our programs and services, contact us directly at communications@smrc.org.au or why not make a donation that will go towards reaching more locals like Mr Knower.

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