New history recognises all communities

THE CITY of Greater Geelong has released a thematic history of the region – believed to be the first in Victoria – which aims to give greater recognition to historically marginalised people and communities.

About Corayo: A Thematic History of Greater Geelong was researched and written by Dr David Rowe of Authentic Heritage Services, with research assistance by Pam Jennings.

The project included close collaboration with the Registered Aboriginal Party; Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation in relation to First Nations and shared history, along with the wider community and local organisations.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the thematic history was about the community’s shared history and “how we reflect all parts of our culture in the story of Geelong”.

“A major aim of the thematic history was to give greater recognition to historically marginalised people and communities, including First Nations people and the contributions of women and emigrants.”

Councillor Kylie Grzybek said the history was “an extraordinary piece of work and will help start conversations about how we recognise all aspects of our culture across the city”.

“It’s fascinating that the word ‘Corayo’ is one of several derivations of the term known today as Corio, meaning ‘salt water’ or ‘sandy’ in Wadawurrung Traditional Owner language.”

“The Geelong region has a history of innovation and creativity that helped us achieve our designation as a UNESCO City of Design and continues to be a point of pride for our community today.”

The thematic history, which can be accessed online, outlines key historic themes that are relevant to the municipality along with photographs, maps and plans.

The preparation of the thematic history was identified as a key action in the Municipal Heritage Strategy, which the council adopted in September 2017.

Nine themes are covered in the project including: environment, people, transport and communications, transforming and managing land and natural resources, industries and workforce, building the shire, governing Greater Geelong, community life, and cultural and creative life.

The document aims to strengthen respect and understanding of the past, from the rich history of the Wadawurrung people whose culture dates back more than 45,000 years, to the growth in manufacturing and innovation that made Geelong a wool and industrial centre for much of the 19th and 20th centuries.

To view About Corayo: A Thematic History of Greater Geelong, visit the council website.