Shire opens feedback period on place naming policy

RESIDENTS across the Surf Coast can provide feedback on the shire’s place naming policy, which is increasing a focus on gender equity and Traditional Owner representation.

Following council’s March meeting, council endorsed an updated place naming policy that includes a previously accompanying policy for plaques and memorials.

The policy applies to the naming of parks, reserves, roads, facilities and features, and all plaques or memorials installed within Surf Coast Shire.

Cr Rose Hodge said place naming, plaques and memorials policies were due for review.

“It is important that they are updated to provide for a consistent and contemporary approach to our naming approvals process, reflecting our cultural identity and diversity.

“As part of that we have increased focus on gender equity and Traditional Owners with the hope of easing some imbalances.

“As things stand, our town names are four times more likely to be derived from a male rather than a female, roads are three times more likely and parks twice as likely, and we have no information indicating that gender diverse people have been commemorated with a naming at any time.

“Unfortunately we are less certain about names with Traditional Owner origins. Council has focused on acknowledging Traditional Owners through the naming of community buildings in recent years, including Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre, meaning ‘Merry laugh, here in this place’, Wurdi Baierr Stadium, meaning ‘Big gathering place’.”

Feedback will be reviewed before the policy is presented to council for final adoption consideration.

People can view the policy and provide feedback via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/placenaming