Council seeking feedback on proposed creek renaming

Published on 12 April 2024

Moyne Shire Council is asking residents to provide feedback on the proposed renaming of a creek in the Caramut area.

The creek is currently known as Lubra Creek, a term that is offensive and derogatory to female Indigenous peoples.

The creek was the site of a massacre of five first nation women and children of the Moperergundidj clan in February 1842.

Mayor Cr Ian Smith said Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation approached Council requesting the creek be renamed in traditional language.

“The proposed name is Thanampool Thookay Creek, which is Dhauwurd Wurrung language, meaning women and children, and has been selected to reflect on the First Nation people murdered at the site in 1842,” he said.

“As we move towards greater recognition of Indigenous culture and history, we need to address historical location names like this which cause pain.

“I thank Eastern Maar and Gunditj Mirring for their proactive and collaborative approach to addressing this name and working closely with Council towards this proposed new name.”

Cr Smith said Council has worked with the Department of Transport and Planning, Department of Environment Energy and Climate Action, Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation on the renaming process.

Feedback about the name is being sought from the community and can be provided via the Engage Moyne website or at a Customer Service Centre until May 8, 2024.