Council committed to reconciliation

Published on 11 February 2021

At Tuesday night’s Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting, a notice of motion about prioritising First People’s language place names was discussed and debated.
 
The motion was defeated, which led some media outlets to misreport that the Shire had decided against using First Peoples’ language for naming or dual naming on the Peninsula.
 
Council wishes to clarify and reconfirm its commitment to reconciliation, including celebrating our Aboriginal heritage and culture wherever possible. We will continue to investigate opportunities to highlight Bunurong/Boon Wurrung place names, in consultation with our Traditional Owners and the wider community.
 
One of the actions in our current Reconciliation Action Plan states: Investigate Bunurong/Boon Wurrung language names (and dual place names) for the Shire - including consultation with Traditional Owner groups and, where appropriate, with the wider community.
 
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Councillor Despi O’Connor said: “While the notice of motion was defeated, Council is confident the sentiments outlined in Cr Gill’s motion are covered by our Reconciliation Action Plan”.
 
“We remain committed to following through with the actions outlined in our Reconciliation Action Plan, including investigating Bunurong/Boon Wurrung language for naming or dual naming throughout the Shire.”