Next step for creek renaming

Published on 25 June 2024

A small creek near Caramut has taken the next steps towards renaming to remove a term which is offensive to Indigenous women and children.

Following a period of public consultation, Councillors voted to submit a formal request to Geographic Names Victoria to have Lubra Creek renamed Thanampool Thookay Creek.

Mayor Cr Ian Smith said there were 34 submissions made during the four-week period with most supportive of the change.

He said it was a small and inexpensive step to take to remove a name that is derogatory towards Indigenous women and children.

“Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation approached Council, asking if we would change the name of the creek because the term lubra is considered offensive,” he said.

“The new name, Thanampool Thookay Creek, is Dhauwurd Wurrung language meaning women and children and has been selected to honour  the First Nation people murdered at the site in 1842.

“In changing the name of the creek, we are taking positive steps forward and shows Council is prepared to acknowledge our region has a hurtful history for Indigenous people and we are prepared to build stronger, proactive relationships with Traditional Owners.”

Council officers will now make a formal application to Geographic Names Victoria. Residents will be able to provide further feedback to the agency during its assessment process.