Bass Coast Shire Council today, August 16, endorsed the public’s historic choice for the First Nations’ name for the new cultural centre in Cowes.
An overwhelming 65 per cent of people who took part in the public vote chose the Bunurong name Berninneit (pronounced: burn-eh-neet), which means “gather together”.
Council will now submit the name to the State Government’s Registrar of Geographic Names for consideration and inclusion in Vicnames.
Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Cr Michael Whelan said he was proud the community had responded in large numbers to the opportunity to name the landmark cultural centre and celebrate the First Nations history.
“The strong response has been an endorsement of the process and reflected the positive and respectful spirit of our community” Cr Whelan said.
“The overwhelming feedback was that people wanted to honour our First Nations people and that their presence will be at the heart of this community asset.”
After extensive consultation, Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BLCAC) had provided Council with four naming options in the local Boon Wurrung language.
Cr Whelan said voting was consistent with Council’s commitment to First Nations reconciliation, recognised the unique role of Traditional Owners, and was appropriate for a significant cultural space.
Council has been guided in the official naming process outlined by Geographical Place Names Act 1998 which encourages the acknowledgment of the extensive history and heritage associated with First Nations communities.
“The naming of public buildings with First Nations language is a highly visible act of reconciliation and an opportunity to acknowledge First Nations communities in a meaningful and lasting way,” Cr Whelan said.
“The new facility will bring together the cultural and social aspirations of the community to express our stories and showcase the culture and history of the region.”
