The western portion of Perth’s scenic Riverside Drive has been renamed Birdiya Drive, honouring Noongar Elders.
Birdiya means elder or leader in Noongar language and was chosen following consultation with the City of Perth Aboriginal Elders Advisory Group.
Riverside Drive was divided into two parts following the construction of Elizabeth Quay several years ago, creating an east and west portion.
Renaming the western portion of Riverside Drive between William Street and Mounts Bay Road was an opportunity to provide navigational clarity and to create another landmark highlighting the Traditional Owners.
The renaming follows consultation between the City’s Elders Advisory Group, Landgate, Main Roads and the City of Perth.
Birdiya Drive will join a range of Perth landmarks with Noongar language names, including Matagarup Bridge, Boorloo Bidee Mia and Museum Boola Bardip.
As stated by Lands Minister Tony Buti:
“The McGowan Government is committed to supporting cultural identity and connection to country through place naming, which honours Aboriginal language.
“The renaming of this significant Perth City landmark is an important step in acknowledging our First Nations Elders and honouring their cultural identity.
“The renaming of a portion of Riverside Drive will help preserve Aboriginal culture and history by respectfully incorporating it into modern developments, making it visible throughout the City.”
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The Aboriginal people of the area have had a connection to the Swan River for thousands of years and I’m pleased we continue to recognise that through the naming of local landmarks.
“I thank the Elders Advisory Group for their work to put forward the name.”
