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Bass Coast Council endorses Berninneit name for new cultural centre in Cowes to emphasise connection to First Nations history

Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Cr Michael Whelan expressed pride in the community's enthusiastic response to naming the cultural centre, emphasising its connection to First Nations history.

By news@gippsland - 16th August 2023 - Back to News

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 percent 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.

The Cowes Cultural and Community Centre redevelopment replaces the existing facility to unite community aspirations, highlight regional culture, and support events

Embraces indigenous naming

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. 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," Cr Whelan said.

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.

Reconciliation through naming

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. 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," Cr Whelan said

To know more about the project, visit Cowes Cultural and Community Centre page or contact through email at communications@basscoast.vic.gov.au

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com