Cambridge Mayor Champions Lake Monger Renaming

Published on 29 February 2024

From left: Mayor Gary Mack (Town of Cambridge), Gordon Cole (JTSI Aboriginal Business, Investment and Trade Advisory Board Co-Chair), Linda Dawson (JTSI Deputy Director General Industry, Science and Innovation), Whadjuk Elder Aunty Elizabeth Hayden, Rebecca Brown PSM (JTSI Director General), Whadjuk Elder Aunty Glenda Kickett, Hon Fred Chaney AO, Jody Nunn (Reconciliation WA CEO), Poppy van Oorde-Grainger (Same Drum Director).

Town of Cambridge Mayor Gary Mack showed his support for the Galup renaming project during Same Drum's "Truth Telling and Healing at Galup" workshop on 16 February at the Bendat Parent and Community Centre.

The workshop, focussed on engaging Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science, and Innovation staff, aimed to bolster understanding and garner support for reverting the lake's name back to its traditional indigenous name, Galup (place of fire). Whadjuk Elders Aunty Liz Hayden and Aunty Glenda Kickett, alongside Same Drum Director Poppy van Oorde-Grainger, presented at the event.

Mayor Mack put forward a motion to Council at the March 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting to initiate the renaming process, which was carried unanimously. A Reconciliation Action Plan is currently in development.

“Backing the renaming of Galup is a tangible commitment to recognising and respecting the traditional owners of this land,” Mayor Mack said.

“It's about acknowledging history and taking steps towards reconciliation. We must comprehend the historical context to work together towards a shared future."

The Elders, Aunty Liz Hayden and Aunty Glenda Kickett, view the name change as a meaningful act towards reconciliation. Mayor Mack's vocal support exemplifies the Town's commitment to rectifying historical injustices and fostering unity.