Hannah Hammoud
A new community centre is set to be built in Donnybrook in the coming years, with a proposed name of an Indigenous plant linked to the Wurundjeri people.
Whittlesea council is proposing to name the health and education hub the ‘Murnong Community Centre’.
Murnong means ‘yam daisy’ in the Woi Wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people. The roots of Murnong plants were an important traditional food source for many Aboriginal people.
Last year, council invited residents to provide feedback on three proposed names for the facility, with Murnong Community Centre proving the most popular choice.
The centre will include a kindergarten, maternal and child health services, library hub, community hall and kitchen and meeting rooms for hire.
The community centre in Donnybrook is anticipated to open in 2025 and is planned to be built at 183 Olivine Boulevard.
Whittlesea council administrator Christian Zahra said council had consulted closely with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation during the process.
He said the name ‘Murnong’ aligns with the state government’s Naming Rules for Places in Victoria policy as well as council’s Naming Policy for Features.
“Murnong is reflective of the Indigenous flora found in the landscape of Donnybrook and its surrounds, so it is an apt name for the new community centre,” Mr Zahra said.
“I thank everyone who took part in last year’s public consultation period for their help in coming up with a meaningful name with such strong ties to this area.”
Residents are open to provide feedback on the name up until 5pm on Monday, May 1 before a submission is lodged with Geographic Names Victoria for official endorsement.
Objections must state why the name does not comply with the principles listed in the Naming Rules for Places in Victoria policy.
Feedback can be provided via the online website, email, phone or post.
Details: engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/donnybrookcentre
