By Peter Douglas
One of Healesville’s most recognisable landmarks is set to undergo a name-change.
At its 24 January meeting, Yarra Ranges Council resolved to seek out an official name for the waterway known locally as the Don Road Drain.
Council will submit its proposal to the Registrar of Geographic Names, requesting the waterway becomes known as ‘Wirrup Yaluk’, an Indigenous name which translates to Blackfish Creek.
After 20 years of revegetating and maintaining land around the creek, Healesville Environment Watch Incorporated (HEWI) lodged a proposal with council to name the waterway.
HEWI member Maureen Bond addressed council, seeking support for the new name.
“Since (1996) … our members and friends have enjoyed countless planting days along this stream,” she said.
“This represents 20 continuous years of practical co-operation to restore Healesville’s waterways.
“HEWI has worked with HICSA (Healesville Indigenous Community Services Association) on numerous projects, so it seemed a logical step to seek an Indigenous name.
“Aunty Joy Murphy chose this name, which translates as Blackfish Creek.”
The sub-surface waterway commences in the vicinity of Mount Riddell, then rises and runs through Queen’s Park, and joins Watts River.
Council unanimously passed a motion to seek a name-change, with councillors Fiona McAllister and Len Cox speaking in favour.
Cr McAllister said the waterway deserved an official name.
“I know there are some in the community who may have issues with the choice of name, or even about this being recognised as a creek, strangely enough,” Cr McAllister said.
“But it is a creek, which is in the most significant urban parkland we have in Healesville.
“I think the choice of name – and given its location within Healesville – is great, a very appropriate choice for us to make.”
Cr McAllister said she was astounded the waterway had been considered a drain for so long.
“If so, it’s the best drain we’ve got in the Yarra Ranges,” Cr McAllister said.
