The Remember a Local – Name a Place campaign invites Victorians to nominate someone who has made a lasting impact on their community to be considered for commemoration in a place name.
We are excited to have Gordon Ross, First Peoples Place Names Officer at the Department of Transport and Planning, as the facilitator for this session. Gordon will guide us through the important conversation about renaming places in Victoria. He will explain why some existing place names are not culturally safe or respectful and explore the impact this can have on communities. Using real examples, Gordon will highlight how thoughtful naming can celebrate local heroes, reflect cultural values, and ensure that our shared spaces feel welcoming for everyone.
Nominations are open to individuals from all walks of life including community leaders, volunteers, healthcare workers, scientists, architects, athletes, artists, and those who have served in public or military roles. Submissions will be shared with local councils for consideration when naming places across Victoria.
The campaign is especially seeking nominations from groups currently under-represented in Victoria’s place names, including First Peoples. It also supports Victoria’s goal of having 70% of new commemorative place names honour women by August 2027 creating a meaningful opportunity to recognise and celebrate more First Peoples women.
You can get involved by submitting a nomination through the campaign website, sharing the campaign with your networks, and accessing promotional resources from Geographic Names Victoria, including images, QR codes, and bookmarks.
