Seven new members have been appointed to the ACT Place Names Advisory Committee and six existing members have been reappointed.
ACT Surveyor-General, Greg Ledwidge, said the Committee, which helps to name Canberra’s suburbs and public places, represents the ACT’s diverse and inclusive community.
“The new members and reappointed members are from a broad mix of backgrounds… Each member demonstrates a strong understanding of Canberra and our shared history,” he said.
“The committee makes a positive impact to our community to help shape a modern and inclusive Canberra by commemorating Australians and Indigenous culture through the naming of suburbs (divisions) and public places, including roads, parks and geographical features.”
The appointments for the Committee’s next term include a Ngunnawal Elder and two First Nations people.
“Committee members that are Traditional Custodians are vital when considering future names of places as they can share their rich knowledge and connection to Country,” said Ledwidge.
The 13 new and reappointed members will serve for a three-year term, from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2027.
The new appointees are:
- Ms Auriel Bloomfield
- Mr Cornelis Boekel
- Ms Rebekah Davies
- Mr James Glenday
- Ms Paula McGrady
- Ms Philippa Moss
- Ms Violet Sheridan
The reappointed Committee existing members are:
- Mr Greg Ledwidge (Surveyor-General of the ACT)
- Ms Rebecca Sorensen
- Ms Roslyn Dundas
- Mr Mainul Haque, OAM
- Mr Paul Hutchison
- Dr Anne McGrath
Ledwidge thanked the outgoing members from the last term for their dedication, expertise and advice.
“In particular, I’d like to acknowledge Dr Marilyn Truscott and Mr Allen Mawer for their significant contributions to place naming over the past ten years,” he said.
“I look forward to working with the new ACT Place Names Advisory Committee to further help shape a modern and inclusive Canberra.”
