Bunbury Cemetery names new street sign in Noongar language to celebrate connection

Bunbury Cemetery has embraced the spirit of reconciliation and this year’s NAIDOC Week theme of “Heal Country” by installing a new street sign in the Noongar language.

Heal Country focuses on healing the nation and calling for stronger measures to protect, recognise and maintain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage — a concept that was embodied by the Bunbury Cemetery Board’s act last week.

The new street sign is in the baptist section in the general cemetery and is the first use of Noongar language in street signage at the cemetery.

Koomoorl Lane, meaning possum, was installed after local Wardandi elder Lera Bennell approached the board to request the lane be named in the Noongar language.

The sign was unveiled with the descendants of Rachel and Charles Hill present.

Charles Hill was a prominent Aboriginal leader who lived in Burekup until his death in 1966.

The sign is located in the cemetery section where the married couple are buried.

The board said it was proud to implement the first use of Noongar language in its street signage and hopes the move will pave the way to further collaboration with local Aboriginal elders.