One of Perth’s most well-known urban wetlands will now be known by its traditional name, Galup, following a landmark decision by the State Government and the Town of Cambridge.
The name change — officially endorsed by Landgate’s independent Geographic Names Committee — restores the Whadjuk Noongar name for the area, which means “where the home fires burn”. For thousands of years, Galup has held deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Whadjuk Noongar people as a place where families gathered, lived, and cared for Country.
Planning and Lands Minister John Carey said the decision reflects the Cook Government’s commitment to honouring Aboriginal heritage through meaningful place naming.
“The Cook Government understands that place naming is a powerful way to recognise Aboriginal heritage,” Mr Carey said. “We commend the Town of Cambridge for their commitment to reconciliation through this significant initiative.”
The proposal, driven by the Town of Cambridge, was supported by extensive community consultation, with more than 90 per cent of surveyed residents backing the move. Input from Whadjuk Noongar Elders and Traditional Owners played a key role in shaping the proposal, alongside support from Reconciliation WA and the Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation.
Town of Cambridge Mayor Gary Mack said the restoration of the name Galup acknowledges the enduring legacy of Noongar culture.
“This is more than a name change – it is an act of reconciliation,” Mr Mack said. “Place names carry meaning and history, and this decision ensures that Galup’s cultural significance will be recognised and respected by generations to come.”
The renaming of Galup is part of a growing movement across Western Australia to formally recognise Aboriginal place names and stories — a vital step in truth-telling, reconciliation, and building a shared understanding of the places we all call home.
