Watyakan Creek map graphic. Source : The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory
A creek in Longreach was renamed yesterday to better reflect and honour its significance in Indigenous Australian history.
The creek, formerly known as Black Gin Creek, as now been renamed to Watyakan Creek (pronounced Watch-A-Kan).
Resources Minister Scott Stewart said he was glad the name had been changed, and that it used “racist language”.
“The new name Watyakan Creek honours the cultural significance and history of the creek to the Iningai and Bidjara people.” Mr Stewart said.
“Watyakan is an iningai word for women’s creek, and is a respectful way to pay tribute to those who historically camped near it.
“The former creek name is offensive, particularly towards First Nations women, and I’d like to thank the Longreach Regional Council for putting the name change proposal forward.” He said.
A spokesperson for the custodians of Iningai Country said the name change was a good thing for the Longreach Regional Council to do, and that it was a step towards more inclusion of Indigenous Australians.
“The former name of the creek and the real reasons it was called that has its origins in a disturbing part of our local history.” The spokesperson said.
“This name change is a step forward for the community into a more inclusive future.” They said.
The creek runs through Iningai Country and covers southeast of Ilfracombe when it then joins with the Thompson River.
Mr Stewart expressed his gratitude towards all those who advocated for the name to be changed.
“Community consultation is essential in any decision-making process and provides a chance for everyone to have their voices heard.” Mr Stewart said.
“The Palaszczuk Government will continue to work with communities to use place names that embrace our First Nations people and their connections to country.” He said.
“Black Gin” is a term that was historically used to describe women of colour, and in Australia, Indigenous women, and was chosen as the name for the Creek as historically, an Indigenous woman lived there.
The term has also been used to describe areas where white men raped and murdered Indigenous women, according to Darumbal Elder Aunty Sally Vea Vea.
