Have your say: Proposal to dual name Cockatoo Island as Wareamah

If the proposal is accepted, the dual name would be assigned under the Geographical Names Act 1956 and both names – Cockatoo Island and Wareamah – would have equal status. Applying for dual naming for Cockatoo Island in recognition of its First Nations significance is one of the deliverables the Harbour Trust committed to in its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2020-2022.

Located at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers, Cockatoo Island is the largest island on Sydney Harbour. It connects the homelands of the Wallumedegal, Wangal, Cammeraygal and Gadigal Peoples and is historically associated with ceremony and women’s business. In the Dharug language, it is known as Wareamah meaning ‘Women’s place’. 

• Harbour Trust Proposal

To view details of the Harbour Trust proposal and lodge a submission, visit the Geographical Names Board’s website. Written submissions can also be mailed to the Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Avenue, Bathurst, NSW 2795. The closing date for submissions is 16 July 2021.