Language is one of the most significant aspects of the culture and heritage of any group. Choosing a name in partnership with our First Nations People, that reflects our shared history is not only symbolic, but also a practical action towards reconciliation.

The proposed name also draws attention to the presence of platypus in the local area, and acknowledges the efforts by committed community members to improve the habitat for this unique native animal.

The proposed name ‘Watjarang Baring’ means platypus track in Dja Dja Wurrung language.

The name is phonetically pronounced as WHAT-jar-ang BAR-ing.

Council has been working in partnership with DJAARA (Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation) and the Friends of Campbells Creek Landcare Group (FOCC) on the proposed name of the trail.

Council has in-principle support from DJAARA for the proposed name to be submitted to Geographic Names Victoria for approval.

The trail begins behind Campbells Creek Park in Campbells Creek, and runs 4.3 kilometress along the creek. It is an off-road trail and culminates at Camp Reserve in Castlemaine.

Both affected residents (all adjoining property owners and occupiers near the trail) and the broader community had their say about the proposed name for the trail.

Decision framework

The place naming process was carried out in line with the Naming Rules for places in Victoria 2022.

A survey was sent to affected residents (one per property), and the wider community was invited to share feedback through Shape Mount Alexander. Participants provided their contact details, and a month was allowed for responses.

The proposed name received support from more than 50% of respondents. Following this, Council officers prepared a report and community engagement summary, which were presented at a Council meeting.

Council endorsed the proposed name after considering community feedback. The name will now be submitted to Geographic Names Victoria to be officially registered and published in the Victorian Government Gazette.

Despite Council endorsing the proposed name, all name submissions must comply with naming rules for places in Victoria – Statutory requirements for naming roads, features and localities - 2022.

Council has received support from DJAARA for the name to be submitted to Geographic Names Victoria for approval.

Improvement works to the track include:

  • the construction of a 600-metre trail section made from gravel and concrete
  • two pedestrian bridges crossing Campbells Creek and a small section of boardwalk.
The formal naming of the trail to ‘Watjarang Baring’ is the final step in the improvement works.


Find out more about trail celebrations planned by the Friends of Campbells Creek (FOCC) Group's website here.