Thursday, 16 October 2025

 Ann-Marie HERMANS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) presented a petition bearing 1610 signatures:

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the unilateral changing of the name of Berwick Springs Lake by the Minister for Planning. This name change creates division within our multifaith community, ignores the historical significance of the name, and was done with no community consultation with either local residents or property owners. The petitioners are aggrieved by the failure to consult with the local community on this significant name change and the disrespect it demonstrates. The petitioners are also aggrieved by the division created in our multifaith community by a decision that appears to privilege one faith over others. Finally, the petitioners are aggrieved by the complete disregard for the historical significance of the name Berwick Springs. The name originates from 1855 when William Clarke named his property ‘The Springs’ after the natural springs in the area. Edward Greaves continued this heritage in 1903, maintaining the name for his homestead on Stockyard Drive. This significant documented history, confirmed in a 1993 heritage study, has been disregarded by this decision.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to revoke the unilateral renaming of Berwick Springs Lake, implement proper local community consultation regarding any future naming decision regarding the lake found in the Berwick Springs Reserve and investigate the processes which led to the unilateral approval by the Minister for Planning.

Ann-Marie HERMANS: I move:

That the petition be taken into consideration on the next day of meeting.

Motion agreed to.