First Peoples' ongoing connection
The Sanctuary is part of Kulin Nations lands, and specifically the Country of the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung.
Caring for Country for thousands of years
The Wurundjeri People take their name from the Woiwurrung language word 'wurun', meaning the Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis) which is common along 'Birrarung' (Yarra River), and 'djeri', the grub that is found in or near the tree. Wurundjeri are the 'grub that lives under the bark of the Manna gum', and their Ancestors have lived on this land for millennia.
The Sanctuary sits at the origins of the waterway known as the 'Kooyong Koot' (or 'haunt of the Waterfowl' in Woiwurrung) -- Gardiner's Creek. Its water flows ultimately into the Birrarung (Yarra River) (or 'place of mists and shadows' in Woiwurrung).
Aboriginal peoples continue to have a strong spiritual and relational connection with this land and waterways. It is a dreaming path they have followed and camped beside through countless seasons.
Learn more and get involved
You can learn more about the Wurundjeri's ongoing connection to Country from their website or visit our Visitor Centre. Much work is being done to 'wake up' Woiwurrung, and you can also visit Clothing the Gap.
Non-Indigenous Australians have much work to do to learn more about Australia's true history, and First Nations ways of knowing, being and doing. The Yoorrook Justice Commission is a great place to start. As is reading the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
If you'd like to get involved with local groups supporting reconciliation, see Whitehorse Friends for Reconciliation.
Mandy Nicholson explains the meaning of Wurundjeri
Uluru Statement from the Heart
Further resources
Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation
Learn about the Traditional Owners of this Country.
Yoorrook Justice Commission
Australia's first truth-telling process into injustices experienced by First Peoples in Victoria.
Uluru Statement from the Heart
A statement from the First Nations People to the People of Australia.
Whitehorse Friends for Reconciliation
Get involved with local reconciliation efforts in the City of Whitehorse.