The naming debate for Dubbo’s new bridge is intensifying as community votes reveal a clear preferred choice. The Dubbo Regional Council is poised to announce the name for the New Dubbo Bridge, which is set to be the largest in the area, following a significant community consultation that concluded recently.
During the voting period from March 27 to May 4, 2025, residents were invited to select from four Wiradjuri names or propose alternatives. The consultation attracted a total of 474 submissions, including 32 online contributions. Ultimately, Auntie Pearl Gibbs emerged as the frontrunner, receiving 102 votes, which accounts for approximately 35 percent of the total.
Auntie Pearl Gibbs, known for her influential role in Aboriginal and women’s rights in New South Wales, passed away in Dubbo in 1983. Her legacy continues to resonate within the community. The second most popular name, Wambuul, which translates to “Macquarie River,” garnered 91 votes (31 percent), while Bunglegumbie and Nguluway received 23 and 11 votes, respectively.
Despite the strong support for Auntie Pearl Gibbs, the proposal to name the bridge after Dubbo’s first mayor, James Samuels, has sparked considerable interest. Supporters of Samuels have submitted a total of 106 endorsements, including a petition that amassed 2,474 signatures, bringing the total backing for his name to at least 2,579.
At a recent extraordinary meeting of the Dubbo Regional Council on September 9, Roland Samuels, a descendant of James Samuels, advocated for honoring his ancestor, referring to him as “the father of Dubbo.” He emphasized the importance of civic engagement and community support in the naming process.
“The petition demonstrates consultation, participation, civil engagement, and strong community support… it cannot be dismissed and it cannot be overlooked,” Mr. Samuels stated. He highlighted James Samuels’ vision and leadership, noting his contributions to the development of local services, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Former Dubbo mayor and current Member of the Legislative Council, Stephen Lawrence, also voiced his support for naming the bridge after Samuels. Following discussions at the extraordinary meeting, the council unanimously decided to postpone their naming resolution until the next ordinary council meeting, scheduled for September 23, 2025.
As the community awaits the final decision, construction of the bridge continues. Recent updates from The Daily Liberal indicate that the last girder was installed on the section crossing the Macquarie River, and significant progress has been made on the bridge’s parapets and road surface.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial as the Dubbo community aims to finalize the name that will honor its history and cultural significance.
