UPDATE: Parents of students at Lake Monger Primary School in Perth are expressing concerns as discussions about a potential name change to Galup unfold, with estimated costs soaring to at least $50,000. The move follows the official renaming of the wetland area in June, and parents are worried they may be forced to cover the hefty bill.
The proposed rebranding would entail significant expenses including new uniforms, signage, stationery, and website updates. Specifically, projected costs include $10,000 for signage, $2,000 for website changes, and $40,000 for additional staffing needs. Pania Turner, president of the WA Council of State School Organisations, emphasized that families should not bear the financial burden of the name change. “We would not expect families to bear the burden of any costs associated with a name change,” she stated.
Documents from the school board reveal that while the Education Department supports the idea of a name change, community discussions have been minimal. Any change would need approval from the director-general of schools, followed by community consultation and submission of three name options. An Aboriginal name would also require endorsement from a local elder.
A department spokesperson confirmed that no specific budget is allocated for name changes, stating, “If the name change is approved, the school will likely incur costs for administration, new signage, stationery, and uniforms.” The spokesperson added that funding for any required changes would come from the principal’s discretion, highlighting the need for community engagement in the process.
The history of the school is noteworthy; it was originally named Wandarra Primary when it opened in 1954. The area, significant to the Whadjuk Noongar people for thousands of years, was officially renamed Galup, meaning “place where the home fires burn,” in June after endorsement from the State’s Geographic Names Committee. This change honors the cultural heritage of the site, which has a dark history, including the tragic deaths of between 30 and 40 Noongar people in 1830.
As discussions continue, parents and community members are urged to stay informed about the financial implications of the proposed name change. The next steps involve community consultation and the potential for further discussions about funding options. With the clock ticking, the school community is left to wonder how this change will unfold and what it means for their children.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops.
