Sutherland Shire Council has implemented a neighbourhood signage program, supported by the Aboriginal Advisory Committee, that recognises and acknowledges the Shire’s Aboriginal heritage.
The signs are earth-brown in colour and signify connection to the land, including the phrase ‘Dharawal Country’. Where the Dharawal derivation of the suburb name is known, it is printed underneath the English name. Cronulla, for example, is translated to the Dharawal word Kurranulla, meaning “the place of the pink seashells.” This project is an attempt to bridge the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal members of the community, and recognises the Indigenous history of the land.
Thirty-five suburb signs are in place at boundaries within the road reserve, with more to be added in the near future. The project is expected to be completed early next year, ensuring each suburb in Sutherland Shire has a neighbourhood sign.