Have your say on a place name in Randwick City Council LGA
The Geographical Names Board (GNB) is seeking community feedback on a proposal by Operation Crayweed (a flagship project from the Sydney Institute of Marine Science) to name an underwater forest in Coogee as Yanggaa Kelp Forest.
The underwater forest is located on the rocky reef about 50m offshore, commencing at the south of Coogee beach adjacent to Ross Jones Rockpool and extending for approximately 750m in a south-east direction, parallel to the shore.
The name was selected in consultation with the community to reflect the cultural and ecological significance of the site. Yanggaa (pronounced yang-ga) is a Dharawal language word meaning crayfish (eastern rock lobster), which reflects the ecological significance of the kelp forest and the marine species it supports.
The proposed name is supported by the Gujaga Foundation, Gamay Rangers – La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council, Randwick City Council and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands.
GNB is seeking feedback to gauge community sentiment for the proposed name and suggestions for alternative names are not being sought at this time.
Details of the proposal can be viewed and submissions lodged on the Geographical Names Board’s website.
Alternatively, written submissions may be mailed to: The Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Ave, Bathurst, NSW 2795.
The closing date for submissions is 6 September 2026.
NSW Surveyor-General Thomas Grinter said:
“Place names play an important role in recognising and protecting the geographical features that matter to our communities. The proposed name Yanggaa Kelp Forest acknowledges a significant underwater ecosystem while reflecting the cultural and environmental values associated with this remarkable stretch of coastline.”
“Community consultation on the proposed name is an important step to make sure everyone has an opportunity to provide their feedback and ensures that each voice has a chance to contribute.”