The Wiradjuri (also spelt Wiradyuri) people of Central NSW know the Macquarie River by its traditional name, Wambuul (pronounced WOM-BOOL), meaning 'winding river.'
In 2021, Bathurst Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) in collaboration with Bathurst Regional Council sought to have the name Wambuul officially recognised by the Geographical Names Board. Bathurst LALC and council worked together to gain support for the proposed dual name from the Wiradyuri Traditional Owners of Gunhingal Mayiny Wiradyuri Dyiland Enterprise, NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Orange LALC, Trangie LALC, Warren LALC and Wellington LALC.
In December 2021, following a public consultation period, the Macquarie River was officially dual named as Wambuul by the GNB. Both names have equal status and are considered official names for the river. The new dual name reinforces the Wiradjuri peoples’ deep, ongoing connection with the river.
CEO of the Bathurst Local Aboriginal Land Council Tonilee Scott says Wambuul is a fitting name for the important tributary. It is a positive start to recognising and celebrating Aboriginal heritage and culture.
"Using the Wiradjuri language for this ancient river is a powerful and inclusive symbol of the broader community's appreciation of First Nations people's very long ties to Wambuul," Tonilee says.
“By calling the river Wambuul, it reflects a strong connection to our community, and I believe that other communities should jump on board and start doing Aboriginal place names for their historical and cultural sites."