Last week, I was proud to attend the naming ceremony for Dhilpamarna Auditorium at Norlane ARC. As a member of the Community Liaison Reference Group, it has been meaningful to contribute to conversations about how this important community space can reflect the people, history and future of Norlane and Geelong's northern suburbs.
Chosen with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, Dhilpamarna means "to clap your hands" — a powerful and fitting name for a venue built for performance, celebration, gathering and connection.
For me, this is more than a name. It is a reminder that community spaces should be shaped with community voices, respect for First Nations culture, and a clear commitment to inclusion. — David Greenwood OAM
01 / Shaped by communityWhy the name matters.
Norlane deserves spaces that are welcoming, active and proudly connected to local people. A name carried by the Wadawurrung language, chosen in partnership with Traditional Owners, says something clear about who this place is for and how it came to be. Dhilpamarna Auditorium is a strong step in that direction.
Community spaces work best when they're built with community voices in the room from the start — not consulted at the end. Being part of the Community Liaison Reference Group has meant a seat at that table, and the chance to make sure the people of the north are heard in decisions about the spaces they'll use for generations.
02 / Thank youTo everyone who brought this together.
Thank you to the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, the City of Greater Geelong, the Community Liaison Reference Group, and everyone who helped bring this moment together. A proud moment for our north.