Residents were outraged when Blacktown councillors voted last night to support a name change for the local government area — and the CBD.
Among those left furious was Darug elder Gordon Workman, who chairs the Darug Tribal Aboriginal Corporation.
He said his family has lived in Blacktown for over a century and he feels proud to say he comes from the area.
‘‘Changing the name will not change anything about Blacktown,’’ Mr Workman said.
‘‘If you change the name you’re taking away our history, our pride, our culture and our customs.
‘‘Everybody here in this forum are all from Blacktown. We love the place, so leave it alone.’’
Last night's decision has caused a stir online.
Liberal councillor Karlo Siljeg clarified in last night's council meeting that the council didn't intend to change the suburb's name.
‘‘This is just for the LGA’s name,’’ he said. ‘‘There’s a difference between Blacktown 'the suburb' and Blacktown 'the local government area'.’’
The council will now prepare for a public vote after a motion to not change the name was defeated eight to six. Seven Liberal councillors voted for the name change along with the Independent deputy mayor, Cr Russ Dickens.
