The debate over the renaming of Berwick Springs Lake to Guru Nanak Lake continues to stir emotions within the local and broader Victorian communities. Since the initial announcement in November, the public discourse has grown, fueled by petitions, community gatherings, and media coverage. The renaming, intended to celebrate the Sikh community, has sparked significant backlash from local residents who feel sidelined by the decision-making process.
In recent weeks, the dialogue has shifted from simply opposing or supporting the renaming to addressing deeper issues of governance and public communication. Many residents remain concerned about the lack of transparency in the decision-making process.
Adding fuel to the fire, Premier Jacinta Allan’s comments in Parliament have drawn sharp criticism. Allan questioned the stance of the opposition leader on the renaming issue, asking whether he stands “with our community or with neo-Nazis who drive division and hate?”
And so local residents, who were hurt by the lack of consultation and transparency, have now been equated with extremist groups. 3AW’s Tom Elliott labeled the remark “utterly appalling,” reflecting a broader sentiment that such inflammatory language alienates rather than addresses legitimate concerns.
Local residents have expressed dismay at being unfairly characterised – which has been emphasised in an open letter to the Premier,
“These allegations are particularly offensive and hurtful to residents, including people whose family members suffered the indescribable horrors at the hand of the Nazi during WWII.”
“Such baseless accusations from you, the Premier of Victoria, have a chilling effect
on democratic expression and community participation.”
The open letter is accessible here.
The controversy has also highlighted political divide, with Liberal Member for Berwick Brad Battin actively supporting the local community’s concerns. Battin’s efforts to organise public gatherings and raise the issue in State Parliament underscore a growing dissatisfaction with the Allan Government’s handling of the renaming process.
Beyond political maneuvering, the situation has spotlighted the broader challenges of balancing cultural recognition with inclusive decision-making. As many concerned locals continue to pursue an appeal to reverse the name change, they also take time to acknowledge the Sikh community and their contributions to local areas.
“This should have been a moment of celebration for the Sikh community … they’ve found themselves in the middle of a storm because of how the government has gone about this.” – Head Petitioner Michael Ball
The Berwick Springs Lake / Guru Nanak Lake debate has become more than just a dispute over a name; it represents a test case for how governments can navigate the complexities of multiculturalism in modern Australia.
With emotions running high, the path forward requires careful listening, genuine consultation, and a commitment to fostering unity rather than division.