Last month, Operation Crayweed (a UNSW ocean restoration project) hosted a community workshop to come up with ideas for a name for the kelp forest on the north end of Freshwater Beach. It was wonderful to see such a diverse group of community members, scientists, local stakeholders and ocean enthusiasts come together to discuss and celebrate one of Sydney’s remarkable underwater forests. Thanks to their ideas and thoughtful discussions, we have three shortlisted names that we’d like to put to a community vote.

The options are:

Kadjung Kelp Forest

Kadjung means “freshwater” in Gomberee, the local Aboriginal language. This reflects the kelp forest’s proximity to Freshwater Beach, which itself was named for a freshwater stream at the north end of the beach.

Hook Reef Kelp Forest

This name reflects the distinctive hook-like shape of the adjoining headland and reef when viewed from above.

Coing Bibola Kelp Forest

Coing Bibola means “sunrise” in Gomberee. The forest’s east-facing location makes it a popular spot for locals to watch the morning light arriving across the ocean.

You can help choose the official name for Freshwater’s kelp forest by casting your vote here: https://unsw.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_esUmQinoj6PwAN8

Voting is open to everyone, so please feel free to share the link with family, friends and anyone who has a connection to Freshwater or an interest in our marine environment. Voting closes August 10th. One vote per person, please.

Thank you for being part of this unique community initiative. Once we have a preferred name, we will make an application to the Geographical Names Board to put this special underwater forest “on the map” officially!

Information about the Forests Without Names project: https://forestswithoutnames.com/naming/

Information about Operation Crayweed: https://www.operationcrayweed.com/

Warm regards,

Operation Crayweed