The commonly used indigenous name for the Sydney area is Eora. This term refers to both the Aboriginal people who lived in the Sydney region at the time of European colonisation and the collective language group to which they belonged.
Understanding the Eora Nation
The Eora Nation is a collective term representing the various clans and language groups that traditionally inhabited the land around what is now known as Sydney Harbour, extending across the greater Sydney basin. These clans had distinct territories, customs, and dialects, yet shared a common cultural heritage.
- Traditional Custodians: The Eora people are the traditional custodians of the Sydney basin. Their rich history, culture, and connection to the land span tens of thousands of years.
- Cultural Significance: The term 'Eora' has become a significant identifier, acknowledging the Aboriginal heritage and ongoing presence within the bustling modern city. Many place names, cultural events, and organisations in Sydney reflect this deep indigenous history.
- Diverse Clans: Within the broader Eora Nation, specific clans such as the Cadigal (or Gadigal) are recognised as the traditional owners of the land where Sydney's central business district now stands. Other clans included the Wangal, Cammeraygal, and Birrabirragal, among many others, each with their own distinct territories around the harbour and surrounding areas.
- To learn more about the Aboriginal history of Sydney, you can explore resources from institutions like the Australian Museum.
Clarifying Other Indigenous Terms for Sydney
While Eora is widely accepted for the Sydney region, it's important to understand the nuance of other terms that may be encountered:
- Guringai / Gringai: The term "Guringai" has been used in some contexts for northern Sydney. However, it is crucial to note that this term was originally devised by a researcher in 1892. Furthermore, there is a distinct Gringai clan located in the Barrington River and Gloucester area, who have explicitly requested that Sydneysiders refrain from using their name to refer to the Sydney region. This highlights the importance of respecting specific clan identities and their traditional lands.
Understanding these distinctions helps acknowledge the true complexity and diversity of Aboriginal heritage in New South Wales and ensures respectful engagement with indigenous names and histories.
