Mackay JCU campuses gifted Indigenous name

JCU’s clinical campuses at Mackay Base Hospital and the Mater Private Hospital Mackay will now be jointly known as Ngudya Yamba (pronounced nood-ja yum-ba), meaning ‘place of knowledge’ in the language of Traditional Owners, the Yuwi People.

JCU Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Biggs said naming ceremonies not only acknowledge and celebrate JCU’s campuses, but reflect the University’s shared sense of connection to place.

“It is a privilege to be given this name by the Yuwi People. We recognise the power of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge in helping to forge JCU’s enduring legacy after more than half a century in northern Queensland,” he said.

“The naming of each campus stands as tribute to JCU’s history and our deep respect to the traditional custodians of our campuses and their connection to Country. It reflects our shared history and purpose and gives further effect to the University’s Reconciliation Action Plan and Strategy.

“Together, we can continue to create opportunities for local students to stay in our region and become a vital part of northern Queensland’s future.”

JCU Deputy Vice Chancellor of Indigenous Education and Strategy, Professor Martin Nakata, said the ceremony was a poignant reminder of how the University works closely with local Indigenous communities across northern Queensland.

“A ceremony such as this is a special occasion in which we recognise the enormous contribution Indigenous Australians have played in shaping our country’s culture, history and heritage,” he said.

“We are very proud of the achievements of JCU's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, graduates and staff, and the cultural richness and diversity that brings to our university community.

“We look forward to seeing the Ngudya Yamba clinical campuses grow and thrive for many years to come.”