Kelly Koochew proposed as new name for Warragul park

Published on 15 December 2023

Baw Baw Shire Council is proposing to honour the late Kelly Koochew by naming the park on Stoke Street, Warragul in her honour.

A Warragul resident, Ms Koochew left a lasting legacy in Baw Baw.

She was a founding member of Women in Gippsland, Warragul Farmer's Market and a Baw Baw Food Movement committee member.

Ms Koochew was involved in the promotion of the Waterford Rise Estate, including organising a public 'block party' attended by more than 1,000 people in 2014. Ms Koochew worked for Kingbuilt Homes and Vin Rowe Farm Machinery before her unexpected passing in 2019. She is survived by her husband, Nick Rowe, and their daughters, Issie, Zoe, and Lola.

Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Annemarie McCabe said that Ms Koochew was widely respected in the community, and the proposal to name the Warragul park in her honour would be one way Council can demonstrate its gratitude for her community spirit and selflessness.

“I think it’s extremely fitting that Council would name this park in Ms Koochew’s honour, an esteemed resident who gave so much back to her community,” Cr McCabe said.

In a Gippslandia obituary, it was noted that "Kelly had a rare skill in gently guiding others to find their sense of agency. Not only was she working away from the limelight to motivate positive change in our region, but she was inspiring others to do so too."

As required by the Naming Rules, Council Officers have contacted Nick Rowe, who has provided written support for Kelly to be commemorated through place naming.

Council is responsible for the naming and renaming of publicly owned roads, parks, features and localities throughout the Shire.

As part of this naming process, the local community is invited to provide their feedback on the proposed name, by completing a short survey, which is available on Council’s online engagement platform, Baw Baw Connect.

All submissions will be collated and presented to Council to assist in the decision-making process. 

The survey will be open until 5pm Monday, 29 January 2024.

Visit www.bawbawconnect.com.au to have your say, your way.