UPDATE: 26/08/2026 - Reply and phone call with Rafe@GNV

Hi Yarras Edge Community,

I received the below preliminary email reply from Rafe, stating that after his discussions with the Registrar they would not be supporting the name Yarras Edge. This is an initial response. They will provide a detailed explanation and formal response within 7 days.

I then spoke briefly with Rafe and it was agreed that I would meet with the Registrar in early September to discuss in person and come to a consensus. It is felt that both sides provide compelling reasons to support and/ or block the name and that an in person discussion would help come to some kind of compromise.

Rafe provided examples of Manor Lakes and Capel Sound which were initially blocked but after extensive consultation were eventually approved.

Another example was Santuary Lakes which was blocked and never approved. It may come down to choosing a new name that best fits the area and acceptable to all. This of course is not a preference but what was communicated to me.

It seems that at this stage, separation from Docklands and adopting a new postcode isnt a problem, of course if approved by Council, GNVs concern is the name itself. 

Stay tuned for my next update after i receive the full Registrar response and then once I meet with them.

Journey continues. Thanks for your continued support.  We will get there eventually. 

Cheers,

Regards

Sam

Yarras Edge

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Hi Rafe,

Appreciate the update and although im disappointed by this preliminary decision, im not entirely surprised, as its not supposed to be a straightforward process.

This is a collaborative discussion, i would kindly request a meeting with the Registrar so that I can discuss in person.

During our own discussions i was able to articulate clearly and logically why its justified, and I also heard the GNV point of view, we both agreed that my logic was sound, so i look forward to having the same discussion with the Registrar and understanding their perspective.

Again, I sincerely appreciate your time, thoughts and guidance.

This is a journey that I look forward to continuing positive dialogue with GNV.

Regards,

Sam
Yarras Edge 
 
From: Rafe Benli (DTP) <>
Sent: Wednesday, 26 August 2026 09:45:09
To: Sam Aftasi <yarrasedgesuburb@gmail.com>
Subject: [SEC=OFFICIAL] RE: Yarras Edge Locality Proposal – Summary of Evidence and Next Steps 
Sam,

Thanks for the emails and associated images.

I have had a conversation with the Registrar of Geographic Names. He remains unsupportive of the proposal to name a new suburb ‘Yarras Edge’.

I do plan to send you a formal response from the Registrar.

I wanted to give you an early ‘heads up’ so the response is not a surprise. This will provide further clarity to you and the community.

You may then decide to request a formal meeting with the Registrar to discuss further.

I expect it will take me a couple of weeks to resolve to get you a formal signed response.

Kind Regards

Rafe Benli
Team Leader Geographic Names Victoria
Preserving culture and protecting communities

Surveyor-General Victoria, Land Services Victoria
Department of Transport and Planning   

Chair Place Names Working Group, ICSM

Member Address Working Group, ICSM

Australian Representative UNGEGN

Co-Convener Working Group on Geographical Names as Cultural Heritage

From: Sam Aftasi <yarrasedgesuburb@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, 15 August 2026 5:15 PM
To: Rafe Benli (DTP)
Cc: Sam Aftasi <yarrasedgesuburb@gmail.com>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Yarras Edge Locality Proposal – Summary of Evidence and Next Steps

Hey Rafe,

Further to my previous email,  please refer attached evidence of clear council signage uniquely identifying Yarras Edge. Plus the Mirvac signage not mentioning Yarras Edge but rather focusing on the specific building name/ project. Clear delineation.

Cheers

Sam