He then suggested the Aboriginal name be written in a smaller font than the English name.

Local Aboriginal Language and Culture Centre spokesman KJ Olawsky says he is disappointed the shire president would try to block efforts to keep the local Miriwoong language alive.

"I am disappointed and I am surprised," he said.

"But I'm glad that a majority of our councillors decided to support this application and see it go up.

"It should show those who were opposed to it that they're on the wrong track."

Mr Mills has defended his position, saying he was unaware the park ever had an Aboriginal name.

"I have no problem with local Aboriginal names being added to new projects," he said.

"I just think that historically it's been known as Whitegum Park, so it should have stayed as Whitegum Park."