Six striking Aboriginal totem poles now line the entrance to Casino and District Memorial Hospital, marking a major step in strengthening cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.
The artworks are designed to create a more welcoming and culturally appropriate environment, encouraging greater access to healthcare for Aboriginal people in the region.
Developed in partnership with Northern NSW Local Health District’s Aboriginal Health team and local community organisations, the project has been nearly two years in the making.
The totem poles, hand painted by Aboriginal residents at the Balund-a residential diversionary program, reflect local stories, clan identity and connection to Country, with designs featuring animals, bush foods and water.
Northern NSW Local Health District Acting Director Aboriginal Health Cameron Johnson said the installation is an important step in improving health outcomes.
“We are delighted to celebrate the completion and installation of these significant works and congratulate Casino Hospital’s Aboriginal Liaison Officer Gloria Torrens for working with the community to bring this project to life,” Mr Johnson said.
“This initiative forms part of our Partnering with Consumers strategy, supporting Aboriginal community members to feel culturally safe, respected, and welcomed when accessing care at Casino Hospital.
“Aboriginal people experience better health outcomes when the hospital environment respects their identity, culture, and community. Safety is not only physical, but also emotional, cultural, and spiritual.”
Executive Director of Nursing Sandra Vidler said the project reflects the importance of culturally safe care in a hospital with a significant Aboriginal patient population.
“Aboriginal people make up a significant portion of our patient population at Casino Hospital, with 21.5 per cent of people presenting to our Emergency Department to date this financial year identifying as Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander,” Ms Vidler said.
“When Aboriginal people feel safe and respected, they seek healthcare sooner, speak more openly and receive the care they deserve. This is crucial as we work towards closing the gap in healthcare for Indigenous people.
“We hope these totem poles signal our commitment to surrounding Aboriginal communities and help provide reassurance they are always welcome here.”
Casino Hospital Aboriginal Liaison Officer Gloria Torrens said the project was driven by the community.
“A hospital is a place of healing, and it is important Aboriginal people feel welcome and safe when they access healthcare,” Ms Torrens said.
“This has been a whole of community effort, and I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has given their time and support to help make this dream a reality.”
She also acknowledged the organisations that contributed to the project, including DTM Timber, Casino Boolangle Local Aboriginal Land Council, Richmond Valley Council, Balund-a and the Aboriginal Health team.
“These organisations helped with everything from the donation of the timber poles to transportation, painting equipment, artwork and installation. Thank you!”
The installation is intended to create a more inclusive healthcare environment, recognising that cultural safety plays a critical role in improving access and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
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