Elder BBQ discusses cultural gathering area

Elder Uncle Greg Simms, Westmead Redevelopment’s Carla Edwards, Elder Graham Smith, SCHN Aboriginal health education officer Shai Griggs, social work student Naomi Muhia, workforce planner Wendy Bryan-Clothier, senior social worker Diana Carmody, arts consultant Marily Cintra, Aboriginal liasion officer Narelle Holden and Elder Jennifer Smith.

Local Aboriginal Elders came to a BBQ last week hosted by the Westmead Redevelopment at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

It was a chance to discuss the project, and a cultural gathering space, which will be connected to the new hospital building.

The yet-to-be-named gathering place will include both an indoor and outdoor area.

These spaces will be accessed from the landscaped areas of the plaza (the landscaped zones between Hawkesbury Road and in front of the new building) and near level one (near the entry to the adult’s emergency department).

The outside landscaped area will be a place where community members can come together in small or large groups to reflect, think, grieve or celebrate.

Landscaped areas could feature local native species and incorporate sculpture or other forms of outdoor art from local artists.

The indoor space will look onto the landscaped area.

Elders and project team members discussed possible design, colours and features of this space, including the ability to display digital artwork and images.

Community consultation continues as designs and options are considered.

If you would like to get involved with the design of this area, please contact us using the details below.