The spirit of Country and community celebrated with Womindjeka Welcome Wall

The Womindjeka Welcome Wall, two years in the making, is a collaboration between the Boon Wurrung Foundation and Elders, Alfred Health and Hayball Architects, and was launched in recognition of NAIDOC Week.

“The entrance symbolises our commitment to Country: to listen to and hear from our Elders and communities, and to reflect on how we can make a difference for our patients, families and staff,” said Alfred Health Chief Executive Officer Professor Andrew Way.

Welcoming the spirit of the Bundjil Eagle, recognised as the creator and spiritual leader of the Kulin nation, the installation depicts his role in the creation story as he flies over the land, using his blade to create the landscape while healing it from a time of chaos.

‘The Soul of Country’, an artwork by Jarra Karalinar Steel, Boon Wurrung, is also featured as an interpretation of her ancestors’ spirit during Bundjil’s creation of the land.

Specifically chosen native Victorian ash wood panels cover the walls to replicate a sense of walking amongst native gum for the community, and preserved moss and other greenery represent tree-kangaroo food, creating a sense of life, energy and welcome in the space.

“This entrance area has been redesigned as an inclusive and respectful area for patients, staff and visitors,” said Prof Way.  “We want everyone to feel welcome in this hospital.”

The welcome signage was also installed in the 10 most frequently spoken languages, along with accessible wayfinding signage and major inclusive symbols.

The ten most frequently spoken languages of our community:

Greek
Russian
Mandarin
Cantonese
Vietnamese
Arabic
Turkish
Polish
Italian
Spanish