Culture and connection to Country took centre stage at a two-day knowledge exchange in February to help guide the redevelopment of Fairfield Hospital.

First Nations community members met with the redevelopment team, including architects and designers, to highlight the importance of cultural perspectives and principles in the design of the hospital’s new facilities.

“It was a unique opportunity in many ways,” Katrina Filewood, a Wiradjuri/Yorta Yorta woman and Aboriginal Liaison Officer at Fairfield Hospital, said.

“The project team was able to learn from my community and feel inspired to create spaces that are welcoming, encourage healing, and connect us to our values and land.”

Above: Katrina Filewood, Aboriginal Liaison Officer

Fairfield Hospital General Manager Paul Crowe said he was “privileged to receive insights” from Aboriginal knowledge holders.

“This knowledge has sustained First Nations communities for thousands of years and it makes perfect sense to weave these practices into the built environment,” Paul said.

The Connecting to Country workshop and Walk on Country tour of Fairfield Hospital was facilitated by spatial designer and Dharug woman Associate Professor Liz Cameron from Belanjee, with fellow Dharug facilitator Ceane Towers.

Key feedback from the community included:

• Integrating traditional knowledge into design
• Incorporating cultural landscapes
• Use of natural materials
• Cultural symbols in design elements
• Designing for healing and ceremony
• Respect for natural cycles
• Connection to waterways and environment
• Promoting sustainability.

The NSW Government has committed $550 million for the redevelopment of the hospital.

Above: First Nations people and project team at the hospital for the Walk on Country