Pictured: Uncle Colin Locke performing a smoking ceremony on the IMHC site.
10 July 2025
This year, to commemorate NAIDOC Week, the Integrated Mental Health Complex (IMHC) project team came together in celebration of the theme "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy." This theme celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead.
The new IMHC has been designed as a safe, inclusive, and culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with connecting with Country principles and Aboriginal engagement influencing architectural design of the new facility and surrounds.
Key themes of Country include connecting to the Three Rivers, where water is celebrated for its calming and healing properties. The facility will also incorporate the five elements of earth, wind, air, fire, and space into its structure, and will provide dedicated areas for Aboriginal ceremonies and gatherings. Additionally, Aboriginal cultural elements will feature throughout the facility, ensuring a respectful and inclusive place.
Central to the IMHC's design is the concept of hand in hand walking the path to recovery together, inspired by the Dharug language 'Yanmangun Muru', which means 'We will walk the path together'. This metaphor of the hand design aligns with the vision and purpose of the mental health facility, emphasising support, connection, and to uplift.
Project Director Hoss Bidgoli highlighted the importance engaging with First Nations communities in shaping the project’s success.
The project’s main works contractor team from Richard Crookes Constructions (RCC) celebrated NAIDOC Week with a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country by local Dharug elder Uncle Colin Locke, who said the ceremony held deep meaning for this important week. Liam Harte, from RCC’s Indigenous Advisory partner Tika, spoke about the importance of the organisations ongoing commitment to Indigenous partnerships.
An artwork was commissioned for the project from local Dharug artist, Leanne Redpath. This unique piece shows a connection between the project, Country and its people. The artwork will be displayed within the IMHC construction site project offices providing a welcoming and culturally safe working space for Aboriginal staff building the new IMHC.
Pictured: Leanne Redpath’s artwork Dhurabang, which translates to “River”, tells the story of a sacred pathway that flows through saltwater and freshwater Ngurra (Country), passing beneath the casuarina trees. Guided by the presence of Elders, the piece represents a collective journey of healing.
RCC Project Director Simon Karkkainen said the project’s commitment to engaging with First Nations communities throughout construction is central to its goal in leaving a positive legacy at Westmead.
The project has set a target for Aboriginal participation in construction to 6.5 percent – significantly higher than the industry target of 1.5 percent – which includes employment opportunities and engagement with Aboriginal businesses.
Pictured: Some of the books by Leanne Redpath donated to the childcare centres.
Beyond the building site, childcare centres adjacent to the project were presented with a selection of children’s books illustrated by Leanne Redpath. These beautifully crafted books support early education about First Nations culture by introducing colour recognition through Indigenous designs, supporting early language development and vocabulary building, and fostering visual literacy and an appreciation for First Nations artistry.
