New mural unveiled at Bayulu Clinic
L-R: Walmajarri artist Terry Murray, Acting Regional Aboriginal Health Consultant Kimberley Michelle Parsons, Director Aboriginal Health Russell Simpson, Acting Executive Director Kimberley Chris Hart, Primary Health Manager Fitzroy Crossing Erica Sykes, and Acting Director Kimberley Population Health Emma Croager.
WA Country Health Service’s Bayulu Clinic at Fitzroy Crossing is celebrating culture and community connection with the addition of a new mural.
The Bayulu Clinic delivers a range of community healthcare to the Fitzroy community and the new mural will create a sense of ownership and welcome to health clients accessing the service.
Painted by Walmajarri artist Terry Murray, the mural represents the rugged ranges and terrain that surround Bayulu Clinic, which is on Gooniyandi Country.
The mural also features the Jilyardie Billabong which is an area of significance to Gooniyandi people. Local Elder Cissy Nuggett said that Jilyardie is a “living water hole” that never runs dry and is a spot for fishing and camping. Jilyardie also holds a dreaming story for the Gooniyandi people.
WA Country Health Service’s Chris Hart said it was great to see the community come together to celebrate the new artwork.
“Bayulu and Fitzroy Crossing communities have rich connections to their culture and landscapes and it’s great to have these aspects captured visually at the health clinic.
“The community got to see firsthand how it will aid in the consumer experience - it will help patients to connect and feel welcomed when accessing healthcare services.
“We will also have further community involvement with the artist and Bayulu school children set to paint a section of the mural.”
Another area of the mural also pays tribute to Bayulu community’s passion for their football team - the Bayulu Bulldogs.
The mural unveiling was attended by WA Country Health Service Executives, staff from Fitzroy Crossing Community Health, the Kimberley Population Health Unit, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation Nindilingarri, as well as the local community chairperson, Elders and community members.
The unveiling was followed by a community barbeque and activities for children from the local school.