Inspiring artwork Many Rivers represents a brighter future

Aboriginal people should be aware that this story contains references to and words of deceased persons.

In 2025, the $2.3 million four-chair renal dialysis unit opened at Karratha Hospital enabling, Karratha and surrounding area residents to access dialysis treatment closer to home and Country.

Recently, staff at Karratha Hospital Renal Dialysis Unit unveiled a beautiful artwork, by respected Yindjibarndi Elder, the late Tootsie ‘Biddy’ Moses-Daniel.

Born at Yarraloola Station and raised in Onslow, Ms Moses-Daniel had a deep cultural knowledge of the Pilbara and was a tireless advocate for Aboriginal people and their communities.

While Ms Moses-Daniel is sadly no longer with us, her legacy lives on through ‘Many Rivers’.

“When I started making art, I found it very healing. Art is an expression of who you are. I suppose I like bright colours. It reflects a brighter future. The colours brighten you up. New life and new beginnings. The blue is the deep waters, the red is strength and courage, and the pink is new beginnings.”

Acting Executive Director Pilbara Jodie Omodei said Ms Moses-Daniel was a strong, vibrant and wise woman, who uplifted generations and continuously advocated for renal dialysis services in the Pilbara.

“Ms Moses-Daniel dedicated her life to community service, cultural preservation and creative expression, and knew the importance of providing care close to home and Country for Aboriginal people and their communities,” Jodie said.

“She also understood, through lived experience, the significance of representation when Aboriginal people access our services.

“Given the disproportionate impact of renal disease on Aboriginal people, many need to travel off-Country for treatment.

“Ms Moses-Daniel’s artwork provides a cultural connection and familiarity, which helps Aboriginal patients and their families feel culturally safe and respected and that their voices will be heard.”   

Thank you, Ms Moses-Daniel, for your storytelling and sharing the spirit of Country, Dreamtime, and Yindjibarndi traditions – your legacy will live on through ‘Many Rivers’ and in the hearts of all those you inspired.

We would also like to thank Ms Moses-Daniel’s family, who have graciously given us permission to share her story and art.

The opening of the Karratha Hospital Renal Dialysis Unit is part of our ongoing commitment to provide renal dialysis care on Country and closer to home.