Hunter New England Local Health District respectfully acknowledges Aboriginal people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land in which our health facilities are located, and pay respect to the Elders, community members and the community-controlled sector who partner with us to improve the health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our District.

Gunnedah Hospital is located on the lands of the Gomeroi, Kamilaroi, Gamilaroi people. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of this place and pay our respects to the Elders, past and present and we pay tribute to the living and continuing culture of Aboriginal people. We recognise that they have occupied and cared for this Country for countless generations, and we celebrate their ongoing contributions to the life of the area.

ExPRESSION OF INTEREST NOW OPEN!

Health Infrastructure has partnered with Arts North West, to launch the Expression of Interest to provide an exciting opportunity for artists to be supported to develop their professional capacity. The Gunnedah Hospital redevelopment offers a unique opportunity for artists to contribute to a significant infrastructure investment for their community. Artists with strong connections to Gunnedah are invited to express their interest in the arts program for the Gunnedah Hospital Redevelopment. The artworks will feature in the new purpose-built facility providing inspiration and comfort to patients, visitors and staff in public and clinical areas. Emerging artists are warmly encouraged to apply.

Artists must have strong community links to the Gunnedah community, work in a style that is complementary to health care environments, be able to share examples of previous work and available to work with the project team to deliver the artworks during 2025.

The Gunnedah Hospital is undergoing a $53 million redevelopment funded by the NSW Government, expected to be completed by late 2025. The project aims to enhance healthcare facilities and provide a more culturally appropriate environment for the community.

Emergency Department Entry Canopy:

Target Artist: Aboriginal artists with strong community ties to the Gomeroi, Kamilaroi, and Gamilaroi people.

Artwork Purpose: To create a welcoming and culturally reflective piece that enhances the entry to the Emergency Department.

Artwork Details: To be integrated into perforated metal ceiling panels of the canopy, backlit with LED strips.

Budget: Up to $17,500 + GST for artist fees; fabrication costs covered by the project.

Stakeholder Engagement: Artists will engage with the hospital redevelopment team, Arts Working Group, and Aboriginal community members.

Wall Graphics for Emergency Department and Maternity Units:

Target Artist: Artists within the Hunter New England Local Health District with ties to the Gunnedah community.

Artwork Purpose: To provide positive distractions and enhance wayfinding in clinical spaces.

Artwork Details: Graphics will be applied on hospital-grade vinyl on selected walls.

Budget: Up to $17,500 + GST for artist fees; fabrication and installation covered by the project.

Stakeholder Engagement: Artists will engage with the hospital redevelopment team, Arts Working Group, and clinical staff.

Both projects emphasise community engagement and cultural reflection, and provide opportunities for artists to contribute creatively to the hospital’s environment.