On Thursday, September 8 2022, a traditional smoking ceremony and cultural burn, along with ceremonial dances took place at the site of the new $260 million Eurobodalla Regional Hospital in Moruya. It was a historic moment, as it was the first time that a ceremony of this nature has taken place on a NSW hospital project site.

The ceremony was led by Aboriginal Elders and knowledge holders of the Yuin Country, which was coordinated by Walbunja ranger Andrew White. He said, “I think it’s a good stepping stone to closing the gap, especially with our health and wellbeing.”

Also present was Yuin Elder Uncle Bunja Smith, who explained that this act of cultural burning is an ancient practice used by Aboriginal people for over 60,000 years.

Uncle Bunja also explains that “Cleansing the land is an integral part of our connection with Country to restore and rejuvenate the land spiritually, and today’s ceremony signifies that this hospital will be a health and safe place where the whole community can come to be healed.”

In designing the new hospital, local Aboriginal knowledge has been sort to help build connections with Country. NSW Health emphasises that “Ensuring this new, modern hospital is a safe and welcoming place that supports the health needs of the entire Eurobodalla community from Narooma to Batemans Bay, is the key to delivering better health outcomes for all.”

According to NSW Health, works are expected to commence in late 2022, with main works construction scheduled to commence in 2023. The Hospital is expected to open to patients in 2025.

For further information, please visit the NSW Government New Eurobodalla Regional Hospital Development website.

Photos courtesy of Nick Peters