Mural unveiling shows all are welcome at Murray Bridge Medical Centre
Two artworks by Ngarrindjeri artists have been revealed at the Adelaide Road clinic.
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Two beautiful murals have been unveiled at Murray Bridge Medical Centre, symbolising its drive to be inclusive and welcoming to patients from every background.
Artworks by Ngarrindjeri artists Talia Scriven and Jamaya Branson were revealed on the walls of the reception area at the surgery on August 8.
The works, funded by a Country SA Primary Health Network grant, are intended to help Indigenous patients feel welcome at the clinic.
“These works are more than just decorations,” practice manager Wendy Ziersch said.
“They represent our ongoing commitment to creating a space that is inclusive, culturally safe and welcoming for all those that walk through the door.
“We hope they bring comfort and reflection and pride to everyone who sees them, and also that they serve as a powerful means of storytelling, transmitting knowledge and preserving cultural identity.”
Branson’s intricate painting features native plants used as medicine by the Ngarrindjeri people, including pig face for burns and skin irritations; banksia, whose nectar could make a cough and stomach remedy; and flax lilies, used to treat ulcers.
Scriven’s creation focused on the sun, giver of life, surrounded by concentric circles representing all that flowed from it: native plants and animals, generations and connectedness.
“It’s a visual representation of balance and interdependence, where many layers play a vital role in sustaining life,” the artist said.
“Each (element) tells a story of sustenance, healing and culture.
“When we care for country, country can enrich us and we have a holistic step forward towards health.”
Community members and staff attend the mural unveiling event on August 8. Photos: Glenn Power.
Ngarrindjeri mi:mini Georgie Trevorrow gave a welcome to country in language to open the evening event for a crowd of about 30 people.
State MP Adrian Pederick also made an appearance, noting the importance of medical services in a growing centre like Murray Bridge, especially in the face of the mental health challenges presented by the current drought.
And for what it’s worth, both artworks received rave reviews from the children in the room.
But don’t take our word for it – see for yourself the next time you go for a check-up or appointment at Murray Bridge Medical Centre.
- More information: Visit www.murraybridgemedical.com.au, call 8531 2988 or visit Murray Bridge Medical Centre at 35-37 Adelaide Road, Murray Bridge from 8am-6pm on weekdays, 8am-9pm on Wednesdays, or 9am-4pm on Saturdays.
Advertising to more than 20,000 highly engaged locals can do wonders for your business. Call Jane Intini on 0418 835 768 or email jane@murraybridge.news.
Peri Strathearn
