“Be Brave. Make Change.”

This is Reconciliation Australia’s challenge to all Australians, as we begin our National Reconciliation Week activities today.

We have a long and proud history here at Mater of providing compassionate care to those who need it most.

With 11 world-class hospitals that bring together remarkable expertise across health, education and research, we have an immense responsibility to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia.

As the largest not-for-profit healthcare provider in the state, it is up to us to lead the change, and be the change.

Reconciliation is the key.

On Monday, Mater representatives and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders  hospital regions will come together on Aubigny Place at South Brisbane, as we unveil our Reconciliation Action Plan artwork — called The Heart to Heal, the Strength to Grow.

This bespoke artwork captures Mater’s unique story and will soon take pride of place in every Mater hospital across the state, as a symbol of our commitment to further strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and non-Indigenous peoples.

The artwork and narrative were developed by David Williams, a proud Wakka Wakka artist and Executive Director at Gilimbaa, and we acknowledge its unique story:

“Our spirit is strong; it thrives as we embrace those who we must always care for.

Our journey has been long, and we will continue to flourish as we open our hears to those who walk with us.

Always.”

We do not seek to be all things to all people; however, we are committed to playing our part in writing a new chapter in the story of Australia — a modern nation proud of our diverse, rich cultural heritage and identity.

Please join with us to Be Brave and tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation so we can Make Change for the benefit of all Australians.