A new artwork celebrating Bundjalung Country and culture has been unveiled at UCRH, where it will support Aboriginal health education and provide a lasting acknowledgement of Country.
Map of Bundjalung Country was created by UCRH staff members Tracey Piccoli, a Galibal and Bundjalung woman, and Associate Professor Emma Walke, a Nyangbul and Bundjalung woman.
University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Mark Scott AO unveiled the artwork during a visit to UCRH’s Lismore campus on 10 September, as part of the Centre’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
Through flowing waterways and carved mountain forms, the artwork reflects the landscape of Bundjalung Country and its traditional local mobs. Connection to Country is woven through the work, alongside the history, culture and stories that continue to be shared today.
The artwork grew from UCRH’s Caucus Not Caucus network, which provides a space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to connect, support one another and contribute cultural perspectives across the organisation.
Tracey Piccoli is an Associate Lecturer with UCRH’s Aboriginal Health Education team and a contemporary Indigenous artist. Her practice brings together pattern, colour and fine detail across a range of materials.
Associate Professor Emma Walke is UCRH’s Academic Lead for Indigenous Health and Head of Indigenous Health for Sydney Medical School. She is also a ceramic artist whose practice includes sculpture, wall hangings, jewellery and functional pieces.
Map of Bundjalung Country now has a permanent home in the UCRH foyer. The artwork is a visible acknowledgement of local Country and a reminder that Aboriginal culture, knowledge and leadership are an important part of everyday life at UCRH.
The story aligns with UCRH’s focus on the Northern Rivers community, health equity and its 25th anniversary, using the organisation’s warm, respectful and community-grounded voice.
