Strong Spirit, Strong Health: Opening of the Aboriginal Health Unit
09 July 2025
This week, during NAIDOC Week, Peter Mac marked a significant milestone in our reconciliation journey with the official opening of balit murrup balit gurri — our new Aboriginal Health Unit space.
Located adjacent to the level one garden near the Wellbeing Centre, this purpose-designed space is a place of healing, reflection and connection for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families and staff.
The name balit murrup balit gurri, meaning strong spirit, strong health, reflects the strength, resilience and cultural identity of First Nations people, and our commitment to supporting their health and wellbeing in a way that is culturally safe and welcoming.
The opening ceremony was held on Tuesday and began with a moving Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony led by Wurundjeri and Yorta Yorta Elder Aunty Zeta Thompson. Her powerful presence and words set the tone for a meaningful and respectful celebration.
Uncle James Williams, Co-Chair of Peter Mac’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, spoke about the importance of culturally safe services and spaces in health care, and how they can profoundly shape the experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families.
Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer Jay Hamann shared what balit murrup balit gurri means for the Aboriginal Health Unit team — and how it will support their work advocating for and supporting First Nations patients across the hospital.
Peter Mac Chief Executive Professor Jason Payne gave the closing remarks, thanking Aunty Zeta, Uncle James, Jay Hamann and Andrea Casey for their leadership and support, and reaffirming Peter Mac’s commitment to improving outcomes for First Nations people through our Reconciliation Action Plan and broader actions.
“This space is more than just a room. It is a statement of our values, our respect, and our ongoing work to ensure every person who comes to Peter Mac feels safe, seen and supported,” Professor Payne said.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped bring balit murrup balit gurri to life. In particular:
- Aunty Zeta Thompson for her cultural leadership and generous spirit
- Uncle James Williams and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee for their wisdom and guidance
- Jay Hamann and Andrea Casey from the Aboriginal Health Unit for their tireless work, advocacy and insight throughout the process
- Peter Mac’s Facilities and Capital Works teams, who worked closely with our Aboriginal Health Unit to ensure the space was designed and built with cultural safety at its heart
-
Western and Central Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (WCMICS) for providing funding to support the fit out of the space
- All the staff, patients and community members who have shared their voices, feedback and support throughout the journey
As we celebrate NAIDOC Week we honour the strength and sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people — and reaffirm our commitment to being a place of healing for all.
balit murrup balit gurri will remain a lasting symbol of that commitment: a space where First Nations people at Peter Mac can gather, reflect, and find strength in culture, community and care.