Located next to the Perth Children’s Hospital at the QEII Medical Centre, situated on Noongar Aboriginal land, the multi-million dollar Greenspace project is said to be inspired by the “healing energy of country” – a philosophy that aims to embrace the First Nations’ cultural knowledge and understanding of country as part of Australia’s national heritage. Designed by Hassell, the park promises to be a space layered with stories of place, plants and animals, which are vital for sustaining health and wellness.

Health Minister Sanderson said: “The improved Greenspace will benefit the health and wellbeing of patients, families and staff. It will provide clinical opportunities using the play-space to compliment physiotherapy and occupational therapy.” 

The QEII Medical Centre itself is home to 40 health-related organisations and facilities with about 15,000 staff and visitors daily. Hassell principal Anthony Brookfield says the design for Greenspace focuses on creating a place where children, their families, visitors, and staff can fully immerse themselves in nature and a rich cultural narrative.

Inspired by Aboriginal culture

Greenspace comprises four zones appreciative of Aboriginal culture and the local habitat. These include:

• a natural learning precinct that offers educational opportunities on native flora, fauna and Aboriginal culture;
• a nature play-space that offers a sense of fun and normality away from the clinical hospital environment – the ability to escape the confines of the hospital helps achieve a greater sense of wellbeing for patients, which is vital for maintaining psychological health in those dealing with childhood illnesses;
• an entertainment space for performers and/​or outdoor events; and
• a relaxation space for patients, visitors, and staff.

Woven into the design are Aboriginal themes and storylines. These include a Koodjal Noorn (two snakes) discovery path, shelter pods honouring the six Noongar seasons, and playground cubbies referencing Noongar mia-mias. There is also an arbour experience referencing a snake’s skin associated with health and regeneration and a climbing net depicting the web of the trapdoor spider, an Aboriginal story connected to King’s Park.

“This is a vital open space at the campus,” Brookfield commented. ​“Our design seeks to create a culturally stimulating landscape experience for all users and draws on the essence of King’s Park, creating a garden infused with nature.”

The creation of Greenspace has been guided by Aboriginal cultural advisors Barry McGuire and Carol Innes who ​hope the design “will inspire connections to country and each other, and facilitate opportunities for play, respite, learning and discovery”.

Innes adds: “Greenspace will be a place for young people and their loved ones to spend time together, and make cherished memories while enduring the challenges of a diagnosis.”

The project has been made possible through the Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation in partnership with Rio Tinto, BGIS, Hassell, Soft Earth cultural advisors, and the QEII Medical Centre Trust.