QEII Executive team, Uncle Steven, QEII Expansion team, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Capability Officer Brian Blow, Health Infrastructure Queensland representatives, MACE and Built
A traditional blessing for the construction works of the QEII Hospital Expansion Program was held on 5 August as the hospital and the community forge ahead to grow a healthier community together.
This official launch to the Capacity Expansion Program included a special welcome to country by Yagara traditional owner Uncle Steven Coghill, with the blessing heralding the spiritual connection of stakeholders, consumers and QEII Hospital staff to the healing place that is the QEII Hospital campus.
“We are pleased to build a sustainable connection with the hospital on Yagara country,” Uncle Steven said.
“We look forward to a future that's inclusive to all people, and that accommodates all people's health and needs in a meaningful and productive way.”
Executive Director of QEII Hospital, Gillian Campbell said the project will be a significant step forward for the hospital adding a new five-level clinical services building which will provide 112 extra beds, expanded theatre and ICU capacity as well as the vital support services for that expanded capacity. This includes the 1379 eight-story multi-level car park which is an essential part of the project for the future of the campus.
“This ceremony is a key milestone in the life of QEII, representing the spiritual commencement of the Capacity Expansion Project and the start of us growing a bigger and better hospital together for our community.
“Yagara country provides strength to us as providers of healthcare on this site and to all of us in this community who come together in the pursuit of health and wellness,” Ms Campbell said.
On behalf of QEII Hospital and Metro South Health, Ms Campbell was proud to host Uncle Steven, the QEII Executive team, QEII Expansion team, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Capability Officer Brian Blow, Health Infrastructure Queensland representatives, MACE and Built for the blessing of the infrastructure program which is committed to delivering the right services, at the right place and the right time for all.
“As the hospital grows, we will continue to collaborate with the traditional owners, staff, consumers and local community to ensure we create welcoming, safe and culturally appropriate spaces.”