QEII Medical Centre’s spectacular new $4 million nature space has officially opened

Last Friday QEII Medical Centre’s spectacular new nature-space was officially unveiled, made possible with funding from Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation (PCHF) and founding partner Rio Tinto.

Open to patients, families and staff at QEII, the $4 million space is officially named Waalbiirniny Waabiny Boodja, meaning to heal and play on country, in Noongar language.

Located at the base of the beautiful rainbow Kids’ Bridge next to Perth Children’s Hospital, the upgraded space will provide respite for staff and patients, along with opportunities for play, learning and discovery.

“Waalbiirniny Waabiny Boodja is a welcome addition to the QEII Medical Centre precinct, which sees about 15,000 staff, patients, and visitors every day,” said Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson at the official laun.

“It will provide an important recreation and respite patients and their families… Thank you to Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation, their corporate partners, staff, and volunteers for delivering this space for WA kids and families.”

The space features accessible play equipment with wide, flat pathways throughout, and showcases a diverse array of native plants including banksia and eucalyptus, as well as native shrubs, grasses, groundcovers, mallees, and flowering plants.

Walbiirniny Waabiny Boodja is split into four zones appreciative of Noongar culture and the local habitat, including:

• a nature-space providing a sense of fun and normality away from the clinical hospital environment;
• a rest and relaxation space for patients, visitors, and staff;
• a natural learning precinct offering educational opportunities on native flora, fauna, and Noongar culture; and
• an entertainment space for performers and outdoor events

“The connection to Kings Park is because it’s where our great, great, great grandfather’s mother was born. There is a birthing ground up towards the top end of Kings Park, so our connection is strong in that way,” said Soft Earth Cultural Advisor, Barry McGuire.

“Having a Noongar name – or a Whadjuk language name – here is important because the spoken word is purely about healing. It’s about finding your way through the land and finding a balance.”

To find out more head to pchf.org.au/greenspace-upgrade.

Image Credit: Supplied / Stephen Heath Photography