Gathering Garden enhancing cultural safety and community connection

New outdoor Gathering Garden at TPCH

A new outdoor garden at The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH) is providing a culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers, families, and communities to rest, reflect and connect while receiving care at the hospital.

The Gathering Garden, formally opened in 2025 as part of the TPCH expansion project, was developed in collaboration with landscape architects, Elders, staff, and community members through a series of cultural considerations workshops. This inclusive design process ensured Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices were embedded throughout the project, reinforcing TPCH’s commitment to culturally appropriate care environments.

Beyond its visual appeal, the garden was intentionally designed as a space for cultural practices and ceremonies, including Sorry Business, Sad News, and bereavement. The co-design process enabled engagement with cultural knowledge holders, gaining deeper insight into how the built environment can strengthen connection to Country and improve health outcomes.

TPCH Indigenous Health Liaison Officers Nicola Carkeet and Naomi Waigana agree the new Gathering Garden provides a comfortable place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families away from clinical areas.

“The garden offers a safe outdoor space for patients to reflect and connect, beyond their treatments,” Nicola said.

“It’s about acknowledging and respecting culture, and coming together on Country,” Naomi said.

The new Gathering Garden highlights how the built environment can improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.