Friday, 6 June 2025
In an Australian-first, a huge three-dimensional tapestry will take pride of place at the new Footscray Hospital, showcasing Victorian creativity and craftsmanship and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for patients, visitors and staff – thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks and Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne today visited the Australian Tapestry Workshop in South Melbourne to mark completion of the groundbreaking artwork, titled ‘Welcome to Country – now you see me: seeing the invisible’.
Designed by celebrated First Nations artists Maree Clarke (Yorta Yorta/Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung) and Mitch Mahoney (Boonwurrung/Barkindji), the tapestry is inspired by images of river reeds from the Maribyrnong River.
Backed by the Labor Government and the Tapestry Foundation of Australia, the tapestry has been hand-woven at the Australian Tapestry Workshop in South Melbourne, with 16 Victorian-based weavers, dyeing specialists and support staff dedicating more than 10,000 hours work over 14 months to bring the artists’ vision to life.
The tapestry measures a massive 42 square metres, weighs 135 kilograms and uses more than 270 kilometres of wool from farms across Victoria.
Once the new Footscray Hospital opens, this stunning artwork will hang over two levels in the main foyer, creating a welcoming environment for patients, staff and visitors. The tapestry is part of a major three-year arts program for the hospital, led by Footscray Community Arts Centre.
When completed later this year, the new Footscray Hospital will cut wait times, reduce pressure on nearby hospitals and help families get the care they need closer to home.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority in partnership with Western Health, Plenary Health and Victoria University, major construction of the new Footscray Hospital is expected to be completed in late 2025.
Quotes attributable to Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne
‘This incredible tapestry is a powerful symbol of how the new Footscray Hospital will combine world-class healthcare with a welcoming, inclusive space that reflects and celebrates community and culture.’
Ends.
Media contact: melissa.horne@parliament.vic.gov.au
