In a first for the Northern Territory, Katherine Hospital will celebrate the opening of a new cultural area on Friday 24 July.
The space, dedicated to Aboriginal cultural ceremonies, is shaded and secluded and features a sand-covered dancing area, a fire pit, and seating.
Ms Nellie Camfoo, an elder of the local Bulman Community, said, "This place will help us to celebrate and promote our culture. It's important that cultural understanding is recognised and grown at Katherine Hospital."
The area is the result of a recommendation by Katherine Hospital's Aboriginal Cultural Advisory Committee, of which Ms Camfoo is a member. The committee provides information and recommendations to management and staff regarding cultural security for patients and ways to improve cultural awareness.
Nursing Director Lynne Lawrence said, "As well as having great cultural importance for Aboriginal people, this is an opportunity for staff to gain understanding and respect for Aboriginal culture and tradition and improve a stay in hospital for Aboriginal people."
The opening ceremony will commence at 1.00 pm with Aboriginal elders undertaking a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse the hospital of bad spirits.
The opening will be attended by people from Aboriginal communities in the Katherine region and will include dancers, hand painting, and an afternoon tea with damper.