For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in regional and remote Western Australia, accessing specialist burn treatment often means travelling long distances and leaving Country. This journey can be challenging, bringing feelings of disconnection and uncertainty, particularly when culturally safe support is limited.
To help bridge this gap, the Fiona Wood Foundation partnered with the Aboriginal Health Liaison Officer team at Fiona Stanley Hospital to create Walban Nynoonang Maap Naar Nidjak — Heal Your Skin Burn Here. Launched in March 2025, the portable device provides a culturally safe Welcome to Country and introduction to the Burns Unit, helping patients and families feel informed, respected and supported when they arrive for care.
Featuring artwork by Noongar artist Ron Gidgup, the design represents the journey from Country to care. Since its launch, 500 devices have been distributed to Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations across Western Australia, extending access to culturally informed resources for people who need specialist burn treatment closer to home.
Funded through donations raised in the 2024 Central Park Plunge, this initiative reflects the Foundation’s commitment to ensuring that all patients regardless of where they live receive care that is culturally safe, person-centred and grounded in respect for Country and community.
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