acknowledgement
of country

We acknowledge the Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners of this land and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. 

In 2022, AREC commissioned an artwork by local indigenous artist Saretta Fielding.  This beautiful piece is proudly displayed in our hospital staff room. 

Saretta explains the story behind the artwork:

‘This work celebrates the Animal Referral and Emergency Centre (AREC) and their love of all animals. It places value on our unique native animals, while sharing their work with domestic animals across our community.

Central to the design is a large gathering circle and people symbols, reflecting the centre and the team. Pathways of people flowing into this imagery represent the people across our community who access the service to provide care for their animals.

The wedge-tail eagle- the totem of the Awabakal people and the symbol for Elders- sits at the top of the artwork, acknowledging the traditional custodians on country and bringing a welcome to everyone, to share in our unique culture.

The design sits against a backdrop of songlines on country, reflecting the Awabakal people of the hills and plains, and embraces all tribal groups in the region as we work together to care for our animals on country’.

Saretta Fielding Acknowledgement of Country