Mackay Private Hospital Opens Its Doors for Harmony Week First Nations Art Gallery

Mackay Private Hospital will open its doors to the wider community this March as part of National Harmony Week, hosting a special First Nations Art Gallery that celebrates culture, creativity and connection.

Running from Monday 16 March to Sunday 28 March, the hospital will transform into a vibrant public gallery showcasing works by respected First Nations artists Jessica Rigby, Uncle Edward Rigby and Venita Mooney. The exhibition will be open to the public daily from 11.00am to 6.00pm, welcoming community members, school groups, patients, staff and visitors alike.

The artworks on display reflect powerful storytelling, identity and lived experience, celebrating the world’s oldest continuing cultures while fostering greater understanding, respect and connection within the Mackay community.

The exhibition will be officially launched with a Gala Evening on Thursday 19 March, held in recognition of National Close the Gap Day. The evening will include a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, providing an opportunity for reflection, learning and shared respect, while highlighting the importance of health equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

General Manager Kathryn Behan said the event reflects the hospital’s commitment to inclusion, reconciliation and community engagement.

“This Harmony Week Art Gallery is about opening our space to the community and creating meaningful opportunities to celebrate First Nations culture, storytelling and creativity,” Ms Behan said.
“Health is deeply connected to culture, identity and community, and we are proud to support First Nations artists while strengthening those connections here in Mackay.”

Through this initiative, Mackay Private Hospital aims to celebrate diversity, support local First Nations artists, and create a welcoming space where health, culture and community intersect.