The project is called Djarmbi which means friend, features dingos. The dingo is a very important part of indigenous culture. They have been known historically as aboriginal people's best friends because they would accompany them when hunting and protect them at night while they were sleeping.
Toni Mason, Manager of the Aboriginal Health Unit said, "The art project came about because we were able to receive some funding from the Department of Health and Human Services. We wanted to do something that wasn’t about delivering a resource and training. But something we could give back to staff and patients and make them feel welcome here."
Up to 28 patients a day, both from the metropolitan and rural areas of Victoria receive specialised treatment at the Cancer Centre Day Unit.
Cancer Centre Nurse Unit Manager, Jessica Watmore-Tanner said, "The installation provides a nice refreshing look and helps to brighten up the time our patients spend in the Cancer Centre."
Patient Cedric Wilson who has regular treatments at the Centre was particularly impressed by the new art installation. "It’s brilliant, so colourful and so well done. I like that it’s so different, it’s a great addition," Cedric said.
