I am deeply honored to announce that my photograph, “Fly with me,” has been selected as a featured work for the New Footscray Hospital.
Out of more than 256 entries from across Melbourne’s western suburbs, this image was chosen to be part of the hospital’s integrated public art and curatorial theme, “Of Place”. The initiative focuses on themes of connection to nature and wellbeing, seeking out artworks that provide a calming, restorative, and immersive environment for patients and visitors.
Competition Milestones
- Entries: Submissions for the competition opened on 15 August 2025 and closed on 15 October 2025.
- Hospital Opening: The new state-of-the-art facility officially opened its doors to patients in February 2026.
- Winners Announced: Selected works, including “Fly with me,” were celebrated at an awards ceremony in March 2026, shortly after the hospital’s opening.
The Story Behind the Shot: Altona Sand Spits
“Fly with me” captures a unique aerial perspective of the Altona Sand Spits (Laverton Creek Sandy Spit). This vital coastal conservation area acts as a significant roosting site for up to 19 migratory bird species traveling from as far as Alaska and Siberia.
The photo highlights the shallow, sandy “islands” that emerge at low tide—a phenomenon often referred to locally as “Insea Land”. To me, this landscape represents the quiet, powerful beauty of the west and the small moments in nature that help us breathe more slowly.
A Visual Legacy for Healing
Selected works from the competition will play a significant role in the new hospital by:
- Featuring in a permanent physical exhibition throughout the facility.
- Being displayed digitally on patient room screens to offer a sense of groundness and quiet beauty.
- Supporting a sense of cultural safety and connection for all hospital users.
It is incredibly rewarding to know that this image of such a special part of our world will now serve a greater purpose in helping others find peace and restoration during their time at the hospital.