About the artwork
Our Journey artwork description
The painting Our Journey represents how students are valued and supported at each phase of their student journey. Helping students with direction, values and aspirations towards their academic goals. The importance of family and culture creating emotional support, educational growth, cultural support and a nurturing environment for students to thrive in achieving their goals!
Commissioning the artwork
ACRRM commissioned Our Journey to reflect the College's enduring commitment to cultural safety, community-led care and the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices in rural medicine. The artwork, which contains distinct elements from both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, symbolises a shared journey of learning, healing and connection.
Endorsed by the ACRRM Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Members Group, Our Journey is proudly featured across College materials to visually represent the values that guide our work - connection to Country, cultural knowledge and the vital role of First Nations doctors in shaping a healthier future for rural, remote and First Nations communities. It also speaks to the importance of investing in the next generation, ensuring that emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals feel seen, supported and empowered.We are honoured to once again collaborate with Barngala artist Thomas Croft; the very first Aboriginal artist commissioned by the College to create artwork for the 2020 Rural Medicine Australia Conference (RMA20). While RMA20 could not proceed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas’ original artworks from that year now hang proudly in the College’s national office in Brisbane. Our Journey continues this valued partnership, weaving together stories of identity, support and aspiration.
About the artist
I was born in 1974 in Whyalla, South Australia and my traditional lines are from the Barngala clan. I lived in Katherine in the Northern Territory for 26 years and now reside in Newcastle, NSW. I paint stories such as “Shifting Sands” which depicts the formation and constant change of our country. I also paint other things which are culturally significant such as fire, water, sea animals, especially Numbadda (Whale) and the story of the Seven Sisters. My paintings are the interpretations of stories handed down by my elders past and present.
Thomas Croft
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
Reconciliation and ensuring all First Nations communities have access to the specialised high-quality healthcare they need, has run in the veins of ACRRM and its members since the College was founded more than 25 years ago.
This third RAP in the Innovate series builds on the relationships we have forged with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples across the College, broader organisations, and representational bodies.
Read our Innovate RAP and join us to make a real difference in the healthcare of First Nations communities across Australia.