Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Northern NSW helpers will now stand out in a crowd, thanks to Newcastle Aboriginal artist Saretta Fielding.
The proud Wonnarua woman has created the organisation’s new volunteer uniforms, to be donned by more than 400 people.
The artwork also shares the RMHC Northern NSW story in traditional symbolism and contemporary design.
CEO Ross Bingham said the exciting initiative, made possible by the support of Robson Civil Projects, was a terrific means to recognise the not-for-profit’s amazing volunteers.
“They truly are the heart of RMHC, helping to give families an oasis of comfort in a sea of chaos,” he explained.
“To us, they play such an important role.
“Each year about 700 families call Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle their ‘home away from home’ so they can stay near their child in hospital.
“It’s a similar story in our Family Rooms outside the J1 Children’s Ward and in the NICU, where our volunteers are the welcoming face for more than 17,000 people annually.
“As a workplace that respects diversity and inclusion, the uniforms have been designed with much thought by Saretta.
“And, she’s done a fantastic job.
“I believe it’s a magnificent way of connecting with the Indigenous community as well.”
Ms Fielding said she loved being part of the creative journey.
“I’ve worked on a few projects with RMHC Northern NSW,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“They are such a brilliant organisation.
“In my artwork, I aim to evoke emotion, enhance connection to spirit and country, and invite the viewer to ponder and experience something new.”
And, through her concept, the uniform tells a beautiful story of Maroong – Good Place.
“Interwoven designs depicting people, country and homes are reflective of the operations of Ronald McDonald House Charities across the Northern NSW footprint on country and the wide variety of support and care services offered to children and their families,” she said.
“It’s also an opportunity to work towards reconciliation.”
Volunteer Carey Binks praised the new-look outfit.
“It’s a lovely gesture – and a uniform I’m proud to wear,” he said.
“There’s no better feeling than knowing you’ve made someone’s day just a little brighter.
“It is vital for people in that situation to have someone to simply listen, so if you can lend a sympathetic ear, this is a great way to do it and give something back to the community.”
Robson Civil Projects managing director Grant Robson said the company was thrilled to get behind RMHC Northern NSW again.
“We’ve provided funding to sponsor volunteers across Northern NSW, including a recruitment drive to rebuild the base heavily impacted by COVID-19, as well as the new uniforms,” he stated.
“At Robson, we see the value the wonderful helpers at Ronald McDonald House Charities bring.
“They contribute such invaluable support which helps keep families in need together with their unwell children.
“It was without hesitation that our business chose to assist such a great cause through funding for the growth of the volunteer network.”
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