February 10, 2026A new mural has been unveiled in the children’s ward at Northern Hospital Epping, bringing a burst of colour and warmth to a space that can often feel daunting for young patients and their families.
The large-scale artwork, filled with vivid colours and playful imagery, has been designed to lift spirits and create a more welcoming environment for children receiving care. Spanning a prominent wall in the ward, the mural transforms the clinical setting into one that feels more hopeful, imaginative and comforting.
The mural is already making a noticeable difference, helping to reduce anxiety and bring a smile to the children’s face, helping to change the mood of the space the moment they walk in.
The project was made possible through the generous support of Northern Health Foundation, along with dedicated community groups, Amici Clothing, St Francis of Assisi Primary School, Lions Club Reservoir, as well as our Workplace Givers whose ongoing contributions help fund initiatives that improve patient wellbeing beyond clinical care.
The Foundation said the mural reflects a broader commitment to creating healing environments for patients of all ages, particularly children, who may spend extended periods in hospital.
“Art has a powerful role in health care, and the artist has done a fantastic job in bringing this to life,” Kim Berger, Community Engagement Coordinator, Northern Health Foundation, said. “It helps to comfort, distract, and uplift. This mural is a way of saying to the young patients that they are supported, cared for and surrounded by positivity.”
For families navigating what can be a stressful and emotional time, the mural also offers a welcome distraction and a moment of brightness. Parents have described the artwork as calming and engaging, helping to spark conversations and imagination during hospital stays.
Community supporters and Workplace Givers were also acknowledged for their role in bringing the project to life, with hospital leaders emphasising that employee generosity directly supports meaningful improvements to patient spaces.
“This mural is a visible reminder of what community support can achieve,” Kim Berger said. “It’s not just paint on a wall, it’s an investment in comfort, joy and healing.”
“Workplace Giving also has an incredible impact on our health service. It allows staff to give back, and see these projects come to life. It benefits not only our patients, but our staff and visitors too. It has such a tremendous role to play at Northern Health, and I strongly encourage more staff to join the program.”
As the mural continues to brighten the children’s ward, Northern Health Foundation hopes it will leave a lasting impression on the young patients who pass through its doors, reminding them they are not alone on their journey to recovery.
The Foundation thanks its dedicated community groups, supporters, and Workplace Givers for their contributions in making this possible.
If you would like to make a donation to the Foundation, or sign up to become a Workplace Giver and see more projects like this come to life, please get in touch with the team at Northern Health Foundation at foundation@nh.org.au.
