The Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct (RHIP) team staged a free creative festival in early April, connecting the campus and wider Randwick area as part of the Heart of Randwick initiative, proudly funded by the NSW Government.
‘Creative Night’ brought locals together to feast, play and create, supporting community connection, wellbeing and night-time vibrancy for thousands of local workers, patients, residents, students and businesses. The event was a taste of what’s to come in Randwick as major redevelopment projects on the hospitals campus near completion.
The heritage quarter on the hospitals campus was transformed into a vibrant night market, with special offers for health workers. Amongst the many food, clothing and craft stalls, Health Science activations for kids were also a hit with a special Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre stall and roving mascot.
A short walk to either Inglis Park or The Spot offered live music and free creative workshops that brought members of the community together and provided a showcase of local talent and expertise.
Gujaga Foundation hosted shell art and weaving workshops led by celebrated local artists and designers, while artist Nadia Odlum gave a glimpse of her artwork commissioned for the new Sydney Children’s Hospital building in a workshop that got both the kids and grown-ups moving.
NIDA Open offered free group improvisation classes that broke the ice with some fun, and crafter Susie Rugg turned you into a star at The Ritz Cinemas. A community canvas project, led by expertise from Black Dog Institute and Mindgardens, with the support of creatives from Muralisto, created a space for reflection, and the team from the future UNSW Health Translation Hub exhibition space provided a special glimpse of interactive STEM experiences through virtual reality fun.
The many experiences and activities on offer were embraced by community members, students and hospital staff, and the event marked a creative start to what will be an exciting year for our precinct community.
Register your interest at www.heartofrandwick.com for future event announcements. Published April 2025