The volunteers are the very heart of the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW; Reducing the impact for families with a seriously ill or injured child and keeping them together during the most stressful time in their lives.
Our volunteers come from different backgrounds, cultures and places (along with our families and supporters) – yet we all connect through one shared vision and purpose – to make a difference for families with a sick child. It’s with the support of Robson Civil Projects and in collaboration with Saretta Fielding of Saretta Art and Design that we are able to share the story of Ronald McDonald House Charities using traditional symbols in a contemporary design, share aboriginal culture and acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land/country.
The story of Maroong – Good Place
The design shares the story of Ronald McDonald House Charities, showing the footprint on country and acknowledging the collaboration and teamwork across all of the programs that are provided to support families with a sick or injured child.
The u shaped symbol represents people along with some circular stepping stones which flow up the design, pointing out the pathway taken by families and children as they are supported and cared for by Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW. It picks up the volunteers as the backbone and heart of the charity and that kindness and listening ear that creates a home away from home for families who need our support across the region.
The design also incorporates a home symbol with a family, or people symbol, gathering around the home at the center of the overall design. That is picking up those locations and the people that come together within those locations upon these journeys at the Ronald McDonald Houses and Family Rooms.
Another significant part of the design, the second home symbol, is representative of the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat in Forster, where families can come together and have fun, relax and reconnect.
The double bar symbols, representing elders, within the design holds a dual meaning. It is an acknowledgement of the traditional custodians of the land but it also highlights the Learning Program offering education support to children. Traditionally, Aboriginal Elders share knowledge with the youth and that imagery directly reflects the Learning Program.
Together the artwork is really celebrating the Maroong – good place RMHC Northern NSW provides to families across the Northern NSW area
The design will be featured on our new volunteer uniforms across the chapter.
“It is such a privilege to wear the new volunteer shirts and to meet Saretta and hear her story about the design on the shirt. A huge thanks to Robson Civil Projects for your support” said Jan, one of our volunteers.
