Maari Ma Wilcannia Clinic, Wilcannia, NSW, 2024
Located in Wilcannia, the historic river port on the Baaka/ Darling in far west NSW, troppo worked with the Maari Ma Aboriginal Health, the local community owned and operated health service to deliver a new purpose-built primary health facility in a natural setting on the river’s edge.
The Baaka is central to Barkintji Culture. Sited atop the banks of this ancestral waterway overlooking the historical weir. A place at which all community past and present have gathered to swim, fish and yarn for time immemorial.
Three elevated linked pavilions respecting the might of Baaka flood levels are scattered along the riverbank and maintain continuity for community access to the river. The centre’s site-planning reflects its areas of health management: Healthy Start (paediatrics), Keeping Well (clinic), and Nerve Centre (administration).
Zoned planning enables the facility to operate efficiently at all times, including during peaks and lulls. Community approach under the canopy of an ancient gum around which pavilions sit and embrace; as a centre piece, as a shady place of rest on arrival or departure. It too holds many stories including an embedded cable from the odd car engine change of yesteryear.
Dual entry verandahs and waiting areas assist cultural avoidance practices and provide operational zoning in use with flowing connection to the river.
Robust, durable, low maintenance, economic materials were pursued, Roof mounted PV systems assist in power offsets and operations in times of blackout. Roof water is captured and utilised both in the building and for landscape.