The Department of Radiation Oncology’s corridors at Calvary Mater Newcastle have come to life thanks to a new mural installed in the department following Dry July funding.

Patients and staff are now greeted by a colourful and fun mural depicting local Newcastle scenes and landmarks, designed by talented local artist Mitch Revs. The mural is located in the corridor leading to the Zeus treatment unit and has brought joy and fun to the walls.

Karen Jovanovic, Chief Radiation Therapist, said, “Cancer diagnosis is a huge, life-changing event, causing much anxiety for our patients. It has long been recognised that the environment patients encounter while attending hospital or clinic for health-related appointments influences patients’ stress levels. Our staff try to alleviate patients’ anxiety in many ways, including making the physical environment more comfortable, rather than clinical, thereby helping the patient to have a positive experience.”

On the addition of this mural Karen comments, “Patients usually spend a few minutes seated waiting in the corridor prior to treatment and will therefore have a chance to look for details in the Newcastle scene. This mural is a fun distraction and a great talking point that we hope will help improve the patient experience.”