Uniforms that Build Care and Connection in Remote Australia
“It’s crucial that our patients feel safe and secure, allowing us to work together to support their health and well-being. Our uniforms, featuring First Nations artwork, play an integral role in fostering this connection quickly and meaningfully.”
Background
At the far reaches of the East Kimberley, the Kununurra Rural Clinical School stands as one of the most remote medical training hubs in Australia. Each year, four student doctors spend a year living, learning, and working in this extraordinary community - gaining hands-on experience across local hospitals, Aboriginal Medical Services, and remote outreach.
Services
Uniform Redesign
Custom Artwork Uniforms
- Polo Shirts
- Scrub Tops
Community Engagement Strategy
Brief For Uniform Solution
Kununurra needed a uniform that would reflect the spirit of the Kimberley and help their team form meaningful connections in the community. They selected a mix of scrubs and polos, ensuring the entire team could wear the design proudly and feel included.
After exploring several designs, the team selected Wurung (Branches) by emerging Wiradjuri artist Amy Kilby. The vibrant artwork symbolises strength, resilience, and growth - values that mirror the school’s mission of care and collaboration.
Custom Artwork Selection
Wurung symbolises connection, strength, and resilience - qualities deeply valued in the Kununurra community and essential in the delivery of remote healthcare. The branching lines mirror the intertwined paths of patients, communities, and caregivers, and beautifully echo the journeys students take through rural placements.
The organic shapes and grounding tones feel at home in the vast Kimberley landscape, creating a meaningful visual link between the team, their environment, and the communities they serve.
“We ultimately chose a design that can be used across all our uniform types and truly reflects the unique beauty of the Kimberley region where we work and live!”
Team & Community Response
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Staff and students feel proud and professional, and patients frequently comment on the beautiful designs.
As part of their uniform sponsorship, the team had the opportunity to take part in a photoshoot - an experience that brought everyone together, celebrating their new look and the shared values it represents.
“We love working together, and now we look like a smart, cohesive team. Our patients love them too - and often compliment us!”
The uniforms regularly spark curiosity and conversation, with patients and staff often asking about the story and cultural meaning behind the design. They have become more than just functional garments; they are symbols of connection, Culture, and pride.
“Everyone at the hospital loves our uniforms - so much so that many want one for themselves!”
First Nations Artwork and NAIDOC Uniforms
At Kununurra, uniforms featuring First Nations artwork are a daily symbol of respect and pride.
During NAIDOC Week, staff and students celebrate the history, Culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people - wearing 2025 NAIDOC designs that reinforce their commitment to reconciliation. In a region where many patients are First Nations Australians, these uniforms help foster trust, safety, and belonging from the first meeting.
“We proudly celebrate the history and culture of First Nations people, creating an opportunity for our students and staff, as both First Nations and non-First Nations people to come together as teachers and learners.”
Through our Team Threads initiative, we’re proud to support small teams doing incredible work in their communities - using uniform design as a symbol to spark connection and create real impact.
Advice for Uniform Refresh
The Kununurra Rural Clinical School’s experience shows how thoughtful, culturally respectful uniform design can create real impact - from uniting a team to building connections with communities.
By proudly wearing Wurung (Branches), the team celebrates their commitment to care, Culture, and Country - every single day.
“We ultimately chose a design that can be used across all our uniform types and truly reflects the unique beauty of the Kimberley region where we work and live!”
- Mistie Purdy
