The fence of the Purple House Dialysis Clinic on Coober Pedy’s main street has been transformed into a vibrant celebration of local culture and community, thanks to the enthusiastic involvement of local groups and support from BHP.
Purple House, with funding from BHP, invited community members to help uplift the clinic’s outdoor space by planting a native garden and decorating the fence. The result is a colourful and joyful display of artworks that reflect the stories, spirit, and identity of Coober Pedy.
The project marks a special milestone for the Purple House Coober Pedy Clinic, which turned one in June and has already delivered over 408 dialysis treatments to patients who have been able to return home to receive dialysis.
“With the clinic sitting right in the heart of town, we saw an opportunity to bring the community together to make something beautiful and uniquely Coober Pedy,” said Sarah Brown, Purple House CEO. “This project shows what can happen when community is at the centre of care.”
Thirteen community groups participated in the project, producing 18 paintings that now form part of the clinic’s colourful fence. As a thank you, each group received a gift voucher – a gesture that’s already had a big impact. The Little Gems Childcare Centre shared that they plan to use their voucher to buy much-needed toys for their children.
The artwork was officially unveiled at a community launch event on Thursday night, with a barbecue and sales of traditional bush medicine products rounding out the celebrations.
Everyone who came was proud of what they’d created together. The fence now tells the story of the town – full of life, colour, and connection.
Purple House extends a heartfelt thank you to all the groups who took part, BHP for their generous support, and the Coober Pedy community for embracing the project so wholeheartedly.
