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Hollywood Private Hospital pays tribute to Noongar culture with kodj display

Oct 09, 2021

A kodj (axe) takes pride of place at the hospital entrance to the new emergency department (ED) at Hollywood Private Hospital.

The kodj was created and gifted to Hollywood by Noongar elder Neville Collard JP during a traditional smoking and Welcome to Country ceremony held at the site of the ED to mark the start of construction last year.

Mr Collard said he was proud the kodj was displayed in such a prominent place at Hollywood.

“The Kodj, the stone axe, was used by Noongar for thousands of years to cut bark from trees, cutting up meat, defence and numerous other things,” Mr Collard said.

“The handle is made from the stem of the Balga bush (Australian Grass Tree), the resin is a combination of Balga resin, kangaroo goona and charcoal. These items are ground up and heated of a fire, then moulded together; it is a strong natural resin to hold the stone to the wood.

“It is very handy to have in your coda bag as you will always use it.”

Hollywood chief executive officer Peter Mott said it was an honour to receive the kodj gift.

“We have displayed the kodj in a glass cabinet at the main hospital corridor to acknowledge the continuing culture of the Whadjuk [Perth region] people,” Mr Mott said.

“We hope it will encourage staff and visitors to gain a greater appreciation and respect for the contribution Noongar people make to our life in Perth.”

Hollywood’s $67 million ED will be open to the public from Monday, November 1. It features six levels and three new wards.

Hollywood Private Hospital chief executive officer Peter Mott with Noongar elder Neville Collard and the kodji display.