20 Years of the VICS: Commemorative artwork
In 2025, the VICS are celebrating 20 years as Victoria’s cancer service improvement network. To mark the occasion, we commissioned a new artwork by Victorian Aboriginal artist Vegas Fitzmaurice.
Vegas previously painted ‘Hope and Connection – Bunjil’ for our work relating to implementation of the Optimal Care Pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with cancer.
Vegas’ new artwork, ‘Healing Journeys’ – shown below – is a tribute to the strength, courage, and hope that flow through Victoria’s landscapes and its people. Painted from a bird’s-eye view, the artwork follows the journey from the deep blue waters of the bay to the life-giving Murray River, honouring the land as both guide and healer.
'Healing Journeys' by Vegas Fitzmaurice
The winding footprints represent safe passage – a pathway of care, research, and healing walked together. Each step symbolises the journey of those affected by cancer, supported by the tireless efforts of community, carers, and medical teams.
The flowing patterns and vibrant colours reflect the resilience and interconnectedness of life: the rivers and waterways breathing life and carrying stories, the flowering plants offering renewal and hope, and the circular meeting places encouraging connection and community and signifying knowledge and strength.
Created to mark a commemorative anniversary for Victorian Integrated Cancer Services of 20 years (there are 20 meeting places featured in this piece), this painting acknowledges the profound impact of research, innovation, and compassion in shaping safe and hopeful healing pathways. It is both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the shared journey toward a future of improved wellbeing and recovery for all.
The VICS would like to thank Vegas for another beautiful and thoughtful piece.
Please note this work is not to be reproduced or shared without permission from the VICS.
