Narembeen Hospital

Statement of Significance

The Narembeen Memorial Hospital demonstrates an association with the community of Narembeen since its inception. The hospital represents the value and progress of the medical services in the Narembeen community. It demonstrates changing ways of life.

Physical Description

1929 McKay.-Hospital 1936 W Adams staff quarters 1962 PWD Maternity & extensions 1965 C Fogliani Laundry block. 1966 Staff quarters and ward extensions 1979 more extensions??

History

With the formation of the private town of Narembeen in 1923, the subsequent Roads Board in 1924, the influx of the population soon determined the need for a hospital. Bruce Rock hospital opened in 1920, and patients travelled from Narembeen to consult the doctor at the hospital. With the opening up of the land east of Narembeen the distances were even greater, and it became an important issue to obtain a Doctor and hospital in Narembeen. With the number of returned servicemen from the First World War, it was thought appropriate that a memorial take the form of the hospital. A building committee was formed and every organisation in the district devoted itself to raising money for the hospital. When the Narembeen Memorial Hospital opened in 1929, it was debt free. A ten member hospital board was established which included the town's first resident doctor, Dr Bryant Bladen. The Women's Auxiliary worked tirelessly to raise funds for the hospital. In 1932 a labor ward was constructed, and an x-ray unit, shadowless lamp, and heart table provided in 1933 by the Auxiliary. In 1930 women were voted onto the Hospital Board. The new staff quarters were officially opened by the Governor, Sir James Mitchell in 1937. After Dr Bladen left in 1937, it was difficult to obtain a permanent doctor or a hospital matron, and other staff problems were constant. As a result of continual lobbying to the Government, some funding was received for new staff accommodation to be constructed together with a renovation of the hospital in 1955. By 1959 the Board was desperate for a new maternity block, matron's quarters and services extensions. It was even suggested that a new hospital be constructed. The Medical Department prepared plans for the maternity wing, other extensions, and a complete re-roof of the hospital buildings. The ward extensions and staff quarters were opened by the Minister for Health, in 1962. Meanwhile it was considered that the issue of a residence was a factor in attracting a permanent doctor. In 1958 the Hospital Board urged the Roads Board to consider the construction of a Doctor's residence. A public meeting was called, with the result being a new residence being constructed for the Doctor in 1962. In 1962 Dr CAM Walkey took up practice in Narembeen, and stability and progress returned to Narembeen Memorial Hospital.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: Intact/redeemable Authenticity: Medium degree

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

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