The research for this article was was undertaken over many years by Barbara Gurney and Ruth Davis of Gulgong. It paints a detailed picture of the creation and running of the new brick hospital that replaced the termite-ridden goldfields hospital in use since 1871.

1900______________

Gulgong Advertiser - Friday, March 9th 1900

Gulgong Hospital - The Chairman announced that the special vote of £300 had been received. He said the Committee were slow and suggested calling for competitive designs for the new building. He read a letter from Mr. E. Richards, M.P who suggested that the laying of the foundation stone of the new building be marked by a ‘shivoo’ to which the Ministry could be invited. He thought this good advice.

Mr. L.G. Rouse moved the following motion: ‘That tenders be called for the erection of a 5 foot 6 inch paling fence around the new sight; that plans and specifications for a new building to cost £1,500 be invited in the columns of the HERALD and TELEGRAPH, the successful architect to receive £20; and that a sub-committee consisting of Messrs. R. Rouse, Jnr., H. D Voss, Rev. F. E. Haviland, Rev. M. Long, Dr. McCreadie and A. P. Lambert be appointed to choose the actual site and supply all necessary information to the tenderers and competitors.’ Seconded by Mr. Croft and carried.

[NOTE: Rose O’Keefe was the Matron, previous matrons were Matron Raleigh, who came after the death of Julia M. Burke. Doctors were Bennett, Busby and McCreadie.]

Gulgong Advertiser - April 13th 1900

Miss May Murn who has been cook at the Gulgong Hospital for the past twelve months is enjoying a hard-earned holiday. Miss Ethel Murn takes her place.

Gulgong Advertiser - Friday May 11th 1900

Gulgong Hospital - The Committee of management met in the Council Chambers on Friday evening last. Present: Messrs. W. Fletcher, [in the chair], A. Lambert. H. Voss, Rev. F. E. Haviland. Rev. M. Long, E. Brown, C. A. Russell, A Croft, W. Watt, Dr. McCreadie, R. Heard and A. Brigden.

The sub-committee appointed to select three of the most suitable plans for the new building, reported that at their first meeting they had selected seven plans out of twenty-six. These had been cut down to three, these were presented to the meeting.

The sub-committee were almost unanimously in favour of a plan submitted by Mr. A. Cooper Day. The cost of this building was £1,800, but this could be considerably reduced in the alteration of material in the covered way between the kitchen and the main building; in the material for flooring; and in the construction of the infectious ward.

The plan having been approved of, Mr. Croft moved, Mr. Heard seconded, that the plan of Mr. M. Cooper Day be accepted, subject to the alterations suggested by the sub-committee and subject to the endorsement of the Chief Government Medical Officer, carried.

1901______________

Gulgong Advertiser - February 8th 1901

The first meeting of the newly elected committee of management of the Gulgong Hospital was held in the Council Chambers on Friday, those present: Messrs R Rouse jnr [Chairman] L G Rouse, H Voss, A Lambert, W. Watt, R W Heard, J Tuxford, T West, C Russell, W Fletcher, Revs. M Long, F E Haviland and A Doig. Mrs Cummins asked for an increase in payment for washing, this was increase to 5/- per day. Matron’s report for January: Patients remaining from December 7; admitted January 16, discharged 13; 8 remaining; Out patients 7 treated, with 38 attendances. Four operations performed three being by the use of chloroform.

Tenders:

Groceries—C Russell
Bread—Peters & Bellette bread 2d per loaf
Wood—R Whitty 16/- cord
Meat—W Watt beef 3d, mutton 2d
Funerals—S Campton £1.12.6.
Officer bearers:
President—R Rouse Jnr
Vice president—E M Bowman
Treasure—H D Voss
Secretary—A P Lambert
Medical Officers: Dr JLM McCreadie
Matron—Miss R O’Keefe
Nurse—Mrs J Naughton
Cook—Miss Cicognani
Ward boy—Mr H Pack

Gulgong Advertiser - April 10th 1901

It has been decided to entertain the Premier and party at a luncheon on the occasion of their visit. Tickets are now ready—five shillings each.

The laying of the foundation stone of the hew Hospital should be a brilliant function. Mr Acton supplies the stone free of cost. A silver trowel and mallet will be present to the Premier.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 10th 1901

Gulgong Hospital - A letter from Mr. E. Richards, M. L. A., intimating that the Hon. John See, Premier, would lay the foundation stone of the new building on May 18th. The party will leave Mudgee at about 10 a.m. and return in time to catch the evening train. It would be necessary to meet them with vehicles and convey them to Gulgong and back.

Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr. [Chairman] stated that he would be pleased to do his part of the work. He had spoken to Mr. Bowman and he would interview Mr. Buckland with a view of securing assistance from him.

Mr. C. R. Young said that they would require a mallet and trowel.

Mr. West moved, Mr. Heard seconded that the party be entertained at luncheon - tickets to be five shillings each. Carried.

Messrs Young, R. Rouse, Jnr., Mr Voss and Mr. Lambert were appointed a sub-committee to carry out arrangements.

At its meeting on Tuesday evening the Hospital Committee granted an increase in the Matron’s salary from £50 to £60, the lady deserves it.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 10th 1901

Town Hall - Gulgong Wednesday, May 15th

Plain and Fancy Dress BALL

Proceeds to aid the Gulgong Hospital

Ladies 2s - Gents 3s

J R FLETCHER}

Hon F. W. SCOTT } Sec.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 17th 1901

The Premier’s Visit

The Hon. John See, Premier and party will leave Mudgee tomorrow morning at about 9.30am. They will come to Gulgong via Menah and Wilbertree. At Broad Oak they will be met by a large cortege of townspeople, headed by the Band, will be driven to Gulgong where the party will be officially received by His Worship the Mayor and Aldermen. Promptly at 1pm they will be entertained at a complimentary luncheon in the Town Hall.

After the luncheon the party will be driven to the new Hospital building where the foundation stone will be laid by the Premier. The arrangements are in the right hands Messrs R. Rouse jnr., C. R. Young, H.D. Voss, and A. P. Lambert being the reception committee. No stone will be left unturned to make the visit a pleasing one. It only remains for the townspeople and the residents of the district to do their part and the clerk of the weather to give us fine weather.

Gulgong Advertiser - Friday May 24th 1901

LAYING the STONE -The Ministerial Visit
The Premier Can’t Come but sends a Good Lieutenant
The Reception, The Luncheon, The Government Programme
The Stone Well and Truly Laid - Near £20 Collected - A Great Success

The weather on Saturday last was all that could be desired for the carrying out of the important function of laying the foundation stone of the new Hospital at Gulgong.

At an early hour the various places of business in town were decorated with flags and bunting. Two lines of flags and streamers were stretched across Mayne Street - one from Mr. Dando’s shop to the Commercial Warehouse and one from the Prince of Wales Hotel to the Commercial Warehouse. Thus the town presented a very gay appearance.

The Committee entrusted all with arrangements had been hard at work all the week, so that when the critical time actually arrived nothing was left undone.

We think that the thanks of the whole community are to Messrs. R. Rouse [Mayor] R. Rouse, Jnr. [Chairman of the Hospital Committee] C. R. Young, H. D. Voss and A. P. Lambert [Secretary] for the perfect manner in which they arranged matters in connection with the Ministerial visit.

They spared no trouble whatever, and the result of the visit must be very pleasing to the above-named gentlemen. Each of them had a hard task allotted to him.

At 9.30am on Saturday the Secretary received a wire from Mr. E. Richards, M. P. to the effect that the Premier, the Hon. John See, could not attend. Even this ominous intelligence did not damp the indefatigable ardour of this handful of workers.

At 10am. the Gulgong Band mounted the great Silver Dust wagon of the Commercial Warehouse. This vehicle is the best we have seen for the purpose for which it was used. It was drawn by five strapping horses, caparisoned in harness and trappings of which reflected the clear sun rays in a thousand directions. The Band and a number of vehicles drove out to Broad Oak and there awaited the approach of the party. At 11am, the vehicles hove in sight. One was driven by Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr., one by Mr. A. R. Young and one by the Hon. G.H. Cox. When they reached the spot where the vehicles from the town were drawn up the Band struck up ‘Rule Britannia’ and off went the whole party—quite a respectable procession. They came along Mayne Street, down Herbert Street, along Belmore Street, Medley Street into Mayne Street, then into Herbert Street to the Town Hall.

At the Commercial Corner the assembled multitude gave three hearty sheers for the party. Arriving at the Town Hall the visitors were officially welcomed by the Mayor and Aldermen.

The party consisted of the Hon R. G. D. Fitzgerald [Minister of Justice] the Hon. G. H. Cox, Major Ferris, M.L.A, Mr. D. O’Connor, M.L.A, and Mr. E. Richards, M.L.A.

The Mayor said that he was pleased to see the visitors arrive so early. He was sorry to find that the Premier was unavoidably detained but he had sent a good lieutenant in the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald, who no doubt was armed with full instructions from Mr. See. In the name of the Municipal Council and on behalf of the people he heartily welcomed the visitors to the district.

The Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald replied. He was surprised and delighted at the cordial reception that had been accorded to him and his party. The Ministry were a hard worked body but they could find time to appreciate the kindness which had been shown to the representatives of the Government that day. He apologised for the absence of the Premier, which was due to the fact that their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of York had decided to travel by rail to Brisbane and of course during their journey through the state, and would be in charge of the Prime Minister of the State. He trusted, however, that the function to take part in which the party had journeyed to the district would be carried out to the entire satisfaction of the people.

The party were then conducted to Mrs. Young’s Hotel by the Committee where they washed down some of the dust from their drive from Mudgee.

Mr. E. Richards, M. P. on being interviewed by our reporter, stated that the unexpected call of the Premier to Albury had ‘knocked him out’ and although he had not received the intimation until Friday afternoon he had managed to get a good party together before the train stated.

Premier’s letter as follows:

Chief Secretary’s Office,
Sydney,
May 17, 1901.
My Dear Mr. Richards,
I very much regret that owing to extreme pressure of public business, mainly through the near approach of the Duke of Cornwall and York’s arrival in Sydney, I shall not be able to visit Gulgong as I promised to do, to lay the Foundation Stone of the new Hospital.
My Colleague, the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald, Minister of Justice will attend in my place and carry out the various fixtures arranged for the occasion.
Wishing that fine weather will obtain and a good attendance at the ceremony.
I remain, yours sincerely, JOHN SEE
E. Richards, Esq., M.P., etc.

Promptly at 1pm. The party were conducted to luncheon, which was laid out in the Town Hall. The perfect arrangements were laid out by Mr. W. [M. Blunt, host of the Post Office Hotel. The decorations were charmingly carried out by Miss Snelson, who’s reputation guarantees an artistic elegance. Mr. R. Rouse personally supervised the seating arrangements. The Mayor occupied the chair, the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald and the Hon. G.D. Cox were seated on his right and Mr. D. O’Connor, M.L.A and Mr. E. Richards, M.L.A occupied seats to the left of the Chairman. Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr., occupied he vice-chair and Major Ferris, M.L.A was placed on his right. About fifty people sat down to luncheon. Many visitors were present, among who we noticed, Messrs. C. D. Meares. H.A. Lowe, J. H. McEwen, C. M. Lowe, J. E. Ryan, J. Ryan and others.

The press was represented by Mr. Coleman [Australian Star], Mr. P. Garling [Post] Mr. D. Richards [Guardian] and Mr. J. Longmuir [Liberal].

The Chairman proposed the toast to ‘the King’ and the ‘State Ministry.’ Everyone regretted that Mr. See was unable to attend.

The Hon. R. D. Fitzgerald replied, he was sorry that the chairman thought he had received full instruction of what to do from his chief, he would like to come to Gulgong again

[Note: These were long political speeches not relevant, everyone had a go.]

The Luncheon over the guests wended their way to the new Hospital site.

Here Mr. R. Rouse, Jnr., occupied the chair and on the platform the visitors were accommodated with seats. Aloft floated the Union Jack and the flag of New South Wales. Everything was in readiness.

The Chairman said that they were called to witness a very important ceremony—the laying of the foundation stone of the new building which would, when completed, not only afford greater facilities for carrying on the good work but would be an ornament and a credit to the town and district.

They had started the building with £1500 in hand but this sum would be insufficient to open it free of debt. They had arranged for the Premier to lay the stone but he was unable to be present. He therefore called upon the Hon. R.G.D. Fitzgerald to perform that ceremony.

Mr. Fitzgerald handled the beautifully embossed trowel like a master mason. He landed the white freestone [a gift from Mr. A. B. Acton] knocked it into position, slapped on the mortar and declared ‘that the foundation stone of the Gulgong District Hospital is well and truly laid.’

He said that it afforded him great pleasure to come among them. This was no ordinary occasion in the history of the district. The Empire was very proud of its hospitals and justly so.

Wherever the Briton settled down the first public duty that claimed his attention was the hospital. There were institutions where the suffering and afflicted could receive the highest medical, surgical and nursing comfort which the benevolent societies did not give. But there must be voluntary subscriptions to keep the hospitals going. The extent of the Government endowment depended upon the amount subscribed by the people. He hoped they would all contribute according to their means because the Government could not be expected to find all the money.

The party left for Mudgee via Guntawang and Cullenbone immediately after the address was delivered.

The Hospital Committee has an unenviable reputation for keeping aloof from all movements connected with the betterment of the funds of the Institution and speaking of the body generally, they fully upheld their reputation in the present case. Some thought a collection should have been taken up on the ground - this is the work of the Committee Management of the Hospital solely not by the Committee of gentlemen who carried out the reception and entertaining.

Gulgong Advertiser - March 22nd 1901

Miss Tess McDonough has been appointed probationer nurse at the Gulgong Hospital.

Miss Leila Campbell take the position of cook in the same institution.

The question of laying the foundation stone of the new Gulgong Hospital is still undecided. The statesmen are all too busy and it looks as if the function will have to be abandoned.

The ward boy at the local Hospital has developed typhoid fever and Master Harry Hartley has been appointed instead.

Gulgong Advertiser - June 7th 1901

THE NEW HOSPITAL - Messrs Murphy Brothers, the contractors of the new Hospital building, are making good progress with the work. The kitchen has its roof on and the wall of the building itself are rapidly ascending. When finished the building will be a credit to the district.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 5th 1901

THE NEW HOSPITAL - The edifice is now being put into shape. The brick walls are getting higher every day and it will not be long before the carpenters are busy at their part of the work.

Gulgong Advertiser - August 9th 1901

Gulgong Hospital - The Secretary stated that the Building Committee had approved of an advance of £200 to Messrs Murphy Brothers. This was endorsed on a motion by Messrs Croft and Watt.

Gulgong Advertiser - August 30th 1901

The New Hospital - At a special meeting the Chairman reported that as soon as the roof was on the new building it was necessary to insure and that Mr C. R. Young had generously given a policy for £1000 free. The matter of skylights was brought up for discussion, when it was decided to adhere to the specifications. The building committee was empowered to deal with the erection of a picket fence, the cost not to exceed £34.10s.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 13th 1901

The architect of the new Hospital, Mr. M. Cooper Day, paid a visit of inspection to the building this week, when he found that the specifications were being carried out in a first-class manner. The brickwork and roofing being completed the plasterers are now at work.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 20th 1901

Gulgong Hospital - A proposal from the Acetylene Gas. Co., to light the new building with gas was referred to the Building Committee.

Gulgong Advertiser - October 4th 1901

Gulgong Hospital - At a special meeting of the Committee Management, the Secretary produced plans of a scheme for lighting the new building with acetylene gas by means of the ‘Sun’ generator. The cost of the installation would be £50.

The Building Committee recommended the installation as it would prove to be a saving eventually, notwithstanding the heavy initial expenses, on motion this was adopted.

The question of special Hospital beds was left till the next meeting.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 1st 1901

Gulgong Hospital - Matron O’Keefe has resigned the charge of the Gulgong Hospital and the Committee are advertising for applicants for the position at a remuneration of £60 per year.

The new Hospital was a blaze of light on Monday evening when Mr O’Brien of the Acetylene Gas Company turned on the installment. The light fully justifies the Committee in arranging for the installment.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 1st 1901

The Secretary of the Gulgong Hospital stated that by the will of the late Mr Margozzini the Hospital came into possession of a block of land near People’s Park - it was decided to lease the land for 12 months.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 8th 1901

The report of the Visiting committee showed that Mrs B. J. Naughton and Miss Murn had been engaged in lieu of the Matron and Miss McDonough, the later should soon be fit to return to work. Mrs Naughton to be in charge until the appointment of a new Matron.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 25th 1901

Nurse E.H. Gilroy of Bathurst, has been appointed Matron of the Gulgong Hospital and will take up her duties next month. Before leaving the service of the Bathurst Hospital Nurse Gilroy was presented with a handsome silver tea pot by the matron, Miss Hulme.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 29th 1901

Miss Gilroy of Bathurst has been appointed as Matron of the Gulgong Hospital and will take up her duties next month. Miss Rose O’Keefe has been appointed Matron of the Wee Waa District Hospital.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 6th 1901

Hospital Items - A special meeting of the Hospital Committee held last Friday evening, a further sum of £150 to the contractors was passed for payment. For the erection of a building to cover the Generator, Messrs Murphy Brothers offer of £7 was accepted.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 20th 1901

Messrs Murphy Brothers will complete the new Hospital this month. The institution should be opened early January.

1902______________

Gulgong Advertiser - January 3rd 1902

Miss Gilroy, Matron of the Gulgong Hospital requires a sewing machine for the institution, in order to make-up the bed linen for the new building.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 7th 1902

Annual Hospital Meeting held on Tuesday, February 4th, at the Council Chambers, R. Rouse, Jnr., in the chair.

The Staff: In October Miss O’Keefe resigned her position as Matron and Miss E. H. Gilroy was appointed. Miss Teresa McDonough resigned as probationer nurse, Miss Elsie De Boos has been appointed to this position. Dr. J. L. M. McCreadie is the Medical Office.

NEW BUILDING: The new building is almost completed and will be ready for occupation in a month. The Committee points out that when the new building is occupied a greater expense will necessarily be incurred. We appeal again for support.

The following office bearers were elected:

Trustees: Messrs R. Rouse, R. Rouse Jnr. And C. R. Young.

Committee: Messrs R. Rouse, Jnr., T. J. Wade, J. Miller, L. G. Rouse, W. Watt, T. H. West, C. A. Russell, W. Fletcher, A. Croft, J. Judge, J. Tuxford, Revs. M. Long, A. J. Doig and F. E. Haviland.

A vote of thanks was given to the Secretary A. P. Lambert by Mr Heard.

Treasurer: T.J. Wade.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 14th 1902

Gulgong Hospital - Mr. Croft moved, seconded Mr Muller that Mr. E. Richards M.L.A be approached asking him if the Hon. John See, could open the new building.

Messrs Tuxford, Russell and Dr. McCreadie were appointed a committee with power to furnish the new building.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 28th 1902

THE NEW HOSPITAL - On Saturday March 8th, the Premier, the Hon. John See will open the Gulgong Hospital. Three years ago the collection of funds for a new building were taken up seriously by the Committee of Management. The manner in which the public subscribed is deserving of the highest approbation - it literally poured in.

But the district had no hope of raising the necessary £2000 unless the State Treasury came to its assistance. The question ‘drawing the milk’ from the State Cow was left in the hands of Mr E. Richards, M.L.A.

That he is an accomplished milker is shown by the fact that he secured nearly £1400 from the Government for the purpose. George Reid promised a 3 to £1 subsidy in his usual casual way.

The Committee of Management are enabled to open the building ABSOLUTELY FREE OF DEBT.

Nor is that all, the Trustees of the old building and site will not hand it over to the State as requested by the authorities. That legally and morally belongs to the people of Gulgong. They erected ALL the buildings upon it without State assistance in the days when gold was more plentiful than water has been since the opening of the present year.

Roughly, we should assess the value of the old Hospital at £200 to £300.

With this sum in hand the Committee of management have a particularly rosy view before them—so highly tinted that we hope to hear of tenders being shortly called for the erection of the infectious ward. The good work of the collectors, the contractors, building committee and the Secretary will receive mention in our report of the opening proceedings.

We congratulate the people of the Gulgong District upon the building and its appurtenances for it is a credit to the district.

Gulgong Advertiser - March 7th 1902

THE PREMIER NOT COMING

The committee appointed to arrange the reception of the Premier and party at the opening of the Gulgong Hospital had an arduous task in front of them. It was found that the luncheon could not be obtained under 7/6/ or 10/- per head. And that these prices were too high for the majority of those who would otherwise have contributed by their presence. The trouble arose from the fact that the protracted drought would keep away the stock owners of the district, because all of them are busy all day long and every day driving their famishing stock to water. In fact the awful drought has thrown a pall over every public movement. Under these circumstances the Committee were hastily consulted on Saturday morning when it was decided to wire Mr Richards to the effect that the opening of the new Hospital was postponed. We certainly consider the step to be a judicious one.

Gulgong Advertiser - April 18th 1902

The new Hospital which is now complete in every respect will shortly be opened.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 9th 1902

Miss Morgan, nurse has now settled down at her work at the local hospital.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 16th 1902

GULGONG HOSPITAL - It has been found necessary, owing to the large number of patients admitted, that the services of a night nurse has been secured. Nurse Morgan has commenced duties.

All patients were removed to the new Hospital on Saturday, May 3rd.

The Rev. F. E Haviland kindly placing his horse and buggy at the service of the Committee for this purpose, the Committee tender him their sincere thanks.

Too much praise cannot be given to the Rev. gentleman for the very active part he has taken at all time in the interest of all connected with the Hospital.

Dr. Thomas Wright has arrived in town too, so we now have three doctors after the death of Dr. Bennett.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 23rd 1902

THE HOSPITAL - The new hospital is now a complete institution. The building is splendidly built and the contractors [Messrs Murphy Brothers] are to be congratulated on the excellency of their work. What a difference to the old building? The latter is an old ant-eaten concern and fit only for burning purposes. It however, has done grand work for many years and only for it, what a number of patients would have suffered hardships? The old must go and make way for the new.

Now we have a most modern, up-to-date building, complete in nearly every way. There is an excellent nursing staff, matron, nurse and probationer, each whom perform her work to the satisfaction of the committee and patients. The medical staff is also of the highest.

Gulgong can well be proud of this latest haven of comfort for the afflicted. We would like to see a telephone connected to the new building, with the medical offer’s residence and we could then say everything was complete.

When the official opening of the hospital takes place, we hope to see everyone in the district rally round and pay up handsomely so as to have a hand in one of the genuine works of charity in this district.

Gulgong Advertiser - June 6th 1902

Our Hospital - It is the intention of the committee of the new Hospital to have an official opening of the new building when it rains. This is a very vague reason - by the appearance of the weather for the past few months we are beginning to imagine the we will never see the gutters running again and the water pouring into the domestic tanks.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 1st 1902

The opening day of the Gulgong Hospital should be a red-letter day in our town. To commemorate the event a roast bullock should be amongst the items. The building is beautiful and Contractors Murphy are to be commended.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 4th 1902

The opening day of the Gulgong Hospital should be a red-letter day in our town. To commemorate the event a roast bullock should be among the items. The building is a beautiful structure and speaks well for the town and district people.

The following attended the monthly meeting of the Gulgong Hospital - Messrs R Rouse jnr. [chair], AP Lambert, TH West, Dr McCreadie, J Tuxford, W Fletcher, J Muller, PJ Wade, CR Young and J Mahoney and the Revs. M Long, A J Doig and FE Haviland.

The new hospital completed but the old one has not been removed.

The Rev Haviland & TH West - motion - that the private ward should be abolished - his reasons - 1. That the ward was only used twice in the old building for the past ten years. 2. That the matron instead of being in the back room where she could not have the ward thoroughly under her notice, should have a bedroom situated near the main wards. 4/3

Tenders are to be called for the erection of a new wash house.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 11th 1902

Gulgong Hospital - A letter from Mr. Richards MLA stating he concurred with the proposal of the Committee to have the formal opening of the new hospital after the district has received a good shower of rain.

The matron reported that at the end of last month there were 6 male patients and 2 female in the hospital.

There was a motion that the private ward should be done away with that the matron should have this room as a bedroom so as to be near the ward. Another motion was made that the matron have the private room only while it was empty.

Murphy Brothers were to be contacted to repair a few defects, discovered by the visiting committee.

Tenders are to be called for a new wash-house.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 14th 1902

Presentation to Mr AP Lambert - At the end of the Hospital Committee meeting on Friday night a presentation was made to Mr Lambert - attending were Messrs R Rouse jnr., TH West, J Tuxford, W Fletcher, PJ Wade, CR Young, J Mahoney, the Revs. AJ Doig, M Long and FE Haviland and Dr McCreadie. The handsome Kodak camera with a silver plate attached, inscribed ‘Presented to AP Lambert Esq. by the committee and staff of the Gulgong District Hospital showing their appreciation of his untiring and unselfish service during the many years he has acted as the honorary secretary. Mr Lambert in thanking the committee said he was quite knocked off his perch and that they could not have given him anything better as photography was one of his main interests.

Gulgong Advertiser - August 8th 1902

Gulgong Hospital - Murphy Brothers have completed the repairs to the new Hospital. All we need now is a shower of rain so the opening can take place.

Gulgong Advertiser - August 15th 1902

Tenders are called for the taking down and stacking on the ground suitable lots the old Hospital Building. AP LAMBERT Hon Sec.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 12th 1902

It has been suggested that the hospital become a training school for nurses. Dr. McCreadie has expressed his willingness to assist.

Still no date for the opening and ‘we’ did have 95 points of rain.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 12th 1902

A very important sale conducted by CE Hilton is to take place on the 20th when the material from the old Hospital will be auctioned; 350 sheets iron, wood, bricks, 200 feet pine linings [nearly new], 2000 feet rafters, 1000 joists, 450 12-feet sawn slabs, 2000 feet battens and a large quantity of other buildings requisites.

Gulgong Advertiser - October 3rd 1902

Hospital Ball - Last Wednesday night the Gulgong Hospital Annual Ball was held and it was a great success, nearly fifty couples attending. The music was splendid and was supplied by Mr B Stanley - Mr A Souter was the MC. Miss McCreadie the Hon. Sec. must have the lions share of praise for her organisation of the ball and she was ably assisted by Mrs Arthur Rouse of Cullengoral, Mrs JD Parker and Matron Gilroy, and the many others of the community who assisted in so many ways. The ladies were handed a card on which to describe their dresses:

Mrs JD Parker—Black satin shirt, tucked chiffon blouse, jet trimmed
Mrs Edward Loneragan—Black
Mrs Busby—Blue satin, trimmed with cream venetian lace and chiffon
Mrs M Tuxford—Black silk lace over black silk, cerise rose
Miss McCreadie—Charming gown of buttercup Roman silk, skirt strapped with silk guipure insertion, bodice trimmed with real lace and babe ribbon, spray of Marchiel roses
Matron Gilroy—Eau de nil satin, bodice tucked and elaborately trimmed with cream silk, Maltese spray of crimson roses.
Miss Moore [Sydney]—White satin covered with twine-coloured net pink roses.
Miss Loneragan—Black crepe-de-chene, Venetian lace berths.
Miss Dillon—Black silk Ooile trimmed chiffon frills, pearl ornament
Miss R Falconer—White silk skirt, pale green silk blouse, lace trimmings
Miss C Crawford—Black tucked silk chiffon and cerise roses.
Miss A Ryan—Blue silk, cream lace and chiffon trimmings.
Miss A Haley—Black skirt, pink silk blouse, chiffon trimmings.
Miss Griffiths—White silk, pale pink roses.
Miss Parrish—White silk, trimmed with pale green chiffon lace.
Miss B Peters—Pale blue silk, trimmed with guipure insertion.
Miss F Scott—White skirt, heliotrope bodice, heliotrope trimmings.
Miss A Callan—Red tucked silk
Miss S Dougherty—Black velvet chiffon and pink roses.
Miss N Carrywater—Black silk, blue and white trimmings, sprayed with poppies.
Miss Elsie DeBoos [Debutante]—Simple gown of white Swiss muslin, skirt trimmed with narrow frills, edged with Valenciennes lace, bay bodice, draped chiffon.
Miss Lucy Garling [Debutante]—White Indian Muslin, bodice tucked, finished off with insertion bebe ribbon and lillies of the valley, skirt flounced, edged with white bebe ribbon

Gulgong Advertiser - October 10th 1902

When Gulgong Hospital committee is ready for its official opening: Sir John and Lady See will come and help in the occasion. Gulgong ladies will find the Premier’s lady so homely and full of friendship -

writes one who met Lady See the other day.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 21st 1902

Gulgong Hospital - Notwithstanding the uninviting weather conditions, a goodly number gathered in the Gulgong Victoria Park last Sunday afternoon to take part in the annual effort to raise funds on behalf of the Hospital. The young lasses of the town can take responsibility for much of the funds raised they worked like Trojans.

The procession started from the Oddfellows Hall and thence marched to Victoria via Belmore, Herbert, Mayne and Medley Streets. On arriving at the Park many of the people soon took possession of the Grandstand - it was very notable that there were many more Ladies than men present. Following is the names of the young ladies who worked so hard collecting: Misses L Spears, Menchin, L Garling, E De Boos, L Crawford, H French, Ryan, M Austin, E Randall, Morgan, M Snelson, P Peters, Mitchell, M Murn, J Fletcher, V De Boos, M Crawford, E Appleyard, B Peters, B Falconer, P Wright and A Dunn.

1903______________

Gulgong Advertiser - February 6th 1903

Gulgong Annual Hospital Report for 1902.

There were 60 males and 24 females treated - of those 9 men died and 2 women. There are 10 beds in the hospital and the average cost per patient per annum was £64/18/2. The total income for the years was £690/0/8 included in this sum, proceeds for the sale of the old building of £96/14/-.

Staff - In April Mrs M Naughton resigned, her position as Nurse, Miss H Morgan was appointed to the vacancy and has fully justified her selection. Miss Gilroy continues as Matron with much ability and energy. Dr JLM McCreadie as Medical Officer performs his duties with conspicuous skill and to the entire satisfaction of the Committee.

Committee Meeting Attendances - AP Lambert [Sec 13]; William Fletcher 12; PJ Wade [Treasurer 12]; CA Russell 11; JJ Muller 10; J Tuxford 9; FE Haviland [Chairman 6]; M. Long 6; AJ Doig 6; R Rouse jnr. 5, TH West 4; LG Rouse 3; W Watt 3; A Croft 2.

NEW BUILDING

The new building was completed in April and in May it was occupied, Gulgong may now be congratulated in having as up to date Hospital as any country town in the State.

Medical Report - The main causes of death were Phthisis [Tuberculosis], typhoid and heart failure and in children acute gastro enteritis. 25 operations, 21 of these, major surgery was required.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 6th 1903

Gulgong District Hospital Annual Report

The number of beds in the Hospital was 10, with an average daily number residence of 7.3.

The average residence of discharged patients was 27.3. The rate of mortality per cent of all cases treated was 12. The average cost per patient was £64.18s.2d.

The Staff

In April Mrs M. Naughton resigned per position as Nurse and Miss H. Morgan was appointed to the vacancy, fully justifying her appointment. Miss Gilroy continues to fulfil her onerous duties as Matron with much ability and energy. Dr. McCreadie as Medical Officer performs his duties with conspicuous skill and to the entire satisfaction of the Committee.

Note: No mention of any opening to June 1903

Gulgong Advertiser - February 13th 1903

Special Meeting to elected officer bearers - Present Messrs Fletcher [chair], JD Parker, CA Russell, J Muller, W Blunt, LG Rouse, J Tuxford, AP Lambert and Rev F Haviland.

Minutes of the last meeting read and confirmed.

Officers :

President: Mr Rouse jnr
Vice President: Mr EM Bowman
Hon. Treasurer: Mr PJ Wade
Hon Secretary: Mr AP Lambert
Medical Officer: Dr McCreadie
Matron: Miss EH Gilroy
Nurse: Miss H Morgan
Probationary Nurse: Miss De Boos.

Following tenders were accepted - Russell Brothers-groceries; Thomas Wade - meat; JN Spears - bread; H Peck - wood; S Campton - funerals.

Gulgong Advertiser - March 12th 1903

Usual monthly meeting held in the Council Chambers on Friday evening, present - Messrs W Fletcher [chairman] J Tuxford, CA Russell, JJ Muller, JD Parker, WM Blunt, Rev M Long, Dr McCreadie and the Secretary.

Probationer nurse Miss DeBoos granted one month’s leave to have her eyes attended to.

The Matron’s report was accepted - one operation was performed which necessitated the use of chloroform - four out-door patients were treated with 12 attendances.

Mr EM Bowman was appointed as a Trustee in the place of the late Mr R Rouse.

Gulgong Advertiser - June 4th 1903

Monthly meeting of the Gulgong Hospital Committee held in the Council Chambers last Friday evening, present: Messrs Fletcher [chair] Muller, Parker, Russell, Tuxford, West, L.G. Rouse, Revs. Doig and Haviland and the Secretary, A.P. Lambert

Correspondence: From a Sydney firm quoting prices etc. for X-Ray apparatus and with memo attached from Dr. McCreadie recommending the necessity of same.

Motion Rev. Haviland for the purchase of an X-Ray apparatus, priced at fifty pounds, the money could be raised by different means - after other members discussed the matter and decided that on account of the low ebb of funds to allow the matter to be stood over for some time.

Rev Haviland moved that ‘A committee be appointed to inquire into the state of finances of the Institution - committee consisted of Messrs JD Parker, CA Russell, the Secretary, the Treasurer and the mover’. Motion - request the Government to send a supply of trees for planting in the grounds.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 9th 1903

Matron Gilroy of the local Hospital is on two months sick leave, Nurse Goodsir of Sydney is acting matron during her absence.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 16th 1903

The Grand Ball a Brilliant Function

The Grand Ball in aid of the RC Presbytery funds held last Wednesday night had a very large attendance and included visitors from Mudgee, Goolma, Home Rule and other surrounding centres. The Hall was brilliantly decorated and the supper was magnificent. The stage was beautifully furnished with chairs and couches for those who did not dance. The music was supplied by Mr. B. Stanley while Mr Charles Blackman of Mudgee also played a few extras. Mrs JD Parker worked for weeks to make both the Grand and Juvenile Balls such a success, she acted as Hostess on the night assisted by the Rev. Father O’Donnell and Mr JD Parker.

Following is some of the dresses that were worn by the well attired ladies who attended:

Mrs. P. Matthews - black silk leghorn trimmings and white satin
Mrs. J. Naughton - black lace, cerise roses.
Mrs. H Clarke - black satin, red roses
Mrs. K. McDonough - white silk and lace
Mrs. J. R. Fletcher - black satin, spangled net, red roses
Mrs. JD Parker - black brocade, jet trimmings
Mrs. JC Williardt - grey silk and carnations.
Mrs. R Crawford - buttercup silk bodice, chiffon and lilies of the valley, cream silk corded skirt.
Mrs. Daly - black brocaded silk, violet and guipure trimmings
Mrs. Judge - black silk and red roses
Mrs. D. McDermott - black silk, yellow roses.
Miss K Barrett - buttercup satin and bretonne net.
Miss Retta Tierney [Mudgee] cream silk, chiffon lace and pearls.
Miss Kate Caffrey - pale blue voile, white silk trimmings.
Miss Alice Lamb - black silk, cream trimmings.
Miss D Lynch - white silk lace and poppies.
Miss K Hartigan - white silk and lilies of the valley.
Miss Hilda Cox [Mudgee] - cream silk and turquoise velvet.
Miss Fulton [Penrith]—pink silk voile chiffon, lace and moss green velvet.
Miss Loneragan - pale green silk muslin and overdress of green chiffon.
Miss Bessie Carden - pink voile and lace.
Miss Noonan - heliotrope satin, veiled in chiffon and buttercups.
Miss Dillon - black silk costume, trimmed with embroidered chiffon and Roman satin.
Miss Maggie Cooney - black silk with cream trimmings.
Miss McCreadie - black silk and bertha lace.
Miss Barwick [Mudgee]—white silk lace and flowers.
Miss Katie Grimmes - red cashmere white silk trimmings.
Miss Nellie Keegan [Mudgee]—white silk lace and pearls.
Miss Ryan - pale pink, spangled net over plate blue satin.
Miss H. Dillon [Mudgee]—black voile skirt, bodice of satin ribbon and embroidered chiffon.
Miss Austin - pale blue silk and spangled net.
Miss E. deBoos - white silk costume, trimmed with Maltese lace and insertions red geraniums.
Miss May Collins [Mudgee] - black silk.
Miss R White [Mudgee] cream silk, trimmed with lace and pearls.

The Juvenile Ball held the following night also proved a great success. For the onlookers it was really a delightful night, for the children of all ages were present and participated in the mazy waltz. One little dot could not have been more than three years old while others could not have been more than fine years old. Miss Cox received great praise for her dance pupils, who were Misses B Cox, N and L Cohen, Acton and Brady. Mr. JM Cox of Mudgee was the MC and Messrs B Stanley and C Blackman supplied the music.

Gulgong Advertiser - August 6th 1903

Committee for the Hospital Plain and Fancy Ball: Mesdames Busby, TH West, ER Brigden, Miss’s Rouse [Guntawang] McCreadie, Goodsir, Garling, Riley, L Garling and Boake to be held on September 9, tickets 4/- each.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 24th 1903

Nurse Morgan has resigned her position owing to ill health.

Gulgong Advertiser - October 8th 1903

Matron Gilroy has resumed duty at the hospital after her illness. Miss Connolly has been appointed to the hospital staff replacing Miss Morgan.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 11th 1903

Nurse Connelly has resigned from the Hospital; she did not last even a month.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 12th 1903

Rain Spoils the Hospital Sports Day

What would have been a successful day’s entertainment in aide of the Gulgong Hospital was marred by boisterous weather. When the clouds started to scatter the procession started at 10am from the Town Hall, lead by the Gulgong Band, assisted by Mr CA Russell [of the Orchestra], Mr H Gudgeon of the Salvation Army Band] followed by the Friendly Society, a big array of Public School children, neatly dressed, many of the girls carrying flags, they were marshalled by Mr Lambert [Headmaster] and Miss C Menchin [Infants Department] and Miss J Fletcher [Pupil Teacher], - after came the Convent, pupils of Beryl School with teacher Mr P Brophy, the Stubbo School with some of the girls carrying floral arches. The long procession wended its way down Herbert Street, Mayne Street along Medley Street then to the Show Ground. The pavilion was opened providing shelter as showers fell most of the day. The ladies had a tea tent namely Miss C Menchin, Mesdames Busby [Hon Treasurer] ER Brigden, Bentzen, West, H Miller, Haviland, PJ Wade, McCreadie, Misses Powell, McCreadie, Holswich, Bishop, Watt, Snelson, Riley, Holmes, and Gilroy. Messrs K McDonough and AP Lambert were joint secretaries. Mr H Curran proved an efficient starter and Dr Busby was the judge. Mr E Ryan had the fruit stall.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 10th 1903

Usual monthly meeting - Miss Annie Walsh has been appointed as probationer nurse to replace Nurse Connolly. There is a leak in the hospital and Mr Bennett is to repair same. Seventeen outdoors patients were treated in November.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 10th 1903

Gulgong Hospital - Staff- Miss Annie Walsh of Portland has been appointed the probationer nurse in lieu of Nurse Connelly who has resigned.

1904______________

Gulgong Advertiser - February 4th 1904

Annual meeting - present: Messrs W Fletcher [chair] AP lambert, PJ Wade, ST Bishop, JD Parker, CE Hilton, AE Souter, C Russell, T West, Dr Busby, Rev. M. Long and Archdeacon Geer.

Correspondence: Mr JJ Muller requesting that his name be removed from the list of subscribers.

Statistics for the year 1903: patient numbers - males 50; females 32. The number of beds in the hospital 10.

Dr JLM McCreadie’s Report - 59 were discharged cured, 13 relieved, 7 died and 8 remain in hospital - 24 operations were performed, 12 each of major and minor operations. Out patients - 17 males and 11 females were treated.

Committee - LG Rouse, A Souter, W Fletcher, PJ Wade, CA Russell, JD Parker, TH West, R Hornsey, R Rouse jnr, EM Bowman [Wargundy] D McGrath [Cainbil Creek] H Brigden [Coolah] H Horne [Leadville] I Rowbotham [Home Rule] J Falconer [Lahey’s Creek] Rev M Long, Rev AJ Doig, Rev. EP O’Donnell and Archdeacon Geer.

Auditors: WR Bentzen and CE Hilton

Gulgong Advertiser - March 24th 1904

The Hospital grounds are now looking tip top, especially the garden and walks in front of the building - they are looked after a caretaker.

Gulgong Advertiser - April 7th 1904

Hospital Sports took place in the Show Ground on Easter Monday - at 10.30am. the procession started lead by the Gulgong Band, the march followed by the M.U. and Hibernian Society and several school children, the weather was most kind. Mr Ted Brigden had the booth and there were a couple of side shows to break the monotony. Mr McCulloch jnr, the Hon. Secretary worked hard to make it a success, backed by Mr Tim West, especially catering for the young people. Messrs Judge, Hinchey, Souter, Walsh, Bellette and JJ Ryan [Goolma] also gave great assistance. There was some excitement in the bike races and there was little betting as money was as scarce as gold on the Salvation Hill. There were over 20 couples in attendance at the ball in the Theatre at night. Good music supplied by Messrs Bruce Stanley, E McCulloch jnr., and the MC was Mr George Souter.

Results of the days’ racing:

Opening handicap: Kable 1, G. Boyd 2, Saisell 3. A close finish.
One mile race: F Brigden 1, H March 2
Boys Race: L Falvery
Sheffield handicap: S Blanning 1, Kable 2, Saisell 3
Business Men’s handicap: E Naughton 1, G Cornish 2
Easter Sprint: F Wilton 1, H Smith 2, M Reese 3
Bicycle Race 2 laps: C McCully 1, Marsh 2, Gentle 3.
Envelope Race: Miss May Brigden 1.
Girls’ Race: Miss Roma Rognini 1.
Throwing at Wicket: W Saisell 1.
Miller, Murn and Wade were the winners of the boys’ races.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 14th 1904

About the X-Rays: at a committee meeting of the Gulgong Hospital, Archdeacon Geer, stating that he heard that some entertainment was being arranged to raise funds for the purchase of such a machine as the X-Ray machine and in the view that the committee had already determined that such an apparatus should not be thought of until the institution was much stronger financially, he was astonished to hear that entertainment was being organised for such a purpose - it was forcing the committee to do a thing it did not want to do - and if the power was taken out of the hands of the hospital committee to manage the affairs of the institution he would immediately resign. Financial help was most certainly welcomed but money could be more beneficially spent just now than for the purchase of an X-ray. The Rev EP O’Donnell endorsed all that the Archdeacon said.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 21st 1904

Archdeacon Gee denies the statement that he will resign from the Hospital committee, but states that he is sticking to his guns and fighting it out.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 8th 1904

Hospital Meeting Friday Night. Important Discussion - re letter from Messrs W Brown and E Saunders stating their intention to organise an entertainment for the purpose of gaining funds for an X-ray apparatus at the Hospital, seeking permission to do same.

The Rev. Doig motion: that an X-ray apparatus be purchased for the Hospital when funds are available and that the offer by Messrs Saunders and Brown be accepted - motion seconded.

The Rev Archdeacon Gee thought it very kind of the gentlemen to raise fund for the purpose but he thought the money could be better devoted for other purposes in connection with the Hospital, as the funds were not in a flourishing condition. He thought that the money derived from the entertainment should be handed over to the committee to do what they thought best with it. He moved a motion to the effect that Messrs Brown and Saunders be written to and asked to hold an entertainment but that the funds be handed to the committee.

The Rev O’Donnell after addressing a few remarks in which he endorsed all Archdeacon Geer said, seconded the motion.

A number of the committee spoke in favour of Messrs Brown and Saunders proposal and on a show of hands being taken the proposal met with favour 6 to 2. Messrs Parker, Wade Hornsey, Russell, S Rouse and Rev Doig voted in favour of Rev Doig’s motion.

The two reverends then brought to the notice of the committee that Mr AP Lambert who joined in the discussion was not on the committee, even though he did not vote.

Mr Lambert was then appointed to the committee in the place of Mr H Brigden who had previously resigned and gone to Coolah.

Gulgong Advertiser - October 13th 1904

Meeting, Friday 7th October, 1904

Present: Archdeacon Geer [chair] Messrs AP Lambert, AE Souter, R Hornsey, CA Russell, PJ Wade, TH West, SB Rouse and Rev AJ Doig.

Visiting Committee’s Report: We beg to report that matters have been proceeding satisfactory as far as the general working of the institution is concerned. The roof of the operating room requires attention as water came in during the late rains. Mr E Grimes has been carrying out the duties of wardsman in a satisfactory manner. The kitchen range has not yet been attended - it burns much more wood than it should and requires an overhaul - SB Rouse and AE Souter.

Probationer Nurse Annie Walsh tendered her resignation - it was explained that a month’s notice was needed - West and Russell motion that the resignation be accepted and a new nurse be advertised for and Nurse Walsh be allowed leave if she is replaced before the 20th.

Gulgong Advertiser - November 10th 1904

The usual meeting. Motion that Nurse DeBoos’ application for increase of salary be granted - Mr P J Wade and Rev EP O’Donnell. A cow for the use of the hospital has been promised by Mr SB Rouse and the committee deemed it advisable to have a fence erected to her from the garden - Robert Whitty to erect same for six pounds. The protection of the ornamental trees is to be left to the Visiting Committee.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 9th 1904

Usual meeting - Probationer Watt has joined the hospital staff.

Repairs - There is a leakage in the roof and the walls are sweating. Mr Waite to repair the roof only as the finances are in a somewhat weak state. The local people are the only consistent subscribers.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 16th 1904

In October last an old pensioner Henry Charles Lant was admitted to the local hospital and out of his scant savings made contribution to the hospital for services rendered, thinking that he would draw his pension on his discharge. He was astonished to find that the Pension Board had docked him for the period he was in hospital. Mr PJ Wade treasurer of hospital wrote to the Pension Board on behalf of Mr Lant and result being that the Board did not allow for person being in hospital.

1906______________

Mudgee Guardian - May 28th 1906

Holders of books of tickets for the Gulgong Hospital Art Union are requested to return the butts as early as possible to Mr. C. L. Hawkins, the honorary secretary, as it is intended to carry out the drawing early in June.

1918______________

Gulgong Advertiser - June 18th 1918

Meeting held Tuesday: Messrs FE Heard [chair], J Lee. ED Moon, FR Tomlinson, N Wisbey and AE Brigden in attendance.

Matron’s report showed the daily average for patients was 8.4

Messrs FW Heard and G Hoult visiting committee for the month.

Nurse Wisbey’s resignation as probationary nurse was accepted with regret

Gulgong Advertiser - July 2nd 1918

Miss Ruby West at one time on the nursing staff at the Gulgong District Hospital has passed her final A.N.T.N.A. examination.

Gulgong Advertiser - September 17th 1918

Matron A Meredith of the Gulgong District Hospital has been called to the bedside of her mother at Queanbeyan.

Gulgong Advertiser - October 1st 1918

There were three cases of diphtheria at present in the Gulgong District Hospital. Two cases from Birriwa and one from Goolma. Miss C. McBride of Walcha has been appointed as probationer at the Gulgong District Hospital.

1919______________

Gulgong Advertiser - January 21st 1919

Miss Snelson daughter of Mr and Mrs J Snelson of Gulgong has taken up her duties as matron of the Gulgong District Hospital.

Annual Meeting - As the annual meeting takes place next Thursday, one suggestion for the meeting will be timely—in electing a committee the meeting should consider it imperative that only the best and most representative men are elected. For the past few years, the committee has been dug up from anyone who could be found willing to take on the job. The reason for this is obvious - and the time has come to remedy the errors of the past - and elect a committee that will be representative of every section of the community.

If this course is adopted the institution will soon recover the support lost during the year. If the old and harmful manner of doing things is to continue then the hospital will lose touch with the public, a feature which we hope will be kept in view when the new committee is being elected on Thursday next. It is a well-known fact that many people withheld their assistance last year owing to reasons which are still fresh in the public mind. The committee has run its course and the subscribers’ opportunity to improve things is here.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 28th 1919

Annual Meeting held last Thursday night. Newly elected committee - re-appointed J H Stahl as treasurer - A E Brigden, Hon. secretary. Mr Richards stated Brigden deserved the best thanks of the committee for his untiring efforts.

Mr. G Farrow urged the committee to do its best to support the ticket selling in aid of the Police and Fireman’s Carnival.

Sergeant C J Waite was allowed to speak to explain the object of the Art Union.

Messrs Stahl, Murn and Hoult appointed to deal with the matter of providing fresh linen for the hospital.

The Hospital Committee - Brigden Resigns as Secretary Trouble over a Receipt and Two Loads Wood. A remarkable turn of events took place at the meeting of the Gulgong District Hospital, last Thursday evening, the outcome being that A E Brigden who only a few minutes previously been re-elected as Hon secretary tendered his resignation.

The ball was set rolling by Mr George Farrow, who stated that at the last meeting of the committee of the Tallawang Iron Mines Accident fund he as one of the trustees of the fund, was asked if a receipt of a donation had been received from the secretary or treasurer. On July 2 or 3 a cheque for £10/10/- was sent in and a fortnight previous to that night had not received any acknowledgment. The men pressed him to bring the matter before the meeting that night - the hon. secretary told him it was not his fault.

Brigden stated; I don’t deal with receipts at all.

Mr Farrow: I have the floor. He said that when the cheque was given in the paper had reported it as £10. The men asked how much was given and he stated £10/10/-. He backed and filled to no man. He had sent in two loads of wood during the past 12 months and he had got no acknowledgment for them and they were never referred to before the committee. He did not think it was right. ‘If you are going to get people to subscribe to the hospital, these things should be acknowledged’ he remarked.

Mr Stahl Hon treasurer said the receipt was issued as far as he was concerned and it left his hands immediately. He took absolutely now blame in the matter.

Brigden: It is the general thing for Mr Jack Lyons to bring the money in—he no doubt was given the receipt for the money and if after it left my hand and Mr Lyons lost it that is not my mistake, nor for the Gulgong Advertiser printing £10. This is a slur on me and I tender my resignation.

Mr Farrow rose to say he did not mean anything in that regard.

Brigden interposed: I have had enough of this, I never heard anything about two loads of wood. The receipt was given to Jack Lyons. If you pass a resolution like this it is a vote of censure on me. If he lost it, I am not to blame. Mr Farrow is no friend of mine to bring a thing like this up. If I have not enough confidence - I don’t want the position. At this stage Brigden left the room.

Mr Hoult said he remembered Mr Farrow’s donation of two loads of wood being mention at a meeting, but he did not know whether it was put into the minute.

Mr Stahl said the usual thing was for an acknowledgment to be written to the donor.

Chairman H J Gudgeon: I don’t think it is the usual thing to write to them - it is usually acknowledged through the press.

Long item: Everyone had someone to blame from the Matron, Jack Lyons, to the press for not noting what was donated and printing same.

Mr Farrow stated that not all the money came through Jack Lyons.

Mr. Richards: When I was secretary, I used to write special letters on receiving all donations.

Mr Farrow said he was satisfied that the receipt was written and the cheque had been received

The resignation of the secretary was stood over until the next meeting.

The Press stated that they were not always advised of the meeting dates. The foolish [practice] of debarring the Press from meetings has been lucidly demonstrated by the remarks of several members of the committee who regard the Press as a necessity for the purpose of acknowledging gifts to the institution. We trust that the interests of the hospital the matter will be adjusted in the future—ED. ‘GA’

Gulgong Advertiser - February 4th 1919

Annual General Meeting—Present—HJ Gudgeon [Chair] J Lee, G Hoult, CJ Martin, WT Kelly, JH Stahl [Hon. treasurer] ED Moon, FW Heard, H D Richards, G Farrow. Apologies—EM Bowman and SB Rouse—president and vice president.

STAFF - Probationer Wisbey resigned and took a similar post at Parkes, replacement Probationer C McBride - Matron Meredith resigned, Senior Probationer O’Connor acting matron. Matron M. Snelson appointed as matron.

Dr. G Lees Hon. medical officer. Nursing staff- Matron Snelson, Senior Probationer O’Connor, Probationers Bayliss and McBride, wardsman, cook and laundress making up a full staff.

JH Stahl still treasurer and AE Brigden secretary.

Statistics—72 males and 21 females admitted for the year—12 male deaths and 2 females.

Mr Martin questioned A E Brigden - if the acting matron received the correct wages for the 2 months that she held that position - Yes she was paid £7/10/- per month.

Mr. Martin then asked if Matron Meredith was given a reference - Yes - then he asked to be able to read same - Brigden: It does not come up in the report. Chairman said he did not think the matter could come up for review at the annual meeting.

Election: President EM Bowman, vice president S B Rouse. Committee: ED Moon, PA Upham, JW Lee, G Hoult, HD Richards, S Buckman, WC Low, ED Stott, HJ Gudgeon, FW Heard, G Farrow, WT Kelly, JH Stahl and AE Brigden. Trustees: EM Bowman, SB Rouse and EJ Lowe. Auditors: JD Gormly and WG Gibbs to be asked to act.

At the committee meeting after the annual meeting Mayor Wade Gudgeon was elected to the Committee. Mr Martin requested not to be on the committee.

Gulgong Advertiser - June 3rd 1919

Return Thanks - Mr and Mrs W Sharrock of Mayne Street thanked DR Lees, Nurse Last and Nurse Tuxford for their unremitting and skillful attention given to their 6 month son Barney on the sad occasion of his death.

Hospital and the Doctor Question

The Gulgong District Hospital committee will have to do some very hard thinking if it is going to succeed in surmounting the latest proposal or request to make a payment to the doctors attending the Hospital. The request is not altogether unreasonable, because the doctors have been hard hit by the bad times as well as any other member of the community. The question is how is the money to be raised?

The primary cause for the establishment of public hospitals was in order to allay the ills among who are unable to pay for private treatment. Hospitals cost a good deal of money to run and if everyone takes advantage of the hospitals it can’t be expected that they will be able to pay their way. No one objects to the hospital being used as a refuge for the poor and needy, but those who can pay should do so and they are bound in a moral sense to acknowledge the truth of this contention.

[NOTE: This is a fairly long item.]

Gulgong Advertiser - June 10th 1919

Mr John Griffin of ‘Oakfield’ Gulgong desires to thank Dr Mahon, Dr Lees, Matron Snelson and Nursing Staff of the Gulgong District Hospital for the kind and prompt attention during his illness.

1927______________

Gulgong Advertiser - January 18th 1927

GULGONG HOSPITAL

Dr Allport speaks of a Source of Danger. The doctors and matron and nursing staff attached to the Gulgong District Hospital were paid warm tributes by several ex-patients and subscribers at the annual meeting.

Cr S B Rouse, presided – present: Dr R M Allport, Messrs T L Reordan, W A Saunders, C Wright, S Smith, T J Keegan, H A Porter, N Wisbey, A Baldwin, T J Britten, E D Stott, R Bowman, A Johnston, E J Hansell, T Amies, J D Gormly, H P Woodhouse – hon secretary. An apology from Mr O M O’Reilly.

Number of patients treated during the year ended December 31st 1926

Males 174 - Females 305 – there was an increase of 69 patients for the previous 12 months. Deaths 13 males – females 10. Doctors R M Allport, LW Tunley and Marjorie Tunley continue as Medical Officers.

It was pointed out that the rooms used as private wards were previously used by the nurses as their quarters, as the rooms were situated between the female and male wards and opposite the operating theatre were not considered suitable.

Messrs E D Stott, Mr Hansell, Mr Johnston and Reordan all spoke on the matter of the private wards, much debate as did the others present. Mr Keenan donated £5 for the X-ray plant. A lot of money had been spent during the past two year as the hospital had been allowed into deplorable conditions.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 25th 1927

GULGONG HOSPITAL – Annual Meeting to be held in the Town Hall on January 20th – H P Woodhouse, Sec.

1928______________

Gulgong Advertiser –January 17th 1928

Gulgong Hospital

Health Inspector’s Report, Work to cost ₤98, Letters of appreciation.

When a letter from Mrs. I.C. Whitty, of Leadville, voicing appreciation for treatment received whilst an inmate of the Hospital, was read at the last meeting of the committee of the Gulgong District Hospital held in the secretary’s office, the president, S.B. Rouse said it was very encouraging receive a letter couched in such terms.

Others present at the meeting were: Messrs R. Bowman, Rev G. G. Wood, N. Wisbey, T.J. Britten and the secretary, Mr T. Amies. Apologies were received from Rev L.V. Caldwell and Mr A. Baldwin.

Correspondence.

Mr. H. Branscombe, plumber, of Mudgee quoting ₤98 for work to be done as per report from Department of Health, Sydney.

Matrons Report

The report of the matron showed that 43 patients had been treated during the month of December. Thirteen patients were remaining in hospital on December 31st. Two outdoor patients had been treated.

The following people made donations.

Mrs E. J. B. O’Brien, Mrs N. Wisbey, Miss I. Bolton, Mrs Bayliss, Mrs J Croome, Mrs J. D. Gormley, Mr L. Roth, Mr H.A. Porter, Mrs H.E. Snelson, Mrs J. Harvey, Mr H.E. Snelson, Rev Father Cooney, Hibernian Society, Mrs Harris, (Laheys Creek) Mrs W. Gossage, Mrs S. Smith, Mr H. S. Woods, Mr A. Gibbons.

Secretary’s Report.

Sister Murphy resumes duty tomorrow and Matron Snelson takes her annual holiday in February.

Probationary Nurse Bayliss left on December 21 and Miss Nellie Neely, of Curryall was appointed.

The housemaid, Miss Keysecker, went off duty on December 28th owing to having scalded her foot, and is still off duty. Miss Rita Lyons has been taking her place for the time being.

The thanks of the Institution is due to Mr H.J. Baldwin and other members of the Dramatic Club. Also the following, who came with me in the car in connection with the canvass for donations: Messrs W.M. Sheridan (Goolma), C. Wright and some members of his family (Mebul) Clarrie Dorman (Dapper), J.E. Hansell (Tallawang), George Buchannan (Ulan and Turill), W. Weis (Uarbry), R. Campbell (Beryl) and Master Frank Perry (Home Rule).

Committee’s Action - Sister Murphy was appointed to take charge during the matron’s absence.

Visiting Committee - Messrs W.Gudgeon and T.J.Britten were appointed visiting committee for the ensuing month.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 24th 1928

LIFE MEMBER

By donating the sum of £10 to the funds of the Gulgong District Hospital, Mr JJ Dowd has become a life member of the institution, and is the only one to become a life member during the year recently closed.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 31st 1928

Is Your Name Here? The Hospital Appeal – Funds Needed – Will You Help?

There is in Gulgong an Institution that has an appeal to everyone, and that is the Gulgong District Hospital. Instead of having a mere handful of subscribers or straight-out givers it should have, in the wide area it serves, a thousand or more.

An effort is being made to collect straight-out donations and as funds are required it is hoped everyone will respond according to what they feel they can give. Ten shillings or a pound or more from each person in the district every year would get over all financial difficulties as each year passes and it is on such a scheme that an endeavour is being concentrated.

Amounts may be forwarded to the secretary or the hon. Treasurer Mr Wade Gudgeon.

The list for the year 1927 is as follows-

Adams K.S. – Ben Buckley
Agapitos J
Akehurst F
Allan & Garland – Home Rule
Amies Mrs T
Amies T
Anderson A D
Archer W – Ulan
Arnott G M – Mebul
Baldock A
Baldock W T
Baldwin A
Baldwin H J
Bank of NSW
Barnes I F
Barrett F
Bayliss R S
Beasley – Moolarbin
Behan Bros – Tucklan
Bennett M H
Benson J – Goolma
Besant Mrs W – Tucklan
Bishop Miss I
Black A J – Ulan
Black S G
Blackert J H Estate
Blow W J
Blow W J Mrs
Borthwick & Sons Sydney
Boulton E W
Bowman Mrs R – Merotherie
Boyle H – Tallawang
Brennan M – Birriwa
Brigden A E
Brigden Alf
Brigden T J
Britten T J Mrs
Burdett W – Uarbry
Byfield W E – Turill
Caine C – Two Mile Flat
Caine W – Two Mile Flat
Caldwell Rec L V
Campbell A E
Campbell H
Campbell R J – – Beryl
Cape – Tucklan
Cicognani J
Clark J
Clifford J H – Tallawang
Conn J – – Dapper
Conn Mrs J – – Dapper
Cooney Rev Father
Cornish B
Craft G W – Tucklan
Craft J H – Cobbora
Craft W – Cobbora
Croft A
Croft H V – Dunedoo
Croft Mrs A
Croft Reg
Croome G J – – Beryl
Cross W R
Curry C – – Beryl
Cuthel R
Deane A – – Beryl
Diehm – Goolma
Doherty H N – Goolma
Doherty Hugh – Goolma
Doherty R D – Goolma
Dorman A – – Dapper
Dorman H – – Dapper
Dorman J – – Dapper
Dorman Mrs H – – Dapper
Dowd J J
Drew E A
Drew H – Home Rule
Drew Mrs J H – Home Rule
Duggan J H
Edmunds Thos – Dunedoo
Egan Mrs B J
English J P
Evans E S – Turill
‘Evening News’ – Sydney
Falconer Mark – Laheys Crk
Fienberg Mr
Finigan W
Finucane F – Ben Buckley
Finucane J – Yarrabin
Fortescue A H – Mebul
Foster J F
Foster Mrs J F
Francis Mrs A
Francis Mrs E – Narrabri
Fyfe W
Gardiner H A
Gardiner J T – Mebul
Gibbons W A
Gibbs Mrs W G
Gibbs W G
Glasson R
Gobetti L C – Green Hills
Gormly J D
Gormly Mrs J D
Gorrie H T – Goolma
Gould W – Wellington
Graham G R – Tallawang
Gudgeon H E
Gudgeon H J
Gudgeon Wade
Gulgong Advertiser
Gulgong Town Council
Haley J H – Mebul
Hansell J E – Tallawang
Hanslow Mrs B J – Goolma
Hanslow Mrs S – Mebul
Harris Mrs S
Harvey Mrs E – Goolma
Harvey Mrs W – Goolma
Hassall Miss A E – Sydney
Haynes T M – Turill
Heard F W
Herald Newspaper – Sydney
Hodge Les – Dunedoo
Hollow J H – Canadian
Hollow R C – Canadian
Honeysett E C – Mebul
Honeysett Mrs M J – Mebul
Honeysett R
Hordern & Son – Sydney
Hoskin’s Iron & Steel Co
Hoult G
Howlett W
Hughes H
Hughes T – Ben Buckley
Illingworth L
Inder A – Tucklan
Inglis Ltd – Sydney
Jackson T R
James A – Home Rule
Jenkins A
Jenkins A – Dapper
Johnston A – Dapper
Jones J D – Tallawang
Jones Joseph – Tallawang
Jones Mrs A H – Tucklan
Jones V T – Tallawang
Jones W – Mebul
Keenan T J – Tucklan
Lee T S – Mebul
Lett G – Mebul
Lodge Wyaldra
Loneragan Jas & Co
Loneragan Jas. Milling
Love E – Yamble
Low W
Lowe Bros – Yamble
M.U.I.O.O.F. Lodge
Marchant L – Cobbora
Marks E C – Ulan
Martin R – Beryl
Mason Mrs G
Matthews C C – Canadian
May C
McCallum E – Twelve Mile
McDonald D – Turill
McKenzie M C – Yamble
McKeown T – Goolma
McManus Athol – Two Mile Flat
McManus Mrs L – Two Mile Flat
McMaster A – Uarbry
McMaster Clive – Birriwa
McMaster W – Uarbry
Medcalf T – Goolma
Medcalf W T – Goolma
Meers H
Menchin F
Miller Tos
Moras H O
Moxham S T – Cobbora
Mudgee Guardian
Naughton B J
Naughton L C
Neville G – Turill
Neville H R – Turill
Neville H – Turill
Niven C R
Norris H
Norris L W
Nott A J – Mebul
Nott W H – Tallawang
O’Brien E J B
O’Brien W
O’Connell E
O’Connell Mrs E
O’Reilly O M
Oldfield W
Peck J F
Pickett A W – Turill
Piper A – Uarbry
Piper E – Uarbry
Piper S – Uarbry
Piper W – Uarbry
Porter H A
Priestley V – Tallawang.
Public School – Dunedoo
Public School – Gulgong
Public School – Stubbo
Public School – Wyaldra
Raines T – Uarbry
Raisin G – Home Rule
Raisin T – Home Rule
Ramsay F A
Ridout A – Spring Ridge
Riley Mrs J M
Ring C
Ritchie J V – Cobbora
Rivas G – Uarbry
Roberts J T – Moolarbin
Roberts W – Dapper
Robinson A – Tallawang
Robinson S J – Tallawang
Rose H – Yamble
Ross Miss K – Uarbry
Roth C – Gullamarra
Roth L – Gullamarra
Rothe C – Tucklan
Rouse H C
Rouse S B – Birriwa
Rowbotham Mrs R – Home Rule
Rush C – Yamble
Rush George – Two Mile Flat
Rush W – Two Mile Flat
Ryan A B – Goolma
Ryan D J – Goolma
Ryan J
Ryan J E – Goolma
Saunders W A
Schomberg H T
Schomberg Mrs H T
Scott C R
Sharrock R – Home Rule
Shearman C – Goolma
Shearman R J – Goolma
Shearman W V – Goolma
Sheridan M W – Goolma
Shinfield A – Goolma
Simmonds E C – Mebul
Smith J – Tucklan
Smith J W
Smith R F
Smith S R
Smith W – Home Rule
Snelson P R – Gulgong
Spicer S – Ben Buckley
St Vincent de Paul Society
Stacy Mrs – Fitzroy
Stahl J H
Stinson R R – Home Rule
Stopforth J – Home Rule
Stott Bert – Beryl
Stott G D Uarbry
Sun Newspaper – Sydney
Talbot J J – Goolma
Talbot J Lahey’s Creek
Tattersall A
Thomson M K – Tucklan
Ticehurst C – Beryl
Tooth & co – Sydney
Tranter W – Tallawang
Trouton Geo
Tuckerman H O – Wyaldra Park
Underwood JJ – Home Rule
Wade T J
Walsh Mrs M
Walter & Eliza Hall Trust – Sydney
Warner F H – Cook’s Gap
Watt C
Watt Mrs C
Watt W A
Weis Mrs W – Uarbry
Weis Phillip
Whale D
Whale Mrs T – Goolma
Whale T – Goolma
Whale W – Goolma
Whaley P T – Coolah
Whybrow & Co – Sydney
Wilde A E
Wilkinson D L – Ben Buckley
Williams G – Tucklan
Williams J
Williams J – Home Rule
Williams Miss C – Two Mile Flat
Williardt John C
Willis WD & HO Sydney
Wisbey N – Lahey’s Creek
Wood Rev G G
Woods B C – Beryl
Wright Mrs C – Mebul

Gulgong Advertiser - February 7th 1928

ANNUAL REPORT – GULGONG DISTRICT HOSPITAL

Present: Messrs S B Rouse, N Wisbey, E K Bowman, R Bowman, R Croft, JJ Dowd, A Croft, R S Bayliss, J Clark, G Hoult, W A Saunders, P R Snelson, H J Gudgeon, R Glasson, Rev L V Caldwell, W Gudgeon [treasurer] Mesdames J H Dugan, T Amies, and Mr. T Amies [secretary]. Apologies were received from Rev G G Wood and Mr A Baldwin.

“It would be a very sad thing if the Hospital closed” said Cr S B Rouse, president, “The Institution had 277 members and there was no reason why there it should not have 1000 members.”

TRAINING HOSPITAL - The average patient numbers required was not sufficient for this.

PRIVATE WARDS – The three private wards – [formerly sleeping rooms for the nursing staff] have fully justified their creation and are very profitable, the rate was £4/4/- per week.

PATIENTS TREATED - for 1927 – Males 179 – Females 193

A canvas was made for donations and members – thanks to the following for assisting the secretary-

Messrs W M Sheridan [Goolma], C Wright [Mebul] and some members of his family, Clarrie Dorman [Dapper], J E Hansell [Tallawang], George Buchanan [Ulan and Turill], W Weis [Uarbry], Master Frank Perry [Home Rule] and W Gudgeon [Gulgong].

LIFE MEMBERS – Mr J J Dowd donation of £10 entitled him to become a life member. Mr L Roth of Gullamarra was prepared to do the same if nine others would donate £10.

ANNUAL BALL - Again organised as a movie ball, broke all records financially – Miss A Snelson and Mrs F A Ramsay were the organisers – Mr HA Porter rendered great assistance.

The Gulgong Dramatic Club were thanked for their fund-raising efforts – namely Messrs H J Baldwin, F Brown, H Campbell, Bert Edwards, D Walker, R Brigden, W Gaudry, Misses G Brigden, E Fyfe, D Piper, N Oldfield, D. Oldfield, L Howarth and E Clark and the Peter Pan Orchestra and others for their valuable assistance.

The secretary arranged a ‘wood day’ - thanks to – J C Williardt, R Meeks, J Harvey, B Davis, W Rusten, Alf Brigden and J Grimshaw.

BEDS and WARDS – There are 25 beds at the institution – public wards – 9 males – 7 females, isolation wards – 3 males – 3 females – private wards 3.

The death of Mr A E Brigden was a great loss to the institution.

Notes of Interest –

The purchase of an invalid chair has been of great benefit to patients.

Two milking cows at present have been kindly loaned by Mr H J Gudgeon of Gulgong and Mr D McCauley of Reedy Creek. Mrs Fitzroy Stacy has also loaned a cow.

A block of land [CL] opposite the institution which the committee of last year decided to purchase of Mr P J McGowan was paid for during the year, costing £58/16/6 – including the transfer cost.

MEDICAL OFFICERS REPORT – Drs R M Allport, LW Tunley and Marjorie Tunley – Despite the large number of patients treated, the death number was only 10, which considering the number of major and minor operations speaks volumes for the care of the nursing staff. The appointment of Sister Murphy greatly added to the efficiency of the hospital, this has relieved Matron Snelson of some of the work load.

Election of Officers: Messrs S B Rouse, President; R Bowman, vice President; E K Bowman, W Gudgeon, A Croft, R Croft, J Clark, G Hoult, P R Snelson, J J Dowd, H J Gudgeon, J E Hansell, R Glasson, N Wisbey, A Baldwin, A J Henderson, O M O’Reilly and Rev L V Caldwell.

Trustees: S B Rouse, E K Bowman and R Bowman. Auditors - Messrs J P English and W Trainor.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 14th 1928

WORKING BEE

At the annual general meeting of the Gulgong District Hospital, Mr. E. K. Bowman, of Wargundy offered to supply cement for certain improvements. Mr Croft did the work.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 28th 1928

Working Bee

The working bee at the hospital to lay a cement floor in the washhouse was organised by Mr A Croft – those who assisted: Messrs A Croft, G Hoult, H J Gudgeon, W Oldfield, G W Bolton, W Costello, H W Snelson, P R Snelson, G Blanning, F Docwra, A Gudgeon, Jim Ryan and H A Chick.

Gulgong Advertiser - March 13th 1928

Working Bee

Mr A Croft completed the concrete jobs taken in hand at the Gulgong District Hospital. The ‘bee’ rendered excellent service – Mr E K Bowman of Wargundy donated the cement.

Gulgong Advertiser – March 20th 1928

GULGONG HOSPITAL

Cr A Croft made his presence felt at the meeting which he presided over recently. He was referring to matters which he claimed required attention. Mr Croft declared with emphasis, that as long as he was on the committee, he was going to see that things were done properly.

Others present at the meeting were Messrs A L Henderson, J E Hansell, G Hoult, R Croft, A Baldwin, JJ Dowd, Rev L V Caldwell, J Clark, W Gudgeon, P R Snelson, H J Gudgeon, and T Amies secretary. Apologies were received from Messrs R Bowman and O M O’Reilly

Special Lease

Letter received from Mr J J Dowd, notifying the registration of a special lease (area opposite the hospital) from P J McGowan to the Hospital Trustees.

Old Age Pensions

The Pensions department wrote forwarding a cheque for £6/6/- for maintenance of old age pensioner Thomas Saunders, for 112 days.

Gulgong Advertiser –March 27th 1928

ECONOMY PLAN FOR HOSPITAL

At a special meeting of the Hospital held recently, a drastic plan of economy in regard to administration was decided upon.

The president Mr S B Rouse occupied the chair and all the committee except Caldwell & O’Reilly was present.

Special Committee Report

Nursing Staff - We consider it necessary to reduce the staff, and while we recognise that Nurse Hook has served the Institution well and have nothing but praise for her work, however we reluctantly recommend that her services be dispensed with [] and Sister Murphy be offered the opportunity of remaining at £110 per annum or resigning, and in which case applications for a Sister will be called for at £100 per annum.

Secretary - In view of the state of the finances, we recommend that the secretary be asked to accept the decreased remuneration of £78. We have made the suggestion to Mr Amies who has promised to consider it. At the same time the committee desires to state that we recognise that Mr Amies had done his best in the position, and while we find no fault whatever with him, we find it necessary to make this most rigorous economy.

Fees - The fees for private wards are to be increased to £4/10/- weekly and public wards to £2/10/- per week.

The Secretary, Mr Amies said, that as he would be relived of the outside canvassing, and in view of the Hospitals financial position, he would accept the decreased remuneration for the time being.

A letter of resignation was read from Nurse Hooke, and it was accepted with deep regret.

Gulgong Advertiser –March 27th 1928

HOSPITAL

Nurse Hooke asked for a month’s holiday at the end of the current month.

Resignations

The Secretary mentioned that cook, housemaid, and Wardsman had tendered verbal resignations that day, and were to place them in writing.

Underground Tank

The matter of getting the underground tank cleaned out was left in the hands of the Secretary.

Planting of Lucerne

The question of planting a patch of lucerne in front of the isolation ward was left to the Visiting Committee.

Gulgong Advertiser - April 3rd 1928

Sister M Price, a Mudgee district girl, has been appointed sister at the Gulgong District Hospital in place of Sister Murphy. Sister Price has recently finished her training at Wellington District Hospital. Nurse Hooke is also leaving her position at the hospital. She was presented with a gold wristlet watch by the C of E last Sunday.

Gulgong Advertiser - April 3rd 1928

Hospital Carnival – Art Union Planned

Small attendance at meeting to organise a Carnival in aid of the Hospital - those mentioned – A Baldwin, JJ Dowd, TJ Britton, Tos Gibbons, J W Smith, J E Hansell, T Amies, A L Henderson, F Barrett, A Croft, R Croft, J Clark, H Hall, H J Baldwin, W Gudgeon, E W Boulton, E A Drew, D Whale, H A Porter.

Gulgong Advertiser – April 17th 1928

MATRON & DOCTOR’S REQUESTS REFUSED

“Since the departure of Nurse Hooke, I find it impossible to carry on the duties of this hospital in anything like efficiency,” wrote the Matron of the Gulgong Hospital in a request to the committee that a senior nurse be appointed in Nurse Hooke’s place.

Drs Allport, L Tunley, and Marjorie Tunley also wrote and made a similar request.

This appointment is absolutely essential in the interest of the patients said Dr Allport.

The requests were refused immediate attention, and the Matron was asked to carry on under the present arrangement for at least two months, when if found that the staff is insufficient the committee will give the staff matters serious consideration.

Gulgong Advertiser – April 17th 1928

QUEEN COMPETITION

The organizers of the three queen candidates in the forthcoming queen competition are at it full out.

Mr Stan Smith, who is looking after the interests of the country queen candidate, Miss Gladys Wright, is confidante that they will win. He is organizing all kinds of stunts and things, including an auction sale of stock, the commission on the sale of a station, and a new car to run people to and from entertainments, these are but a few of the methods he intends to adopt.

Mr Britton, who is the power behind the hospital candidate, Matron Snelson, has also joined in the battle of words.

Mr Tos Gibbons is looking after the interests of the town candidate, a deservedly popular lady in Miss Edna Fyfe. “If Smith thinks he is going to win hands down he’s making a big mistake,” said Mr Gibbons when interviewed.

Gulgong Advertiser - April 24th 1928

Carnival and Ball – Hospital Benefit

A Carnival is to be held at the showground, and a queen competition to be held in conjunction. A ball is to be held for the crowning. Messrs A F Ramsay, T Gibbons and H Raisbeck appointed to draw up a sports programme. Also there would be a boxing tent, side-shows chocolate wheel etc.

Gulgong Advertiser - April 24th 1928

Another Resignation

The hon. Treasurer of the Gulgong District Hospital, Mr Wade Gudgeon, has resigned. He does not agree with what he describes as the over-exacting demands of some committee-men. It appears that in his absence he was literally ‘stabbed in the back’ at the last meeting. The position of treasurer was forced on him – he consented to act in that capacity only to help the committee as no one else would take the position. Is it any wonder that citizens are shy of accepting public positions?

Gulgong Advertiser - May 1st 1928

GULGONG HOSPITAL

Officers Criticised

Trenchant criticism was leveled at the honorary treasurer and the secretary on the Gulgong District Hospital by Messrs A. Croft and A. L. Henderson at last meeting of the committee.

Both speakers took strong exception to the manner in which the financial statements had been presented. The honorary treasurer (Mr Wade Gudgeon) was not present.

In the absence of the president, the chair was occupied by Mr. R. Bowman. Others present were Messrs A. Baldwin (who left the meeting before it concluded), A. Croft, J. Clark, and H. J. Gudgeon. George Hoult, J.E. Hansell, A.L. Henderson, R. Glasson, Rev. L.V. Caldwell, & T. Amies (secretary). Apologies were from Messrs O. M. O’Reilly, S.B. Rouse, E. K. Bowman, J. J. Dowd, T.J. Britten, and W. Gudgeon.

Notice of Motion

Notice having been given at a previous meeting, Mr. Baldwin moved: “That in future the ordinary monthly meetings of the committee be held on the evenings of the second Monday in each month at 8 pm.”. Mr Croft seconded.

Mr Henderson: “Would it be possible to hold meetings in the day during the wintertime?

Mr. Croft: “This will be my last meeting until the end of September. I’m not going to come into the meetings which last till the middle of the night for anyone.”

Mr. Hansell said, “There was a shortage of committee-men at meetings last year, and he pointed out that country representatives alone enabled some of the meetings to be held. Meetings in the dead of winter at night time would not suit country people.

Mr. Baldwin then added the following to the motion: “With the exception of meetings held during the months of June, July and August, such meetings shall be held at 3 pm in lieu of 8 pm. The motion was carried.

Resignation

Letters of resignation were read from Mr E O’Glynn, (Wardsman), and Miss I Bolton (Cook) and Miss M Keyseeker (Housemaid).

The secretary stated that action had been taken and the vacancies filled.

Sister Price

Correspondence in connection with the appointment of Sister M. Price was approved.

Additional Nurse

Matron M. Snelson wrote as follows: “Since the departure of Nurse Hooke I find it impossible to carry on the duties of this hospital with anything like efficiency. At present, although we not extra busy, three nurses have been unable to be relieved for their usual days off (there are three days due to them). As this is certain to cause discontent, and is also unfair to the nurses themselves, I respectfully ask that you consider the appointment of a senior nurse in Nurse Hooke’s place. At present, on the nurse’s day off, it is necessary for the sister and myself to do the sweeping and dusting - the probationers work - as well as our own. As no sister is supposed to do that class of work, it is hardly fair to ask her to do it. Naturally, when we become busier, as usually happens at this time on the year, the position will become more acute. So I urgently ask you to give this matter you'll attention, as it is impossible to carry on efficiently without another and nurse”.

Dr. R. M. Allport wrote:-

“I beg to ask you to consider the appointment of a senior nurse in the place of Nurse Hooke. At the present moment, although the hospital is not full, it is getting difficult to carry on. The next two months will probably be our busiest, and it only needs a couple of seriously ill patients to be in hospital and the nursing system will inevitably break down. They cannot possibly carry on efficiently looking after their patients unless they have another senior nurse. I quite realize the finances of the hospital are bad, and I will not dream of putting the committee to any unnecessary expense, but this appointment is absolutely essential to the welfare of patients. You cannot carry on any business with an inadequate staff; then how much more important is it in a hospital where we are dealing with human lives.”

Not a Fair Trial

Mr. Baldwin said he didn't think the new arrangements had been given a fair trial yet. He didn't like going against the requests while the Matron and the Doctors, but he thought the committee should wait and see how the present scheme worked.

The chairman, and Messrs Croft, Henderson, Caldwell and Gudgeon spoke in somewhat similar terms.

The secretary said that as one who visited the hospital frequently at all hours he was sure that the appointment asked for was necessary. He did not think any of the committee was unable to say whether the institution was overstaffed or understaffed, or how it stood, because they did not know the inner workings. He suggested that a small committee be appointed to consult with the Matron and look into the question.

Mr. Croft said he was as good a judge as the secretary as to the position.

Mr Baldwin moved, and Mr Hansell seconded, that the Matron be written to and advised as follows-

“That we regret that the state of our funds does not at present permit our granting of her request for increased stuff and we therefore ask her to do her best for us for one or two months, when if it is found that the staff is insufficient, the committee will give the matter serious and sympathetic consideration.”

The motion was carried, and it was decided that the secretary write to the doctors in similar terms.

GULGONG DISTRICT HOSPITAL

Finance Committee’s Statement

Messrs A. Baldwin, J. J. Dowd, and A. L. Henderson, as members of the finance committee of the Gulgong District Hospital, have forwarded the Gulgong Advertiser the following for publication:

We understand a certain amount of criticism regarding the re-organisation of the Gulgong Hospital has been indulged in, and we feel sure the general public is so intensely interested in the welfare of the institution that they will wish to be correctly informed as to the actual facts all of the case.

We, the undersigned, with this end in view, and in justice to the committee of management, therefore desire to put before the public a brief statement of matters as we see them.

This statement will, we think, remove the misapprehension which exists, and, knowing as we do that the general public of this district are fair-minded in these matters, we feel sure that they will give the committee the credit of sincerely trying to do their best for the institution, which deserves the best from all of us.

As of the comments which are being made center chiefly around the recent staff reorganisation, we desire briefly to say that, after very serious consideration, we considered this reorganisation to be absolutely necessary, in view on the fact that at that time the statement of accounts showed that the hospital was in debt to no less an extent than £720. Indeed it was indebted to an even greater amount, because it has since been disclosed that there were a number of unpaid accounts not included in the statement.

It will be seen, therefore, that if the committee was to face the year’s operations with a debt of this magnitude on its shoulders, it would either have to depend on the public for very greatly increased subscriptions and assistance, or it would have to find some means of reducing the expenses, which during the last two or three years had been steadily and heavily mounting up.

An analysis of the position showed that the average number of patients treated in the hospital was a fraction over thirteen, for whose care a staff as follows was enjoyed:

1 matron, 1sister, 5 nurses, 1 wardsman, 1 cook, 1 housemaid and laundress, and one secretary.

The salary of the matron is £165 per annum, and the sister’s salary £163/10/-. It was considered that the sister’s salary was too high, and it was suggested that £110 be the amount to be paid in the future.

The position of sister was later advertised, and a most competent and experienced sister, with very excellent recommendations and references, has accepted the position and taken up duties.

It was decided in addition to reduce the nursing staff by one, effecting a further saving of £110 per year.

The secretary was also asked, and agreed, to except a reduction in his salary from £2 to 30/- a week.

In addition to this, the medical staff was approached, and they consented to act in an honorary capacity as regards to ordinary patients, effecting a further saving on last year's figures of £180.

It will thus be seen that, taking into consideration the cost of keeping one less nurse, the saving per annum will amount to well over £400.

This saving would be false economy into the [] if the efficiency of the institution were to be interfered with, but after careful inquiry from other hospitals as to the number of staff employed, the committee felt that while at first the matron may experience a little difficulty in the rearranging work on the reduced basis, they also felt sure that with hearty cooperation, of which we are assured, no great difficulty would be experienced in maintaining the efficiency which has heretofore characterized the Gulgong hospital.

While the committee has the very serious duty in maintaining the hospital in an efficient condition, it has, in addition, a duty to the subscribers and supporters of the hospital, seeing that the funds are not wasted, and we think it will be admitted that a saving of over £400 per year is a saving well worth having.

Had the saving not being effected, we do not know how the hospital would have carried on, for it will be known to all that the fees from patients, and the government subsidy, do not provide nearly sufficient for the maintenance of the institution, and while the public has been generous in giving in the past, and will no doubt give equally as generously in the future, we can hardly expect that we can be able to raise the excessive amount that would be required to make up the amount of the debt and provide the funds for the year’s need.

It will be already known to the public that the matron and doctors have written to the committee asking that the previous staff be restored, and we would like to say that this request was given very serious consideration, but as a matter of only a few days had elapsed under the new arrangements, it was thought by the committee that a fair trial had not been given, and in view of the financial straits in which we were placed, the matron was asked to give it a trial for a month for two, and then, if the efficiency was being in any way interfered with, the committee will give the matter serious and sympathetic consideration.

This, we think, the public will agree to be fair answer and a fair attitude to adopt.

In conclusion we would say that we recognise that, as a public committee, we must be prepared to meet with criticism, but feel sure that now we have briefly and clearly stated our case, unfair criticism will cease, and the public will realise that the men forming this committee are responsible men, actuated only by a desire to serve the public and the institution, to the best of their ability and with the utmost sincerity, having no desire to compulsively reduce staff or salaries, but at the same feeling that their duty, their absolute duty, is to manage the hospital funds in a business like matter, doing justice to all, giving the best possible service, and without any undue expenditure of funds which a generous public is called on to provide.

We, therefore, confidently appeal to the public to continue to support this splendid institution with the same liberality they have displayed in the past.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 1st 1928

CARNIVAL AND SPORTS

At the meeting of the Hospital Carnival Committee present were: Messrs J.J. Dowd (president) H.A. Porter, S.R. Smith, T. Gibbons, E. Trainor, E.W. Bolton, W. Gudgeon, F. Halloran, Mesdames T. Amies, A.F. Ramsey and Mr T. Amies (Hon Sec).

Publican’s Booth

The president and Mr Croft reported that they had interviewed the hotelkeepers in regard to conducting a publican’s booth at the showground on the day of the carnival, and they were very generous in bearing all expenses of conducting the booth.

Mr Stan Smith moved that a vote of thanks be recorded in recognition of their generosity

Public Holiday

Mr Wade Gudgeon moved that June 23rd be declared a public holiday for the carnival.

Motion was carried.

Oddfellows Hall

Mr Tos Gibbons announced that the M.U.I.O.O.F would make their hall available free of charge for any entertainment.

Publicity - Messrs JJ Dowd, H A Porter and T. Amies

Grand Ball - Messrs - E Trainor, F Brown, B Edwards, O Colless, W Foster, Misses E Fyfe, L Howarth, N Oldfield, E Dugan, and W Naughton.

CWA Ladies to conduct sweet and refreshment stalls on the ground.

Boxing Tent

It was resolved to ask Messrs J. Kelly and F. Ryan to take charge of the boxing tent.

Gulgong Advertiser - May 29th 1928

Gulgong Hospital – Monthly Meeting

Present: Messrs A Baldwin [chair] J J Dowd, A L Henderson, A Croft, H J Gudgeon, J Clark, P R Snelson, W Gudgeon, O M O’Reilly, J E Hansell, Rev L V Caldwell and Secretary T Amies. Apology: R Bowman.

Resignation from Wade Gudgeon – A L Henderson appointed to the position of treasurer, Miss Ivy Bolton, Cook – claimed £1/10/- - amount to be paid. R Glasson of Slapdash donated £5/5/- to the hospital

Matron Snelson’s report – 37 patients treated, 9 remaining in hospital on April 30; daily average 10.4; Donations from Mrs E W Boulton and Mrs E Watt – old linen; Mrs Rivas, melons, T Amies, vegetables – Stott Bros, vegetables. Messrs J Clark and J J Dowd visiting committee for May. Mr J E Hansell donated field glass for the carnival as a prize.

1933______________

Mudgee Guardian, Mon 31 Jul 1933

A GREAT NIGHT - Hospital Ball - IMMENSE CROWD
A VERY large crowd attended the annual Gulgong Hospital ball in the Town Hall last evening. It was one of the most successful of the annual efforts for the hospital. The event is always regarded as one of the outstanding social events of the year, and last night's function worthily upheld that reputation.
There were visitors from nearly all the surrounding centres, the outlying centres being well represented. It was a wonderfully successful function, everything connected with it leaving nothing to be desired. Under the capable direction of Miss A. Snelson, the hon. secretary, the women's committee, which was responsible for all the arrangements, worked with wonderful energy and enthusiasm. Dr. Marjorie Tunley (president), Mrs. E. M. Allport (treasurer) and others who were so keen on success have every reason to be proud of their eftorts. The number of supporters and helpers was legion, but mention of the fine service rendered by Mesdames R. J. Gorrie, P. Flood, E. Kable and J. Tappis worthy of special mention.
Never before has there been such co-operation and willingness to help, although for the hospital there is always a band, of willing workers.
The stage was very finely decorated, the work of Miss M. Tickner, who deserves to be complimented on her artistic ability. Dr. L. Tunley proved himself a very efficient M.C. The supper tables, which were laden with the most tempting 'eats,' were most beautifully decorated, Dr. Marjorie Tunley and Miss B. Baldwin being responsible. Poppies from the Blue Mountains, gum tips, and roses and jonquils from Mr T. E. Wotton's garden at Guntawang were used to delightful effect.
The music provided by the Peter Pan orchestra, comnprising Miss Imelda Naughton (piano), Messers T. Turner (violin), A. Fyfe (drums), L. Purcell, of Mudgee (banjo), was most delightful and was one of the features of the ball. Monte Carlo dances were won by Mr F. Gudgeon - Miss B. Tuxford and Mr J. Roth - Miss Myra O'Donoghue.
Valuable assistance was rendered by Messrs R. Brigden and N Chick (doorkeepers), and their help and the generosity of a large number of residents was no mean factor in the success attained.

The Dresses - click here to see who wore what (if you can read the heavily inked copy)

Gulgong Advertiser - December 13th 1933

Bus for Ulan - A bus will leave the Bank corner in Gulgong on Saturday night at 7.30pm for Ulan where the annual ball for the Hospital will take place.

1934______________

Gulgong Advertiser – January 10th 1934

Gulgong Hospital

The hospital is in a sound financial position as revealed at the monthly meeting of the board on Monday Night last, at which the chairman Mr A Baldwin presided.

Others present were: Dr Marjorie Tunley, Mrs J J Dowd, Mrs E F Trainor, R J Naughton, J C Williams, C M Lowe, R Bowman, R L Rouse, H O’Brien and T Amies Secretary.

Apologies were received from Rev C H Buttsworth, Dr RM Allport, H J Gudgeon and H W Upham

Gulgong Advertiser – January 10th 1934

Sister E Kelly, who recently left Gulgong to take up duties as Sister at the Condobolin Hospital, has now left there and is now at Harden.

Major A C Hudson of Mudgee was a visitor to Gulgong last Sunday. Major Hudson was the contractor for the main building of the Gulgong Hospital which he erected in 1901.

CHRISTMAS STOCKING - The secretary of the Hospital has received the sum of £2/2/- from Mr A. Angelos being the proceeds of the Christmas stocking competition. The stocking was won by Mr E J Gudgeon.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 17th 1934

HOSPITAL CYCLE EVENTS - KEEN COMPETITION

According to entries received for the cycle races to be held on Anniversary Day, it is going to be a wonderful day for cyclists and the public.

Mr H J Gudgeon president - committee: Messrs R J Naughton, P Holmes, H Hall, H E Gudgeon, Len Price, Percy Barton, E F Trainor, [treasurer] and T Amies [secretary]. Handicappers – Messrs H E Gudgeon, Hall and Barton. Stewards to take charge of various events were appointed and the matter of organising and running the over 40s old buffer’s race was left to the cycle club who are to control the races.

Messrs R J Gorrie, E Gray, D Whale, and R S Bayliss asked to be the gatekeepers. Judges Messrs J J Dowd, A Baldwin and C S McFarlane, the judges.

Nominations as follows for the following races -

The Western District Championship of three miles
Anniversary Handicap 1½ miles
Hospital Handicap one mile

‘Speed’ Morgan, Sydney, J Bray, Sydney, M Patterson, Mudgee, Mervyn Horder, Parramatta, E L Maloney, Mudgee, C J Skiperdine, Auburn, Allan R Potter, Mudgee, D Tipping Bathurst, W H Maddy, Bathurst, L Tonkin, Bathurst, C Schofield, Gulgong, J P Flood, Gulgong, N E Tickner, Gulgong, J Canobi, Gulgong, O Meeth, Dubbo, J R Smith, Cullen Bullen, Elis E Buck, West Dubbo, D Fitzsimmons, Mudgee, T Beck, Gulgong, M Wade, Mudgee, W Bamford, Mudgee, Russell Smith, Mudgee, F Morgan, Mudgee, S Markwick, Bathurst, W Barnes, Bathurst, C Huggett, Gulgong, Bruce Cooper, Bathurst, F Rich, Mudgee, M Rayner, Mudgee.

Note: Most competitors competing in the three races.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 24th 1934

Applications close January 31st for the position of probationary nurse at the Gulgong District Hospital. Salary £39 per annum – apply to T. Amies, secretary

Gulgong Advertiser – January 31st 1934

GREAT RACING – Hospital Sports Results –

Hospital Handicap, one mile
Nigel Tickner [Gulgong 1; C Skipperdence [Auburn] 2; A Potter [Mudgee] 3; time 2 mins 12secs
Anniversary Handicap 1½miles
J R Smith [Cullen Bullen] 1; M Paterson [Mudgee] 2; C Canobi [Gulgong] 3; time 3 mins 45 secs
Western District Championship 3 miles
M Horder [Parramatta] 1; A Potter [Mudgee] 2; W Daniels [Sydney] 3; time 7 mins 41 secs
Boys Cycle Race 14 years and under
E Berlyn [170 yards] 1; D Stahl [200 yards] 2; R Turner [50 yards] 3; other starters, A Hasenkam [scratch]; E Comer [50] R Glynn [150]

Nurse R Bayliss applied for leave and four weeks were granted on the motion of Mr Trainor.

Miss K McGowan of Orange applied for the first vacancy as a probationer.

Messrs R Murray, J E Nicholls and D Liston applied for permission to sink a shaft in the paddock opposite the hospital. Permission was granted on the condition that the shafts are protected when they were not working and filled in to the Board’s satisfaction when they have finished sinking.

The recent hospital dance at Home Rule yielded £3/13/6. The Chairman remarked that every little bit counts, and on the motion of Mr Bowman the Secretary was instructed to write and thank Mr Ray Archer and all his helpers.

Mr F E Gorringe quoted 10/- shillings for one extra coat of paint on the kitchen ceiling.

The Secretary tabled a letter he wrote to the hospital with the intention of bringing forward the purchase of a hot water system.

MATRONS REPORT – Matron M Snelson reported that 48 patients were treated and 11 remained. There were two major operations performed and 9 minor ones.

SECRETARY’S REPORT – It was reported to me on Friday that the windmill was not pumping water. I have asked Mr Marveni to have a look at it and report.

Now that the kitchen has been painted the new linoleum is ready to be laid. I have asked Mr J Peck what can be done about leveling off the floor before this is done.

Mr J Ellery has approached me twice re the position of gardener, and I have informed him both times that we are awaiting word from Mr C Murkins.

As Mr Murkins hadn’t responded to the two letters sent to him, Mr Mr Trainor moved that Mr Ellery be employed for a period of three months at 15/- per week, and have the right to surplus vegetables for his own use.

A request for extensions to the hospital has been put on hold by the Government.

Gulgong Advertiser – January 31st 1934

Officials - President – Mr H Hall; Secretary – Len Price; referee – C E Tickner; starter – A Ryan; handicapper – P Barton; judges – P Barton and C E McFarlane; timekeeper – E Parsons [Mudgee]; blackboard steward – J H Stahl; ring stewards – J Egan, D Whale [Gulgong] K Green, L Hardy, S Bamford, W Wright [Mudgee]; lap crier – W R Buchanan.; treasurer – Mr E F Trainor

So great was the interest in the cycle races it was difficulty to get the public interested in the other events on the programme, a number being cancelled.

Results of events held-

Girl’s under 12 years [handicap] – Netta Patterson, Mudgee
Ladies nail driving – Mrs F Berlyn
Stepping 100 yards – men – John Beck
Sack Race 50 yards – F Gudgeon
Tug-a-War – 8 aside – Post Office Hotel
Old Buffer’s Race – H J Gudgeon
Throwing at the Wicket – H Spicer

Not many attended and the procession was almost a failure but for the Gulgong Citizens Band.

At the gate the children were given free lollies, the donors being Messrs A Baldwin, H W Upham and A E Campbell. Messrs E S Bayliss, R J Gorrie, J Malone and J Cicognani were the gatekeepers.

The publican’s booth was run by the hotelkeepers, the profits going to the hospital.

Mrs Percy Boyd was in charge of the catering. Misses E Fyfe, E Pegus [Nurse] M Stones, M Williams, Mavis Hasenkam, R Gray, Olga McNamara, R Partington, Iris Taylor of the Younger Set and Nurse Scott conducted the soft drink and ice cream stall. Mrs. T Amies conducted the fruit and sweets stall- Messrs Alf Brigden, H E Gudgeon and P Holmes rendered valuable assistance.

A large crowd attended the Flannel dance held at night, the music being supplied by Miss Imelda Naughton, Messrs J J Blanch and Kevin English were the doorkeepers. Mrs E F Trainor conducted the refreshment stall in the grounds of the Town Hall; she was assisted by members of the committee.

The taking amounted to over £100 but the net profit is unknown at this stage.

A Bruce auction of donations collected by Mr P Holmes was not held, but this matter is to be finalised almost immediately.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 7th 1934

DONATIONS OF WHEAT – To the Gulgong Hospital appeal through Mr Charlies Lincoln of Tallawang: Messrs F J Anderson, Walter H Nott, J C Lund, George Lincoln, C E Orton, Robinson Brothers, Charles Lund, Reg Croft, Charles F A Davis, J D Jones, C W Hodge, Harold R Tattersall and J Baldwin.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 14th 1934

HOSPITAL ADDITIONS OUT OF THE QUESTION

The proposed additions to the Gulgong Hospital were not considered at the last board meeting. Mr. R W D Weaver, Minister of Public Works and Health advised that the Government that it was out of the question as no advances were being made to hospitals.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 14th 1934

GULGONG PERSONAL

LAD wanted to relieve Wardsman of certain number of hours daily. Apply T Amies – secretary – Gulgong District Hospital.

Gulgong Advertiser - February 14th 1934

HOSPITAL BOARD – Small Attendance

Present A Baldwin, Chairman, Dr R M Allport, Messrs H O’Brien, H J Gudgeon, P R Snelson, E F Trainor, Dr Marjorie Tunley, George Hoult, Hon Treasurer and T Amies secretary.

There were six applications for probationary nurse – Miss Jean Gibson’s (daughter of the Rev T K Gibson) application was approved.

Matron M Snelson’s report - 51 patients had been treated between January 16 and 31, daily average 12.2. Outdoor patients treated 6, visits numbered 9. Operations: Minor 15, Major 2.

Donations Mr L Roth case of peaches, Mr T Haynes case figs and apricots; Mr Fortesque vegetables; Mrs H O’Brien tomatoes; Mr P R Snelson two cases of pears; Mr T Edmunds, vegetables, fruit cake, and melons. The windmill had been disconnected and the town water connected, the decision was left to see how much the town water was going to cost before repairs were made to the windmill.

Much discussion re vegetable garden, see advertisement.

Gulgong Advertiser - December 19th 1934

HOSPITAL SUBSIDY

The Gulgong District Hospital has received its 3rd advance subsidy from the Government of £115 bringing the total to £345 for the financial year to date.

1935______________

Gulgong Advertiser - January 9th 1935

The Gulgong Hospital Board was advised by Mr D H Spring MLA that funds were not available for the proposed additions to that institution.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 9th 1935

GULGONG HOSPITAL BOARD – Special meeting chaired by vice-chairman – H J Gudgeon, re the amended legislation election of board members. Present were: Drs. L W Tunley and R M Allport, Mrs J J Dowd, Messrs H O’Brien, R Bowman, G Hoult and secretary T Amies – apology from Mr C M Lowe.

Gulgong Advertiser - January 16th 1935

HOSPITAL MEETING

The Chairman Mr A Baldwin presided. Others present were Mrs JJ Dowd, Dr R M Allport, Messrs E F Trainor, R J Naughton, H W Upham, J C Williams, H J Gudgeon, R L Rouse, R Bowman, G Hoult (Treasurer) and T Amies (Secretary). Apologies were accepted from Dr M Tunley, T K Gibson and Messrs C M Lowe and W A Saunders.

Secretary’s Report

At the last meeting I reported to having arranged for Mr F Russell to paint three names on the life membership board, and I later found that I had omitted the name of Mrs J M Riley. I have since asked Mr Russell to add her name.

At public auction Mr W A Saunders has disposed of the old carpet that used to be in the Nurse’s quarters, the ice chest, and the water safe. Mr Saunders made the sale without commission.

Mr West carried out the painting of the private ward as authorised at the last meeting, but acting on the matron’s suggestion the lower portion was done in oil paint.

Hospital Additions

A letter was read on the subject of the proposed additional works and improvements.

The cost of the works was £1,610/10/- comprising –

Improvements to the Sewerage System – £128/-/-
New Bathrooms and Toilets in connection with same – £517/-/-
Additions to the Nurses Quarters – £250/-/-
Additional verandahs to house intermediate Wards – £300/-/-
Painting – £166/-/-
Plus other costs already carried out by the board – £249/10/-

Mr D H Spring MLA stated that it was regrettable that the required amount of money could not be made available to complete the work and hoped that the funds might become available at a later date.

Mudgee Guardian – May 9th 1935

Sister E Kelly of the staff of the Mudgee Hospital [formerly of the Gulgong District Hospital] arrived in Gulgong last Friday to spend a few days leave, but took ill and was admitted to the Gulgong Hospital on Saturday.

Mudgee Mail – September 12th 1935

Gulgong Hospital

The hospital board has resolved to purchase new equipment including an X-ray plant, sterilizer unit, operating table and insufflation anesthesia apparatus. The Minister for Health [Mr. Fitzsimmons] recently visited the hospital and informed the Board that half the cost of the items would be provided.

Gulgong Advertiser –November 6th 1935

Fundraiser for the Gulgong District Hospital and the Royal Alexandra Hospital for children at Camperdown.

Miss Imelda Naughton was crowned queen of the day at a ball in the Pictoria Theatre. Gulgong Hospital Board felt honoured when advised by the Western Travellers’ Cot Fund that it had been selected as venue for the carnival for 1935.

Gross takings for the carnival were £750, and the Gulgong District Hospital and the Royal Alexandra Hospital for children should benefit to the amount of £600 between them.

Local police Sergeant Tickner and Constables Dodd and Tucker were on duty for the occasion.

Mr T. H. Woods and Mrs J. Riley made the land available for the carnival free of cost Mayne Street decoration organized by Messrs. C. Northcote and Brit Cornish.

A huge crowd gathered for the procession assembling near Anzac Park (Herbert Street side) the procession moved down to Mayne Street, to White Street, to Belmore Street, up Herbert Street to Bayly Street, up Medley Street to Mayne Street (the site of the carnival).

A float carrying the queen competition candidates was organized by Mrs McIntosh. Order of procession was Marshall, Mr Frank Ryan, Gulgong Citizens’ Band, Float by Mrs. J. N. McIntosh, Manchester Unity Lodge, and Travellers in fancy costumes. Floats, Jas. Loneragan (Milling Co) awarded 1st Prize and re-donated by Mr W. Lockerby. Others – Brains Mudgee (lorry) - Brain’s Mudgee (car).

Children under 12 in fancy costumes were Master Bennett (swaggie) and sister 1st prize. Decorated cars Mr J. Ingram 1st prize, Sister D. Whalan and R. O. Drew. Humorous Turnouts - K. Murray and D. Yule (horse) 1st prize and Russell Turner (monkey), Decorated cycle H, J. Gudgeon. Worst turnouts Messrs T. Amies R. Gill 1st prize Others T. Wall, C. Scholtz, E. Noy. Draught horses Mr. W. Oldfield.

Mr. Milton of radio fame in Mudgee and his assistant Mr. Budd set up the public address system in the vacant block between Mr. Watts butcher shop and Mr. T. H. Woods’ buildings (carnival ground).

WHEELBARROW DERBY held in Mayne Street - Cecil McPherson & W. Sargent defeated E. Noy & C. Denning in the final after two heats. Mr F Spencer organized the event.

CYCLE ROAD RACE - 10 Mile race between Naughton’s Centennial Hotel and Northcote’s Royal Hotel. Riders E. Wright (Mudgee) A. Bennett (Mudgee) F. Morgan (Mudgee) Fastest time J Flood.

DRAUGHT HORSE DERBY - Jet (“Doon” Norris) 1st and Betty (Webster) 2nd. Both owned by Mr. Oldfield.

BOYS RACE - Won by Ernie Davis with K. Bennett 2nd.

The ball at night at the Pictoria Theatre was overcrowded for dancing, and was the biggest crowd seen at a ball for years. Dr Allport was the MC and the Peter Pan Orchestra provided the Music. Supper was provided at the Town Hall by Mrs P Boyd, where over 500 were present.

Gulgong Advertiser –November 6th 1935

New Operating Table

Gulgong District Hospital ordered a new operating table at the cost of £126/10/- half of the cost to be provided by the commission.

Gulgong Advertiser – November 13th 1935

GULGONG PERSONAL

Mrs M J Healy is to return to Sydney after being the guest of Mr & Mrs JJ Dowd. Mrs Healy was the Matron of the Gulgong Hospital many years ago.

1936______________

Gulgong Advertiser - July 15th 1936

NEW AWARD – Hospital Nurses – Gulgong is Affected – A special report by the secretary Mr. Amies of the Gulgong District Hospital in connection with the proposed nurse’s award was submitted at last Monday’s evening meeting of the board. The report state: ‘Our present weekly rate of salaries and the weekly rate it is proposed shall be gazetted in the event of there being no appeal to the Full Court are here set out, each amount including a sum of £1 allowance for boards and lodging.

Now Award

Nurse Coleman £2.00.00 £2.10.00
Nurse Grimshaw 2.00.00 2.10.00
Nurse Stewart 2.10.00 2.10.00
Nurse Bayliss 2.15.00 2.10.00
Sister Whalan 3.07.06 4.05.00
Sister Woods 3.07.06 3.15.00
Matron Snelson 4.03.05½ 4.15.00

An additional amount is to be found each week by the board of £2/11/6½. If, however, the salary of Nurse Bayliss [at present of 5/- over the award is allowed to remain, the additional amount referred to will be increased by 5/-. After September 6th the salary of Sister Wood will be automatically increased unto her of 5/- a week.

Mr. Gudgeon: ‘The charitable side has gone completely out of the hospital maintenance.’

Mr. Baldwin, Chairman: ‘You couldn’t expect charity at the expense of those working on the nursing staff’.

Mr. Gudgeon: ‘No, I’m not objecting to the wages, but sooner or later the Government will have to impose a tax to the upkeep of hospitals.’

There was no appeal lodged against the award it would operate from July 17th 1936.

Application from the cook of the hospital and junior wardsman for increases in wages were read and it was resolved to take no action for the present.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 15th 1936

IN A DILEMMA

Hospital Directors—Training School or Not.

The question of taking action to make the Gulgong District Hospital a training school for nurses caused an animated discussion at Monday night’s meeting of the directors, who found themselves in a dilemma for a time. A motion by Messrs O’Brien, Trainor and Hoult was submitted as follows:

That the motion on the minute book on page 173, that the question of making the institution a training school for nurses stand in abeyance until such time as the additions are made and the improvements effected be and is hereby rescinded and that the institution be made a training school for nurses as from January 1, 1937; in the meantime the necessary steps to have it registered as such be taken by the board, the matron and nursing staff to notified of the board’s intention.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 15th 1936

CONTRIBUTION SCHEME—The secretary of the Gulgong Hospital Board, Mr. T. Amies, reported that a local resident had joined the contribution scheme and as his wife resided in Mudgee, he had informed the new member that his wife would not be entitled to benefits of the scheme unless treated at the Gulgong Hospital or came under the rules which provide for payment at another hospital at the rate of 6/- per day in the case of her being temporarily absent from the district or ordered away to some other institution by a local doctor because treatment could not be given at Gulgong. This was confirmed by the Commissioners reply.

Gulgong Advertiser - July 15th 1936

HOSPITAL BOARD

The question of the status of members of the Gulgong District Hospital Contribution Scheme who are in arrears was discussed briefly at last Monday’s meeting of the Board.

Chairman Mr. A. Baldwin presided, present: Messrs H. O’Brien, H.W. Upham, E.F. Trainor, J.J. Dowd, H.J. Gudgeon, G. Hoult, hon. Treasurer and T. Amies, secretary. Apologies: Messrs R.J. Naughton and W. Foster.

The credit balance amounted to £796/17/11 plus fixed deposits £157/2/5, this is the biggest credit the hospital has ever had.

CORRESPONDENCE: Letter from the Hospital Commission re extensions, requesting the hastening of the plans. Letter tabled written to M.H. Bennett asking him to proceed with the work of extending the verandahs as soon as possible. The Chairman stated that when in Sydney he had phoned the Hospital Commissioner who had stated the Commission would pay half of the cost of Mr. Bennett’s tender of £175/10/-.

Nurse Stewart applied for her annual leave [four weeks] to commence in August, granted on the motion of Mr. Trainor.

Sister M. Woods applied for refund of railway fare from Bombala to Gulgong, granted, motion Mr. Trainor.

Hospital Commission approved the sale of the old operating table to the Cassilis C.W.A. for £7/10/-.

The purchase of the following for the operating theatre was approved: Rubber mats for the floor, rubber mattress for the table of the operating, instrument cabinet on locker stand, circular dressing table, and instrument table.

Miss Constance Grant has been appointed as organiser of the Women’s Auxillaries, taking the place of Mrs. R. McKinnon.

DONATIONS: J.E. Loneragan £5/5/-, Mr. W. M. Sheridan and William Arnott Ltd. £1/1/- each. Mrs. B. Watt, linen and books, Mrs. M. Norris books, golf house, bread, Dr. Allport magazines, Mr. Bert Sweeny, cakes.

MATRON’S REPORT: The month on June showed 50 patients had been treated – 18 remained June 30. Out-door patients treated, 7, the visits numbering 23.

HOUSE COMMITTEE REPORT: Visited the hospital on several occasion during the month and everything was working in a satisfactory manner. All patients spoke in glowing terms of their treatment. Some trees did not survive the planting and are to be replaced by elms. Recommendation that the pepper trees either side of the front entrance be destroyed.

SECRETARY’S REPORT: There are 717 contributors enrolled. June 30 there were 440 financial members. Members who are in arrears of six months to be written off. A milking cow is still needed on loan. Owing to the water restrictions it was necessary to purchase vegetables. The new gardener, Mr. Anderson is doing an excellent job.

1937______________

Gulgong Advertiser - November 3rd 1937

HOSPITAL GIFT AFTERNOON – School Children

About 250 children from the Gulgong Public School marched from the school to the District Hospital on Friday afternoon for a hospital gift afternoon, organised by members of the Junior Red Cross League and Mr E L Maguire, Headmaster.

The pupils were headed in the march by boy scouts, led by Ralph Hasenkam bearing the Union Jack, followed by members of the Junior Red Cross, followed by other pupils of the school, including the Infants Department. The teachers in charge were Messrs E L Maguire, K White, A V Pulley and J Prior and Miss Kirkwood bore gifts of flowers, fruit, vegetables, eggs, books and magazines etc.

At the hospital the pupils were welcomed by hospital president Mr J J Dowd, Drs L W Tunley and R M Allport, Matron M J O’Hare. Mr T Amies, hospital secretary was also present. President Dowd thanked the children for their gifts, and stated the boys and girls will be the future citizens of this town. The Boys will probably be on the Board and the girls on the auxiliary. Dr Allport also spoke in glowing terms of the children’s feelings towards others [who were] worse off than themselves.

1938______________

Mudgee Guardian Thu 8 Sep 1938

Gulgong's Great Night - HOSPITAL PIONEER VICE-VERSA BALL - Spectacular Event : Overcrowded Theatre - GRAND PARADE OF FANCY COSTUMES
The annual Gulgong hospital ball in the Roxy Theatre last evening took the form of a Pioneer Vice-Versa Ball. What a night! It was the greatest in the history of the Institution's annual events and a fine tribute to the promoter, Mr. A. R. Newton. The theatre was overcrowded, the grand parade of nations in fancy costume and the beautiful decorations making a spectacular scene such as is seldom seen in towns like Gulgong.
Over £60 was taken at the door. Modern and old-time dances were held alternately, music being supplied by the local orchestras, the Gloomchasers and Wright's Regal Orchestra. The decorative scheme carried out by Mr. J. Hardiman (manager of the theatre) and Mrs. Hardiman was a feature of the event, quite a number of patrons saying that they had never seen the hall looking better. Multi-coloured streamers made a richness of color that showed the ball room into good effect. The scheme was certainly very effective.
Quite a number attended in vice-versa costumes. Both sexes were effectively impersonated. Mr. A. T. Fredericks making a splendid 'Mae West.' The outstanding costumes were worn by Mr. T. Menchin ('King Henry VIII') and Mr. Herbest ('Bride'). The fact that scores of people attended in fancy costumes was a triumph for Mr. Newton, one of the hon. secretaries, who, despite his flare for organising, met with a good deal of opposition when he first suggested the nature of the event.
Judging of costumes was carried out by Mr. H. L. G. Moore (Gulgong) nnd Mr. and Mrs. C. R. N. Owen (Sydney). Too much credit cannot be given to the other hon. secretary (Miss A. Snelson) who, through the years, has been a keen and enthusiastic hospital ball worker, and without whom it would seem that no hospital ball would be a success. The ladies' committee, who went to no end of trouble to arrange eats in buffet style, know Miss Snelson's work, and her effort on this occasion is worthy of warm commendation.
In returning thanks on behalf of the hospital board, Mr. E. F. Trainor made mention of the magnificent effort by the ladies, the secretaries, Mr. Hardiman, the judges, the press, visitors, and supporters. In his well-chosen remarks he apologised for the absence of the chairman of the board (Mr. J. J. Dowd) who, he said, was not attending social functions owing to a recent bereavement. Mr. Trainor praised the work done by those responsible for the success of the function, mentioning that local supporters never failed to help the hospital.
A loud speaker system was used to make announcements, one of the hon. secretaries being the announcer. The 'station' was I.O.U. The following won prizes: —
Best Impersonation of a man vice-versa (own choice): Miss Audrey Tompson (Mudgee). 'Cowboy.'
Best impersonation of a woman vice-versa (own choice) : Mr. A. T. Fredericks (Gulgong), 'Mae West.'
Most humorous vice-versa, male or female: Mr. Trevor Menchin and Mr. Lionel Herbest, 'King Henry Eighth and Bride.'
Most original costume, own choice: Miss Laura Heard, 'Spring.'
Best movie star costume: Miss H. Chew, 'Shirley Temple.'
Best vice-versa party (mixed impersonations) : 'King Henry's party.'
Best party, national costumes not necessarily vice-versa: Spanish Toreadors (Misses Molly Flood, Mavis Hasenkam, Una Hasenkam, Dulcie Copeland, Messrs. Gordon Hasenkam, Warren Barclay, Pop Hyland, E. Panowitz).
Best solo, national costume, male or female: Miss Betty Copeland, 'Madam Pompadour.'
Section not already mentioned: Mr. Roy Griffiths and Miss Ivy Reinhardt, 'Pirates.'
Competitions were won as follow:—
Yodelling, Mr. K. Cunningham (Gulgong): crooning, Mr C. Talbot (Mudgee); sporting event announcement, Messrs. Max Christian and A. Smith (divided). Spot dance (pair of stockings), Miss B. Baldwin; spot dance (pair of stockings), Miss J. Mulley (Mudgee).
A 'bull' flght took place during the evening, the 'bull' being represented by Cliff Dray and Roy "Sandy" Gibbons. Mr. W. A. Saunders acted as ticket seller, and the following acted as door-keepers: — Messrs. C. F. Bliss. T. Britt, J. P. English, and N. Chick.
Those who wore fancy costumes included: — Mrs. T. Amies, 'Confetti Girl'; Miss R. Bayliss, 'Gentleman Aviator'; A. C. Bailey, 'Indian Royal'; Mrs. A. C. Bailey, 'Spanish Bride'; Miss D. Clements, 'Gipsy Man'; Miss E. Coyte; 'Rio Rita'; Miss Mary Curry, 'Sailor'; Gordon Chrisp, 'Lady'; Miss Marjorie Campbell, 'Dutch Girl'; Mr. K. Cunningham, 'Spanish Gentle man'; Miss Norah Dewar, 'Chinese Lady'; Miss Rhoda Dutton, 'Gipsy Queen'; Miss Mabel Dutton, 'Spanish Lady'; H. Edwards, 'Sailor'; Mrs. Frank Foster, 'Peasant'; Frank Foster, 'Sailor'; Miss M. Gudgeon 'Swiss-Peasant' ; Mrs. J. Hardiman, 'Early Victorian'; J. Hardiman, 'Golfer' (comic); Miss Laura Heard, 'Spring' (prize for original costume); Miss Ruby Huxley, 'Hard Boiled Egg'; Mr. Geo. Jackson, 'Rajah'; D. C. Lee, 'Viennese Officer'; Jack Morley, 'Naval Officer'; Mrs. Geo. McCauliffe, 'Senorita'; Miss Thelma Nicholas, 'Pack of Cards'; Mrs. Les. Norris, 'Spanish Senorita'; A. R. Newton, 'Red Shadow'; Mrs. W. O'Brien. 'Kilts'; Miss Mary Stones, 'Check-it Cabaret Girl'; Dr. L. W. Tunley, 'Nurse'; Miss V. Warren, 'Gipsy Girl'; Miss J. Williams, 'Lady Aviator; Miss S. Williardt, 'Spring'; Mrs. Bertha Watt, 'Sleepless Nights.'
Mudgee was represented in fancy costume by the following: Ron Imber ('College Boy'), K. Hey, K. Faulkner, W. Holmes, Cecil Talbot, Joyce Jones, and Enid Tuck. Sets in addition to the prize winning one, were: — Gipsy (Misses Nell Flood, Zilla Winter, Bertha Dutton, Messrs. Kevin English, Alan Laing, Max Christian); Czar (Miss I. Springbett); Harem Girls (Messrs. B. Smith and I. C. Gilbert).

Mudgee Guardian – October 6th 1938

Matron M. J. O'Hare, of the Gulgong district Hospital, will be in Sydney next week attending the annual conference of hospital matrons and hospital auxiliaries of NSW.

Sister M. Robinson, of the David Berry Hospital, Berry, arrived in Gulgong and commenced duties at the Gulgong District Hospital on Monday. She has taken the place of Sister M. Bisley, who recently-resigned and accepted a position at the Masonic Hospital Ashfield.

Nurse C. Francis left for Kandos on Monday evening to spend a couple of days as the guest of her parents. She resigned her position at the Gulgong district hospital and is to take up subsidised school teaching. She leaves for Wee Waa shortly.

Mr. T. Amies attended the annual conference of the Hospital Officers' Association, which commenced in Sydney yesterday, and was officially opened by the Minister for Health Mr. FitzSimons.

NEW PAYING UNIT

GULGONG HOSPITAL - Children's Ward

In reference to the erection of the new paying unit and the children's ward, I forward herewith copy of the report and sketch plan received from the Public Works Department relative thereto. I would be glad to know whether the scheme meets with the board's approval, and if not to have its comments on the accommodation proposed to be provided and the lay-out of same.

With regard to the financing of the estimated expenditure involved I have to intimate that the Commission will meet half the cost of the children's ward but that the board must be responsible for the whole cost of the paying section.

In the event of the board not being able to finance the quota of the expenditure I have to intimate that the commission anticipates being in a position to arrange loan money for you which will be repayable over 20 years with interest at 4½ per cent.

I should be glad to know whether the board is prepared to accept this basis of finance and with your reply, will you please be good enough to return the sketch plan?

Departments Letter - The letter referred to from the Public Works Department was as follows:-

'In accordance with the Hospitals Commission's s request, the question of providing a separate paying unit has been investigated and a visit made to the hospital for the purpose of conferring with the hospital board as to their requirements.

A sketch plans have been now prepared embodying the whole of the board's requirements, and although the estimated cost of the scheme now submitted considerably exceeds the cost of the original proposal of erecting 4-bed intermediate wards at the ends of the present public wards, it is so much more satisfactory that the higher cost is justified. Apart altogether from the fact that there is very little merit in the original proposal, on account of the inconvenience of administration services and situations, the erection of a combined private and intermediate unit will release the present private wards for an X-ray room, duty room, and segregation ward, etc. This not only overcomes the question of cost in providing these services, but enables them to be provided in a central and convenient location. 'It is proposed to erect the new paying unit in a wing brought forward at right angles on the end of the existing woman's ward. The accommodation to be provided comprises four 2-bed wards and four single wards, making a total of 12 beds. Some bathroom and W. C. accommodation will be included in the new block, as well as ward kitchen, sterlising and doctor's room, nurse's station and wide verandahs to the eastern and western sides. A new covered way is also included to provide access from the new paying unit to the kitchen. A new children's ward has been indicated on the sketch plans to be erected between the existing men's ward and the old nurse's quarters. This ward will accommodate six beds, and a wide verandah will be provided along the front, also necessary bathroom and WC accommodation within the existing annex at the rear.

'Included in the estimated cost of the scheme is an amount of £50 for engineering services, and this figure is based on the assumption that the hot water scheme now under review for the hospital is proceeded with before the paying unit is erected. As pointed out in our letter of the 27th June, it is proposed to include in the scheme the following five points -

[1] Renovating those portions of the hospital not covered by Greenfield's contract.

[2] Preparing, staining and varnishing floors of the new quarters for nurses.

[3] Internal painting of the original home for nurses, for which it was originally proposed to obtain a price from Greenfield.

[4] Head-phones for use on the verandahs of male and female public wards.

[5] Enclosing side of covered way from new operating theatre to the main building.

Mudgee Mail – October 6th 1938

WANTED - Probationary Nurses and or experienced Nurses, award wage commencing at £1/1/8 per week plus free board and lodging. Apply with copies references, stating age and date when duty could be commenced if appointed.

T. AMIES - Secretary Gulgong District Hospital.

Mudgee Mail – November 21st 1938

MINISTER FOR HEALTH UNABLE TO VISIT GULGONG

Advice has been received in Gulgong to-day that the Minister for health, Hon. H. P. Fitzsimmons is unable to visit Gulgong on Wednesday afternoon next to officially open the new nurse’s home and additions to the hospital. The function has therefore been postponed until a later date.

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Mudgee Guardian – August 21st 1941

Matron M. J. O'Hare [Gulgong District Hospital] acknowledged to last meeting of the Mudgee and District Patriotic War Fund the receipts of parcels after being evacuated from Greece.

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Gulgong Advertiser - July 25th 1945

GULGONG HOSPITAL BALL

The Board of Management of the Gulgong Hospital extend appreciation to all who assisted in any way to make the ball a success. B. LIVERMORE, Sec. and H.D. BURNS, Vice-president of Board of Directors.

Sister Bisley formerly of the staff of the Gulgong District Hospital, is take up the position of Matron of the new erected Dunedoo War Memorial Hospital.

Gulgong Advertiser - August 1st 1945

RETURNS THANKS - Mr & Mrs C.W. Scott and family of Uarbry Road, Gulgong, wish to sincerely thank Dr. Allport, Matron and Nursing Staff of the Gulgong District Hospital for kindness and attention to their son Bobbie whilst a patient in the institution.

Unknown artist's impression of a how a restored Gulgong Hospital could look.

Tuesday, March 23, 2021

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Tuesday, March 23, 2021

NEW HOSPITAL - 1901

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