Short history of the Hospitals in Koo Wee Rup

The Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Service celebrated it centenary on May 23, 2023 and even though we have looked at some aspects of the history of the Hospitals in Koo Wee Rup and the people involved in various other posts, this post includes other aspects of this history. It is not  a comprehensive history. 

The Bush Nursing Centre opened in July 1918 and a nurses' cottage was built in 1921 (1) and it was on May 23,1923 that the Bush Nursing Hospital, named the Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, officially opened in Station Street. You can read the Koo Wee Rup Sun report of the opening, here. 

The Koo Wee Rup Sun report of the opening noted that much of the credit for the Hospital goes to the long serving Secretary, George Burhop, who joined the committee in 1918. As they reported - 

Now that the hospital is an accomplished fact, we cannot conclude without saying that one outstanding personality in bringing the scheme to a successful consummation has been the untiring zeal and devotion of Mr G.R. Burhop. He has been absolutely absorbed in the work. The most difficult task did not daunt him, and he has given time, money and labor and he must feel highly elated that the object for which he has been striving is now a practical reality. He has worked in a splendid spirit and has been suffused with “the white heat of a passionate enthusiasm” for the centre. (2)

Advertisement for the opening of the Hospital 

Koo Wee Rup Sun May 10, 1923, p.1 

George Randall Burhop was born in England in 1873 and died in Brisbane on May 30, 1949; he married Dorothea Pausacker in 1898 (she died 1962, aged 87) and they had four children - Dora, Amey, George and Thomas. George was a Cranbourne Shire Councillor 1921-1941 and Shire President 1927-1928.(3). 

The Koo Wee Rup Sun of June 1, 1949 had the following obituary - 

We regret to report the sudden death of Mr George Randall Burhop, J.P., of Lea road, Kooweerup, which occurred in Brisbane on Monday. Accompanied by his daughter, Amey, he left by 'plane for Brisbane last Saturday morning with the intention of spending the winter months in a warmer climate. Although not in the best of health, the news of his death came as a great shock to his family and many friends. We learn that on entering a cafe for refreshments on Monday afternoon he suddenly collapsed and immediately passed away. Following an inquiry into the cause of his death on Tuesday, Miss Burhop returned home by 'plane last night. We understand the body is to be cremated and the ashes sent to Kooweerup for private burial in an adjacent cemetery. The deceased was born in Bromley, Popular Middlesex, England on October 16, 1873, and he came to Australia with his parents, the late Mr Henry John and Mrs Amy Hannah Burhop, when 13 years of age. Living some years in Queensland and New South Wales, he came to Victoria, and in 1914 took over his father's farm on McDonald's Drain road and later purchased a much larger allotment on Lea road. He was mainly responsible for dividing the old Yallock Riding into the Lang Lang and Kooweerup Ridings, and for 17 years had most ably represented the latter riding of the Cranbourne Shire Council. He was the founder of the Kooweerup Memorial Hospital, and on December 19, 1947, was tendered a dinner and presentation by many Kooweerup and district residents in appreciation of his 28 years' services as honorary secretary of that institution. Mr McVilly, Chief Inspector of Charities, on that occasion had the honor of making the presentation of a valuable gold watch to the deceased in appreciation of his services at the hospital and 33 years' public service. Deceased was the husband of Mrs Dorothea Burhop, and father of two daughters (Dora and Amey) and two sons (George and Thomas), and to them we join with their many friends in extending our deepest sympathy in their sad bereavement.

The Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital was opened by Cr E. Sinclair Hill, who also unveiled a tablet in memory of the local fallen soldiers - Jacob Bambury (listed as Banbury on the plaque), David Bethune, Sydney Blake, John Bryan, Thomas Bryan (both listed as Bryant on the plaque), Michael Callanan, Lawrence Coates, Percy Davis, John Davy, George Garbellini, Henry Hamilton, John Hannaker, Richard Martin, George Osborne, John O’Shea, James Randle, Bernard Slocombe, Arthur Williams and Charles Woods. I have written about these men, here. 

Dr Lyell Andrews commences practice at Koo Wee Rup

Koo Wee Rup Sun May 10, 1923, p.1 

One of the results of the Hospital opening was that in May 1923, the first Resident Doctor, Dr Lyell Andrews, arrived in the town. In February 1925, Dr Alan Hewitt and his wife, Vera, who was a trained nurse, took over Dr Andrew's practice. Dr Alan retired from practice in 1963; his son Dr John worked in Koo Wee Rup from 1951 until 1955 and another son, Dr Ian, commenced practice in the town in 1955 and retired in 1995, ending 70 years of service from the Hewitt family to the town. (4).  I wonder how many babies they delivered in that time? 

The Argus reported that on October 26, 1929, the hospital accommodation was increased by the addition of an enclosed verandah of the type common to the majority of bush nursing hospitals in Victoria....This verandah was opened on Saturday by Lady Barrett, in the presence of a large gathering of residents of Koo-wee-rup and surrounding districts. Of liberal dimensions the verandah has ample room for 10 bed, which means the accommodation of the hospital has been doubled. Lady Barrett was accompanied to Koo-wee-rup by the honorary secretary of the central council of the Bush Nursing Association (Sir James Barrett) and the assistant secretary (Dr Edith Barrett) The visitors were received by a guard of honour formed by Boy Scouts, and a welcome was signalled to them in semaphore. A bazaar was held to defray part of the cost of the verandah.

Dr Edith Barrett congratulated the committee on its enterprise in extending the hospital and paid tribute to the nursing staff, of which, she said, Koo-wee-rup had every reason to be proud. (Applause). To the zeal and resource of the bush nurses practically the whole of the success of the movement was due. Nowhere in the Commonwealth were nurses so well trained as those who entered the Bush Nursing Association. Sir James Barrett recalled the beginning of the Bush Nursing Association. To Koo-wee-rup he said, belonged the distinction of having the first hospital founded by the central council. Eight years ago the Koo-wee-rup hospital was the only institution of its kind in Victoria. To-day there were 17 bush nursing hospitals; three more were to be opened shortly, and four were in course of construction.

The report continued .....Lady Barrett then declared the verandah open, cutting a ribbon across the door. Councillor Burhop, in thanking Lady Barrett, said that he was supported by an able and energetic committee, and he felt that the management of the hospital was in very good hands. (Applause). Much of the success of the hospital was also due to the untiring work of the nursing staff, especially Sister Tuffin. The verandah had been constituted at a cost of £180. Of that amount £150 had been subscribed, and he hoped that the remainder of the debt would soon be liquidated (Applause).......Councillor Burhop announced that Sir James Barrett had informed him that the central council would meet one-third of the outstanding debt. The announcement was received with applause. (5). 

Drama struck the hospital in December 1934 when the patients had to be evacuated through the roof as the Hospital was flooded to a depth of 7ft within a few minutes. I have written about this drama, here. 

Advertisement for the Hospital

Koo Wee Rup Sun, September 2 1937, p.3

In October 1935, a new operating theatre was opened.  The Age reported - 

Before a large crowd at the Koo-wee-rup Memorial Hospital yesterday, the president of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association (Lady Mitchell) officially opened the new operating theatre at the hospital. Lady Mitchell was accompanied by the honorary secretary of the central council of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association (Sir James Barrett) and Lady Barrett and the visitors were welcomed by the president of the hospital (Mr L. J. O'Riordan) (6). 

The Hospital relied on subscriptions and local donations but the Pakenham Racing Club was also a major donor and every year, in the 1930s to the 1950s, held a Hospital Race Meeting to raise funds for both the Koo Wee Rup and the Pakenham Bush Nursing Hospitals. (7).

The Pakenham Racing Club's Hospital meeting

The Argus, April 29, 1946 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/22251935

In January 1946 (or possibly late 1945), the Westernport Memorial Hospital Provisional Committee was formed for the purpose of establishing a modern public hospital in the Koo Wee Rup locality and it appeals for the support and loyal co-operation of every person residing in the area. The immediate objective was to raise £5000. (8).

The formation of the Westernport Memorial Hospital Provisional Committee 

Koo Wee Rup Sun, January 30, 1946, p. 4.

A major problem facing Hospitals after the War in the late 1940s and early 1950s was a shortage of nurses; in fact it was so dire that it was reported that some hospitals, including Koo Wee Rup, would have to close. One innovative solution to the nursing shortage was this, as The Herald reported - Staff shortages in Victorian hospitals could be eased if male nurses were accepted generally, several trained male nurses had come from England recently and there had been several Australian ex-servicemen with provisional registrations, but, with the exception of one training school, metropolitan and country hospitals did not appear to be interested in employing them…..There were between 30 and 40 trained male nurses in England willing to migrate. Some were highly qualified. One had a special certificate as a male tutor, and would give the opportunity to establish male nurse training in Victoria. (9). 

The Westernport Memorial Hospital Committee continued their fundraising and in 1953 Bates, Smart and McCutcheon were appointed as architects and the Trusteel Corporation was the successful tenderer for the new hospital, in Rossiter Road. The local community had raised £20,000 towards the cost of the building the hospital and the nurses’ home, which cost £200,500 and was constructed in seven months (10). 

The new Hospital

Koo Wee Rup Sun July 27, 1955, p. 1

December 4, 1954  - Hospital under construction.

Photographer: Margaret Robinson

November 27, 1954 - Construction of Hospital and two-storey Nurses' Home. 

Photographer: Margaret Robinson

The Koo Wee Rup Sun reported on July 20, 1955 that Matron Laird had been appointed and that the Hospital would be ready for occupation the next month, and would be officially opened on August 22. A Meeting to form a Ladies Auxiliary was held on July 28. The visiting hours for the hospital were set at 10.30am - 11am, 2.30pm - 3.30pm and 7.15pm - 8.15pm and no children under 14, except babes in arms, would be admitted as visitors. August 22 came and went and there was no official opening, however on August 24, 1955 the hospital was opened for business with the patients in the old building transferred by ambulance to the new building. The Hospital Secretary, Mr Pollock, could advertise that the hospital was open to receive patients for all kinds of nursing. (11). 

The new Hospital is open for business

Koo Wee Rup Sun August 24, 1955, p. 4

It wasn’t until December 4, 1955 that the official opening of the Hospital and Nurses’ Home took place. The Koo Wee Rup Sun would report that despite inclement weather conditions there was a large attendance on Sunday afternoon to witness the official opening of the new 23-bed Westernport Memorial Hospital, costing £200,000, excluding furnishings. The ceremony was performed by Dr. H. J. Lindell, chairman of the Hospitals and Charities Commission. (12).  You can read the full report of the opening of the Westernport Memorial Hospital, here. 

December 4, 1955 - Opening Ceremony Westernport Memorial Hospital

Photographer: Margaret Robinson

December 4, 1955 - Opening Ceremony Westernport Memorial Hospital. 

The Fallen Soldier's plaque was installed in this wall. 

Photographer: Margaret Robinson

The focus of the Hospital changed from the 1990s - the Killara Hostel opened in 1997, the operating theatre closed in 2004. However what didn’t change was the need to raise funds and Hospital Balls were a regular feature and a major fundraiser was the Koo Wee Rup Potato Festival held from 1973 until 2000 (read about the Potato Festival, here).  However, the jewel of the Crown is the Ladies Auxiliary, formed in July 1955 and still going strong and still raising money for the Health Service. Coming up for their 70th anniversary, a Platinum Jubilee, in two years time it is an anniversary well worth celebrating for their consistent dedication to their cause and to the town of Koo Wee Rup and surrounds. The Ladies are truly worth their weight in platinum, gold and diamonds.

The start of the Ladies' Auxiliary

Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 3, 1955, p. 4

Footnotes

(1) Read about the Bush Nursing Centre and the Nurses' Cottage here   https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2014/08/medical-matters-at-koo-wee-rup.html

(2) Koo Wee Rup Sun, May 24, 1923, p 4. 

(3) The details of his Council service is from The Good Country: Cranbourne Shire by Niel Gunson (Shire of Cranbourne, 1968)

(4) Mickle, David J. Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup (The Author, 1983) and More Mickle Memories of Koo Wee Rup (The Author, 1987); notes compiled by Jack Mills at the Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

(5) The Argus, October 28, 1929, see here. Dr Edith Barrett, was the sister of Sir James Barrett - read her Australian Dictionary of Biography entry here and Sir James' here.

(6) The Argus, October 28, 1935, see here. Lady Mitchell - read her Australian Dictionary of Biography entry here. President of the Hospital was Mr L. J. O'Riordan - Les O'Riordan - read about him here and here - Les is the sister of Margaret Hamilton.

(7) Various articles in the newspapers.

(8) Koo Wee Rup Sun, January 30, 1946, p. 4.

(9) The Herald, January 15, 1948, see here; The Argus, May 15, 1948, see here; 

(10) Koo Wee Rup Sun July 27, 1955, p. 1

(11) Koo Wee Rup Sun, July 20, 1955, p. 1;  Koo Wee Rup Sun, August 24, 1955, p. 1

(12) Koo Wee Rup Sun, December 7, 1955, p. 1.

Official opening of the Westernport Memorial Hospital at Koo Wee Rup on December 4, 1955

This account of the official opening of the Westernport Memorial Hospital at  Koo Wee Rup on Sunday, December 4, 1955 is transcribed from the Koo Wee Rup Sun of  December 7, 1955, p. 1. The Westernport Memorial Hospital replaced the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital which had opened May 23, 1923. You can read the report of the opening of this hospital, here, and the post also includes information on George Burhop and Margaret Hamilton, both instrumental in establishing the first hospital.

Westernport Memorial Hospital - Officially Opened by Dr J.H. Lindell

Despite inclement weather conditions there was a large attendance on Sunday afternoon to witness the official opening of the new 23-bed Westernport Memorial Hospital, costing £200,000, excluding furnishings, and erected in Kooweerup. The ceremony was performed by Dr. H. J. Lindell, chairman of the Hospitals and Charities Commission. Fortunately rain held off during the afternoon. Music rendered by the Pakenham Brass Band was greatly appreciated. Cr. W. R. Greaves president of the hospital committee, officiated as chairman.

Proceedings opened with the band playing the National Anthem.

Cr. Greaves on behalf on the committee, expressed his pleasure on witnessing the attendance of so large a gathering and extended a cordial welcome to all. He then called on Cr. L. J. Cochrane, M.L.A., (1) to unveil the memorials removed from the late Kooweerup Memorial Hospital and placed on a memorial wall erected at the entrance to the new hospital at a cost of close on £1000.

Cr. Cochrane said his duty was pleasant in one respect and in another a sad one. He then summarised the district’s past history in connection with nursing and medical activities from the foundation of the employment of a bush nurse under the jurisdiction of the Bush Nursing Association in 1919. Shortly after a cottage was built for the accommodation of the nurse and then a small Bush Nursing Hospital known as the Kooweerup Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital adjoining the cottage. All this had been accomplished under the direction of the late G. R. Burhop as manager-secretary and who had carried on up to the time the Westernport Memorial Hospital Committee took it over.

The Hospital under construction, February 5, 1955.

Photographer: Margaret Robertson

 
A fallen soldiers’ memorial listing the names of the district men who had fallen in the First World War had been erected, also a memorial as a tribute to the late Mrs Margaret Hamilton, who had done outstanding work in every local organization and much good for the community and the benefit of the hospital. These memorials had been removed to the new hospital and in unveiling them it brought back to mind the achievements of district fallen men, and may we as successors prove worthy of their sacrifice.

A minute’s silence was then observed in memory of the fallen, followed by the Last Post being sounded by a Pakenham bandsman.

All assembled then adjourned to the front entrance of the hospital, where the opening ceremony was conducted. Among those present were Dr Lindell and Mr A. J. McLellan, of the Hospitals and Charities Commission, and their wives; Major Lindsay, M.H.R.; Cr. L.J. Cochran, M.L.A.; Cr. G.G. Knowles, Cranbourne Shire president; Cr. C. Greaves, Berwick Shire; and representatives from the Berwick, Pakenham, Wonthaggi, Warragul and Frankston Hospitals.

Cr Greaves read a number of apologies for unavoidable non-attendance, and said many more would have been present if weather conditions had been more favorable. He then gave a resume of activities in connection with the establishment of the Westernport Memorial Hospital from its inception in 1945, when after a survey of the district the Hospitals and Charities Commission recommended a district public hospital in Kooweerup. Ex-Cr. J. Thwaites, of Yannathan, was president of the first committee appointed, which in 1947 raised £7000 towards the project. After much unavoidable delay, in 1953 Messrs Bates, Smart and McCutcheon were appointed as architects to proceed with building plans, and the Trusteel Corporation was the successful tenderer. The district’s quote towards the cost of the hospital was £20,000, plus part cost of furnishing. The public had supported the committee’s appeals most generously, also local bodies and district shire councils. The committee was still receiving money and still more was needed. Cr. Greaves paid tribute to the medical and nursing staffs over past years. At present, he said, they had an excellent staff, headed by Matron Laird. He paid tribute to the district politicians and thanked the Hospitals and Charities commissioners, whose guidance and help, he said, had been unselfishly given. He then called on Dr Lindell to officially open the hospital.

Dr Lindell said he was deeply touched at the memorial ceremony and paid tribute to Cr. Cochrane for the way in which he had performed it. The memorial wall was, he said, quite fitting as a memorial serving the community. He was pleased to see such a number of hospital representatives present who has seen fit to take part in this new era of the establishment of more hospitals. It was not the Kooweerup or Westernport Memorial Hospital he was set to open, but one of a team in a whole team of hospitals and therefore it could not function on its own. A base hospital was to be established at Dandenong and the local hospital would be a member of that base hospital.

Success could only be achieved by hard work, a lot of money and full public support. All hospitals had many problems, especially in acquiring full nursing staffs. In this respect Kooweerup was most fortunate mainly due to having such an excellent matron. The public should stick behind the committee, doctors and nurses because it is their hospital – the committee is their democratic representatives. He hoped they would have better conditions than in the past and they had his sincere good wishes. He paid tribute to the architects responsible for the building and said the commission had found them to be co-operative, able and always willing to help.

He said they should now look forward to the day when they could enlarge the hospital. There are always at least 200 hospital beds occupied by children as the result of accident and illnesses which could be prevented, also many diseases which are preventable. Hospitals are now not only treating the sick, but acquiring knowledge how they can stop these things happening. They are in a new era and he hoped it would be a golden one. He considered it to be an honor in being asked to declare the Westernport Memorial Hospital open and hoped that it would long serve the community. Dr Lindell then unlocked the entrance door.

 The cover of the 1981 Annual Report - it's the only photo I can find of the Hospital, apart from construction ones.

Image: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society collection

Owing to the wet condition of the ground surrounding the nurses’ home owing to recent rains, the official opening of this building was performed by Mrs Lindell on the same dais as the opening of the hospital. Mrs Lindell thanked the committee for their invitation to be present and in having the privilege to open such a lovely nurses’ home and said she had much pleasure in declaring it open.

On behalf of the committee and architects, Dr A. B. Hewitt presented to Mrs Lindell a very nice silver water jug. He said the commission was endeavouring to improve medical facilities in the State and that the committee greatly appreciated the attendance of the commissioners. Mrs Lindell suitably expressed her thanks for the gift.

Cr. Knowles thanked the committee for their invitation to be present on such an important occasion. The hospital, he said, bore a most appropriate name, as it bordered a district around Westernport Bay and one that was rapidly developing. He congratulated the district on possessing such a fine hospital and hoped that it would continue to prosper and serve their requirements.

The chairman then invited all present to inspect the hospital and nurses’ home, after which many partook of afternoon tea in a marquee erected on the ground and dispensed by the ladies’ auxiliary at a small charge.

....................................................................................

My two sisters, my brother and myself were all born at the Westernport Memorial Hospital - in 1957, 1959, 1960 and 1964.  Here we all are at the Hospital in 1966 - Dad was having a hernia operation and we were visiting - I don't think we were allowed into the Ward to see him, as we were kids, but Grandma came with us and looked after us and took the photo. 

Rouse kids visiting our Dad at Westernport Memorial Hospital, 1966

Image: Veda Thewlis

Footnote

(1) Leslie James Cochrane  (1894-1972) - I have written about him here - https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2014/05/leslie-and-ivy-cochrane.html

Official opening of the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital at Koo Wee Rup, May 23 1923

This account of the official opening of the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital at  Koo Wee Rup on Wednesday, May 23, 1923 is transcribed from the Koo Wee Rup Sun of May 24, 1923, p 4. Punctuation is original, but this has been re-paragraphed for clarity. 

Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital - Officially opened Yesterday.

It has been a penchant with vice-regal representatives from the Old Country to leave behind some monument of their labor whilst in our midst. One of the best movements so far conceived is that instituted by Lady Dudley, who started what is known as the Bush Nursing Association.  Lady Dudley was a woman with a big range of sympathy for the person out-back, and her travels in the various States taught her that in times of emergency and sickness the people in the outback settlements had to endure much risk and danger through lack of medical advice and assistance.

Realising the danger to which they were exposed, she called a few friends together and propounded the humanitarian idea that an organisation should be started that would make the prospects of their less fortunate brothers and sisters in district parts brighter and happier. Her idea took a concrete form, as what is now known as the Bush Nursing Association is now in existence, and is eminently carrying out the function she desired.

This organisation sends out nurses who are thoroughly equipped for their task, and thousands to-day are grateful for the work which has been accomplished.  Beginning in a small way, the organisation has been spreading steadily, until to-day there are 41 centres in Victoria, besides numerous centres in other States of the Commonwealth. Each year the movement is gaining ground, and the results of the various centres are so successful that inquiries are made for information with respect to how the centres are conducted. This is another instance illustrative of what a small seed sown by a woman with high and noble ideals can produce, and the association will ever remain a lasting memorial to the splendid work of Lady Dudley during the term she was with us as the wife of the Governor-General of Australia.

The life of a bush nurse is no sinecure. She has no hours she can call her own. She is “at it, and always at it.” She is ever ready at the least behest, night and day, on her mission of mercy. She is devoid of all the pleasures and comforts which surrounds her sisters in the more populous centres, but she recognises that she has a duty to perform to those in trials and tribulations, and she carries out her unselfish task with a cheery and optimistic spirit, and by her presence radiates happiness and comfort to all with whom she comes in contact. She realises that “the noblest service is the public good”; that life consisteth more than in eating and drinking, but that each person has a responsibility to fulfil to their fellow man and woman. Yet despite all the hardships she had to endure there must be compensation. The highest joy in life is “the joy of doing good.” To ease pain, to lighten the daily burden and to assuage grief must bring untold happiness and pleasure, and it is in this direction that the devoted workers reap some measure of reward.

It is these compensations which have urged on all humanitarian and Christian workers. The mission of the great Christian Leader was not only to preach the Gospel, but to heal the sick, etc., exemplifying that doing of such a work is fulfilling the highest law and carrying out His precepts. One cannot help recalling the noble life of Florence Nightingale, who so stirred by the terrible sufferings of the soldiers in the Crimean campaign, that she gave up her life of ease and brought benediction to thousands of soldiers. It is recorded that as she went about with her lamp in her hands the soldiers kissed her shadow as she passed. So in the peaceful development of our back block settlements the bush nurses go about with their lamps in hands demonstrating that they are worthy disciples of the above-named woman.

The Bush Nursing Association is a co-operative movement, which allows for the strong to help the weak. All persons who become members contribute a fixed sum each year, which is devoted to the payment of the nurse and the upkeep of the centre. Under this system it means that those who are well and fortunate help to alleviate the unfortunate and sickly member. This is carrying out in a practical manner the brotherhood of man, and it is regretted that in all centres there are men and women who are not seized with the importance of the principle involved. In every locality whether a person is possessed of means or not, he should remember that his contribution is helping to further and strengthen the movement, and in this manner convey help to those most in need.

In the Kooweerup Centre we have advanced a stage further than the majority.  Almost at the inception of the local movement it was recognised that better and effective work could be rendered by the erection of a hospital, where patients could be brought to receive the best attention possible. Such a method lightens the work of the nurse. Patients in outlying parts always presents a difficulty in reaching, and by concentrating the work in a healing institution much travelling, time and expense is saved. The idea was taken up with enthusiasm, and an appeal was made to the public, and it is gratifying to record that a good response resulted. The committee recognised that they owed a duty to the “deathless heroes” who fell in the late war and to memorialise their sacrifice it was decided to name the new edifice “The Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.” The committee endeavoured to secure the names of all district soldiers who fell, and their names are inscribed on a marble tablet at the hospital, and of them the words of an ancient epitaph can well be applied: “They sleep a holy sleep; say not that the valiant ever die.”

On such an important occasion as the opening of the hospital, which was fittingly performed yesterday by the President of the Shire (Cr Simpson Hill), a brief account of the past history of the local movement should be recorded.

It was the outbreak of the influenza epidemic which had the effect of attracting attention to the value of bush nursing work, and at a public meeting held on January 23, 1918, the local centre was established with the following office-bearers:- President, Mr. W. Eason; treasurer Mr C. Adeney; hon. secretary, Mr G.R. Burhop. On April 10, 1918 the following signed as guarantors:- Messrs F. Ellis, J.J.J. Hudson, H.D. Mills, D M’Namara, T. Jenkins, senr., and G.R. Burhop. Shortly afterwards the first nurse in the person of Miss Homeward [Homewood], took up duties and served the centre for six months, and later gave assistance for several months, owing to the large number of influenza cases. Nurse M’Kay, who rendered excellent services during the epidemic, served the centre for six months. The present nurse (Miss Walsh) took charge of the work on April 21, 1920, and has labored devotedly and assiduously ever since, and has earned the unswerving esteem of all  members by her kindly advice and sympathetic treatment. Nurse Cuff also gave appreciated service for a number of months.

Owing to the fact that the nurse did not have the comfort and facilities required, the matter of erecting a cottage was first mooted by the Secretary (Mr G.R. Burhop (1)) at a meeting held on April 8, 1919. The matter was taken up immediately, and the late Mrs Townson (2) displayed a large measure of interest in the proposal and organsied a series of entertainments and in this way gave a practical start to the scheme. The value of her work was recognised, as she was elected to the committee.  Mrs Townson’s life of service shortly afterwards terminated, for on June 14, 1919, she “passed beyond these voices to where there is peace.”

The dreaded influenza epidemic accentuated the disabilities the district was placed in through having no hospital, as a number of patients had to travel long distances through cold and adverse weather, and when they reached their destination they had not sufficient strength to combat the complaints they were afflicted, with the result that death ensued. This appealed strongly to a number of persons, and it was resolved on July 8, 1919 that a hospital be built as a memorial to the fallen soldiers of the district, and the woman’s ward to be known as the “Kitty Townson Memorial Ward.” 

The present site was purchased on March 16, 1920, and a fortnight later Messrs J. Mickle and G. Burhop were elected trustees. A queen carnival was the means of getting in a considerable amount of money, and it was decided to name the beds after the districts which provided the queens. On August 8, 1921, the secretary secured plans from the Health department, and these were placed in the hands of Messrs Beaver and Parnell, architects, Melbourne, with instructions to base their drawings on similar lines. Shortly afterwards tenders were invited and Mr J. Colvin, senr., succeeded in getting the contract.

Now that the hospital is an accomplished fact, we cannot conclude without saying that one outstanding personality in bringing the scheme to a successful consummation has been the untiring zeal and devotion of Mr G.R. Burhop. He has been absolutely absorbed in the work. The most difficult task did not daunt him, and he has given time, money and labor and he must feel highly elated that the object for which he has been striving is now a practical reality. He has worked in a splendid spirit and has been suffused with “the white heat of a passionate enthusiasm” for the centre. Mr and Mrs W.K. Paterson have taken an active interest in the work. Mr Paterson has occupied the position of treasurer for several years, while Mrs Paterson has given most valuable advice and initiated many successful schemes to promote the welfare of the centre. The committee has also given good support to all movements instituted to assist the funds.

It now remains with all persons to do their bit in maintaining the institution. They owe a duty to the work. The definition of the word duty is due to.  What is due to a cause is what you owe, and what you owe you should pay. So in regard to the Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital we hope the district will recognise their obligations; assist all schemes to promote its welfare, and make it worthy in every way of this rich and flourishing district. Only the past few weeks Dr Lyell Andrews has taken up practice here, and this fact will make the work of the local centre more effective.

Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, Koo Wee Rup, 1923. 

Image : Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society

OFFICIAL OPENING

Despite the unpropitious weather which prevailed yesterday afternoon, there was a large attendance to witness the ceremony of declaring the Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital open. Members of the Victorian Council of the Association were present, including Miss Cameron (superintendent) and Sir James Barrett (general secretary).

The ground was decorated and flags of the various nations floated gaily in the breeze. There were three stalls - refreshment, jumble, and linen – and juveniles, dressed in nurses costumes, solicited donations. The Kooweerup and District Brass Band rendered selections during the afternoon.

Mr W.K. Paterson presided and called upon Cr S. Hill (3) president of the Cranbourne Shire, to perform the opening ceremony.

Councillor Hill said:-
“We are assembled to-day for the purpose of opening this building, to be known henceforth as the Kooweerup Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, and to unveil a tablet to their memory. I do know why I have been especially singled out for this high honor – for it is a high honor – as I am sure there are others who could quit themselves much better than I can hope to accomplish. Whether it be from the fact that I am your shire president and having been the deciding factor that your shire offices shall be in this town, where shortly I hope to see the foundation-stone laid (4); whether it be from my long residence on the swamp and the battles I helped to fight for your rights and wishes; whether from the fact that during the early years I was frequently called upon to do work akin to what will be done on this building (5), or because I am one of the founders of the Fathers’ Association that you have so selected me I know not. But the fact remains I am here to do it, and I must heartily thank you for the honor and gladly accede to your wishes.

You have a district for which productivity, climate, variety of products and wealth is second to none in Victoria. I well remember when there was but one store and a boarding house where your town now stands. Its growth in a few years has been something miraculous. No town in the shire or two towns can compare to it, and it will be many long years before a halt is called – if ever.  It is the junction of a railway that is tapping still further untold wealth. You have the seaboard almost at your door, and it is not too far distant to see a time when the canal will be dredged and vessels of a class come here for your produce to supply the Naval Base and the mammoth steamers that will as assuredly come to Western Port Bay, as night follows day.

 You sent tour brave sons to take part in the Great War for freedom. Your sacred dead lie in foreign lands. This you can never forget. Later your shire will honor their obligations to them, but to-day you of your own volition are honoring them in a way that you deem befitting their actions, and that reflects the highest honor upon you; their sacred memory you seek perpetually to revere and the call of the suffering humanity to relieve. The idea of inaugurating this movement and monument first took place when the call of humanity was heard in the late deplorable influenza epidemic. Our loved ones lay suffering; hospitals were scarce; nurses scarcer; still loved ones passed away that might perchance have been saved could they have had the attention necessary.

 These things had their reflex in the late war. You remembered those you could not see, yet who you wished so gladly to help, and from these things sprang the birth of the idea. First a bush nurse, then a centre, and then a hospital. A band of workers was needed to carry this spending program out. You, like your sons, sprang into the breach. Your committee and indefatigable secretary would not accept defeat. Wise councils prevailed; they came to the shire council and pleaded your cause. The council donated £100, and the scheme was launched. And to-day you see the results of the labor of love – for it has been to them a labor of love – and what a most remarkable achievement they have made.

 In my hands is a copy of the annual report (June 30, 1922) of the Bush Nursing Association, and what do I find. I have turned over all its pages and find that there were at that date 42 centres in Victoria, but that the Kooweerup centre is the only one, where in four figures are found relating to its assets, etc. Truly a noble work and worthy of those who brought it about. I am sure that Sir James Barrett, the association’s hon. secretary, and Nurse Cameron, its superintendent, must feel delighted with such results. To them I leave details with which they are more familiar, and with these achievements I am going to ask you to unloose your purse strings and tell of its work to others, so that the institution will be made quickly quite free of debt and able to accommodate more patients if necessary.

Now, just to show you what the heroic band of bush nurses are doing, let me read an extract from the “Herald” of January 30, 1923. After reading the report the speaker continued: “Is not that splendid; it carries one’s mind back to the early days of the swamp, when men worked and slaved up to their middles in water to reclaim and pave the way for what it is to-day.  There were no nurses, doctors, dentists or hospitals here then, but there was at least one person who was sort of a bush nurse; doctor and dentist all in one, who did the best that could be done gratuitously, and who I think is not forgotten today. Of course, nursing and doctors have the humorous side as well as the serious, and often the hearty laugh helps more than the doctor’s physic.

 Diggers, if I say to you who is the first you will honor, I know and you know it will be the nurse, doctor, stretcher-bearer. All honor then to that grand body of heroines, followers of “Our lady with the lamp,” Florence Nightingale. May their shadows never grow less. Now let me get down to more mundane things. This hospital will cost between £1800 and £2000. It will be maintained by members’ subscriptions, donations and nursing charges. At present the number of beds is four, but provision is made for more when funds permit. Membership consists of a subscription of 30/ per annum, which includes attention for the year by the nurse to all family under 18 years of age. So far no life membership has been decided upon, but I put it up to the board of management that it is a worthy honor, in addition to the membership, and I think there are those who would be only too willing to become life members, to hand down to posterity the fact that you are and will honor your dead heroes.

 I feel I must be wearying you, so I will close with a true story of the swamp in the early days. There was no fruit grown upon it, so at the other end the boys used to visit the orchards at Garfield. On one occasion the owner of the orchard loaded his gun with saltpetre, and  the recipient was well pickled in a certain part of his anatomy that required after treatment. He still lived to tell the tale. A boy another time was up the tree when the gun appeared. In his haste to get down he slipped and dislocated his shoulder. When the mother brought him to the bush doctor she said, “Hadn’t you better tie him to the gate before you pull it in?” Being told no, but to let him lie on the ground, she said, “Well, I’ll sit on his chest for you; you don’t know him like I do.” He has won several bike races since then, some in this town, so he is all right. Another, a dental case, who kept saying, “Hold my head, hold my head.” The dentist felt like ramming the forceps down his throat. Anyhow he is still alive and his head is on his shoulders.  Another dental case. A perfect set of teeth, but monsters. Anyhow the patient insisted one ached and it would have to come out. He stood the ordeal bravely. It took five attempts to do the job. The poor dentist perspired like a person in a Turkish bath, but the job was done at last. That man is dead to-day. I do not know what killed him, perhaps Adams ale or the shock he got. Perhaps he is stoking the fires down below ready for the dentist.

 Recently there was another addition. Today it is this building; shortly it will be your shire offices, all of which testify to the grit and determination, like the pioneers of the district, to make this town a memorable one, but in no way can you more befittingly memorise it than by building and equipping a hospital such as  you have done  to-day and add to its wisdom, strength and beauty by dedicating it to your fallen heroes, and I have the greatest pleasure in now declaring it open.

 We come now to a different part of the programme, and I will ask you to uncover the head. In the generous nature of your hearts you have honored alike all the fallen in the Great War. This tablet that I am called upon to unveil contains the names of those heroes of that great deathless army that enlisted from these parts; the boys that never returned. Least we forget, to their sacred undying and imperishable memory I dedicate this tablet and now unveil it, and may their glorious, purified souls rest for ever with the Eternal God. Amen. I will ask you all to observe a strict silence for two  minutes.

 Sir James Barrett, on behalf  of the Bush Nursing Association, congratulated the local centre on being the first to open a hospital. He said that Lady Dudley and Lady Carmichael first started the movement, and instanced the hardships that settlers had to face owing to no medical service. To complete the medical unit here the telephone should be connected, and a motor ambulance and an extra nurse obtained.

Mr G. Burhop, hon, secretary, eulogised all the persons who had rendered the centre great assistance, and mentioned that the late Mrs Kitty Townson and himself first mooted the scheme here.

Mrs M. Hamilton (6) then declared open a ward to the memory of the late Mrs Townson.

Mrs D. McNamara donated a fully furnished cot, endowed by her son, Jack, to the memory of Mrs Townson. Mrs Appleford of Lang Lang, also donated a kosy cot (7).

The cost of the hospital cottage and furnishings will run into about £2000.

The names engraved on the memorial tablet are: - J. Banbury, D.G. Bethune, S. Blake, J. Bryant, T. Bryant, M. Callanan, L. Coates, P. Davis, J. Davy, C. Garbellini, H. Hamilton, J. Hannaker, R. Martin, C. Osborne, J. O’Shea, J. Randle, J. Slocombe, A. Williams, C. Woods. (8)

The memorial plaque, unveiled on May 23, 1923, the day the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial 

Hospital was opened. I have written about these men, here.

Image: Heather Arnold

Footnotes

(1) George Randall Burhop - Born in England on October 16, 1873 and died in Brisbane on May 30, 1949; he married Dorothea Pausacker in 1898 (she died 1962, aged 87) and they had four children - Dora, Amey, George and Thomas. George was a Cranbourne Shire Councillor 1921 - 1941 and Shire President 1927-1928. George arrived in Australia with his parents when he was 13 years old and after living in New South Wales and Queensland took over his parent's farm on McDonald's Drain Road in 1914 and later purchased a large allotment in Lea Road. Mr Burhop was the Secretary of Hospital for 29 years until his retirement in December 1947. Obituary - Koo Wee Rup Sun, June 1, 1949, p. 1.

(2) I have written about Kitty, here https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/03/kitty-harris-townson-and-margaret.html 

(3) Cr Edward Simpson Hill, Shire of Cranbourne Councillor 1918 - 1924, Shire President 1922-1923, represented Tooradin Ward. He died on July 16, 1930, aged 69. Read a short obituary in the Dandenong Journal, July 31, 1930, here; he also enlisted at the age of 56 in World War One - I have written about him and other Dalmore soldiers (he was the Dalmore Post Master) here. 

Edward Simpson Hill - the husband of Charlotte and the father of Abner, Queenie. Roland, Crissie, Dudley, Rosie, Arthur and Ivy. 

The Argus July 17, 1930   http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4099960

(4) The Cranbourne Shire Offices never did move to Koo Wee Rup; they remained in the Municipal Buildings, built on the corner of the South Gippsland Highway and Sladen Street in 1875, until the new Shire Offices were opened in Cranbourne in 1978

(5) In 1916, Edward Simpson Hill was called upon to amputate a man's leg (under  telephone instructions from a Doctor); read about it in the Weekly Times of April 1, 1916, here. 
(6) Margaret Hamilton - I have written about Margaret here   https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2023/03/kitty-harris-townson-and-margaret.html

(7) Kosy Cot - I thought at first it was  a typo, but it seems to be correct. 

(8) I have written about the men here  https://kooweerupswamphistory.blogspot.com/2021/12/koo-wee-rup-memorial-hospital-plaque.html

Koo Wee Rup Memorial Hospital plaque

On May 23, 1923 the Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital was opened in Station Street, Koo Wee Rup, by the Shire President, Cr E.Simpson Hill. The Hospital could accommodate medical, surgical and midwifery patients. The town was previously served by a Bush Nurse. From 1911, Bush Nursing Centres were established in country towns. The Bush Nursing movement provided a country town with a qualified, experienced Nurse and the local community had to raise the money to fund the cost of the nurse’s salary, board, uniform and transport. At Koo Wee Rup, the Bush Nursing Centre opened in July 1918, the first nurse being Nurse Ellen Amelia Homewood, who had previously been at Cowangie. The nurse treated patients in their home. In 1921, a Nurses Cottage was built by the community, which provided accommodation for the Nurse, up to two midwifery patients and  a consultation room (more on this Cottage, here). The Fallen Soldiers Hospital was replaced by the Western Port Memorial Hospital, which was built in Rossiter Road and opened December 4, 1955. 

The Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Koo Wee Rup, 1923.

Photo: Koo Wee Rup Swamp Historical Society collection.

When the Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital was opened, a plaque was unveiled to honour the 'fallen soldiers' and this plaque is now at the old hospital now known as the Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Centre.

The Memorial Plaque

Image: Heather Arnold

Who were these soldiers? What follows is a list of the soldiers with their Service Number (SN) so you can look up their full service record on the National Archives of Australia website, www.naa.gov.au

Bambury, Jacob (SN 762) Jacob was a 28 year old labourer when he enlisted on March 15, 1915. His next of kin was his brother Charles of Bayswater. Jacob was Killed in Action in France on July 19, 1916. What was his connection to Koo Wee Rup? That's  a good question and I have no idea. He is the only Bambury to have  died in the War and there are no Banburys that died in the War, and that is why I believe that Jacob is the man on the plaque. Jacob was the son of George Bambury and Harriet Simmonds or Simmons and their eight children were all born around Scoresby or Bayswater.  If you have any information on J. Banbury or J. Bambury, then please let me know.

Death notice of David Bethune

The Australasian September 14, 1918 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article140211904

Bethune, David Gordon   (SN 1504)  David enlisted on March 22, 1916 at the age of 25. He was a blacksmith and his father was John Bethune of Koo Wee Rup. David was Killed in Action in France on August 22, 1918.

Blake, Sydney (SN 6958) Sydney was a 21 year old farmhand when he enlisted on October 18, 1916. His address was care of Mrs H. Davies of Koo Wee Rup. He was an orphan and his next of kin, his sister Kathleen, was was a nurse at the Mental Hospital in Kew.  Sydney Died of Wounds on October 4, 1917 - he had received multiple gun shot wounds. Mrs H. Davies is I believe, Helen Davies (nee Mathison), listed in the Electoral Rolls at Koo Wee Rup along with her daughter Elizabeth Myra Davies (born 1891)

Bryan, Edward John (SN 1128) Listed as J. Bryant on the plaque, so presumably known as John. John was 21 when he enlisted in January 23, 1915. He was a farmer. John died of disease on August 26 1918 - malignant malaria and acute atrophy of the liver.
Bryan, Thomas (SN 1709) Thomas enlisted at the age of 19 on November 6, 1914. His occupation was farm hand. He was Killed in Action at Gallipoli on June 24, 1915.
John and Edward were brothers, the sons of Edmund and Margaret Bryan of Pakenham South. John had his mother listed as his next of kin and Thomas had his father as next of kin. Margaret (nee English) died 1918 aged 56 at Pakenham and Edmund was living at Longwarry when he died in 1937. There is a fair bit of confusion at to whether the surname is Bryan or Bryant - the boys enlisted as Bryan, Margaret and Edmund are in the Electoral Roll as Bryan - although they are listed as Pakenham East not Pakenham South and Thomas had Pakenham East on his enlistment paper - in spite of all this I still believe that John and Thomas Bryan are actually the men listed on the Memorial plaque.

This is from The Age, published under the heading Careers of the Fallen and has two references to Thomas Bryan/Bryant.

The Age August 10, 1915. http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article154996613

This article, above,  shows why there may be some confusion between the names - two Thomas Bryans/Bryants from the Pakenham region. But the article does confirm that Thomas Bryant (who I actually believe was a Bryan) was from the Koo Wee Rup Swamp so that confirms the Koo Wee Rup connection. It is interesting that the father was not listed in the article.

Callanan, Michael Joseph (SN 2583) Michael enlisted on June 24 1915, he was 24 and the son of John and Lizzie Callanan of Koo Wee Rup. He had attended Five Mile (Koo Wee Rup North) State School.  Michael Died of Wounds received in France, on December 3, 1917.

Lawrence Coates and unnamed woman, looks like his sister.

Photographer: Darge Photographic Company. 

Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1064853

Coates, Lawrence (SN 2623) Lawrence was born in Koo Wee Rup, the son of Lawrence and Mary Coates. He enlisted at the age of 21 on July 28, 1915 and his occupation was a farm labourer. Lawrence was Killed in Action in France on August 18, 1916. Lawrence is also listed on the Yannathan State School Honour board, see here, and the Yallock Honour Board, see here.

Davis, Percy (SN 96)  Percy enlisted on February 28, 1916. He was a 21 year old motor mechanic and had been working at McLeod Brothers in Sale, where he did his apprenticeship.  He was Killed Action in France on August 31, 1918. Percy's next of kin was his father, Charles of Koo Wee Rup.

Davy, John Edward  (SN 770)  Jack, as he was known as, enlisted on August 25, 1914. He was a 21 year old farmer and his next of kin was his father, Arthur, of North Melbourne. Jack was Killed in Action on the Gallipoli Peninsula on May 4, 1915. Jack is listed in the Electoral Roll of 1914 at Koo Wee Rup.

George Garbellini

Darge Photographic Company. Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C966853

Garbellini, George  (SN 378)  George enlisted on February 3, 1915 aged 23. He was the son of Peter and Jane (nee Crombie)  of 'Five Mile Drain', Koo-Wee-Rup. He was Killed in Action in France on May 3 1917.

Hamilton, Henry Campbell (SN 4719) When Henry enlisted on January 14, 1916 at the age of 39 his occupation was 'Manager, General Store' and his next of kin was his 'friend', Miss O'Riordan of Koo Wee Rup. Miss Margaret O'Riordan soon became his wife as they were married on January 29, 1916 at the Catholic Church in Koo Wee Rup and they had one child together, a little girl called Mary. Henry was listed in the 1914 and 1916 Electoral as a 'horse trainer'  and I assume that he managed O'Riordans store; so did he get that job when he became sweet on Miss O'Riordan or did he get into the family business after they started going out? Perhaps being the manager of a general store provided a more consistent income than being a horse trainer. Henry Died of Wounds on October 8, 1917. Margaret Hamilton took part in the official opening ceremony of the hospital in 1923, opening a ward in honor of her friend, the late Mrs Kitty Townson. 

Hannaker, John (SN 5363) John enlisted at the age of 43 on February 19, 1916. He was a carpenter and his next of kin was his wife, Clara, of Koo Wee Rup. John  was Killed in Action in Belgium on October 4, 1917. 

Martin, Charles Richard  (SN 3197) Richard enlisted on October 18, 1916, aged 32. He was a farmer from Koo Wee Rup and his next of kin was his brother, Isaac, of Harford in Tasmania, which was also where Richard was born. Richard was Killed in Action in France on April 4, 1918. 

Osborn, George Sydney (SN 2933)  Although listed as C. Osborne on the memorial plaque, I believe this is actually George who enlisted at the age of 21 on October 3, 1916. He was from Koo Wee Rup and his parents were George and Mary Osborn. George Died of Wounds on November 6, 1917. Osborn Road between Koo Wee Rup and Bayles is named after the family. George's brother Percy was a cyclist of some note and competed in the 1928 Tour de France with  Hubert Opperman, Ern Bainbridge, and Harry Watson. 

O'Shea, John (SN 3350)  John was born in Koo Wee Rup and his next of kin was his father, Michael, also of Koo Wee Rup, however when he enlisted at the age of 21 on October 25, 1917 he was living at Balldale (north of Corowa)  in New South Wales. John Died of Wounds August 7, 1918. 

Rundle, James  (SN 4758) James was a 31 year old Theatrical Agent when he enlisted on September 24, 1915 - not an occupation you see listed very often. His next of kin was initially his mother,  Jessie McDonald Rundle, of Koo Wee Rup and later his wife, Margaret.  James Died of Wounds on November 14, 1916.  

Slocombe, Bernard Griffiths (SN 6592) Listed as J. Slocombe but I believe that this is Bernard Slocombe who was a 22 year old farm hand when he enlisted on March 6, 1916.  His next of kin was his wife, Margaret, from Koo Wee Rup, although she had various addresses listed at various times many up in the Buchan area, which is where Bernard was born.  Bernard was Killed in Action in France on October 4, 1917.  Margaret (nee Hopkins) then married Arthur Edwin Charman  in 1920, at one stage before her marriage to Arthur her address was c/o Mr S Charman of Koo Wee Rup. This was Stephen Charman, the father of Arthur and Margaret's uncle and thus her second husband was her first cousin (not so unusual for those times) 

Here's some Charman family history - Stephen Charman was an early settler in Mordialloc (Charman Road is named after the family) He and his first wife, Harriett,  had arrived in Victoria in 1842. Harriet died and in 1852 Stephen married Mary Ann Gettens nee Rees, a widow with five children. Stephen and Mary Ann had a number of children together including Stephen Herbert Charman born in 1856 and Frances Maria Charman born in 1857.  Stephen Herbert Charman married Mary Ward in 1875 and had a number of children including Arthur Edwin in 1886. Frances Maria married William Hopkins in 1895 and had (amongst others) Margaret born 1897, the wife of Bernard Slocombe. The City of Kingston local history website has more information on the Charman family
http://localhistory.kingston.vic.gov.au/htm/article/323.htm

Williams, Arthur Carter (SN 147) Arthur enlisted on October 1, 1914,  he was a 26 year old farmer and his next of kin was his step father, William George Williams.  There is another enlistment paper dated June 10, 1915 and his next of kin was his mother, Jessie Charlotte Williams.  Arthur was Killed in Action in France  on July 8, 1918.  

Form in Arthur's file listing the location of his Will, which was with Miss Alice Thewlis.

National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au

First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920

What was Arthur William's Koo Wee Rup connection? His Roll of Honour circular that the family filled out has Koo Wee Rup listed as the answer to the question 'With what town or district in Australia was his name chiefly connected?' so clearly the family had some connection to the town. The same form says his step father 'but regarded as his real father' was a retired State School teacher, so he was possibly a teacher at Koo Wee Rup. Arthur was born in Stawell, his real father was Joshua Whitby Carter and his mother had married his step father in 1894 - so I don't feel that Joshua was the Koo Wee Rup connection.  In Arthur's enlistment papers it says that his Will was with Miss Alice Thewlis of Pakenham.  Was Alice his girl friend or financee?  Alice (born 1893) was the daughter of James and Susannah (nee Young) Thewlis who had arrived in Pakenham from Euroa around 1912.  Her brother Syd Thewlis was later a Shire of Berwick Councillor. So I am assuming that Arthur farmed in the Pakenham/Koo Wee Rup area and that Alice was his girlfriend.

Woods, Charles Gordon (SN 2252)  Charles was a 20 year grocer when he enlisted on April 14, 1915 - four months later he was Killed in Action at Lone Pine on the Gallipoli Peninsula - the date was listed as August the 8th or 9th, 1915. His next of kin was his father, Charles, of Essendon. Charles' connection to Koo Wee Rup is explained in this article which appeared in the Lang Lang Guardian of September 22, 1915. It's a bit hard to read, so I have transcribed it, below.

Charles Woods' connection to Koo Wee Rup

Lang Lang Guardian September 22, 1915 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article119512898

Amongst the Fallen - Private Woods
We deeply regret to record the death in action at the Dardanelles of one of our Koo Wee Rup boys, Pte Charles Gordon Woods, son of Mr & Mrs C. Woods of Essendon and nephew of Mr and Mrs Stephens of Koo Wee Rup and Mr and Mrs Christin of Dalmore. He offered his services about six months ago and was not then accepted, but shortly afterwards, again offered himself and was passed. He was in camp at Broadmeadows and was afterwards transferred to Seymour, in the 7th Battalion, 6th Reinforcements. He left for Egypt in June and in a letter received from him, dated July 14, he gave a very interesting description of his travels in that land. Again in a letter dated 30th August he mentioned he was sailing for the Front on September 1st so that he could not have been at the Front more than two or three days when he fell for his Country. After leaving School he went to work in The Age office but this did not agree with his health and about four years ago he came to his uncle, Mr Stephens at Koo Wee Rup for whom he worked up to the time he enlisted. He is the first local soldier who has fallen in his country's cause and deep feelings of regret have been expressed by his large circle of friends.

Some of the information in the article does not tally  with the facts in his service record, but that is to be expected with communications of the era. Charles, born 1894,  was the son of Charles Woods and Minnie Margaret (nee Hazlett). Minnie died the year after her son was born in 1895.  Charles' uncle and aunty, Mr and Mrs Stephens, were Arthur William Stephens and his wife Frances Edith (nee Hazlett) - Charles was a storekeeper.  The other uncle and aunty, Mr and Mrs Christin,  were actually Samuel Kerr Christie and his wife Rebecca Evelyn (nee Hazlett) - Samuel was a farmer of Dalmore. 

Another version of this post, which I wrote and researched, has appeared on my work blog Casey Cardinia Commemorates: Our War Years and other places

Garfield Bush Nursing Hospital

The Bush Nursing Hospital Movement began in 1910 with the establishment of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association (V.B.N.A.). At the time the current medical system consisted of big hospitals such as the Royal Melbourne which were run along charitable lines and whose role was to treat poor people, who could not afford to pay a Doctors fee. There were also private hospitals which only the wealthy could afford. To help offset medical costs Friendly Societies or Lodges were established which people could join for a yearly fee. This gave them access to the Friendly Society doctor and access to medicine dispensed from the Friendly Society Dispensary. There was also a growing move to nurse people in their own homes through what is now the Royal District Nursing Service.  People in the city and the suburbs could have a nurse visit them to help recover from confinements and general illness. This type of service took pressure off the public Hospitals. Lady Dudley, the wife of the Governor General, was aware of these visiting nurses and had also seen first hand the need for skilled nurses in the bush, so from these experiences came the idea of Bush Nursing Hospitals. Lady Dudley (1867-1920) promoted and raised money for the idea and thus the Victorian Bush Nursing Association began in 1910 (1).

To obtain a Bush Nursing Centre, the local community had to raise the money to fund the cost of the nurse’s salary, board, uniform and a ‘means of locomotion’. The salary was set by the Bush Nursing Association at the rate of around £80.00 per annum, the rate of pay for a hospital nurse with five or six years experience. The first Victorian nurse was appointed to Beech Forest in March 1911 (2). Eventually some towns provided cottages for the nurses to provide accommodation for both the nurse and the patient. Koo Wee Rup was an early example of this where the original nurse, Nurse Homewood, started work in the bush nursing centre in July 1918. On May 23, 1923, a Bush Nursing Hospital, which was named the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, to commemorate the local soldiers who died in the First World War, was opened (3).  Pakenham’s Bush Nursing Hospital opened in June 1926 in temporary premises and in a new brick building on February 11, 1928. (4)

Denise Nest in her History of Shelley Memorial Hospital noted that the push to get a hospital in Garfield started about 1930, when Dr Kenneth McLeod proposed the idea (5). Dr McLeod had arrived in Garfield around 1928 (6).  The Annual Report of the Bush Nursing Association, released in September 1928, stated - there are now 59 bush-nursing centres and 13 bush-nursing hospitals. New hospitals are in process of organisation at Katamatite, Garfield, Yarra Junction, Gisborne, Violet Town and Broadford (7). It would thus appear that Dr McLeod began work to establish a hospital in Garfield soon after his arrival in the town. 

Mrs Nest notes that the community soon raised around £340, but due to the Depression the momentum for Hospital slowed (8). One of the fund-raisers was a Pony Race meeting held on October 11, 1928.

Pony races in aid of the Bush Nursing Centre at Garfield.

The Age October 2, 1928 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article204119213

On December 4, 1940 a meeting was held and the Garfield branch of the V.B.N.A., was formed with an Executive and twenty-six Committee members, so there was obviously a lot of enthusiasm for the idea (9). The President was local store owner, Arthur Nutting, and the Vice-Presidents were Cora Lynn farmer and local Councillor, Dan Kinsella and Garfield Orchardist, Alfred Parish; the Treasurer was A.H. Wilson and the Secretary was T. Phelan. (10).  In August 1941, the Committee purchased No. 8 and No. 9 Railway Avenue and a design for a Hospital was drawn up. The planned building could accommodate five beds and would cost about £1500. However the hospital was put on hold due to the War. (11).

The fate of the Hospital over the next few years can be summed up by these reports in the newspapers -

August 1941 - Notiftying council that it had been definitely decided to proceed with the erection of a Bush Nursing Hospital at Garfield, the Garfield B.N. committee appealed to council for a grant towards the building costs. Cr Kinsella said that the cost, including land, would be £1350. He had hoped that the building would be deferred until after, the war, but as the committee was going ahead he thought they should support them (12). 

February 1942 - As a permit to build cannot be granted for some considerable time, Mr. T. Phelan advised that the proposed Bush Nursing Hospital at Garfield had been shelved. He hoped that council’s promised grant of £100 would hold good when it was decided to carry on with the project.(13)

September 1943 - When the Tynong and Garfield Baby Health Centres were being discussed, and it was revealed that the latter centre had now been made “water-tight,” Cr. Kinsella said that Garfield was not anxious to go on with the erection of a separate centre as it hoped eventually to have it incorporated in the Bush Nursing Hospital when erected. Cr. Anderson said that Mr. Barker had generously offered to have a site ready for a centre if it was needed, but Mrs. Patterson now said that there is actually some hope that they would be given a permit to build their Bush Nursing Hospital.(14)

A new Committee was elected towards the end of 1944. The President was John Fallon, a farmer from Iona; Vice-Presidents - Alf Parish and E. Schmutter - presumably Edward Schmutter of Vervale; Treasurer was Cecil John Jackson, Bank Manager at Garfield and the Secretary was Garfield plumber, Frank Marsh. There was also a committee of thirteen. (15).

Notice of public meeting to elect the Bush Nursing Hospital committee

Dandenong Journal November 22, 1944 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article214168056

In January 1945, it was decided that the hospital would be a Branch of the Warragul Hospital instead of a Bush Nursing Hospital. To this end, in June 1945 the Garfield and District Hospital Committee was formed and all the assets of the Garfield branch of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association were transferred to this new committee. From 1946 to 1948 land in Jefferson Road was acquired; some was purchased and some was obtained by swapping the Railway Avenue land with some of the Jefferson Road blocks. All in all blocks 16 to 24 were acquired and plans were drawn up in August 1946 for a 15 bed hospital. This lapsed due to the shortage of material and labour after the War. The Committee went through various changes in personnel, other plans were drawn up but Government finance was not available. By 1948, the Hospital Committee had raised over £2,600. Various submissions were made in the 1950s to the Hospital Commission to get the Garfield Hospital established but to no avail.  (16). 

No money for the Garfield Hospital

Koo Wee Rup Sun, January 13, 1954, p. 1

In spite of the rejections, even as late as September 1954, there was still hope that a hospital could be built in Garfield. The Dandenong Journal  reported -

Nine years ago the Berwick Council promised Garfield Hospital Committee a grant of £1350 towards the cost of erecting its proposed new hospital. At the same time it promised £300 to the Building Fund of the Westernport Memorial Hospital at Kooweerup. But for one reason and another both projects were held up. Now Kooweerup Hospital is being proceeded with and the Garfield Hospital Committee, in asking council to redeem its nine-year-old promise, said that it was now probably that the Garfield Hospital would be built within three years. Although most councillors had forgotten the promise, it was recorded in the minutes and there was no question whatever about it not being kept. Garfield asked for payment of its £1350 over the next two or three years and council decided to provide for one-fifth of the joint total of £1650 on next year’s estimates (17). 

The Hospital at Garfield never eventuated due to a generous gift received by the Bunyip township. On January 8, 1944, Mr Emile Shelley, the chemist at Bunyip, passed away. The contents of his will were detailed in a letter his Trustees sent to the Berwick Shire Secretary -

“We beg to advise that the company is applying for probate of the will of Emile Henry Shelley, late of Bunyip, retired chemist, who died on the 8th. ult. Under the will, the whole of the estate, both real and personal, is devised and bequeathed upon trust for the widow, for life without impeachment of waste. On the death of the widow, the sum of £1000 is payable to the trustee for the time being of the Bunyip Mechanics’ Institute, and £1000 to the trustees of the Bunyip Agricultural Society.

The remainder of the estate is to be known as the Emile Henry Shelley Trust and is bequeathed upon trust as to capital and income to be administered by the trustee and expended as it in its absolute discretion shall decide for the beautification and advancement of the township of Bunyip, and the trustees may seek the advice of F. S. Dodge, J. A. Cock, G. B. Calderwood, all of Bunyip, or the survivor or survivors of them. From data prepared to date it would appear that the value of the trust will be in the vicinity of £7000, but it will be appreciated that this figure may vary by the time the trust is established." (18). 

The money became available after the death of Mrs Ethel Shelly on June 3, 1950 (19).  In 1957, the Trustees of the Shelly Trust decided that the money should go towards a Hospital. In the end, the money that had been raised by the community for the Garfield Hospital, plus the £1,330 realised from the sale of the Jefferson Street land was put together with some of the Shelley Trust money and the Shelley Memorial Hospital Society was established in 1960. The Shelley Memorial Hospital at Bunyip was officially opened on March 19, 1966 and closed on May 1, 1991. The building is now part of Hillview Aged Care (20). 

Trove list - I have created a list of articles on the Garfield Bush Nursing Hospital, access it here. 

Footnotes

(1) Priestley, Susan Bush Nursing in Victoria: 1910-1985, the first 75 years  (Victorian Bush Nursing Association/Lothian 1986). Lady Dudley (1867-1920, nee Rachel Gurney) - Obituary in The Argus, June 29, 1920, see here; Australian Dictionary of Biography, entry here.

(2) Priestley, op. cit.

(3) A detailed report from the Koo Wee Rup Sun on the opening of the Fallen Soldiers' Memorial Hospital at Koo Wee Rup, is here. 

(4) Pakenham Bush Nursing Hospital - South Bourke and Mornington Journal, August 5, 1926, here; The Argus, February 13, 1928, see here. 

(5) Nest, Denise History of Shelley Memorial Hospital, A'Beckett Road, Bunyip 1930-1991 (Bunyip History Committe, 2000)

(6) Dr Kenneth McLeod - I have written a bit about him, here.

(7) The Age, September 21, 1928, see here.

(8) Nest,  op. cit., p. 1.

(9) Ibid. The Committee listed in the book -  F. Marsh, P. Nilsson, P. Pratt, Mr Downer, E. Cox, R. Wall, J. Grigg, H. Burleigh, E. Oram,  Gilligan, W. Masters. J. Anderson, F.S. Hodge, D. James, H. Hourigan, K. Sarah; Mesdames E. O'Donohue,  E. Paterson, Gilligan, E. Cox. L. Tutton, Folks, G. Whelan, N. Sarah,  E.L. Towt, Parish. 

(10) Arthur Nutting -  I have written about him here; Dan Kinsella - I have written about the family, here; Alfred Parish - the father of Bill Parish, Garfield Historian. Not sure who A. H. Wilson and T. Phelan were, but they were also Treasurer and Secretary of the Garfield Red Cross in 1941, see The Argus, July 23, 1941, here.

(11) Nest,  op. cit., p. 2. Also see various articles in my Trove list, here.

(12) Dandenong Journal, August 20, 1941, see here.

(13) Dandenong Journal, February 25, 1942, see here.

(14) Dandenong Journal, September 22, 1943, see here.

(15) Nest,  op. cit., p. 2. The Committee is recorded as E. Cox, M. Tobin, K. Sarah, Dr D. Martin, W. Parish, W. Masters, H. Hourigan, J. Kierce, F. Rigg and Mesdames Frawley and E. Towt; Miss Costigan and Miss M. Kierce. 

(16) Nest, op. cit, pp 2-4.

(17) Dandenong Journal, September 29, 1954, see here.

(18) Dandenong Journal, February 23, 1944, see here.

(19) The Argus, June 5, 1950, see here.

(20) Nest, op. cit., passim