More than 250 members of the Kyogle and district community gathered under clear skies on 15 November to celebrate a century of care at Kyogle Memorial Hospital, which first opened its doors on 2 May 1925.
The day began with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Michael Walker (affectionately known as Wayne) and his son Kye, who shared stories of Country, family and connection.
Uncle Wayne recalled his time working at the hospital and the birth of seven of his eight children there - with Kye being the last of his children born at the facility. Wayne’s humorous memories of working alongside Frank, a wardsman, and the laughter of Dr Perry brought joy and shared memories to everyone gathered.
Kye Walker followed with a cultural welcome, speaking about the footprint of the Gullibul Tribe of the Bundjalung Nation. He described the vast Country stretching from Kyogle and Casino to the Border Ranges, Richmond Range and beyond.
Kye shared the significance of Jalgambuny (Mount Lindesay) and invited everyone to join in saying Boogelbah, (thank you). His words reminded the crowd of the deep cultural roots that continue to shape the region.
NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey welcomed guests and reflected on the hospital’s evolution.
“Medical treatments have come a long way since 1925, but what hasn’t changed is the high-quality care and attention that generations of healthcare workers have given to patients and aged care residents,” Tracey said.
Tracey praised the Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) model.
“With digital health technology, virtual care and all the services we deliver in the community, it is superb.
“Yes, we have the hospital, but we also have many services that help people stay healthy in their homes before they need residential aged care.”
By the numbers (2024–25)
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History and community importance
Minister for the North Coast, the Hon Janelle Saffin MP shared the hospital’s origins.
“A hundred years ago, the government only funded one third of the cost. The community raised the rest through incredible determination and fundraising,” Janelle said.
“Kyogle Memorial Hospital was established as a tribute to those who died in the First World War. Everybody rallied round.”
Janelle reminded guests that the foundation stone was laid by the mother of a fallen soldier and that local women led fundraising campaigns asking every household to donate a shilling a week. Events included sports days, horse races and music performances.
Jay Gibson, representing Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan, highlighted the hospital’s importance.
“For regional communities, having an emergency department close by is not a luxury, it is a necessity,” Jay said.
“This hospital has been here for families for generations. It is a place full of stories, full of heart and full of memories.”
Tom Fitzgerald, former chairman of the Kyogle Health Services Planning and Steering Committee, recalled the fight to secure the hospital’s future.
“In the 1990s it was rumoured Kyogle would lose its hospital. A public meeting drew 600 people and changed everything,” Tom said.
“After ten years of lobbying, we opened the MPS in 2005. The community spirit that built the hospital 100 years ago is still here today.”
Kyogle Councillor Brett McNamara added a personal touch with the story of the iconic bright yellow 1938 Dodge ambulance.
“The idea of bringing the Dodge back started with a simple email,” Brett said.
“Before we even had funds to transport it, local resident Mark Butler said, ‘I’ll go and get it.’ That commitment really underscores the passion and care our community has, not only for healthcare, but for the history of healthcare.”
Centenarians cake cutting ceremony
The presence of these four remarkable women was a poignant reminder of the generations of care provided by Kyogle Memorial Hospital.
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The celebration featured historical displays, including ‘then’ and ‘now’ hospital room display, stories of the first ambulance superintendent Artie Dodd and his yellow Dodge ambulance, and recognition of the Kyogle Hospital Auxiliary, which has supported the hospital for 92 years.
As Janelle summed up: “Today we celebrate not just a building, but the people who have made 100 years of care possible.”
▶️ Watch videos of the celebration 🎥
- hear about the Bundjalung footprint from language keeper Kye Walker
- 100-year-old Enid Steel was a volunteer and RN at the hospital
- Judi and Phillip Dodd – grandchildren of Artie Dodd – the first ambulance driver and superintendent of the ambulance station
- Nicole Ellevsen, Acting Director of Nursing MPS Network in conversation with Cr Brett McNamara, Kyogle Museum
- Rhonda Clark was born in the back of dodge ambulance
- ... and many more
