THE Bega District Hospital, built with a lot of community help, was opened in 1899 and was a godsend for the poorer classes in the district when they became ill or injured. It was not used by the middle and upper class district residents who still relied on their family doctors to care for their needs at their homes.
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THE Bega Standard reported that much had to be done to bring the establishment into working order; but by degrees everything was fitted into its place. Experience gained by successive house committees suggested the best present method of supplying wants; and, as the occasion came, additions were made to furniture, and house and ward necessaries; and improvements were gradually carried out by fencing, tree-planting and otherwise.
The board has constantly tried to combine efficiency with economical administration of the revenue, and has much pleasure in reporting that the incoming committee will begin the new year with no debt to struggle against. The building and premises are in creditable order, and the buildings are insured for £1750 in the Australian Mutual Company.
Members of the outgoing board were very critical of Sydney medical officers who they said had forced them to have the two earth closets practically under the same roof as the wards. This closet accommodation sanctioned by the government officer has proved an intolerable nuisance.
The disuse of these arrangements have been ordered, and detached conveniences were being provided for male patients. It is unclear how the female patients managed. They also said the fire grates in the rooms were useless and had to be removed to allow the open hearths to be used.
Three members of the Board acted as the house committee for a month at a time. They had purchased furniture and looked after the fencing, laid out the garden and improved the land. From all sides assistance and support has come when an appeal was made.
Cash donations were received from a number of individuals and the Bega Royal Orange Lodge, while W Allen and H Otton had each supplied a cow, so comparatively little has been spent on milk and butter. Mr Stiles has paid the butcher's bill and Mr Gowing paid the baker's account.
Candelo residents gave £20 11s, the proceeds of a ball and Albert Montgomery's recital added to the funds. The Bega Minstrels and Cottier and Walton's troupe are to pay a donation of £11 12s 9d. The Debating Club contributed £4 12s 9d. Messrs Guthrie and Besky's road camp sent a nice Christmas box of £10 12s 6d. Many ladies have sent linen, flowers, preserves and sundry casual, but acceptable donations of books and other articles, direct to the hospital.
