Wickepin Nursing Post

Statement of Significance

The place represents the community health services in the
community of Wickepin. The place demonstrates a significant sense of place to the local people
of the Wickepin district, as a place where many were born, and relatives have died.

Physical Description

Brick construction with surrounding verandahs under the main corrugated iron roof, at break pitch.

History

The hospital was officially opened on the 5th August 1925, although there is evidence that children were bom there as early as October 1923. Joynes, one of the New Jerusleum settlers donated part of his farm, which adjoined Wickepin townsite on the east, for the hospital. The town had been lobbying for a Doctor since 1911, and a private hospital had been located elsewhere in town. (Ref No. 67) Narrogin Regional Hospital was intended to serve the needs of the Wickepin district's population, and as such funding was directed from Wickepin to Narrogin for that purpose. However a hospital deputation to the Roads Board in 1927, stated that the Wickepin Hospital, designed for 7 patients currently had up to 20 patients, and required financial assistance. During the 1930s the "bag of wheat" appeal received wide support from the community in raising funds for the hospital, and separate nurses quarters were constructed. The Hospital was semi-governmental, administered by a local board of management. The hospital experienced changing fortunes and opened and closed a number of times, finally re-opening to inpatients in 1964, after being closed for 5 years. Many other health services have operated from the hospital over the years. The value of local health services in a country town is substantial, a town needs a resident doctor and hospital facilities in order to retain a population. Since the late 1970s the place has functioned as a nursing post.

Condition

Very Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.