David Berry Hospital turns 110 with history launched

More than 50 people attended the launch of A Munificent Bequest - David Berry Hospital - The First Fifty Years 1909 to 1959 written by widely published local historical author Robyn Florance.

Berry and District Historical Association, who published the book, hosted Saturday's official launch at the St Luke's Church Hall.

South Coast Register journalist Robert Crawford officially launched the new publication, interviewing Mrs Florance on her latest book which she started when she was a patient at the David Berry Hospital Rehab Unit overcoming knee surgery.

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"It [David Berry Hospital] is just a wonderful story," Mrs Florance said.

"There is a wonderful history and it has been great to be able to bring those stories from the first 50 years to life and acknowledge the many wonderful staff members, doctors, nurses and volunteers who worked at the facility during its first 50 years."

Twin sisters and hospital staff members Joy Evison and Hope Cox (nee Ulrick) stole the show recounting some of their funny experiences at David Berry Hospital and working with talented Dr Ray Apps.

A Munificent Bequest - David Berry Hospital - The First Fifty Years comes in the same year the facility turns 110.

The hospital was erected and maintained with funds from the "munificent bequest" left by David Berry, founder of the township, Berry.

The hospital which had 30 beds, an operating theatre, separate nurses home and staff cottage cost 7,900 pounds and took its first patients in May 1909. At that time it was the most up to date hospital in the state.

It was officially opened by NSW Premier Charles Wade on September 18 that year.

Copies of A Munificent Bequest - David Berry Hospital - The First Fifty Years 1909 to 1959 by Robyn Florance are available through the Berry and District Historical Association at the Berry Museum for $25.

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