Katherine Hospital celebrates its 90th birthday
In December, NT Health celebrated Katherine Hospital's 90th anniversary on a sunny morning filled with smiles and laughter.
It was a wonderful opportunity to commemorate the hospital's rich history with current and former staff, who have contributed to the exceptional service provided over the last nine decades.
The day began with a staff photo taken via drone, followed by speeches from Hon Jo Hersey, Member for Katherine, Elizabeth Clark, Mayor of Katherine, and Big Rivers Regional Executive Director Angela Brannelly.
A delicious morning tea was served while everyone shared stories, before cutting a three-tiered cake made by local business Kumbidgee Cakes.
Attendees were invited to take home merchandise featuring an illustration of the hospital's beloved 90-year-old Tamarind tree which was planted the day the hospital opened, as well as the river at Knott's Crossing.
A special gift of honey pots collected from the hospital's own beehive, were also provided to guests.
At the event, Angela highlighted in her speech that the hospital was not just a place of healing, but a vibrant community.
'The people – our clinical and non-clinical staff, patients, families and supporters – are the lifeblood of Katherine Hospital,' she said.
'They are the ones who have made our hospital great and our community thrive. Every one of these people has played a vital role but, through coming together, we have cultivated something truly remarkable.
'This chapter in the history of Katherine Hospital is marked by many achievements. We've expanded services, enhanced patient care, and embraced new challenges with courage and compassion.
'Thank you to the people that have come before us, who through their service, leadership and trust have made the last 90 years remarkable.'
There was much to celebrate. From its early days as a small emergency facility, Katherine Hospital has grown to now include 60 beds and employ about 260 full-time staff; a significant increase from its initial team of Dr Clyde Fenton and Sister Olive O'Keeffe when it first opened in December 1934.
If you work at, or are visiting the Katherine Hospital, be sure to check out the timeline exhibit, found in the atrium of the Alan Bromwich Ward entrance, as well as the posters of familiar faces along the corridors.
