Collected information from and about:

This project is dedicated to the named and many unnamed

men and women who had a vision and who were willing to dedicate

their time, energy, and efforts to provide a Local Medical and Emergency

Services for the township of Coober Pedy and its surrounding district.

Thank you to the below for their contribution to this Project:

Mr. Bill McDougall
Mrs. Jenny Gough
Mrs. Kath Kruger (nee Marsh)
Mr. Peter Rowe
Mr. & Mrs. Brian & Judy Underwood
Mr. Andy Sheils
Mr. Albert McCormack
Mr. & Mrs. Edward & Susan Radeka
Mrs. Patricia Turner
Mrs. Jenny Davison

Coober Pedy Health Auxiliary
Coober Pedy Historical Society
Coober Pedy CFS
Coober Pedy Mine Rescue/SES Unit
Coober Pedy Old Timers Mine
EFNLHN Coober Pedy Hospital & Health Services
SA Ambulance, Coober Pedy
The Bush Church Aid Society

And a HUGE THANK YOU to all the VOLUNTEERS in the past, present and future who are willing to dedicate their time and energy in supporting the community and ultimately to those in need.

Coober Pedy Local Medical & Emergency Services

Early Days Timeline

1915
Dec 01

1915 – 1920 Pioneer Miners

Pioneer miners, Jim and Dick O’Neill with their partner, Fred Blakeley, had the best First Aid Kit on the field.  It is recorded that the community would go to their camp seeking first aid assistance. (courtesy of Coober Pedy Historical Society)

1921
Jan 01

Coober Pedy Progress Association advocates for Medical Services

Following the first death on the field a Special General meeting of the Coober Pedy Progress Association was held on 5th June 1921.  The purpose of the meeting was to form a Hospital Committee which would raise funds for the building and equipping of a small hospital. The Hospital Letter..Read More

1938
Jan 01

The Bush Church Aid Society launches a Medical Air Service

The Bush Church Aid Flying Medical Service commenced operations in Ceduna, South Australia.  (Article: 1953 ‘BCA Flying Medical Service’, BCA Real Australian, courtesy of The Bush Church Aid Society)

1941
Jan 01

First Emergency Air Evacuation from Coober Pedy

The first recorded emergency air evacuation from Coober Pedy was an opal miner who was flown to Alice Springs Hospital for suspected blood poisoning. Prior to this first air evacuation the ‘Quick Transport of Sick’ article records that it would normally have taken nearly a week to travel to William..Read More

1942
Jan 01

Royal Flying Doctor Service Medical Chests

The medical chest was a key tool in the medical care provided by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in the remote areas of Australia, with over 3,000 of these chests distributed throughout the country. The RFDS was established in 1928 by the Reverend John Flynn, a minister of the..Read More

1946
Jan 01

BCA Flying Medical Service begins regular Medical Clinics in Coober Pedy

BCA Flying Medical Service begins regular Medical Clinics in Coober Pedy

The BCA Flying Medical Services extended their medical services to Coober Pedy this included providing a monthly Doctors clinic and emergency evacuations.  The clinics were conducted on the first Wednesday of the month in a room at the rear of Marks Store (current site of the Opal Inn Hotel).  Dr..Read More

1947
Jan 01

Herbert & Ethel Wilson

From 1947 – 1957, Herbert and Ethel Wilson were the first aiders responsible for the medical chest and radio. They ran a store, located where the Desert Cave Hotel is situated today. At this time the postal agency was relocated to a shed next to their store.  Ma Wilson, (as she..Read More

1959
Jan 01

Influenza Epidemic

Influenza Epidemic

An influenza epidemic broke out on the Aboriginal Reserve requiring Dr Woodroofe and a Nursing Sister to be flown in from Ceduna to provide treatment and care.  Essential supplies were provided which included oxygen cylinders, canned orange juice and other necessary items.  As it was necessary for the Nurse to..Read More

Jan 02

Monthly Dr Clinics

Monthly Dr Clinics

Although initially the monthly Drs clinics had been conducted at the rear of Mark Store, it was around this time when a dedicated room was set up and made available for the monthly visits at the Lutheran Mission on the Aboriginal Reserve (now known as Umoona Community). Mr. William (Bill)..Read More

1961
Oct 01

Gastro Epidemic strikes Coober Pedy

Gastro Epidemic strikes Coober Pedy

Gastro Epidemic strikes Coober Pedy – On Sunday 1st October, the BCA Doctor and Nurse flew to Coober Pedy to treat a sick baby, unfortunately despite the Dr’s and Nurses best efforts the baby did not survive. According to BCA Pilot Allan Chadwick, the “gastro epidemic began in earnest” throughout..Read More

1964
Jan 01

Events leading to the construction of the original Coober Pedy Medical Centre

Events leading to the construction of the original Coober Pedy Medical Centre

After 40 years from the original discussions and planning the Coober Pedy Progress Association decided it was more than time to make this dream and vision a reality. The Coober Pedy Progress Association sought advice and support from The Bush Church Aid Society and in partnership with the State Government..Read More

1965
Jan 01

Medical Centre Opening

Medical Centre Opening

The ‘Coober Pedy Medical Centre’ began operations on the 1st February and was officially opened on the 4th February by the then Chief Secretary Sir A Lyell McEwan.  The first appointed nursing staff were BCA Sisters Vaisly Cochran and Heather Heaver. After the official launch, a luncheon was provided for..Read More

1967
Jan 01

Waiting Room

Waiting Room

The Coober Pedy Medical Centre’s front verandah was walled in to become the waiting room. The front door was relocated from the front of the building (facing McDougall Rd) to the side of the building.

1969
Jan 01

The Royal Flying Doctor Service

BCA passed on its aircrafts and radio operations to the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Port Augusta, so closing the door on one of BCA’s pioneering services. (Article: ‘BCA Flying Medical Services, Coober Pedy’, Opal Wonderland, courtesy of The Catacomb Church, Coober Pedy). (Article: ‘The Flying Medical Service of the..Read More

Jan 01

Midwifery Wing Added

A Midwifery wing was added to the Coober Pedy Medical Centre just in time for 6 babies to be born in the first week of operation. The first baby to be born was on 30-12-69 to Evelyne and Jose Calvo, a boy Joss-Thiery. Evelyne’s story as told to Jenny Davison,..Read More

Jan 02

Sr Anne Dau Awarded Certificate of Merit

Sr Ann Dau was awarded the Royal Humane Society’s ‘Certificate of Merit’ for her willingness to be lowered down a disused mine shaft at night to treat an injured miner.  Sr Dau remained at the bottom of the shaft whilst the injured miner was being raised up the shaft to..Read More

Jan 03

1969 -1970 Mining Accident Increases

In the late 1960’s Bill McDougall reflected that because of increasing mining activity accidents were being recorded more frequently, and at least one fatality had been recorded.  He believed there was the need for a well-equipped and trained group of volunteers who could provide emergency assistance at mining accidents was..Read More

1970
Jan 01

Mine Rescue Squad

Mine Rescue Squad

Led by Mr. Bill McDougall and Mr. Dave Genet the Mine Rescue Squad was formed (Bill recalls there were “10 of us in total”) who were willing and prepared to assist and rescue opal miners involved in cave ins and mining accidents.  Early equipment was kept at the police station...Read More

1971
Jan 02

CWA Social Fundraising Event

The CWA held a social evening at the Opal Inn, in their campaign to raise funds to replace the fly screen in the windows on the verandah with glass.  This sealed the verandah from the outside elements and the verandah was then able to be utilized as the Children’s Ward. ..Read More

Jan 03

“Coober Pedy Hospital Auxiliary” is formed

The Coober Pedy Hospital Auxiliary (The Auxiliary) was formed by volunteers primarily to assist with purchases required for the comfort of the patients, visitors and staff at the hospital. In 1971 4 women, Anita Brown, Dee Atkinson, Margaret Wake and Faye Naylor came together with the intention of forming an..Read More

1972
Jan 03

Auxiliary Auction raises funds for the first St John’s Ambulance

The Auxiliary held an auction to raise funds for the community’s first dedicated Ambulance.  The auction included bidding for all specific parts of the vehicle i.e.: the wheel, the stretcher, the body of the vehicle etc. right down to the last wheel stud.  Funds raised through the auction totaled $3,700..Read More

Jan 05

Coober Pedy Fire Brigade

Mr. Albert McCormack & Mr. Bob Amorosi undertook the task of establishing the Coober Pedy Fire Brigade.  Albert and Bob gathered 6-8 community members who would become the first group of volunteers.  Albert recalls they only had 2 very large Fire Extinguishers which although the extinguishers were useful in a..Read More

1973
Jan 01

Nursing Accommodation

Nursing Accommodation

With the community growing 2 additional Remote Area Nurses (RAN’s) were sent in January 1973.  To accommodate the additional nursing staff, a two-bedroom transportable building was purchased and placed to the right of the Medical Centre.  At this time total staff for the Medical Centre comprised of 4 RAN’s, 1..Read More

Jan 02

Commencement of the Coober Pedy Hospital Board

Commencement of the Coober Pedy Hospital Board

In March 1973, the Bush Church Aid Society sought permission from the Minister of Health Mr. Banfield to hand over the management of the Coober Pedy Medical Centre as on the 30th June 1973 to the South Australian Health Commission (SAHC). (Article: 1973, 2nd March ‘Hospital requests takeover’, The Advertiser,..Read More

1974
Jan 02

Promise of Extensions to Coober Pedy Hospital

Promise of extensions to the Coober Pedy Hospital including accommodation for the RFDS Dr and pilot on their overnight stays in Coober Pedy.  During this time, the RFDS were conducting weekly clinics in Coober Pedy. (Article: ‘Extensions at Coober Pedy Hospital’ by Sr Carol Allen, BCA Real Australian March 1974..Read More

Jan 04

Mine Rescue Squad raises funds for a Fresh Air blower & Generator

The Mine Rescue Squad and the Coober Pedy Progress Association held a fundraising event to raise funds to purchase a 5KVA Generator and an electrically powered Fresh Air Blower.  The Coober Pedy Hospital supported the project by providing a 3:1 funding subsidy.  The fresh air blower would blow fresh air..Read More

1975
Jan 01

Coober Pedy Fire Brigade

The Coober Pedy Fire Brigade was supported in a fundraising event hosted by the Coober Pedy Progress Association.  Albert McCormack recalls it was a dance and gala auction and it was held to raise funds for the purchase of a Bedford Water truck. Albert McCormack remembers it was at this..Read More

Jan 01

Coober Pedy Hospital extensions and Nurses Home

Coober Pedy Hospital extensions and Nurses Home

Extensions and renovations to the Coober Pedy Hospital.  The renovations included: Facilities for Doctors and the Public Health Nurse Dentist Hospital administration Casualty extensions   During the building of the Hospital renovations a new Nurses’ accommodation was erected.  The Nurses’ Home supported accommodation for additional nursing staff but as previously..Read More

1976
Jan 01

15 Bed Hospital

15 Bed Hospital

October 1976 the Coober Pedy Hospital was listed as a 15 bed Hospital.

Jan 02

RN’s licensed to take X-Ray’s

Sr Michelle Blondell & Sr Carol Allen attended training and were the first RN’s to be licensed to take x-rays in Coober Pedy.  This service reduced the need for some patients not having to travel out of town for a routine basic x-ray.  Trained RN’s continue to take basic x-rays..Read More

Jan 03

Fire Brigade becomes CFS

The Coober Pedy Fire Brigade officially became known as the Coober Pedy Country Fire Services (CFS).

1978
Jan 01

Purchase of VHF Traeger Mobile Radios

Purchase of VHF Traeger Mobile Radios

The Mine Rescue Squad was eager to source a means of communication that would assist in communicating directly between members in emergency situations regardless of their location.  After considerable research Mr. Peter Rowe a long term volunteer and President (for many years) recommended the purchase of 12 VHF (Very High..Read More

Jan 02

William McDougall Presented Award

William McDougall Presented Award

Mr. William (Bill) McDougall received an award on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen for service to the welfare of mentally retarded children.   (Commonwealth Govt of Australia Gazette, Tues 6 June 1978). Bill McDougall along with his hard work and efforts in supporting the establishment and upkeep of the Coober Pedy..Read More

1980
Jan 01

New SES 4WD Toyota

New SES 4WD Toyota

The Coober Pedy Mine Rescue Squad received a new SES 4WD Toyota.  The vehicle was fitted with an emergency ambulance stretcher and expected to tow the Mine Rescue trailer to accidents or disasters. (Article:  Opal Chips 4 June 1980 courtesy of Coober Pedy Mine Rescue/SES).

Jan 01

First Mine Rescue Shed is constructed

First Mine Rescue Shed is constructed

The Coober Pedy Mine Rescue Squad commenced the construction of a purpose built shed to accommodate the vehicle and equipment.  The shed was constructed on McDougall Rd.  The Mine Rescue Squad arranged for a larger trailer to be built that could then store and transport all the equipment required in..Read More

1982
Jan 01

New 20 Bed Hospital

New 20 Bed Hospital

A new 20 bed Hospital was opened on the 8th October 1982 by the Hon. Jennifer Adamson MP, Minister for Health.  It was designed specifically for desert conditions and won an Architectural Award for “Buildings in their settings” due to its unique design of shaded verandahs and a sheltered central..Read More

Jan 02

Coober Pedy Mine Rescue Joins with SES

The Coober Pedy Mine Rescue Squad joined forces with SA’s State Emergency Services in their functions and operations.  The Squad became the Coober Pedy Mine Rescue / SES Unit.

1984
Jan 01

New St John’s Ambulance Shed Officially Opened

New St John’s Ambulance Shed Officially Opened

The Coober Pedy St Johns Ambulance officially opened a new Ambulance shed in December 1984.   The Shed was located alongside the Community Health Centre.  Training was conducted in the Community Health Centre in what had been the Hospital Dining room.  The original Ambulance shed was dismantled leaving the cement slab..Read More

1987
Jan 01

Sr Victoria (Vicky) McCormack awarded the Order of Australia Medal

Sr Victoria (Vicky) McCormack awarded the Order of Australia Medal

Awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 1987 for service to Aboriginal welfare. Named ‘Tjinkuma’ first by the Golden Girls. Sr Victoria (Vicki) McCormack fondly known as Sr. Vicky throughout the community was named Coober Pedy’s Citizen of the Year for her many years of dedication and service working to..Read More

1998
Jan 01

Mrs Konnie Rowe acknowledged for her dedication and services to Coober Pedy

Mrs Konnie Rowe acknowledged for her dedication and services to Coober Pedy

In recognition for 20 years of dedicated ambulance service.  The SA Ambulance Coober Pedy Subbranch awarded Mrs. Konnie Rowe an Appreciation Certificate for her contribution and tireless efforts as a Volunteer Ambulance Officer (1978–1998). Mr. Peter Rowe remembered his wife Konnie receiving an award in the International Year of Volunteers..Read More

2001
Jan 01

Residential Aged Care Beds included in Hospital Renovations

Renovations were undertaken to add 9 High level Aged Care residential beds to the Coober Pedy Hospital.  The Hospital became a 24 bed Hospital comprising of 14 acute beds, 9 residential beds and 1 palliative care bed.

Jan 02

Dr Kamitakahara OAM

Dr Kamitakahara OAM

Dr.  Ernest Kamitakahara was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in the General Division for his services to medicine and to health care through the provision of medical and surgical treatment in the remote region of Coober Pedy.  (Reference:  Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, 7 September 2001).

Feb 18

Dr Ernest Kamitakahara Order of Australia Medal (OAM) awarded

Dr Ernest Kamitakahara Order of Australia Medal (OAM) awarded

Dr Kami (as he is commonly known) served the township of Coober Pedy from January 1976 and is still practicing medicine in January 2021. Dr Kami who was born and educated in Toronto, Canada came to Australia whilst travelling the world.  He had already traversed far and wide including riding..Read More

2002
Jan 01

New Amulance Station

New Amulance Station

The SA Ambulance, Coober Pedy Branch officially opened a new Ambulance Station on Umoona Rd, on the 27th July 2002.  The official opening was conducted by Ms. Lyn Bruer, Member for Giles.

2003
Jan 01

Mr Andrew Sheils receives Emergency Services Medal

Mr Andrew Sheils receives Emergency Services Medal

Mr. Andrew (Andy) Sheils received an Emergency Services Medal on the 26th January 2003 in recognition of his ‘Distinguished services as a member of an Australian Emergency Organisation’.  The medal was given on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.   Andy was recognised for his leadership and services given to..Read More

2004
Jan 01

June Radeka’s commitment to Coober Pedy acknowledged

June Radeka’s commitment to Coober Pedy acknowledged

Mrs. June Radeka on behalf of SA Ambulance Coober Pedy, received the South Australian Emergency Services Medal for her ‘Distinguished and Meritorious services of the highest order’ presented by the Minister for Emergency Services. 2001 International Year of volunteers, South Australian CFS 2001 International Year of volunteers in recognition of..Read More

2005
Jan 01

Dr Chee Meng Lee receives 2005 Australia Day Honours

Dr Chee Meng Lee a visiting surgeon to Coober Pedy received a 2005 Australia Day Honours – Order of Australia, Companion (AC) in the General Division – for services to the community of Coober Pedy as a visiting surgeon to the district. Dr Lee provided minor surgical procedures in Coober..Read More

2010
Jan 01

Mr. Brian Underwood receives Australia Day Honours

Mr. Brian Underwood receives Australia Day Honours

Mr. Brian Underwood received an Australia Day Honours, Emergency Service Medal (ESM) on behalf of the Australian Public Service, South Australia Emergency Services.  Brian was recognised for his leadership and ongoing dedication to the Coober Pedy Mine Rescue/SES Unit. Article:  Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, 26 January 2010. (courtesy of Coober..Read More

Jan 02

Mine Rescue/SES Shed additions

Mine Rescue/SES Shed additions

Mine Rescue/SES Volunteers were once again recruited to assist in building additional trailer sheds to accommodate their rescue vehicles and provide storage space for the equipment.  

2015
Jan 01

Hospital & Health Services 50th Anniversary

Hospital & Health Services 50th Anniversary

In February 2015, the Coober Pedy Hospital & Health Services celebrated its 50th Anniversary of providing localised Medical Services to Coober Pedy and the surrounding areas. Country Health SA Local Health Network (CHSALHN) Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Maree Geraghty and Mrs. Jenny Gough (long term resident and retired Enrolled Nurse)..Read More

2020
Jan 01

2020 Current Day

Coober Pedy Hospital & Health Services  (CPHHS) is governed by the Eyre & Far North Local Health Network Board of Directors. CPHHS is a 19 beg hospital 14 Acute beds 4 Residential beds 1 Palliative care bed Provides 24/7 Emergency services Basic X-rays continue to be conducted by Trained Registered..Read More