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Burnside War Memorial Hospital turns 60!

26 October 2016

Today, Wednesday 26 October 2016, marks the 60th birthday of the Burnside War Memorial Hospital

The hospital’s history began with the generous gift by Otto von Rieben of his house, Attunga, and its 4.5 acres of grounds to the City of Burnside in March 1944, enabling the Burnside Council to realize its vision of creating a lasting memorial to the men and women of the area who had served Australia in war-time.

In April 1949, Attunga House was converted into a convalescent hospital for 21 patients as the first part of the War Memorial Hospital scheme, while the community’s fundraising efforts for the new building continued. It was closed in September 1956, having cared for around 1,400 patients.

It would take 12 years of planning and fundraising in the difficult post-war era before the community’s new, purpose-built hospital was completed and on Friday 26 October 1956, the Burnside War Memorial Hospital was officially opened.

While much has changed since 1956, the values that underpin this hospital have remained constant, and our mission, to honour the intent of the Deed of Gift of Mr Otto von Rieben by successfully providing safe, contemporary care for every patient, every time in current well equipped facilities, is reflected in the way we manage our hospital today.

We look forward to sharing this celebration with staff at a barbque luncheon, followed by a formal dinner this evening at the National Wine Centre.

For more information about the history of Burnside Hospital, please visit our history page.

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Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Seek advice from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding with any procedure.