Bunbury Hospital welcomes back first bub for anniversary celebreations

Staff celebrated the 20th anniversary of Bunbury Hospital’s official opening on Wednesday with help from a special guest.

Busselton’s Melita Ivers was the first baby born at the hospital on March 15 1999.

She said she knew from an early age she was the first baby born at the hospital but it was not until more recently when she moved back to the area that it took on some significance.

“Prior to my birth Mum was told she needed to travel promptly to Bunbury Hospital from Margaret River due to some complications,” she said.

“This is the first time I’ve been back to the hospital.”

“It was surprising to be invited to the celebrations but it’s really nice to see where it all started.”

Bunbury Hospital operations manager Glen Matters said the hospital and St John of God Bunbury Hospital had both grown to deliver a high standard of health care for the South West.

“As a combined campus we have evolved to keep pace with technological change as we continually strive to provide excellent health care to residents of and visitors to the South West,” he said.

About 100 long-term staff have continued to work at Bunbury Hospital since it was opened.

Mr Matters thanked all past and present staff and volunteers at a gathering to celebrate the anniversary for their hard work and commitment to the hospital.

“It is difficult to comprehend the scale of what has been achieved at the hospital over the last two decades including the the number of babies born, patients treated and lives saved,” he said.

“It’s fitting to acknowledge the dedicated staff and volunteers who have worked at the hospital over the last 20 years.”

“In the fast pace and often high stress of a public hospital, occasions like this, where we can reflect on our history and achievements, are important.”