Window’s are part of our daily lives but some window’s are more than just glass. Stained glass window’s often tell a story and offer special meaning. Lets take a look at some of the stained glass window’s throughout CALHN. Royal Adelaide Hospital In 1972 as part of the Royal Adelaide Hospital Redevelopment a purpose built […]
In November 1995 Adelaide hosted the final race of the 1995 Australian Grand Prix. It was the final race of the season and the last to be held in Adelaide. But what does this have to do with the Royal Adelaide Hospital? Mclaren driver Mika Häkkinen’s crash is one of the most dramatic moments in […]
The Royal Adelaide Hospital Auxiliary turns 100 in February 2025 and is a significant achievement. For a century, the auxiliary has played a vital role in supporting the hospital through fundraising efforts, which have contributed to various aspects of patient care, research, and hospital development. This anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the hard […]
16th May 1922 – 12th February 2025 Joan’s life was dedicated to others through her lifelong career in nursing, with a special focus on nursing education. We take a moment to reflect on her remarkable life through this short biography Dr Joan Durdin was born in Adelaide in 1922 and was educated at the Methodist […]
This weekend marks the 83rd anniversary of the sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke and the Bangka Island Massacre. It’s important to take time to remember and honor those who sacrificed their lives, especially during such tragic and harrowing events. The sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke and the Bangka Island Massacre stand as grim […]
Traditionally, Christmas festivities in our Central Adelaide Local Health Hospitals have been a time of celebration. From carol singing and festive decorations to special meals, these traditions have brought joy to patients, staff, and visitors alike. Carol singing, in particular, has played a special role in spreading holiday cheer, distracting patients from their surrounds and […]
Today, the Royal Adelaide Hospital is an adult-only hospital, but that wasn’t always the case. For much of its history, children were admitted to the hospital for treatment, alongside adults. Early Days: The Adelaide Hospital Prior to the opening of the first purpose-built Adelaide Hospital in 1842, sick patients were treated at home. As the […]
The First Female doctor to receive the Military Medal. Phoebe Chapple was born in Adelaide on 31st March 1879 to Frederic Chapple and Elizabeth Sarah (nee Hunter). She commenced a Bachelor of Science course in 1896 at the University of Adelaide and completed in 1898. She went on to study Medicine, and qualified in 1904. […]
This week the CALHN Health Museum commemorated 106 years since the end of World War I The CALHN Health Museum in conjunction with the Volunteer Unit, was once again invited to honour and remember CALHN staff members who served in the Australian Defence Forces during times of armed conflict. This year the museum decided to […]
In the mid-19th century, electrotherapy was all the rage in medical treatments, especially for nerve-related ailments. One of the most intriguing devices from this era is the Improved Magneto-Electric Machine, a piece of medical equipment that combines early electrical science with the belief in its healing powers. Manufactured by William Skidmore, a surgical instrument maker […]
The humble sign used to be a piece of art Signs in hospitals are a common site. They direct you on where to go and help you navigate yourself in an unfamiliar setting. But have you ever really paid any attention to them?? At a time when there was no 3D printers or laminating machines […]
One unique aspect of nursing training at Adelaide Hospital was the focus on cooking for invalid patients. This essential part of the curriculum was designed to equip probationer nurses with the knowledge and techniques needed to prepare nourishing meals for those recovering from illness or injury. Classes were held at the South Australian School of […]
Did you know that the Royal Adelaide Hospital had a hockey team? No.. Neither did I Everyone needs some downtime: time to relax, to have fun with friends, to get some exercise. “An outside interest or two is most necessary to the well-being of a nurse. She needs mental relaxation as well as physical”. Nurse […]
A fancy word for a nurses utility belt which seemed to include a tool to handle any emergency. The word comes from the French term chatelaine meaning the mistress of the chateau. She would have worn a belt for her keys which is where the present term comes from. In the 19th century, when nursing […]
Part 2: As the Royal Adelaide Hospital moves sites so does spiritual care. On the 25th August 2017 the Chapel at the Royal Adelaide Hospital was decommissioned. A ceremony was held to officially end worship at Royal Adelaide Hospital site. Memories were shared about past spiritual care on the site and hopes for the future. […]