MILLICENT and District Hospital and Health Service’s first Open Day and Fete in more than two decades was well attended with many generations touring the hospital and enjoying the fun.
Around 250 people attended the Sunday event, which aimed to promote the facility.
Wattle Range Hospital Auxiliary president Annie Bell said the day had a good turnout overall.
“It is the first open day in a long time and we hope these events continue,” she said.
Ms Bell said the auxiliary was serving ploughman lunches and fruit salads to give people at the fete healthy options.
Nurse unit manager Fiona Oliver said it had been almost 25 years since the last open day and the turnout was better than expected.
“The hospital tours have been very popular,” she said.
“We have had many groups come and observe the operating theatre and trauma room.
“It gives people a bit more information about what happens in the hospital and we have been able to show off some of our new equipment and services.”
Associate nurse unit manager Bianca Thompson the hospital’s latest equipment included an image intensifier and laparoscopic tower.
“The image intensifier is a portable machine that can produce higher detail than a regular X-ray and the laparoscopic tower is used in keyhole surgery,” she said.
“We have had many questions on the tour with people surprised at the scope of our practice.
“It is different to the city where people often have a speciality.
“In the country our staff need to have a range of roles as it is a necessity.”
Ms Oliver said another new initiative for the hospital was a virtual emergency services, with specialists being able to video in and assist doctors if necessary.
In addition to the fete and open day, attendees were able to test their stamina by participating in a fun run organised by the Millicent Runners.
Among the participants were residents David Oswald, Owen Williams and Amy Williams.
“We have had a great time at the fete and there’s a good crowd,” Ms Williams said.
“It is a great initiative as well to raise money for the hospital.
“We hope there is one next year.”
