Seven thousand births a year. That’s a lot of new life. Right here at the Royal Women’s Hospital.
This magnificent building isn’t just a hospital. It’s a living testament to women’s health in Australia. Since 1856 the Royal Women’s Hospital has been a beacon of hope. A place where generations of women have found care and comfort.
It all started on Eastern Hill. Doctors Richard Tracy and John Maund had a vision. They wanted a place where even the poorest women could safely give birth. Mrs Frances Perry a remarkable woman helped make their dream a reality. The hospital was initially called the Melbourne Lying-in Hospital. A rather long name for such an important place.
The Royal Women’s Hospital was more than just a birthing place. It was a pioneer. The first specialist teaching hospital in Australia. It trained the first nurses and midwives. It even held postgraduate classes. Think about that. Imagine the dedication of those early pioneers.
The hospital moved to Carlton in 1858. Then to its current location in Parkville in 2008. A $250 million redevelopment. A modern facility. A fitting tribute to the hospital’s legacy. The Royal Women’s Hospital continues to be a leader in women’s health. It offers a wide range of services. Maternity gynaecology neonatal care. Even specialist clinics for endometriosis and infertility.
But it’s more than just buildings and services. It’s the people. The doctors nurses midwives and all the support staff. They’ve been caring for women for over 160 years. They deliver up to 7000 babies annually. They provide care to women from all over the world. 190 countries speaking 90 different languages. Truly a global community.
The Royal Women’s Hospital is Australia’s oldest specialist women’s hospital. A place where history and progress meet. A place that continues to make a difference in the lives of women and their families. A place you should be proud of. Let’s take a moment to appreciate its incredible contribution.