In 1938, a vision took root. The Larundel Mental Hospital was conceived. It was designed to replace the aging Kew mental hospital. But World War II interrupted construction. The half-built Larundel Mental Hospital served various purposes. It became a US military hospital. It was a WAAF training depot and a RAAF hospital. After the war, it housed displaced families. School rooms were even set up within its walls. Finally, in 1953, the Larundel Mental Hospital opened its doors as a psychiatric institution. It housed some of Australia’s most severely mentally ill criminals. At its peak, it cared for 750 patients. The hospital also played a significant role in psychiatric medicine. Dr. John Cade pioneered the use of Lithium there. This treatment revolutionized the care of individuals with bipolar disorder. Larundel Mental Hospital also housed the first unit in Australia dedicated to postpartum psychiatric disorders. Sadly, the hospital closed in 1999. Deinstitutionalization led to its closure. The site became a magnet for paranormal enthusiasts. Stories of children’s laughter, eerie music boxes, and unexplained banging echoed through the decaying halls. Now, much of Larundel Mental Hospital has been demolished. New homes and community centers stand in its place. But the memory and impact of Larundel Mental Hospital linger. Its story serves as a reminder of the evolving history of mental health treatment in Australia.
Kororoit Creek
Is this where the river meets the sea? This is Kororoit Creek. It flows right here through Melbourne’s western suburbs