A century of healing whispers from these walls. This is the Mater Children’s Hospital. Right here in South Brisbane this remarkable institution stands. It wasn’t always this grand.
In 1906 the Sisters of Mercy opened the Mater Misericordiae Private Hospital. A humble beginning in a rented residence. North Quay was its first address. But their vision was grand. They dreamt of a hospital overlooking the river. They acquired ten acres on College Hill. This became Mater Hill.
Their dream wasn’t easily realised. Brisbane was recovering from devastating floods. The economy was struggling. Many doubted the Sisters’ ambitious project. Some even resisted establishing a hospital on the south side of the river. The north was considered more prestigious.
Undeterred the Sisters persevered. They raised nearly £25000. This funded construction of the magnificent hospital. They hired the renowned architectural firm Hall and Dods. Robin Dods the architect designed a stunning three-story brick building. The design incorporated the latest scientific theories of hygiene. It also cleverly utilised Brisbane’s climate with cross ventilation and roof vents.
The Mater Private Hospital opened in 1910. Twelve thousand people attended the opening ceremony. The building was a marvel. Silky oak interiors leadlight windows and decorative plaster ceilings. It boasted modern operating theatres. The hospital also had the latest equipment steam heating gas and electricity.
A public hospital opened nearby in 1911. It featured a modern operating theatre and French doors. These opened onto verandas allowing beds to be moved outside for fresh air. The wards reflected the traditional Nightingale layout. Generous public donations aided the hospital’s growth. An anonymous donor furnished the women’s wards. Brisbane’s jockeys and horse trainers furnished the men’s wards.
The Mater Children’s Hospital a significant addition opened in 1931. It initially had eighty beds. It was designed by Hall and Prentice. The Governor Sir John Goodwin opened it. The hospital underwent expansions through the decades. It reflects the architectural styles of different periods. Arts and Crafts Free Style International Queenslander and Functionalist styles are all represented.
Through wars epidemics and economic fluctuations the Mater Children’s Hospital continued its vital mission. It became a teaching hospital associated with the University of Queensland. A medical school building opened in 1956.
The Mater Children’s Hospital has expanded greatly. It continues to deliver high-quality private and public health services. It stands as a testament to the Sisters of Mercy’s vision perseverance and unwavering dedication to healing. This is more than a hospital. It’s a symbol of hope resilience and compassionate care. A place where generations have found comfort healing and new life.