On Friday 9th October we celebrated the 50th Birthday of Springwood Hospital, ‘the public hospital in a garden’. Established through remarkable community determination and fundraising efforts, the hospital was built after local residents purchased the land and successfully advocated for a public hospital in the Blue Mountains. Today, Springwood hospital continues to play a vital role in supporting the needs of our ageing population by providing specialised rehabilitation, geriatric and palliative care closer to home.  
 
I extend my gratitude to the Springwood Hospital Auxiliary, who have worked tirelessly organising book fairs, raffles and community events to raise funds for the hospital, and our generous local community for their ongoing donations. These contributions have helped to fund medical equipment; facility upgrades and initiatives that improve patient care and wellbeing. Though much has changed over the last 50 years, the enduring support of volunteers and community groups has remained constant, helping ensure Springwood Hospital continues to provide high-quality patient-centred care for the Blue Mountains community.  

Thanks to the local health district as well as to the patients and families for making it happen. Finally, I say that a hospital is nothing without its staff.