Page 102 - Port Douglas Magazine 26
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Rescued by fishermen, he was rushed to Mossman Hospital where Dr Harper But to truly understand and appreciate the role Mossman Hospital has
and staff began the fight to save him from his horrifying injuries. The battle played over time, there is nothing more fitting than the words penned by
was won, Amos survived and three months later, walked out of the hospital. local artist John Weightman to commemorate the Golden Jubilee:
Then there was the baby girl Zullo who suffered a depressed skull fracture She stands proudly - her sparkling white uniform contrasting magnificently
as a result of a bomb fragment when bombs were dropped just north of against nature’s mountain-green backdrop.
Mossman during the war. She ages not – despite her 50 years – retaining her youthful exterior as
manicured lawns and gardens grow around her.
She has witnessed – the sweat and toil of pioneers as they put 50 years of
growth into this challenging new shire.
“We had parties where we released the She has participated – in the birth, life and passing of a great number of the
soul and remembered those who went district’s population, including the pioneers.
She has trained the young – to a degree of highly skilled professionalism in
before us” medicine and sent them forth to achieve.
She has loved and cared – for the sick, housed, nursed and cured thousands
and restored them to a healthier, fuller life.
Now knowing some of its history, its unique Spanish-style mission exterior
Losing only parts of its roof, the hospital also survived Cyclone Agnes or and iconic status in Mossman, you won’t be disappointed if you include
“Agnes Antics” in 1956. the hospital, the gorge and a pint at one of the pubs as part of your day’s
And in the ‘good ol days’, Mossman had its own brass band and it was not adventures.
unusual to witness a parade through the hospital grounds. There is just so much history to savour.
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