Bloomfield Hospital Centenary recognises 100 years of caring for the community

Helen McFarlane, WNSWLHD Director of Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol, said a series of community events are being hosted in Orange to mark the historic milestone, and provide an opportunity to reflect on Bloomfield Hospital’s history. 

“Bloomfield Hospital has always been an extremely important facility for our communities and continues to be vital not just for locals in Orange and western NSW, but for people across the entire state,” Ms McFarlane said.

“The Centenary is a chance to explore Bloomfield’s history, look back on the significant changes the campus has undergone over the years, and learn about the experiences of the people who have provided and received care.

“It is also a valuable opportunity for reflection. The way we deliver mental health care has changed significantly over time and it is important that we recognise and acknowledge the progress that has and continues to be made.

Rose Jackson, Minister for Mental Health, said the Centenary is also a chance to acknowledge the lasting impact of Bloomfield Hospital’s staff across the years, and pay tribute to their ongoing dedication and commitment.

“The Bloomfield Hospital is an iconic and vital facility. Reaching 100 years of caring for the people of Orange and Western NSW is an incredible milestone, which deserves to be acknowledged,” Ms Jackson said.

“This is a great opportunity to recognise not just the staff who provide high quality care at Orange now, but also those who have come before them, and to acknowledge their contribution to the people and communities across western NSW.”

Sharon McIntyre, WNSWLHD Director of Nursing for Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol, said the Centenary events include walking tours, concerts and tree plantings, as well as two flagship events for community and staff next month.

“In November, the Orange Regional Museum will open a special Bloomfield Hospital Exhibition for our community to learn more about the facility’s history, and we will host a Reunion Dinner for staff past and present,” Ms McIntyre said.

“Bloomfield Hospital’s history is fascinating, and I encourage everyone in the community to attend an event. We have had great interest in our walking tours and concerts so far, and we have many more events to come and join.

“Many of these events are being held in conjunction with community organisations and volunteers, and their enthusiasm, knowledge and dedication has been invaluable and we wholeheartedly thank them for their support.”

When Bloomfield Hospital was established in 1925, it was one of just three dedicated mental health facilities in regional NSW, and initially operated utilising treatment ideas and methods from the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Today, the Bloomfield Hospital is the largest rural mental health service in Australia, holds state heritage significance due to its historical and architectural importance, and continues to offer mental health, drug and alcohol services in hospital and community settings.

More information on the Bloomfield Hospital Centenary, the program of events and how community members can get involved is available on the WNSWLHD website: Bloomfield Hospital Centenary: 1925 – 2025 | NSW Government