Friends of the Old Bega Hospital

24/06/2026

Well done and thanks to the Friends of the OBH for getting the cameras rolling.

21/06/2026

One year on — and we’re just getting started.
Twelve months ago, the restored OBH Main Building reopened.
Since then, we’ve welcomed new users, strengthened friendships, supported creativity and continued building connections across our community and received a few grants to restore the East Wing.
Thank you to our tenants, volunteers, Friends of the Old Bega Hospital and everyone who stayed with us through the years following the fire. What is twenty odd years?
The restoration wasn’t the end of the story.
It was the beginning.
❤️ Past • Present • Future
Enjoy your weekend.
Like and share
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20/06/2026

The OBH Garden Buddies are friends, volunteers and garden enthusiasts who come together each month to help shape and care for the OBH grounds. We w**d, mulch, plant, share ideas and enjoy good company while helping bring the landscape vision for the site to life.

19/06/2026

IIntroducing the OBH Digital & Technology Initiative

The OBH Regional Community Cultural Centre is launching a new Digital & Technology Initiative to strengthen the digital foundations that will support the precinct's future.

As the OBH continues to evolve, so too must the infrastructure that supports it. Connectivity, security and digital systems have become essential foundations for modern organisations and community spaces.

The purpose of the initiative is simple: to ensure the precinct remains safe, connected and adaptable for future generations.

Our immediate priorities are improving internet and Wi-Fi connectivity across the precinct and enhancing security through contemporary technologies. These priorities are closely linked and will provide the foundation for future digital initiatives.

This is not about technology for its own sake.

It is about good stewardship.

Like every stage in the continuing story of the OBH, this initiative will rely on the support, knowledge and generosity of the wider community. The Old Bega Hospital has always evolved through people working together, contributing what they can and sharing responsibility for the future of this remarkable place.

Whether through ideas, expertise, partnerships, sponsorship, or practical support, community involvement will be central to the initiative's success.

Together, we can continue building the future of the OBH

17/06/2026

What a stunnig day at the OBH yesterday. All things snakes

09/06/2026

An interesting article By Alan Croker, Principal of Design 5 Architects and lead architect behind the Old Bega Hospital restoration:

“Why in Australia are we demolishing buildings at our current rate? The adaptive reuse of buildings has been practised for centuries, but our understanding of its opportunities continues to evolve. The building boom of the Industrial Revolution left us with huge purpose-built structures for manufacturing, transport and industry. As technologies changed, many were abandoned, creating opportunities for adaptive reuse.”

Which raises an interesting question.

Has anyone seriously explored how the other 1950s Old Bega Regional Hospital building might be reused rather than spending many millions of dollars demolishing it and then rebuilding? I am not opposed to the proposed plans — they are impressive. I am simply asking whether, at this point, it might be worth rethinking how the existing building could be repurposed.

Yes, I know asbestos is a significant issue. We’ve just dealt with that ourselves within the grounds of the Old Bega Hospital precinct. But for a moment, imagine the asbestos problem was not there.

Love it or hate it, the 1950s hospital is an iconic local landmark in its own right. Perhaps the question is not, “How do we replace it?” but rather, “How might we give it a new life?”
What do you think?
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Award-winning architect Alan Croker shares why adaptive reuse is essential to preserving heritage, community and the environment.

02/06/2026

As the last days of May give way to winter, there is something fitting about reflecting on the work of the OBH Garden Buddies and last weekend's workshop at the Old Bega Hospital. Gardening teaches us that growth rarely happens overnight. It comes from patience, care, shared knowledge, and the willingness to invest time in something that will flourish in its own season. The May workshop was a reminder that community grows in much the same way. Through conversations, laughter, practical learning, and hands-on effort, connections are nurtured and strengthened. As the gardens settle into the cooler months, so too do the friendships, skills, and sense of belonging that were cultivated during the day. The workshop may have lasted only a few hours, but its impact, like a well-tended garden, will continue to grow long after May has passed. Keep connected for the end of JUNE meeting.
A big thank you to our mulch supplier, Kane McGill Tree Service, who donated the Mulch. Another example of our local business's ongoing support for the OBH.

14/05/2026

No longer the ruin on the hill. Come and visit this Saturday, May 16, between 11.00. 2.00.
It is free, although all donations are accepted; pay what you can afford. Bring your friends.
Don't forget the 93.7 Edge FM Bega Community Radio Station Radiothon is on this week, and listen to the music from the Veranda of the Nusers Quarters at the OBH on Saturday.
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13/05/2026

Heritage Festival Continues. This Saturday, May 16. Drop by and have a chat. Bring your friends
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06/05/2026

There is so much on at the OBH Heritage Open Day.
SATURDAY, MAY 9.
Bring your Friends
゚ The Bega Valley Potters Bush Heritage Australia