By Rowan Forster
West Gippsland Hospital’s vintage nursing memorabilia display has been dismantled after a lone complaint that it was “politically motivated” and “offensive”.
The exhibition – which was situated inside the foyer of National Australia Bank’s Warragul branch – showcased historic photographs, replica equipment and outfits from the 1940s.
However, a Labor devotee took exception to a sign that read: “Our hospital has served us since 1939, but it’s time for a new one.”
Once the bank received the complaint, it chose to remove the display.
It was only set up inside the building a fortnight prior.
Retired anaesthetist and spokesman for the Where’s the Funding (WTF) group Rob Sinnett described criticism of the memorabilia as appalling and ridiculous.
“We are sorry that someone found the display of beautiful West Gippsland Hospital memorabilia offensive and political – and made a complaint,” he said.
“We are proud of our hospital’s history and the impact it has on thousands of people’s lives.”
It comes amid a tireless community campaign to secure funding from the state government for a redevelopment of the ageing hospital.
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy travelled to Drouin East in May to pledge the development of a new West Gippsland Hospital in his government’s first budget if elected in November.
Labor is yet to acknowledge the issue, despite splashing millions on Frankston Hospital and Latrobe Regional Hospital.
Mr Sinnett acknowledged that politics would have factored into the display’s removal.
“Decisions need to be made to re-develop the 80 year old hospital and we can’t keep our heads in the sand and bow to petty politics,” he added.
“This is people’s health and lives that we are talking about so we will continue our work.”
Community members were left dumbfounded by the complaint, citing an increasingly prevalent “political correctness” movement engulfing the country.
“You have got to be kidding,” Carolyn Pauline said.
“It’s a part of our history.
“I can still remember my mum wearing the red cape for the Queen Victoria Hospital.”
The ludicrous grievance has even drawn the ire of those employed at the hospital.
“We treat all patients so this complaint is a slap in the face to hardworking staff,” a registered West Gippsland Hospital nurse said.
“Shame on NAB for bowing to one ridiculous opinion.”
Ironically, the bank has suffered worse backlash for following through with the complaint.
The group is now scrambling to secure a shopfront or retail space to relocate the display to.
Anyone interested in hosting the display is urged to contact the Where’s the Funding’s Facebook page.
