From 1947 – 1957, Herbert and Ethel Wilson were the first aiders responsible for the medical chest and radio. They ran a store, located where the Desert Cave Hotel is situated today. At this time the postal agency was relocated to a shed next to their store.  Ma Wilson, (as she was often known),  added the role of postmistress to her many other roles within the community. These included opal buyer, opal cutter, member of the radio network, storekeeper, unofficial undertaker and the First aider in charge of the medical chest. Ethel was the town’s only on-the-spot medical help from 1947 until she sold the store in 1957. It is reported that within the wireless room there were only 2 items – the radio transmitter and a coffin. Once, Ethel saved the life of a man who was brought into the store after being injured in a big fight at the 12 Mile. The injured man’s head had been cracked open by repeated blows with a rock. The injuries were so severe that the man’s brain was showing. Mrs Wilson cared for the man keeping him alive overnight until the Flying Doctor could evacuate the man to hospital the next day. It is reported the man did survive his injuries.

(Excerpt from article written by “Sue Britt – Coober Pedy Street and Road Names”, courtesy of Coober Pedy Historical Society)