After 40 years from the original discussions and planning the Coober Pedy Progress Association decided it was more than time to make this dream and vision a reality.
The Coober Pedy Progress Association sought advice and support from The Bush Church Aid Society and in partnership with the State Government the Coober Pedy Medical Centre Committee was formed and included Mr. Ron Ayton and Mr. Bill McDougall. Bill remembers The Bush Church Aid Society providing advice and expertise for the architectural design and construction of the building.
The Coober Pedy Progress Association raised a total of £4,000 through fundraising, whilst the SA Housing Trust constructed the building for £8,200. The State Government also contributed a 3:1 subsidy towards the total cost of the Medical Centre. Bill recalls The Bush Church Aid Society completely outfitting the Medical Centre from the waiting room to the consulting room, wards, kitchen, dining room, staff quarters and more.
(Document: History of the Coober Pedy Medical Centre’ as recollected by Bill McDougall, courtesy of Mr. Bill McDougall)
A Holden Station sedan was provided for the nursing staff to use as an ambulance.
The small shed to the left of the construction housed the generator whilst the larger shed was used for Sunday School (conducted by the Nursing staff) and where the station wagon was garaged.