Historical information

The establishment of Kiewa Valley House, was a significant victory for residents and senior citizens in the Kiewa Valley district. Plans were laid in the mid 1970’s and a proposal was formulated for a 12 bed unit nursing home to be attached to the Tawonga District General Hospital. The need for an aged care facility in Mount Beauty was prompted by recognition of the high ratio of senior citizens residing in the area. At the time residents had to travel to Beechworth, Wangaratta or Wodonga for care. On June 6th, 1980, an appeal to finance a 12 bed nursing wing was launched at a public meeting in Mount Beauty
The Hospital and Charities Commission’s development board finally approved the application for government funds to build the 12 bed nursing home in early 1981. The official opening of the nursing home was on March 6th, 1985. Opening of the lounge extensions occurred in May, 1993

Significance

Many local residents have taken advantage of facilities at Kiewa Valley House when they became unable to manage independently in their own homes. This has meant they did not have to face the stress of leaving the area and being separated from their local family and friends. Many SEC workers and their families have been residents of Kiewa Valley House over the years.

Physical description

Set of 6 colour photographs of Kiewa Valley House and original Tawonga District General Hospital in Mt Beauty
1 Kiewa Valley House, before extensions, with old weatherboard hospital in background
2 & 3 Official opening of Kiewa Valley House. 4 & 5 Gardens between Kiewa Valley House and Hospital 5. Kiewa Valley lounge extension

Inscriptions & markings

1. The original Kiewa Valley House, before extensions
2. No markings
3. No markings
4. View of the gardens between the weatherboard hospital and Kiewa Valley House
5. Walkway between Hospital & Kiewa Valley House
6. Kiewa Valley House Lounge Room extension