2020 – 2025
The original section of the Old Bega Hospital was constructed in 1888, and modified shortly afterwards in 1904 and 1908. When the new Bega Hospital was opened in 1957, the building was modified for various purposes before becoming a community centre in 1985. In 2004, a fire destroyed most of the building, leaving only the brick walls and chimneys, along with remnants of the roof, floors, and joinery.
Following years of community fundraising, government grant funding was secured in 2019. With project management by NSW Public Works, Design 5 – Architects were selected as lead design consultant in 2020. Our scope began with the review and design development of an existing DA, undergoing several rounds of cost reviews and design refinement to suit the available funding. We then prepared construction documentation with a team of consultants, and worked closely with local firm Leser Build during construction, through to project completion in 2025.
Existing fabric was retained and repaired wherever feasible, and new elements were informed by archival drawings, historic photographs, and site evidence. The building now includes compliant accessibility, upgraded facilities and services, a community kitchen, and multi-purpose spaces for hire. Remnants of the fire-damaged fabric were retained and featured in the building’s continuing use as a valuable community facility.
Old Bega Hospital won the 2026 Australian Institute of Architects, NSW Chapter, Commendation for Heritage and the 2025 National Trust Awards for Built Conservation and Judges’ Choice. Please see below for the AIA NSW Chapter Jury Citation.
“If walls could talk, Old Bega Hospital would speak of persistence and resilience. Originally built in three stages, 1880, 1904 and 1908, and used first as a hospital and later a boys’ home, the building carries many layers. After a devastating fire, this community funded and community driven project was sustained through remarkable fundraising, advocacy and care. Its strength lies in a clear conservation framework: reveal the palimpsest, retain the scars, and adapt with restraint. The community, builder and architects have carefully returned a fragile place to community use, creating a generous asset for workshops, gathering and shared use for Bega’s future.”
Please see booklet for more information.
AWARDS
2025 National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Award (Built Conservation)
2025 National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Award (Judges’ Choice)
