Dr. Hugh Mackay: Remarkable Surgeon & Ambulance Pioneer

Born in Kempsey in 1894 as one of ten children, Irwin Hugh Mackay’s journey from Sydney University to becoming a distinguished surgeon and founder of a district ambulance service is remarkable. After completing his education, including further studies in England, Dr. Mackay returned to Australia, eventually becoming the Assistant Superintendent at Newcastle Hospital. At age 40, Irwin and his wife Ivy moved to Moruya to set up general practice covering the area from Narooma to Batemans Bay.

The equipment at Moruya Hospital was antiquated and Dr Mackay had to purchase essential tools out of his own pocket.

Known for his amiable nature and empathy, Dr. Mackay was not only an exceptional surgeon but also a versatile practitioner. From removing infected tonsils to stitching up gashes, curing various illnesses, and delivering babies, his skill set knew no bounds. Such was his impact that at least one grateful mother named her baby Irwin in his honor.

Specializing in mending broken bones, Dr. Mackay took on cases involving necks, backs, and various fractures and dislocations. He successfully repaired multiple skull fractures, including one case where a patient had to undergo a delicate process of removing mud from the brain before any further treatment could be administered. Another patient, who endured nine skull fractures, went on to lead a normal life under Dr. Mackay’s care.

The Mackays would drive patients to Sydney in their own car if further treatment was needed. This brought home to Dr Mackay the need for an ambulance based in Moruya. Dr Mackay donated the first £50 to the fund and personally collected another £800 to put the first ambulance in the town in operation.

Dr Mackay died in 1968 at age 72, but his legacy lives on. In 1990, the Page St Community Centre was aptly named in his honour.