Dr John MacPherson was a surgeon in Glen Innes at a time when operations were performed in the wards.
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In the 1901 annual report of the hospital Dr MacPherson commented: "During the past nineteen months over forty operations have been performed and it was gruesome operating on one patient while others occupied the same ward.
"This state of things should not be tolerated … the Colonial Government has subsidised the erection of the ward to the amount of £150 and a little help would enable such a necessary room being added to the most improved plans.
"There are no operating theatres in connection with hospitals at Emmaville, Armidale or Inverell and I urge Glen Innes to have a thoroughly equipped operating room so it will be the finest hospital in New England..." It happened.
The annual report of 1902 recorded that "thirty nine operations were performed under chloroform anaesthetic…
The annual report of 1902 recorded that "thirty nine operations were performed under chloroform anaesthetic…
"The operating theatre was thoroughly equipped and up to date, they had an efficient staff and it was to the advantage of patients to be treated in the hospital."
When Dr MacPherson resigned his place was taken by another surgeon, Dr Hubert Roger Cope in 1901. His surgery was on the north western Corner of Wentworth and Macquarie Streets.
He is reported to have owned the first car in Glen Innes and he became a familiar sight in Gen Innes being chauffeured by Fred Kennard.
Dr Cope was only in Glen Innes for eight years and during that time it is reported he was called in to assist with operations in Tenterfield as well.
It was announced in the Glen Innes Examiner, August 20,1909 that “Dr Cope has disposed of his practice to Dr Corfe late of Peak Hill.
"It is Dr Cope’s intention to settle in Brisbane. In the northern capital he will find a greater scope for his undoubted professional skills.
"The departing medico has won a reputation for his knowledge in advanced surgery, and it is freely admitted... that he with ranks with the foremost men in the state."