This should be almost a drive by with a short
walk on your
way south on the Stuart Highway or to Litchfield National
Park.
The Cache is located near a WWII site at Coomalie creek.
The cache is a large coffee tin hidden in a very
protected spot and has a log and pencil to record your visit.
1 MEDICAL RECEIVING STATION, RAAF
On 29 August 1942, an advance party of 32 personnel moved into
new facilities at Coomalie Creek. Their camp was located at the
junction of the North - South Road to Darwin and the road to
Batchelor. It was situated in the South West Corner of that
junction, as then existing. Five weeks later the remaining
personnel and equipment rejoined the Unit at Coomalie Creek and the
re-siting of the Unit was complete. 271 patients were admitted to
their new hospital in that first month.
1 MRS was a fully equipped Hospital of 60 or more beds spread
over four large marquees. A separate Operating Theatre was also
housed under canvass. The Wards held surgical and accident cases,
and those suffering from tropical diseases and general illnesses.
More substantial buildings were provided for the Cookhouse and Mess
areas.
Several Medical Officers who had occupied specialist positions
in these disciplines in civilian life were on the staff. Six
Nursing Sisters, a Pharmacist and an X-ray Technician completed the
professional staff. The medical professionals were all of Officer
Rank. They were housed in separate facilities away from other
ranks.