2005: First hospital in Australia to offer VAD to children
The first and only hospital in Australia to offer ventricular assist device (VAD) to children. A VAD is used to replace the function of a failing heart while a patient waits for a heart transplant.
2006: The Victor and Loti Smorgon Chair in Paediatrics established
The Victor and Loti Smorgon Chair in Paediatrics is established through the generous philanthropy of the Smorgon Family.
Victor Smorgon AC (1913-2009) was an industrialist and one of Australia’s most generous philanthropists. He immigrated to Australia from Ukraine in 1927, settling in Carlton North and establishing a kosher butchery with his family. Over time, the humble business grew to become an empire encompassing steel, paper, plastics, forestry and commercial property. Along with his wife Loti Smorgon AO (1919– 2013), the couple generously gave back to the community with significant contributions to medical and arts institutions.
2007: First soil turned at new site of RCH
The RCH Chairman Tony Beddison AO, Premier John Brumby and Minister for Health Daniel Andrews unveil plans for a new RCH building and turn the first soil on the new site in Flemington Road.
2009: Conjoined twins Krishna and Trishna separated
The RCH team 0f up to 16 surgeons, doctors and nurses successfully separates conjoined twins Krishna and Trishna in 32 hour surgery.
