The Robert Brough Memorial Fountain

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A magnificent three tiered cast iron fountain from the Colebrookdale (UK) factory was installed near the Nightingale Wing in 1907 and dedicated to the memory of (Lionel) Robert Brough. The design comprises a group of brolgas surmounted by black swans displaying their crimson beaks.

Robert Brough (1857 - 1906) actor, was born in England and made his debut there as a comedian in 1870. In 1885, he and his actress wife, Florence Trevelyn, travelled to Australia where their combined talents, particularly in the field of musical comedy, endeared them to Australian audiences.

The following wording is taken from the Sydney Hospital 1907 Annual Report:

When the late Mr Robert Brough died there was an immediate response, initiated amongst his friends, to give practical effect to the respect and affection which was felt towards him. It was decided to place in the northern quadrangle of the hospital, a Memorial Fountain and on 18th November 1907, this fountain was unveiled by the Hon The Premier, CG Wade Esq MLA. The fountain bears the following simple inscription ‘In memory of Robert Brough’. The fountain is a fitting and permanent expression of the feelings of those who admired and loved the late Mr Brough.