Morisset Hospital History Sub-committee
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Hospital Pegs

***  TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE - APRIL 2017  ***

Morisset Hospital Pegs

The pegs are unique in that they keep washing firmly pegged to the line in windy weather, don’t break and don’t stain the washing. Being almost indestructible, aside from mishaps with lawnmowers,

The original peg-making machine used at Morisset Hospital came from Mr. Albert Archer of Speers Point, who, in the early 60's was approached by a friend, Stan Littlewood.  Mr Littlewood had located a single complete peg and asked Albert if he could assist in developing a machine to make such a peg.  Always ready for a challenge, the "peg machine" was soon added to Mr. Archer's list of credits. 

Two machines were made - one for the Archer family and one for the Littlewood family who made the original approach to Mr. Archer.

Peg making became a successful home industry for both families.

It was in the late 60's early 70's that the Archer family sold their machine to the Occupational Therapy Department of Morisset Hospital. The Littlewood family continued to make pegs to sell at various markets. The Morisset machine was later transferred to the Industrial Rehabilitation Department and more machines were built.

Manufacturing of pegs soon became a viable business venture for Morisset Hospital and peg making generated much employment and great pride for many Morisset Hospital residents.  Manufacturing the pegs involved three mechanical stages:

Ø      Unrolling the large coil of wire (of specific tensile) and cutting it into individual lengths,

Ø      cutting the plastic tubing that covers a section of each piece of wire

Ø      then the final and most intricate piece to twist the shape and open the ends.

When IRD ceased to operate, Lifeline acquired the Morisset Hospital machines, and together with the House with no Steps, began making and distributing the pegs through Lifeline stores. Unfortunately the Lifeline machines fell in to disrepair and peg making ceased.  The Littlewood family also ceased making pegs.

Lifeline continued to pursue the viable manufacture of pegs in order to support the work of Lifeline.

In December 2006 a member of MHHS made contact with 'Merilyn Orginals' who produce, in small quantities, a similar, but smaller peg under the label 'Handmade Pegs by Alf of Kangaroo Island'.  The making of these pegs appears to be a somewhat less automated process than the Morisset Hospital production.

Lifeline trialled having the pegs made offshore but quality was poor due to type of wire used to keep the price down. It was eventually decided to have the pegs made in Australia.  As of July 2008, Lifeline have had the former Morisset Hospital peg making machines repaired and are once again producing a high quality long lasting peg.  

As part of History Week (6th–14th September 2008) celebrations, Lifeline Newcastle & Hunter announced the return of the pegs.

http://www.lifelinehunter.org.au/index.php/lifelong-pegs

 

The Lifeline Lifelong Pegs, available now through Lifeline shops in the Newcastle & Hunter region, are made of plastic-coated wire and are renowned for their strength.  The shape and size of the pegs make them also ideal for arthritis sufferers.

Pegs can also be ordered by phoning 02 4940 2000 or 02 4967 6710.

UNAVAILABLE SINCE APRIL 2017

Cost of the pegs are $7.50 for a packet of ten.

In today’s ‘throw away’ society that amount is a relatively small amount to pay for pegs that last a lifetime and support the good work of Lifeline.

Congratulations to Lifeline for getting these Australian made pegs back in the market place.

Lifelong Pegs

Lifeline Lifelong Pegs

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