Going up the line to Goodna: a history of Woogaroo Lunatic Asylum, Goodna Mental Hospital and Wolston Park Hospital, 1865-2015

In a comprehensive exploration of over a century of mental health care in Queensland, this work delves into the history and evolution of Woogaroo Lunatic Asylum, Goodna Mental Hospital, and Wolston Park Hospital. The narrative unfolds the significant transformations in approaches to mental health, chronicling the shift from institutionalization to more humane, community-centered care. Through rich historical accounts, Jonathan Richards sheds light on the lives of patients and the challenges faced by caregivers throughout the decades.

As he reflects on the societal attitudes toward mental illness, the text reveals the complex interplay of stigma, understanding, and advocacy that has shaped the facilities. The detailed examination of policies and practices offers insights into the broader context of mental health treatment. Over the span of 150 years, the journey of these institutions reflects a critical period in Australia's approach to mental health, inviting readers to consider the implications for contemporary practices and the ongoing fight for dignity and respect for those living with mental illness.

By intertwining historical events with personal stories, the work not only documents the progression of institutions but also emphasizes the humanity at the core of mental health care. Readers are prompted to engage with the past and its legacies, fostering a deeper understanding of the mental health system's evolution and its continuing relevance today.