The Australian Nurses at War exhibition will open at the Museum of the Great Southern on Saturday 19 October.
This reflective exhibition honours the courageous women who confronted the horrors of war firsthand. Many army nurses gave their health and well-being in service to Australia. Some sacrificed their lives.
Museum of the Great Southern Regional Manager, Catherine Salmaggi, highlighted the often-overlooked role of these nurses, who worked tirelessly to care for the sick and wounded under some of the most difficult conditions.
“For over a century, Australian nurses have faced the harshest realities of war with bravery and compassion,” Ms. Salmaggi said. “The way they looked after others, even when faced with incredible challenges, really shows just how brave and selfless these nurses were.”
Visitors to the exhibition are invited to explore the powerful stories of these remarkable women and reflect on the enduring legacy they’ve left behind.
The involvement of Australian women as nurses in war began in 1899 with the formation of the New South Wales Army Nursing Service Reserve. Around sixty nurses served in the Boer War from the Australian colonies. Since then, Australian nurses have served in every conflict to which Australia has committed troops. This exhibition covers the Boer War, World War One, World War Two, the Korean War and Vietnam War.
Australian Nurses at War was developed with assistance from Enid Home, a nurse who was married to Major Arthur Home of the 13th Australian General Hospital. Enid Home was fundamental in the start of the exhibition created to honour the serving nurses and she assisted in sourcing photos of World War Two nurses.
Australian Nurses at War is a free exhibition and on from Saturday 19 October - Sunday 8 December 2024.
For more information, visit: https://visit.museum.wa.gov.au/greatsouthern/2024-10/australian-nurses-war
