The Australian Nurses at War exhibition opens today at the Museum of the Great Southern.

This reflective exhibition pays tribute to the women who have come face-to-face with war.

Many Army nurses sacrificed their health and well-being in the service of Australia. Some sacrificed their lives.

Museum of the Great Southern Regional Manager Catherine Salmaggi said Australian nurses have had a long history of involvement in war, and those who served close to the battlefield experienced first-hand, not only the discomforts of makeshift field hospitals, including mud, dust, bad food and lack of normal amenities, but also the risks and horrors of war.

“Australian nurses have been going to war for well over 100 years, but their important contribution to Australia’s overseas military operations often goes unreported,” Ms Salmaggi said.

“I am sure visitors will be moved by the selfless dedication of these women who served their country in times of conflict.”

The involvement of Australian women as nurses in war began in 1899 with the formation of the New South Wales Army Nursing Service Reserve. 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 is on display at the Museum of the Great Southern until 30 January 2022.

https://visit.museum.wa.gov.au/greatsouthern/australian-nurses-war

 

Media contact:
Yoshika Kon
yoshika.kon@museum.wa.gov.au