This photograph is taken in a room in the RDNS Heidelberg Centre. The Sisters are demonstrating a lifting technique to staff members. The Sisters are wearing their RDNS winter uniforms which are a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey V neck tunic style herringbone winter material dress with the RDNS insignia on the upper left. From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in 1885, known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, the rehabilitation of patients to insure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by their Trained nurses. As well as teaching and supervising the use of equipment, their Trained nurses taught them safe transfer techniques. These techniques were also taught to family members to enable them to care for their loved ones. RDNS at first held workshops given by a contracted private Physiotherapist, before employing their own Physiotherapist in 1975, who taught staff the correct transfer techniques, not only for safety of the patient, but to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and patient’s family members. When required the Physiotherapist accompanied the Sister on her visit to the patient in their home.Black and white photograph of three Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters demonstrating a safe bed transfer. From Left to Right is the side on view of Sisters Daphne Geldard, who has short dark curled hair with her left arm around the back of Sister Elizabeth Francis, and her right arm under her legs. Sister Francis has short dark hair and is smiling. She has her right arm over the shoulders of Sr. Geldard, and her left arm is over the shoulder of Sr. Bev Armstrong. Her buttocks are slightly off the bed which has a white pillow and grey blanket. Sr. Armstrong is facing both Sisters. She has short straight blonde hair and has her eyes closed. She has her right arm around the back of Sr. Frances and her left arm is under her legs. The three Sisters are wearing light coloured skivvies under a darker V neck tunic style dress with the RDNS insignia on the upper left. Barry Sutton's Photographer's Stamp. Reprint Quote Number: KY22 Handwritten on back of photo are the names of the RDNS staff members and the location is Heidelberg Centrerdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns physiotherapist, rdns centre, sister daphne geldard, sister elizabeth francis, sister bev armstrong

Mrs P.. Cosh is a private Physiotherapist contracted by RDNS to educate RDNS nursing staff in safe transferring techniques. This photograph is taken in the Heidelberg Centre. The RDNS Sisters are wearing their winter uniforms of a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey V neck tunic style herringbone winter material dress,From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in 1885, known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, the rehabilitation of patients to insure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by their Trained nurses. As well as teaching and supervising the use of equipment, their Trained nurses taught them safe transfer techniques. These techniques were also taught to family members to enable them to care for their loved ones. RDNS at first held workshops given by a contracted private Physiotherapist before employing their own Physiotherapist in 1975 who taught staff the correct techniques, not only for safety of the patient, but to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and patient’s family members. When required the Physiotherapist accompanied the Sister on her visit to the patient in their home.On the left in the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Elizabeth Francis, who has curled dark hair and is kneeling on a mat looking down at Sr. Bev. Armstrong, who has straight blonde hair and is lying on a mat on the floor with her head resting on a white pillow and her right arm resting across her body. Behind and slightly to the right of Sr. Armstrong is Sr. Daphne Geldard who has short dark curled hair. She is kneeling on the mat and looking down at Sr. Armstrong. To her right is Physiotherapist Mrs. P. Cosh, who has dark short curled hair and is wearing a check suite. She is looking at Sr. Armstrong and has her left hand resting on the out edge of Sr. Armstrong's right hand. The RDNS Sisters are wearing a light coloured skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style dress. A closed wooden door is behind the Sisters with pale walls either side. Lino tiles are on the floor either side the mat on which Sr. Armstrong lay.Barry Sutton Photographer's Stamp, Quote KY28, names of staff hand written on back of photographrdns, royal district nursing service, nurses uniforms, rdns physiotherapist, sister elizabeth francis, sister bev armstrong, sister daphne geldard, mrs p. cosh

Miss Kosch is a private physiotherapist contracted by RDNS. She is at RDNS Heidelberg Centre teaching RDNS staff a safe method of lifting and transferring Sr. Geldard from a chair. From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in 1885, known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, the rehabilitation of patients to insure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by their Trained nurses. As well as teaching and supervising the use of equipment, their Trained nurses taught them safe transfer techniques. These techniques were also taught to family members to enable them to care for their loved ones. RDNS at first held workshops given by a contracted private Physiotherapist before employing their own Physiotherapist in 1975 who taught staff the correct techniques, not only for safety of the patient, but to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and patient’s family members. When required the Physiotherapist accompanied the Sister on her visit to the patient in their home.Standing in the rear left of the black and white photograph is Ms Kosch, who has short curled dark hair and is wearing a check suit. She is looking down at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). Sister (Sr) Daphne Geldard, who has collar length curled dark hair, and is seated in front of her on a padded kitchen type chair. To Sr. Geldard's right, standing, is Sr Elizabeth Francis who has short dark curled hair and is bending forward with her arms outstretched under Sr. Geldard's armpits. She has her right leg braced against Sr. Geldard's right knee Sr Bev. Armstrong, who has short blonde hair, is standing at the right rear observing the procedure. The three Sisters are wearing a grey skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style dress with the RDNS insignia on the upper left. A black below knee boot is seen on Sr. Geldard's right leg. A closed dark wooden door with a white surround is behind Ms Kosch and to its right another chair is seen against the wall. Photographers stamp , names of staff, date and location. Quote KY 35rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns physiotherapy, sister elizabeth francis, sister daphne geldard, sister bev armstrong, ms kosch

This photograph is taken in the office at RDNS Heidelberg Centre, and the RDNS Educator, Sr. Gawith is showing RDNS Sisters the areas covered by Heidelberg Centre. Sr. Gawith is wearing the RDNS uniform of a grey frock and red cardigan and the other three Sisters are wearing the newer RDNS uniform of a blue/grey herringbone coat with a curved material RDNS insignia attached on the upper sleeve. From its inception as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, their trained nurses worked in specific areas, 'districts'. Their first Trained nurse (Nurse) worked east and west, between Victoria Parade and Flinders Street and, north and south, between Spencer Street and Spring Street. When a second Nurse was employed they divided this area at Elizabeth Street so each Nurse could attend to patients in the same area giving continuity of care. As the Society expanded, becoming Melbourne District Nursing Service, then, with Royal patronage, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) many Centres were opened throughout the Melbourne Metropolitan area and outer suburbs. The District nurse's (Sisters) areas (districts) grew and were divided within Shire boundaries for e.g. Knox 1, Knox 2, Knox 3, Knox 4, within the area of the Shire of Knox. On the left of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister (Sr) Mary Gawith, who has short dark curled hair. She is standing side-on and looking to the right as, with her extended left arm she is pointing her finger to an area on a large map attached to the wall. She is holding some white sheets of paper in her right hand. To her right and looking towards her are Sr. Daphne Geldard, who has short curled hair, is smiling, and has her hands clasped in front of her. On the right next to her, and partly hidden, is Sr. Bev. Armstrong who is smiling and has short straight blonde hair. In the front right of the photograph and partly hiding Sr. Armstrong is Sr. Elizabeth Francis, who has short dark curled hair and has her hands clasped in front of her. Sr. Gawith is wearing a grey uniform dress and dark cardigan. The other Sisters are wearing grey uniform coats with the RDNS insignia on the upper sleeve. Sr. Geldard is wearing below the knee black boots.Barry Sutton photographer's stamp, quote number KY 40, names of staff in the photograph.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns district map, rdns uniform, rdns education, sister daphne geldard, sister elizabeth francis, sister bev armstrong, sister mary gawith

In 1930 the Society were pioneers in opening an Ante-Natal Clinic at the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) After-Care Home, setting a high standard with equipment, keeping records and providing leaflets with instructions in how to keep healthy during pregnancy, what complications to look for, and what to do when labour commenced. This image was taken in the Ante-Natal Clinic and shows some of the equipment used at that time and the uniforms worn by Trained nurses (Sisters) in the 1930s. Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded in 1885 and only nurses who had trained in a Hospital Training School and were fully qualified were employed by the Society. It commenced with one Trained nurse (Nurse), and another employed six months later; both walking amid the slums of inner Melbourne administering nursing care to the sick poor. The Society decided to commence a Midwifery Service and Nurse Fowler, who had previously worked for the Society, was re-employed as their first Trained Midwife. She began home births in August 1893 giving some Ante Natal care, taking midwifery bundles and providing clothes for the babe and mother as needed. Following birth, she gave Post-natal care to the mother and babe twice a day for three days and then daily for a week, and longer if required. She resigned after twelve months and Nurse Wilkie was appointed to the position. As well as walking, the Nurses used Public transport in the limited areas it ran, though a taxi was used by the Nurses and Midwife in emergencies and at night. As the Society expanded it rented premises until it was able to purchase it's own Nurses Home at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood in 1914. The Society were pioneers in recognizing the need for premises where patients too ill to be in their own home, but not ill enough to go to hospital, was needed. Land was procured next to No. 39, and the Society built the After-Care Home at 45 Victoria Parade, for these patients, and for patients from Hospitals. It was opened in July 1926 and the name of the Society then became ‘Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home’ (‘Hospital’ from 1934) The Ante-Natal Clinic at the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home was opened on the 23rd of September 1930 and MDNS Midwifery patients were encouraged to attend. Prior to the opening of the clinic Ante-natal care was not considered important, but within a short time 100 percent of MDNS Midwifery patients were attending. During 1934 the Women’s Welfare Clinic, including at the time a very controversial Family Planning Clinic, the first of its kind in Australia, was opened to support women at risk following multiple and difficult pregnancies. The Clinic gave advice on birth-control and was attended by their own patients at first, but then accepted patients from Melbourne public hospitals until their own clinics were opened.Digital image showing a Doctor and three Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sisters attending a patient in the Ante-Natal Clinic at the After Care Hospital. In the forefront is a set of scales standing on the floor, behind which is the lady lying on a wooden framed bed with the base slightly raised at the top end supporting a white pillow and the lady's head. The lady has short dark hair and her frock can be seen to her waist; the rest of her body is covered by a white sheet and dark coloured blanket. Behind her and to the right of the image, are two Sisters wearing dark coloured long sleeved uniforms which have a belt and white collar; they are both wearing white veils over their short dart hair. To their left is a Doctor who has short dart wavy hair and is looking down at the lady. He is wearing a long white gown and has a stethoscope in his ears with the other end held in his right hand. To his left is another Sister who is wearing a white veil over her dark curled hair, and is wearing a long white gown. In the rear between the Doctor and Sister a hand basin can be seen. On the far left of the picture a trolley with two cloth covered shelves can be seen; a basin and squat bottle sits on the top shelf and kidney dish on the lower one. Behind this, part of a window can be seen.after- care hospital, 45 victoria parade collingwood, melbourne district nursing society (1885-1957), ante-natal clinic, after-care home, mdns midwifery, rdns, royal district nursing service

This digital image is taken at the home of a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) patient, and depicts a MDNS Sister attending to a lady who is lying in a wicker bed pram in the rear garden of her home. The wicker bed pram enabled the lady to enjoy fresh air and to be moved about easily. The image shows the MDNS uniform of a grey cotton frock with white collar, and a grey brimmed hat with a red Maltese cross in the centre of the hatband. In 1885, 50 years after Melbourne was founded, it was recognized that nursing care was needed for the sick poor in inner Melbourne. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded in February 1885 with one Trained nurse, known as 'Nurse' in those days, and a second employed six months later,. The two Nurses worked in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bags containing lotion, ointments, powders, liniment, bandages, dressings, a case of spirits, and the Nurse's own clean apron, soap and small towel. They supplied equipment on loan, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing blankets and clean bed linen, and nightdresses as necessary. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care and liaised with Doctors. They provided high quality nursing care to a range of people, often in destitute situations, some lying on rags on the floor as they had no bed, others with just a bed and maybe a thin blanket, a chair and nothing else. Their ages ranged from babes, children, adults to the elderly. The Nurses gave medications as ordered, dressed wounds e.g. to the injured, and surgical cases, and to those with leg ulcers; attended to patients with ‘surgical ailments’ such as ‘hip disease’; gave care to those with acute illnesses such as bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, measles, and scarlet fever, as well as those with chronic illnesses such as consumption (tuberculosis), heart disease, arthritis, cancer, debility, neuritis and paralysis. This image shows a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurse (Sister) wearing a grey uniform with white collar, and a grey brimmed hat, which has a hatband with Maltese cross applied, standing behind and attending an elderly lady patient laying in a wicker bed pram outside her home. The Sister has her right hand resting on the pram and is looking down at the lady, and the lady, who has short grey hair, is smiling and looking toward the camera. Her body is covered with a floral cover. To the left, part of the horizontal weatherboards of a wooden house can be seen, and to the right and rear, a brick, tiled hip roof, building can be seen. The wicker bed pram has four spoked wheels and a metal frame that bends up to form a handle on its right hand side.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns nurses, mdns patient care, mdns uniforms, rdns, royal district nursing service

Each Ward in the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Hospital, at 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood, had a Sun Room which was well lit by its many windows. This digital image is taken in one of the Sun Rooms and shows the type of hospital beds, furniture and the uniforms worn by Sisters and nurses in the 1930s.Melbourne District Nursing society opened the After-Care Home, situated at 39 Victoria Parade Collingwood in 1926 following a public appeal for funds. The name changed from 'Home' to 'Hospital' in 1934. The After-Care Home was originally established to provide nurse-managed convalescent care to poor and underprivileged people who could not look after themselves at home due to illness or on release from hospital. Opening in 1926, at a cost of £27,000, the home included maternity, children’s and adult wards as well as accommodation for Matron, twelve nurses and four domestic staff. In 1930 an ante-natal clinic was opened at the home. During 1934 the Women’s Welfare Clinic including, at the time, a very controversial Family Planning Clinic, the first of its kind in Australia, was opened to support women at risk following multiple and difficult pregnancies. Major extensions occurred in 1936. Each Ward in the After-Care Hospital at 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood, had a Sun Room which was well lit by its many windows. Several donors gave money to furnish some of the Wards. Following Government intervention, the After-Care Hospital was separated from the Melbourne District Nursing Society in 1957. The District division of Melbourne District Nursing Society became the Melbourne District Nursing Service and moved to 452 St Kilda Road; later, in 1966, with Royal patronage this became Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). The After-care hospital continued to operate at the same address in Collingwood until 1985 when it became the Melbourne Geriatric Centre. This digital Image shows six men patients and nursing staff in a Sun Room in the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Hospital. In the left foreground is a low bedside cupboard, beside it is a man with short dark hair lying in an iron framed hospital bed with a white cover pulled up to his shoulders. A Sister, who is looking at the camera, is wearing a grey uniform with a white collar, and a white veil over her short dark hair; she is standing behind, and at the head of the bed with her right hand holding the vertical bar of the bed frame. Behind her is an open door and then a nurse wearing a long white apron over her grey long sleeved uniform; she has a white cap over her shoulder length dark hair and is looking at the camera. Both of her hands are resting on an empty cane chair. Next along is a man with a bandage wrapped around his head and over his left eye. He is wearing dark clothing and is sitting on a padded cane chair, as are the rest of the men in the room. To the rear, in front of four long windows, are another two men, one on the left has short white hair and is wearing light clothing, and to his right is a man with short dark hair and is wearing a dark dressing gown over light colour pyjamas. On his right is a large vase of flowers on a tall white stand. On the right hand side of the photograph are another two men with short dark hair and wearing dressing gowns; part of a wall with windows can be seen behind them.mdns, after- care hospital, melbourne district nursing society, rdns, royal district nursing service

The name of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) After-Care 'Home', changed to 'Hospital' in 1934 and major extensions occurred in 1936.Melbourne District Nursing society (MDNS) opened the After-Care Home, situated at 39 Victoria Parade Collingwood in 1926 following a public appeal for funds. The name changed from MDNS 'Home' to 'Hospital' in 1934. The After-Care Home was originally established to provide nurse-managed convalescent care to poor and underprivileged people who could not look after themselves at home due to illness or on release from hospital. Opening in 1926, at a cost of £27,000, the Home included maternity, children’s and adult wards as well as accommodation for Matron, twelve nurses and four domestic staff. In 1930 an ante-natal clinic was opened at the home. During 1934 the Women’s Welfare Clinic including, at the time, a very controversial Family Planning Clinic, the first of its kind in Australia, was opened to support women at risk following multiple and difficult pregnancies. Major extensions occurred in 1936. Following Government intervention, the After-Care Hospital was separated from the Melbourne District Nursing Society in 1957 and the District division of Melbourne District Nursing Society became the Melbourne District Nursing Service and relocated to 452 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Following Royal patronage in 1966 this became the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). The After-care Hospital continued to operate at the same address in Collingwood until 1985 when it became the Melbourne Geriatric Centre. Black and white digital image taken of the rear of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) After-Care Home showing, on the right, part of a three story section of the brick built new wing. Long windows are seen along each storey separated by brick work. Above each window is a wide light strip. Attached to this wing is a narrow three storey section with one long window, with light top strip, shown on each storey. Attached to the left of this are three walkways running to the left of the image. Tall metal handrails run along each walkway. In the background beyond the lowest walkway, part of a hip roof building and a leafy tree can be seen.melbourne district nursing society, after- care hospital, after care home, rdns, royal district nursing service

The photograph is taken in the Waiting room of the Ante-natal Clinic at the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home at 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. On the 23rd of September 1930 the Ante-Natal Clinic opened at the MDNS After- Care Home. This photograph also shows Matron and Sister's uniforms in the 1930sThe Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) were pioneers in recognizing the need for premises where patients too ill to be in their own home, but not ill enough to go to hospital, was needed, and the Society built, then opened, the After-Care Home, (later called After-Care Hospital), in 1926, for these patients, and patients from Hospitals. Many children were nursed there, some long term during the Polio epidemic and the Society employed two School Teachers. The Society now ran two divisions, the After-Care with its own Trained nurses and the District division. The Society were the first in Melbourne, in early 1928, to recognize some patients leaving the After-Care, and many at home, needed further social care and they set up ‘Almoners’ from their committee to visit these patients and be intermediaries in getting them social assistance. It was late the following year before the first training of Almoners took place in Melbourne. In 1930 the Society employed a full time kindergarten teacher to visit poor children in their homes. That year the Society were pioneers in opening an Ante-Natal Clinic at the After-Care, setting a high standard with equipment, keeping records and providing leaflets with instructions in how to keep healthy during pregnancy, what complications to look for and what to do when labour commenced. In 1934 the Society were pioneers again when they opened the first Women’s Welfare Clinic in Melbourne giving advice on birth-control, at first attended by their own patients, but then accepting patients from public hospitals until their own clinics were opened. A Social Service Officer was employed at the After-Care who successfully gained better housing from the Housing Commission for families living under unsuitable conditions. In 1957 the Hospital and Charities Commission decided to take over the After-Care Hospital, so the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Hospital separated and the Melbourne District Nursing Service was formed, setting up Headquarters at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. On the 5th of October 1966 the name changed to Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) after being granted Royal patronage. Black and white photograph showing seventeen seated ladies, some partly hidden, six small children, and the Matron and two Sisters of the Melbourne District Nursing Society After Care Home. The Matron is wearing a white uniform and veil, and the two Sisters are wearing grey uniforms with white collars and veils, one is holding a baby and the other a small child dressed in dark clothing, they are on the far left and rear of the photograph. The ladies are wearing either grey or black clothing, several are wearing hats and some are wearing berets. They have short or shoulder length dark or lighter coloured hair. A Doctor, with short dark hair and wearing a white coat, is standing at the far right on the photograph. On the left, a window can be seen behind one of the Sisters. The wall at the rear of the room is paneled. after-care home, mdns, melbourne district nursing society, ante-natal clinic

This RDNS Liaison Sister is reassuring a lady who is being discharged from Mount Royal Rehabilitation Hospital regarding the visits she will receive from RDNS Sisters in her home. The Liaison Sister had previously visited the lady in the Ward to ascertain the care she would require at home and this information had been passed to the appropriate RDNS Centre and to the Sister who would be visiting the lady in her home. The RDNS Sister is wearing her RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey winter material herringbone V neck tunic style frock. She is wearing her blue/grey herringbone winter material hat.Liaison had occurred between doctors and the Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in August 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Trained nurses (Sisters), but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the hospital Doctor, via the Liaison Sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District field staff and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a Hospital. Rehabilitation of patients to insure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by the RDNS Sisters.On the right of the black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister, who is wearing her uniform hat over her short curled hair, and a pale skivvie under a V neck tunic style grey dress. She is leaning forward with her left hand on the arm of a wheelchair, and is smiling at a lady, who has short curly hair; is wearing glasses and grey frock with a belt, and is sitting in wheelchair. She is holding the tops of walking sticks with both her hands; the foot of the sticks are resting on the ground. The footplates of the wheelchair are open and the lady has her feet on the ground. To her left stands a gentleman who has short dark hair and is wearing a buttoned up dark cardigan over a light coloured shirt, peaks showing, and light trousers. He is holding a 4 prong stick in his right hand and is looking at the lady. A Hospital Sister, who is wearing a dark cape over her white uniform and a white veil over her short dark curly hair is standing behind the wheelchair looking down at the lady. In the background, part of a brick wall can be seen on the left and to the right of this an open glass door and to its right is a closed glass door with writing on it.Barry Sutton Photographer's stamprdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns liaison, rdns rehabilitation

This photograph is a record of Matron Beatrice Williams with some of the Trained nurses (Sisters) who worked in the District division of Melbourne District Nursing Society After Care Home in 1933, just prior to Matron Williams resigning to be married. It was taken in front of the Nurses Home at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood and shows part of the District nursing uniform worn by the MDNS Sisters in the 1930s. At that time their uniform dresses, worn under their coats, were grey cotton and their brimmed hats were made of felt and had a red Maltese cross applied to the centre front of the hatband.Miss Beatrice Williams worked as a Trained Nurse (Sister) with the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) before going to England to gain her Midwifery certificate. After qualifying, she worked as a Tutor sister and a District Superintendent at the University College Hospital in London. On returning to Australia she was appointed, in April 1929, Matron of the District division of the MDNS After-Care Home (Hospital from 1934). She convinced the Committee of the need for Ante Natal care and in 1930 the Ante Natal Clinic was opened at the After-Care. She continued as Matron until 1933 when she married Dr. J.P Major, and was invited to join the Committee of Management. In the early 1950s when the Government requested the Society separate and it take over the After Care Hospital, she became President of the now named Melbourne District Nursing Service with its Headquarters and Nursing Home moving to 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. Beatrice had an understanding of the poor, the sick and the aged, and was known for her kindness and sympathy. Her foresight, leadership and enthusiasm brought forth the expansion of District nursing. She died on the 15th of August 1958. The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing, and to people of many cultures, throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care the Sisters provided is as follows: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. The Sisters provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, to those following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary.Black and white photograph showing Matron, Miss Beatrice Williams, wearing a white uniform and veil over her short dark hair, and a group of thirteen Melbourne District Nursing Society Trained nurses (Sisters) outside the front of their Nurses Home. The Sisters are wearing grey coats over their grey uniforms and grey brimmed hats with a Maltese cross applied to the white headband. Matron is sitting in the centre of six Sisters and there are seven Sisters standing behind them on the veranda; a round column is seen to the right between the 4th and 5th Sisters. Part of the grey building behind shows an open door to the left and a long window to the right. A scrolled metal safety rail, running from the round column, is seen in front of the three nurses on the right. The seated Sisters and Matron have their legs crossed at the ankles, melbourne district nursing society, mdns nurses, mdns, rdns, royal district nursing service, mdns uniforms, matron beatrice mary williams

This photograph shows a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sister visiting a patient in his home. The photograph shows her taking his temperature and pulse and carrying out basic nursing observations. The Sister kept a record of this information in the man's Nursing History at MDNS Headquarters and conveyed it to the patient's Doctor as required.The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing, and to people of many cultures, throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care the Sisters provided is as follows: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. The Sisters provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, to those following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary.This black and white photograph shows a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurse (Sister) standing on the left of a man who is in his bed on the veranda of his home. She is wearing a white gown over her uniform and her grey uniform hat, which has a hatband showing a Maltese cross in the centre; she has her left hand on the man's right wrist and is looking down at a watch she is holding in her right hand. The man, who has short dark hair, is holding a thermometer in his mouth. He is partly propped up with his head resting on a white covered pillow; part of the iron frame of the bed is seen to its left. Most of his body is covered with light coloured bedclothes; part of his pyjamas can be seen. Part of a vase of flowers is seen just behind the Sister's left arm. In the left of the photograph, part of the weatherboards of the house can be seen with a window, partly obscured with a blind. To the right of the man is a veranda post and some pickets of a wooden fence; behind him part of a brick wall is seen.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns uniforms, rdns, royal district nursing service

The MDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) are about to board two motor vehicles outside their Nurses home, at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood, to be driven to give nursing care to their patients who lived a distance away. The lady Chauffeur is probably Miss Sword who was employed by MDNS in 1922-23; she was also in charge of the garage. This enabled the Sisters to do more visits in a day than when using Public transport all the time. This image also shows the style of cars driven in that era. The Sisters uniforms are grey and their hats have a red Maltese cross attached to the centre front of the hatband. Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) has had various modes of transport over the last 130 plus years. At first, from 1885 as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), their Trained nurses (Nurses) walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of central Melbourne. As the Society expanded public transport was used, and bicycles were bought by the Society in 1903 and used in inner areas until 1945. During the Spanish flu epidemic, in 1919, MDNS appealed for assistance to procure Motor vehicles so the Nurses could visit an influx of cases. Through trusts, grants and donations four 'Ford T Model' cars were procured which enabled the Nurses to triple their visits. Through constant use the cars were in such a poor state two were sold in 1922 and the others later. In 1922-23 three Peugeot cars were purchased and a female Chauffeur, 'Miss Sword', was employed who lived in the Home and was also in charge of the garage. MDNS was expanding, and In 1929 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) formed a volunteer Motor Auxiliary to transport their Trained Nurses (Sisters) to make visits more patients who lived a distance away. At first wealthy people offered their car and chauffeur, but then the general public supplied their own vehicles. They operated on week days when able and could take up to three Sisters at a time, collecting them from the Nurses Home, 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood, at 9 a.m; dropping each Sister at a patient then picking them up and taking them to the next patient before completing the morning round and returning to the Nurses Home at 1 p.m.. The Sisters were able to double the number of visits they did each morning and did their afternoon visits on public transport. At its peak there were 60 volunteers but this fell off during World War 11. In 1944 the Red Cross were assisting, and by 1953 were taking out 16 MDNS Sisters. Appeals for volunteers occurred over the years, particularly during the Tram and Tramway Bus strike in the 1950s, and when the Royal Women's Hospital had an influx of births and wanted to send the mothers and babies home on day four but could not do so if M.D.N.S. could not visit. During 1962 the Motor Auxiliary transported 34 Sisters who preferred not to drive themselves, but as the MDNS fleet of cars grew there was less need for their service and the Auxiliary was disbanded in 1971. Some Sisters used their own cars; even a motorcycle was used by one Sister in 1933. All these forms of transport were intermingled and in the early 1950s, and now as Melbourne District Nursing Service, seven Ford Prefect cars were bought followed by twelve Ford Anglia cars 1955. Having received Royal patronage; the now Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) had its own fleet of Holden vehicles by the mid 1960s and the Motor Auxiliary ceased operating in 1971 as by then all staff employed were required to have a driving licence. Seat-belts had been introduced to Victoria in 1959 and District fitted them to their cars from 1962, even though they did not become compulsory until 1970. The Holden vehicles were replaced with grey Holden Torana vehicles. After several years the fleet was changed to white Toyota Corolla vehicles. The Melways Directory of maps was introduced in 1966, which was a boon to the Sisters, though it was a few years before it went beyond Seville, so a large paper map was used by the Sisters visiting patients in the areas passed Seville. By 2009 there were 598 cars in the fleet and the Sisters travelled 9 million 200,000 kilometres – this is equivalent to 12 trips to the moon and back. IA black and white digital image showing, in the left foreground, the frontal view of an early model, 1920s, soft hooded car parked on the road next to the gutter. Two front spoked wheels are seen, and headlights sit either side of the radiator at the front of the nose shaped bonnet.. '3758' is written in white on the black number plate below the radiator. The female Chauffeur is dressed in a dark coat and peaked hat and is standing by the partly open driver's door. The passenger door is open and a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sister is standing on the footpath behind the door. Another Sister stands behind her. There is another similar car parked behind the first one. It is partly obscured, its hood is down; it has spoked wheels and one of its headlights can be seen beside the partially obscured radiator. Part of the black number plate can be seen with two of its numbers, '69', written in white. A partly obscured Sister is standing by the driver's door and another behind the open passenger door. Another Sister is standing at the rear of this car..The five MDNS Sisters are wearing their uniform grey coats and felt brimmed grey hats with a Maltese cross applied to the centre hatband, Leafless trees and some buildings can be seen in the background.melbourne district nursing society, after-care home, rdns, royal district nursing service, mdns motor auxiliary, mdns uniforms, miss sword, female chauffeur

This portrait photograph of Dame Mary Herring is a visual record of her taken during the time she was offering advice to Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home (later Hospital)' as a member of their Committee from 1931. She was a Vice-president from 1943-1957 and acted as President in 1953. As a Medical practitioner she was involved with the formation of the MDNS After-Care Ante-Natal clinic in 1930 and the establishment of the Women's Welfare Clinic at the MDNS After-Care in 1934. Dame Mary Herring was born in Carlton on the 31st of March 1895. She graduated as a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MB. BS) at the University of Melbourne in March 1921. During her training she went out with the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), where she visited many in poor circumstances and through this decided she wanted to improve the lives of women and children. She married Edmund Herring on the 6th of April 1922 and he supported her to continue her Medical career. She established an Ante-Natal Clinic at the Prahran Health Centre in 1926 and assisted MDNS After-Care Home in the establishment of its Ante-Natal clinic in September 1930. In 1931, as Dr. Mary Herring she became a member of the Committee of the now named ‘Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home’ (later Hospital), and as Lady Herring became a Vice-president from 1943 until 1957 and acted as President in 1953. In 1934, along with Dr. George Simpson and Dr. Victor Wallace, she established the Women’s Welfare Clinic at the MDNS After-Care Hospital for patients of the Society; the first of its kind in Melbourne. After its opening in October 1934 she was the Hon Secretary of the Welfare Clinic, which operated from a room in the Ante-Natal Clinic of the After-Care. Dr. Herring pioneered family planning services. The clinic ran until 1940 when women could now obtain this advice from other establishments. In 1953, as Acting President, Lady Herring was involved with the discussions of the District Division of MDNS relocating to ‘Airlie’, 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne and the separation of Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital, with the District Division now a separate entity, known as Melbourne District Nursing Service with its Headquarters at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. In 1966 with Royal patronage, this became the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). Though asked to be President of the Hospital division of the MDNS Society, she declined due to her many activities. In 1940 Dr. Mary Herring was a founder of the A.I.F Women’s Association and served on the Women’s Welfare Subcommittee to assist the families of soldiers and now as Lady Herring, she became President from 1943-1946. She was a a founding member and first president of the Victorian Council of Social Service 1946, chairman of the Vera Scantlebury Brown Memorial Trust 1946-1979, Deputy-president of Victorian division of the Australian Red Cross 1944-1963, and of the Victoria League 1945-1972 and the Australian council of the Save the Children Fund from 1962-1967. Lady Herring was a tireless worker for many charities particularly charities for children. On the 10th of July 1953 she was made Commander of the Order of St. John in recognition of her charity work and on the 11th of June 1960 was made Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for “services to nursing in Victoria” In 1949 the Argus Newspaper (https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/22776603) described her as “one of the finest examples of Australian women in our State, with a record of selfless devotion to the service of others. Calm, kindly, clear-minded, and intensely logical”,..... “she has taken all this in her stride without once stopping out of her aura of cool, unruffled efficiency, an efficiency which is tempered by her warmth and understanding, her approachability, and her human sympathy.” Dame Mary Ranken Herring died in Camberwell on the 26th of October 1981. This black and white photograph is a portrait view of Dame Mary Herring. She has curled light coloured hair. Only a portion of her scooped neck dark coloured frock which falls in soft folds can be seen. There is a light colour brooch attached on the left hand side of her frock near the shoulder. She is wearing a string of pearls around her neck. A curtain can be seen in the background of the photograph.Stuart Tompkin Studiomelbourne district nursing society, ante-natal clinic, women's welfare clinic, rdns, royal district nursing service, dame mary herring

This photograph is a visual record of Mrs Wilson who became President of Melbourne District Nursing Service in October 1964 and continued in this role until 1967. She retired from the Committee in 1970. Mrs. E.G. (Hazel Janet) Wilson was involved with fund raising for the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from 1930, when she was on the Committee and held positions of Honorary secretary and Honorary treasurer in the Junior Auxiliary of the MDNS and in the MDNS Comforts Fund Branch. In October 1941 she was appointed Honorary treasurer of the newly formed Council of Auxiliaries of the MDNS and in 1943 was on the organizing committee of the Cafe, at No. 43 Victoria Parade, which was run by auxiliary members to raise funds for the MDNS and After-Care Hospital. Mrs. Wilson was appointed Honorary Secretary of MDNS in 1948 and served on the Committee of Management. In 1955 Mrs. Wilson was given a letter sent by Florence Nightingale to her niece - this is now in the RDNS Archives. In 1957 the MDNS and the After-Care Hospital ceased to function as joint organizations. The District Nursing division became the Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) based at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne and Mrs. E. G. Wilson was a member of the first Committee of Management of this organization. By 1963 she was a Senior Vice-president of MDNS. and in October 1964 became the President. She continued in this role until 1967 and retired from the Committee in 1970. Black and white photograph of the head and shoulder view Mrs. E.G. (Hazel Janet) Wilson. who is wearing glasses and has short, light coloured wavy hair. Part of her scooped neck grey frock can be seen and she is wearing a single strand of pearls around her neck.melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, rdns, junior mdns auxiliary, letter from florence nightingale, mrs e.g. (hazel janet) wilson

This photograph is a visual record of Mrs Tatham who was President of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from 1915 until 1923. Mrs. Tatham, with her happy disposition, tact and organizational skills, served the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) as a very active member for 25 years. At 38 years of age she was elected to the Committee of the MDNS in 1909, and in 1912 was elected as Honorary Secretary until being elected as President in 1915; a role she held until 1923. During this time she undertook roles on fund raising committees, as well as, in 1919, leading the committee in appealing to the public for funds to purchase motor cars for the use of the Society's Nurses so more cases could be visited during the Influenza Epidemic. In 1923 she resigned as President but agreed to take up the role as Vice-president and was the 'Head Almoner' in the Society's newly formed 'Committee of Almoners' who assisted discharged clients from the After-Care to receive assistance from other organizations if required; the name changed to 'Ward Visitors' when the newly formed 'Institute of Almoners' was formed with now trained Almoners. She remained as Vice-President until 1926 when she was appointed as Secretary of the Society and After-Care Home. She remained in this role until her death, aged 63 years, following a tragic car accident in October 1934. Mrs. Tatham was known as "a gentlewoman in the truest sense" and was held in high esteem by her friends and colleagues. Following her death a Ward in the After-Care Hospital was named the 'Constance Maud Tatham' Ward in her memory.Black and white head and shoulder photograph of Mrs. F. (Constance Maud) Tatham. She has a round visage and a small amount of dark curled hair is seen under a dark turned-up brimmed hat with large tails of a flat bow. She is wearing floral frock with buttons down the front; a dark and light coloured scarf is around her neck. melbourne district nursing society, after- care hospital, mdns president, rdns, royal district nursing service, mrs f. (constance maud) tatham

Sister J. Faust has dressed a wound on the ladies ankle and is applying a blue-line bandage. The photograph is taken in the lady's home. The MDNS uniform at that time was a grey frock, and stiffened brimmed grey felt hat with a light grey band and a red Maltese cross in the centre of the band. The Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, provided wound care to their patients, who ranged in age from the very young to the elderly. As research developed better products and dressing materials the methods and medication applied to wounds changed. MDNS received Royal patronage in 1966 and as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), the Education department developed programs, such as the Leg Ulcer Management Program, to provide their Trained nurses (Sisters) with methods of best quality care. The Sisters liaised with the patient’s Doctors and hospitals to provide information on the progress of patient’s wounds and to receive any change of wound care from the Doctors. RDNS introduced a Wound Care Specialist program and these Sisters did assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. Black and white photograph of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) visiting Sister J. Faust, who is wearing a white gown and a grey brimmed hat over her dark curled hair. Part of her grey uniform frock is seen below the gown. She is applying a light coloured bandage to the right ankle of an elderly female patient. The lady, who has dark curled hair, and is wearing a grey frock, apron, and black cardigan is seen seated side on, on a wooden chair to the right of the Sister. She has her right leg extended and resting on a small low table, her left leg is bent to the floor.. The Sisters open case is seen on a small table to the rear of the lady and a walking stick is to the left against the door frame. A dark curtain hangs in the doorway. A large white wash bowl is seen in the lower left of the photograph. A glass jar with scissor blades into a liquid can be seen on a cabinet to the left of.Sister Faust. To the right of the photograph a partial white covered bed can be seen with a table over it with papers and a magnifying glass. Name of Sister on rear of photograph.wound care, melbourne district nursing society, royal district nursing service, rdns, mdns, sister j. faust

This photograph is a visual record of Mrs. Hallenstein who was President of Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1967-1974. In February 1970 the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) hosted the First International Congress on Domiciliary Nursing and, as President of RDNS, Mrs. Hallenstein presided over the opening ceremony. Mrs. Hallenstein played an integral roll in the planning and correspondence to the College of Arms, London, which concluded with the Royal District Nursing Service being granted a Coat of Arms in 1970. In 1949 Mrs. D. (Elsa) Hallenstein was elected as a member of the Committee of Management of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) and After-Care Hospital, and In 1951 was elected as a member of the Committee of Management, and appointed to the Board of Directors of the Nursing Service Division, of MDNS and After-Care. In 1957 when the Society and After-Care Hospital separated, Mrs. Hallenstein was on the first Committee of Management of the now Melbourne District Nursing Service whose Headquarters was located at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. In 1962 she was elected as a Vice-President and in 1964 as senior Vice-president of MDNS until 1967 when she became President of the Committee of Management of the now renamed Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), a role she held until 1974. In February 1970 RDNS hosted the First International Congress on Domiciliary Nursing and, as President, Mrs. Hallenstein presided over the opening ceremony. Mrs. Hallenstein played an integral roll in Melbourne District Nursing Service being granted Royal patronage in 1966, now becoming Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), and with the planning and correspondence to the College of Arms, London, which concluded with the Royal District Nursing Service being granted a Coat of Arms in 1970. Black and white photograph of the head and shoulder view of Mrs. D. (Elsa) Hallenstein, who has light coloured wavy short hair. She is smiling and is wearing a black frock with small brooch attached. She is sitting in a floral lounge chair and has an open white leaflet in her hands.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns coat of arms, mrs d. (elsa) hallenstein

This photograph is a visual record of Lady Coles who was on the Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Management Committee when, in the early 1960s, MDNS set up four regional Centres, one of which she allowed to be run from her home in Frankston.Lady Coles had a long standing interest in Melbourne District Nursing Society, and in 1957 following the separation of the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Hospital, she was elected as a member of the First Committee of Management of the now Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS). In the early 1960s MDNS set up four Centres where cases could be reported for District Nursing action. One of these Centres covered four districts and was situated at Lady Coles home in Frankston. She was on the committee when MDNS was granted its Royal patronage and became the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) in 1966. In 1967 a major fund raising appeal, with Lady Coles as chairman of the Women's Committee, took place and her energy helped raise a substantial sum for RDNS Three years later, after 40 years of actively working for District, Lady Coles resigned from the Committee of Management.Black and white photograph of Lady Coles who is smiling; has curled dark hair and is wearing a black round neck frock with a white flower corsage attached on the left hand side.The material of the frock appears to be velvet. She has a two row string of pearls around her neck. She is sitting in front of a window with a striped curtain to the right of it.mdns, after-care hospital, melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, rdns, lady coles, melbourne district nursing society

Dame Ivy Evelyn Annie Wedgwood, as Senator in the Federal Government, presented the Senate with Statistics of visits done by Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurses (Sisters) showing their visits increased threefold in the four years from 1952-1956. She was Honorary Treasurer of the now named Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) for many years. Dame Ivy Evelyn Annie Wedgwood trained as an Accountant and worked as a Secretary before joining the Australian Women's National League which led her to be a founding member of the Liberal Party, and the Victorian Liberal Party's women's section. She became the first Victorian woman Senator in the Federal Government in December 1949 and served until mid 1971. She presented the Senate with Statistics of visits done by Melbourne District Nursing Society Sisters showing their visits increased threefold in the four years from 1952-1956, and stating that many patients would have been hospitalized without the visits from the Society. She strongly supported the Home Nursing Subsidy Bill in Parliament which was passed in 1956, and continued to work for health, welfare and disability issues as well as being an advocate for women's interests, including equal pay for equal work, during her time in Parliament. Over the years she was a specialist magistrate to the Children's Court of Victoria, a Justice of the Peace, served on the National Council of Women, and was president of the Women's Justice Association, as well as Honorary Treasurer of the now named Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) for many years and the first President of the Australian Council of Domiciliary Nursing. In June 1967 she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for 'distinguished services to Parliament and the community' and RDNS holds this award in its Archives. Following her retirement from Parliament she became President of the After-Care Hospital in 1972, and on the 24th of July 1975 after chairing a Board meeting she felt unwell and returned to her home in Toorak where she died, aged 78 years, later that evening.Black and white photograph showing Dame Ivy Wedgwood, who has short wavy dark hair; is wearing glasses and has a single string of pearls around her neck. She and is sitting in a light coloured covered chair and part of a cushion is seen. She is wearing a floral dress with mid length sleeves and is sitting in front of a filled bookcase. A smaller filled bookcase is seen to her left as well as some stacked books.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, after- care hospital, royal district nursing service, rdns, dame evelyn annie wedgwood

Lady Clara R Lowe was elected Honorary Treasurer in 1938, a role she held until being made President of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in February 1950 until late 1951.Lady Clara R Lowe became a Committee member of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) and After-Care Hospital in 1937. She became the Honorary Treasurer in 1938, a role she held until being elected as President in February 1950. She led the Committee of the Society in a time when the Victorian Hospital and Charities Commission wished to set up a separate District nursing service throughout Victoria, with the Society involved. The Commission, under the power of the Hospitals and Charities Act, planned to restructure MDNS and the After-Care Hospital. Lady Lowe was involved with these discussions and in the forming, in October 1951, of separate Boards of Directors for the Nursing division, and for the After-Care division Though the Boards would function independently they would be under the same Committee of Management. Now separate buildings were required for the housing of the District nurses and the headquarters of the Nursing division. The Commission became autocratic in this regard and Lady Lowe resigned as President in late 1951 as she felt she could no longer lead her committee without their interference. Black and white photograph showing the head and shoulder view of Lady Clara R. Lowe who is smiling and is slightly turned to her left. She is wearing glasses, and is wearing a close fitting patterned hat over her wavy grey hair. She has a double row string of pearls around her neck and is wearing a patterned grey frock. The petals of held white flowers are seen in front of her frock. melbourne district nursing society, mdns, after- care hospital, lady clara r. lowe, royal district nursing service, rdns

Jessie Isabel Henderson was President of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) form 1924 until 1947. She was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) for her welfare work. Jessie Isabel Henderson was a leader in all the welfare organizations in which she was involved, including the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) where she was elected as a Committee member in 1912. She was regarded as being "clear-sighted, level-headed, being able to see the right perspective when troubles arose" and having an exceptional memory. She was a representative on the newly formed Charities Board in 1923 and was elected President of the MDNS in 1924 and continued in this role until 1947. During this time she was involved with the formation of the Society's first Auxiliary; the founding, and later extensions, of the After-Care Home, the Society now being called 'Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home'. This involved many fund raising efforts for the purchase of property of the Nurses Home at No. 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood and the building of the After-Care Home at No. 45. During her time as President the After-Care opened an Ante-Natal Clinic and a Women's Welfare Clinic, as well as the Society creating a 'Committee of Almoners' who assisted discharged patients from the After-Care to receive assistance from other organizations if required. The name changed to 'Ward Visitors' when an 'Institute of Almoners' was formed with newly trained Almoners. During the depression 1929-1933 she led the Society in extending its Midwifery and District services, including supplying milk for expectant mothers. Through the depression her philanthropy extended to, with the help of another, in assisting young ladies out of work. She sought sewing machines and material from businesses and set up a factory where the ladies were employed producing salable products. In 1933 Mrs. Henderson suggested the name of the After-Care Home be changed to the 'After-Care Hospital'; she felt using the word 'hospital' would aid with receiving grants and money from the public through appeals - this came into effect in 1934. In 1936 Jessie Isabel Henderson was made Commander of the British Empire (C.B.E) for her welfare work. Mrs. Henderson was unable to carry out her Presidential duties in 1947 due to ill health, and she resigned in 1948. She died on the 11th of January 1951. The After-Care Hospital dedicated wards 4, 5 and 6 in the Jessie Henderson wing in her memory. She is listed on page 180 in ‘Women Shaping the Nation - Victorian Honour Roll of Women, Vol 1, 2001’ Centenary of Federation 1901 - 2001 Black and white photograph of the head and shoulder view of Mrs. G.G. (Jessie Isabel) Henderson who has her wavy dark hair drawn back and is wearing a short necklace and a longer single string of pearls, She is wearing a black frock which has a square neckline.mdns, after-care hospital, melbourne district nursing society, rdns, royal district nursing service, mrs g.g. (jessie isabel) henderson

This photograph is a visual record of Mrs. Major, then Miss Beatrice Williams was appointed Matron of the District Nursing Division of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) After Care Home in April 1929 until 1933 when she resigned to marry Mr. J.P. Major. Following her marriage she was invited to become a member of the Society's Committee. In 1957 she was the first President of the Melbourne District Nursing Service.Mrs. Major, then Miss Beatrice Williams worked as a Sister with the Melbourne District Nursing Society in the early 1920s, before sailing tor England where she studied Midwifery and Community nursing. On her return her leadership qualities were recognized and she was appointed Matron of the District Nursing Division of the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home in April 1929, being considered 'capable, sympathetic, a good organizer and administrator and with understanding of the problems of the under-privileged, the aged and the sick'.. She was instrumental in convincing the Committee of Management of the need for an Ante-Natal Clinic which then opened at the After-Care Home in September 1930. Matron Williams tendered her resignation in 1933 as she was to marry Mr. J.P. Major. Following her marriage she was invited to become a member of the Society's Committee, and at the time of the dissolution of the Society and After-Care in 1957, was the first President of the now Melbourne District Nursing Service, a role she held until her death on 15th of February 1958.Black and white photograph of the head and shoulder view of Mrs. J.P. Major, nee Beatrice Mary Williams, who has short dark hair curled at the ends. She is wearing a light coloured floral frock with a square neckline.. She is sitting in front of a closed curtain.melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, mdns, after-care home, rdns, royal district nursing service, matron, beatrice mary williams, mrs j.p. major

This photograph is a visual record of Mr. Ken Mason who was appointed to the Committee of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) In March 1975 and held the position of Honorary Treasurer from August 1975 until October 1979 when he was appointed President of the Board of Directors, a position he held until 1993. Women held the role as President of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from its founding in 1885 for the next 94 years. Mrs. John Simson was President from 1885 until late 1888. For these first three years Mr. T. Harlin was Honorary Secretary of the Society and Mr. McKinnon the Honorary Treasurer; from then these roles were held by women. The other formal positions, and the vast majority of members of the Committee, were women, with up to four Reverend gentlemen being on the Committee each year over the next years. Throughout this time the Society expanded in the areas it serviced, commencing in inner Melbourne and expanding throughout the Melbourne suburbs. It began with their two Trained nurses (Nurses) living in their own home close to the area (district) in which they carried out their nursing care walking the streets of inner Melbourne. From 1891 the Society rented several premises for use as a Nurses Home and for administrative purposes and where the bicycles the MDNS purchased for use by their Nurses in 1903 could be housed. In 1914 the Society purchased their own premises at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood and in 1919 there first four cars were purchased. The Society underwent further expansion with the building of the After-Care Home (later Hospital) next to their Nurses Home in Victoria Parade which meant the running of two Divisions – the After-Care and the District Nursing Division. The one Committee ran the two Divisions until the time of the separation of the Society and After-Care in 1957. In late 1888 Lady Janet Clarke became President and held this role until her death in 1908, except for extended times when she was overseas when Lady O'Loughlen held the role. Mrs. Hood was President from 1909-1911, Mrs. F.A. Lang from 1912-1914, Mrs. F. Tatham from 1915-1923, Mrs. G.G. Henderson from 1924-1947, Mrs. F. E. Shillabeer from 1948-1949, Lady Lowe from 1950-1951 and Mrs. George Simpson from 1952-1957. When the Society and After-Care separated in 1957 the District Nursing Division became the Melbourne District Nursing Service with its own Committee. Mrs. J.P. Major, formerly Miss Beatrice Mary Williams who was a Sister with the Society, and became its Matron before marrying Dr. Major, became the first President in 1957 until her death in 1958 when Mrs. George Simpson became President. She held this role until 1964, then Mrs. E.G. Wilson held the role from October 1964 to mid 1967. During this time MDNS was granted Royal patronage and the name changed to Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) in 1966. Mrs. D. Hallenstein held the role of President from 1967 to 1974 and during this time RDNS was granted a Coat of Arms. Mrs. J.L. Frew M.B., B.S. was appointed President in October 1974 and held the position until October 1979 when Mr. K.W.G. Mason took over the role. During these years, the RDNS service continued to expanded with more Centres built throughout the Metropolitan area, more Trained Nurses employed and the RDNS now had an increased fleet of vehicles. Black and white head and shoulder photograph of Mr. Ken Mason who has thinning white hair and is wearing glasses. He is dressed in a grey self striped suit and is wearing a white shirt and a light grey tie which has black and white stripes.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns president, melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mr k.w.g. mason

In 1957 the 'Incorporation of the Melbourne District Nursing Service' was authorized on the 5th of March 1957. The Melbourne District Nursing Society was founded in February 1885 and in 1926 opened the After-Care Home. The name of the Society then became the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home until 1935 when the word 'Home' was replaced with the word 'Hospital'. In 1957 the two bodies separated and the the 'Incorporation of the Melbourne District Nursing Service' was authorized on the 5th of March 1957. This name continued to be used until 1966 when Royal patronage was granted and it became the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS).Black and white document - 'Incorporation of Melbourne District Nursing Service' . The document is bold black printing on a white background. The document commences 'Hospital and Charities Act 1948 (No. 5300); follows are the names of those present being the Governor of Victoria and two other men. The body of the document contains twenty-three lines and finishes with ‘A. Mahlstedt Clerk of the Executive Council’.melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, rdns, after- care hospital, mdns incorporation

In 1957 the 'Incorporation of the Melbourne District Nursing Service' (MDNS) was authorized on the 5th of March 1957. On the 22nd of October 1957 the 'Closure of the Melbourne District Nursing Society' was authorized. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded in February 1885 and in 1926 opened the After-Care Home. The name of the Society then became the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home until 1935 when the word 'Home' was replaced with the word 'Hospital'. In 1957 the two bodies separated and the 'Incorporation of the Melbourne District Nursing Service' (MDNS) was authorized on the 5th of March 1957. On the 22nd of October 1957 the 'Closure of the Melbourne District Nursing Society' was authorized. The name Melbourne District Nursing Service continued to be used until 1966 when Royal patronage was granted and it became the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS).Black and white document - 'Closure of the Melbourne District Nursing Society'. The document commences 'Hospital and Charities Act 1948 (No. 5300); then follows the names of those present being the Lieutenant Governor of Victoria and five other men. The body of the document contains twenty-three lines and finishes with 'A. Mahlstedt Clerk of the Executive Council'melbourne district nursing society, mdns, after-care home, after- care hospital, melbourne district nursing service, royal district nursing service, closure of mdn society, rdns

The 'Cancellation of Registration of the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital' was approved by the Hospital and Charities Commission on the 1st of September 1958.The Melbourne District Nursing Society was founded in February 1885 and in 1926 opened the After-Care Home. The name of the Society then became the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home until 1935 when the word 'Home' was replaced with the word 'Hospital'. In 1957 the two bodies separated and the 'Incorporation of Melbourne District Nursing Service' occurred on the 5th of March 1957. The 'Cancellation of Registration of the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital' was approved by the Hospital and Charities Commission on the 1st of September 1958.Black and white Hospital and Charities document - 'Cancellation of Registration of the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital'. The document is bold black printing on a white background. It commences 'Hospital and Charities Act 1948 (No. 5300); follows are the names of those present being the Lieutenant Governor of Victoria and four other men. The body of the document contains thirteen lines and finishes with ‘A. Mahlstedt Clerk of the Executive Council’.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, after- care hospital, rdns, royal district nursing service, melbourne district nursing service

The name Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Hospital came into being in 1935. In 1957 the two bodies separated and the Hospital and Charities Commission of Victoria received the document a 'Petition to Incorporate the After Care Hospital'The Melbourne District Nursing Society was founded in 1885 and in 1926 opened the After-Care Home. The Society then became the 'Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home' until 1935 when the word 'Home' was replaced b the word 'Hospital'. In 1957 the two bodies separated and the Hospital and Charities Commission of Victoria received a 'Petition to Incorporate the After Care Hospital'Black and white document 'Petition to Incorporate the After Care Hospital' The document is bold black printing on a white background. It commences; 'Hospital and Charities Act 1948 (No. 5300), Section 46. The body of the document contains nineteen lines and finishes with ‘'E. P. Cameron, Minister of Health’.melbourne district nursing society, after- care hospital, rdns, royal district nursing service

This document tells of the separation of Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital.The Melbourne District Nursing Society was founded in February 1885. It built the After-Care Home in 1926, and the Society became the 'Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Home' until 1935 when the word 'Home' was replaced by the word 'Hospital'. In 1957 the two bodies separated, with one becoming the 'Melbourne District Nursing Service', and the other the 'After-Care Hospital'. This document from the Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria shows the 'Closure of the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital' which took affect with dissolution on the 1st of September 1958.Black and white document: 'Closure of the Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital' The document is bold black printing on a white background. It commences 'Hospital and Charities Act 1948 (No. 5300); follows are the names of those present being the Lieutenant Governor of Victoria and four other men. The body of the document contains twenty-four lines and finishes with ‘A. Mahlstedt Clerk of the Executive Council’.melbourne district nursing society, after-care home, after- care hospital, melbourne district nursing service, mdns, rdns, royal district nursing service

The photograph is taken in the Physiotherapy Department at Mount Royal Hospital. RDNS Sr. Sue Revill is from RDNS Moorabbin Centre and Sr. Helen Watt is from Footscray Centre, They are attending an Education session on Rehabilitation at Mount Royal. Hospital. They are wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a V neck tunic style herringbone winter material dress with the RDNS insignia emblazoned on its upper left.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, later, in 1966, called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). From 1885, only Trained Nurses (Nurses) who trained through the Hospital training system were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961, Education programs commenced at MDNS with their Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in this In-service Education and established the MDNS, later called RDNS, Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. Many of their senior Sisters received Postgraduate diplomas from the College of Nursing in Community Health Nursing, Education, and Administration, and several travelled overseas visiting nursing organizations viewing their public health and district nursing systems. Many programs were run at RDNS, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support Program and the Homeless Persons Program. RDNS staff attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some clients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients in the Rehabilitation ward. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to Student nurses from Hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods in detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin did a Post Basic Course in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of the RDNS Registered Nurses. Black and white photograph depicting, on the left, a side-on view of a Hospital Physiotherapist with her long hair drawn back in a pony tail, and wearing a grey V neck dress over a white blouse and a dark cardigan who is facing right. She has her left hand on the arm of a standing lady and her right hand on the lady's hand which is on a walking rail. To the right rear of the Physiotherapist is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Sue Revill who has shoulder length dark hair and is looking at the lady. To her right the elderly lady who is wearing glasses; has wavy white hair and is wearing a light grey frock, is standing in front of a wheelchair with her right hand on the walking rail. Her left arm hangs loosely by her side. To her right is a walking rail and standing to its right is Sr. Helen Watt who is looking towards the lady. She has short dark wavy hair, and has her right arm around the back of the lady and her left hand is on the walking rail. In the background of the photograph, the lower section of several 4 prong walking stick are seen hanging on the wall. Barry Sutton photographer's stamp. Quote KY 78rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns education, sister sue revill, sister helen watt