The land for this building was granted to the Benevolent Society by James Atkinson in 1850. Tenders were being called for a new "Benevolent Asylum" in 1855, the foundation stone having been laid and by 1856 the first part of the Hospital was completed. This photograph shows the completion of early extensions and how the Hospital has expandedSepia photograph of Buildings at the back of the hospital with large tank standhospital, institution

The land for this building was granted to the Benevolent Society by James Atkinson in 1850. Tenders were being called for a new "Benevolent Asylum" in 1855, the foundation stone having been laid and by 1856 the first part of the Hospital was completed. this photograph shows there have been extensions to both sides of the hospital by this time 1920Black and white photograph of Exterior of hospital with verandah stone fence and gates two cars hospital, institution, villiers street, benevolent asylum, health service

Set of 8 plans, including blue-prints, of various gardens, dated c. 1947 - 1981. See paper catalogue for complete list.Plans by Hilda Marriott Dance (1) Sketch plan and 2 blueprint copies of School of Horticulture Burnley. Garden Alterations New Building Area, Working Drawing by H. Dance, Scale ⅟₂₀"=1', 2/4/47, on reverse handwritten,"Proposed Garden Lay-out for New School Building (H. Dance-plan)." (NB Emily Gibson was also involved in the planning of this site.) (2) Tracing paper, paper and blueprint copies of Ararat & District Hospital Garden Plan - MacDonald Memorial & Court, Landscape Architect - H. Dance, Scale 1 inch=8 feet. Includes handwritten note, "Replacement for Ararat Hospital Nov. 1979," list of plants. (3) Blueprint Proposed Design for Garden Watermill Farm, Newbury for Norman Gadsden Esq., Scale ⅟₄₀"=1 ft. (4) Sketch Plan for Garden, Barcombe, Buangor - January 1981 by Hilda Marriott, Scale - Approximate Only - 1:40. (5) Tracing paper copy of plan of Garden at Plumhill, Templestowe, for Mr. & Mrs. Colin Smith. Hilda Dance, Designer 26/4/47, Scale ⅛"=1'. (6) Blueprint Garden House - Sketch. (7) Tracing paper and paper copies Ararat Medical Centre Courtyard Garden, Landscape Architect - Hilda Marriott, Scale - 1:25, Date 8.5.79. (8) Tracing paper copy National Trust of Australia (Victoria) The Heights, Newtown, Geelong Garden Plan, Scale 1:250, Drawn by - Hilda Marriott, Date 12.10.79.(1): on reverse handwritten,"Proposed Garden Lay-out for New School Building (H. Dance - plan)." (2): Includes handwritten note, "Replacement for Ararat Hospital Nov. 1979," list of plants.hilda marriott ( dance), burnley school of horticulture, students

In 1935 Mrs Eliza tank transferred her private hospital 'Nethercourt' from Wilson Street to 219-223 Union Road. She has operated it at the Wilson Street address from 1916. The Union Road building had originally been Surrey College, a boarding school for boys built in 1889 by Rev Dr Darling. It was not the success hoped for. In 1905 it briefly became Milverton College for girls, after which it was used as a nursing home or small private hospital. By the 1960s it was known as 'Norwich Hospital' and later still 'St Jude's'. It closed as a hospital in 1983. The land at the front facing Union Road was sub-divided off and the building became a private home fronting Barton Street. As a private residence it was rendered and painted.Black and white photo of a double-storey brick building with a tower. There is a veranda between the tower and one of the wings of the building. This is enclosed at the upper level. On one side there is an external set of stairs and an out building. The building is approached by a circular driveway. There are mature bushes in front of the building.On copy photo in lead pencil: "? No & if missing"; "This is a copy"; "595"nethercourt hospital, milverton college, matron eliza tank, norwich private hospital, rev darling, st judes private hospital, hospitals, surrey college

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the RVIB tin could be used gathering coins at events such as Carols by Candlelight, White Cane day or other special marketing days.1 metal coin collection tin with handle and paper wrapYour Donation Supports the Work of The Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind RVIB lighthouse logo 557 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Telephone 9529 3544royal victorian institute for the blind, equipment

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the 3RPH tin could be used gathering coins at events such as outside broadcasts or other special marketing days.1 metal coin collection tin with handle and paper wrap1170 Radio 3RPH For the print handicapped A service of the Association for the Blindassociation for the blind, 3rph radio station

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the older Blind Babies tin has been wrapped with a modern RVIB wrapper, which could be used at Carols by Candlelight, White Cane day or other special marketing days.1 metal coin collection tin with paper wrapWrapper: Your Donation Supports the Work of the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind RVIB lighthouse logo 557 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Telephone 9577 3341 Old label Front: For the Blind Babies Children and Adults of the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind 557 St Kilda Road, Prahran Side: As a thanksgiving for sight! (Drawing of a man holding his hand to his eyes as a blast occurs in front of him, pushing small objects towards his body) It might hit You or Me! Side: As a thanksgiving for sight! (Elaine Leahy facing towards the RVIB gates). The gates of the Institute are always open to welcome all eligible blind babies, children and adults who seek, and never fail to receive, its aid.royal victorian institute for the blind, fundraising

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the Blind Babies tin could have be used at Carols by Candlelight, White Cane day or other special marketing days.3 metal coin collection tin with paper wrapFront: For the Blind Babies Children and Adults of the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind 557 St Kilda Road, Prahran Side: As a thanksgiving for sight! (Drawing of a man holding his hand to his eyes as a blast occurs in front of him, pushing small objects towards his body) It might hit You or Me! Side: As a thanksgiving for sight! (Elaine Leahy facing towards the RVIB gates). The gates of the Institute are always open to welcome all eligible blind babies, children and adults who seek, and never fail to receive, its aid.royal victorian institute for the blind, fundraising

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the Vision Australia tin could be used gathering coins at events such as Carols by Candlelight or other special marketing days.1 metal coin collection tin with paper wrapPaper wrapper around tin: Help me to break down the barriers and achieve greater heights Vision Australia blindness and low vision services Paper on top of tin: Thank you for your support Vision Australia blindness and low vision servicesvision australia, fundraising

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. These boxes were designed to be reused, with a pop out section in the base.2 x metal coin collection tins with printed sidesFront: The Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind St Kilda Road The only Institute in Victoria for teaching blind adults trades & professions educating & maintaining blind children & babies (Lighthouse with words radiating out from light) Modern cottage homes Pensions - after care & sick fund Prevention of blindness lectures, etc. Free wireless radio for needy cases Boat shed & club house Professions & trades Blind babies nursery Wireless sets Social club Happiness for the blind every day & night Musical education Higher education Domestic science classes for blind women & girls A free education Maintenance of blind children The Lighthouse! As a thanksgiving for sight Please place a coin in this box and help to keep the Beacon Light flashing for the Institute's Blind Adults, Babies and Children Side: (Picture of two girls playing with dolls house) Our blind babies and pupils will probably spend 70 years in our Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind St Kilda Road As a thanksgiving for sight please help make their years very happy ones by placing a coin in this box! Reverse front: (Drawing of a man holding his hand to his eyes as a blast occurs in front of him, pushing small objects towards his body.) It might hit You or Me! Please! Will You? As a thanksgiving for the sight you and your dear ones possess, please place a coin in this box to assist the Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind, St Kilda Road, and its Blind Adults, Children and Babies! Reverse side: (picture of workshop at RVIB) One of our many spacious workshops provided by public subscription! The Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind is faced with the problem of employing and otherwise assisting its blind workers. It gives them charitable allowances in addition to their earnings, amounting to approximately 15,000 (pounds) every year, to enable them to support their wives and families! No profits can therefore be made! This 15,000 (pounds) is distributed because the great handicap of blindness prevents blind persons from earning as much as their more fortunate sighted fellows. Please! Ask Storekeepers for our Baskets, Mats, Brooms, etc. And as a thanksgiving for Your Sight place a coin in this box for our blind adults, children and babies! Embossed on the top of the box is Royal Victorian Institute for the Blindfundraising, royal victorian institute for the blind

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the boxes were placed in a semi-permanent location, such as a shop counter or bar, for people to donate money. Periodically it would be emptied by a collector, who either unlocked the padlock that was usually attached or replaced it with a new box.2 wooden boxes with paper label, perspex or glass,metal hinges and locking mechanism.Blind Babies, Children & Adults Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind Phone 51 1381 All services provided by the RVIB are free - thanks to your helproyal victorian institute for the blind, fundraising

Carols by Candlelight was initially held to raise funds for the children's ward at the Austin Hospital. This image was probably taken for publicity purposes once the building was completed in 1951, for inclusion in the programs. In 1949, it was decided to split funding between the Austin and RVIB. From 1965, RVIB (now Vision Australia) has been the sole beneficiary.Black and white image of a three storey buildingChildren's Ward Austin Hospitalcarols by candlelight, austin hospital

Coin collections have a long and varied history. Coins were often collected in churches in a box located near the entrance/exit, and later via a collection plate that was passed amongst the congregation Funds were used to repair the church or feed the poorest of the parish. The donation of coins is and was considered part of religious life and mentioned in Christian, Jewish and Islamic texts. With the need and expansion of charitable works occurring outside religious life, charity boxes began to spread into hospitals, orphanages and asylums. The need for non-fixed boxes grew with the rise in charities and their activities outside a fixed building. Collection boxes could be large (and therefore hard to move) or could be held by individuals acting as collection agents, working at a specific location, moving between dwellings or at events. In this example, the boxes were placed in a semi-permanent location, such as a shop counter or bar, for people to donate money. Periodically it would be emptied by a collector, who either unlocked the padlock that was usually attached or replaced it with a new box.2 wooden boxes with paper label, perspex or glass,metal hinges and locking mechanism.Blind Babies, Children & Adults Royal Victorian Institute for the Blind Phone 51 1381 All services provided by the RVIB are free - thanks to your helproyal victorian institute for the blind, fundraising

Eugene and Annie Mary (Mollie) Sibson married in 1933 and both were associated with the Bendigo Hospital. Eugene held a the position of Medical Officer for 48 years and Mollie as a paid nursing sister until her marriage in 1933, although Mollie did continue to hold an unpaid position on the Board of Management of the Hospital for many years afterwards. Eugene was first elected to council in August 1976 and elected Mayor of Bendigo for the 1978 – 79 term at which time Mollie served as Mayoress.Set of three black and white photographs, individually mounted on card. Each photograph depicts groups nurses and doctors from Bendigo Hospital onsite, posing for photograph. 0138.1; Interior of decorated hospital ward. Four nurses standing alongside beds with patients. 0138.2; Group portrait, exterior or building. Forty nine nurses and three doctors in four rows, seated and standing on lawn in front of building. 0138.3 Seven nurses and one doctor standing in front of decorated cars. Mollie Sibson is third from left, Eugene Sandner is on right. Verso 0138.3 tc; Bendigo Hospital Easter 1931 / Grace Adams?, Janet Redpath, Annie Mary (Mollie) Sibson, Mary Tatchell, Vera Chant, / Lil Turpie, Alice Downing, Dr Eugene Sandner ((Hon. Assistant Physician 1936 - 37, Hon. / Surgeon 1938 - 56, Hon Consultant Surgeon 1962 - 92).eugene and mollie sandner collection, bendigo hospital, eugene sandner, mollie sandner, mollie sibson, bendigo easter fair, mayor sandner, mayoress sandner

Harriet Cecilia Hordern Williams (1889 - 1968) was the grand-daughter of William Hordern (1830 - 1881) and Cecelia Monger (1830 - 1914). William Hordern was the sixth of seven children of Anthony Hordern Snr. who established the Anthony Hordern & Sons department store in Sydney which operated from 1923 to 1970. Harriet's mother Cecilia (1854 - 1934) was married to Christopher Williams. Harriet's uncle William was appointed commissioner of the Supreme Court of South Australia in 1903. Her cousin Doris Amelia Hordern (1889 - 1970), as Doris Blackburn won the Federal seat of Bourke in 1946 following the death of her husband who had previously held the seat. This branch of the Hordern family has a strong connection to Hawthorn through their home "Stramshall" in Auburn Road Hawthorn and also with the Auburn Baptist Church. Harriet Williams enlisted in the Australian Army Nurse in December 1916 and served as a Staff Nurse until her marriage in London in 1919. This certificate is significant to the history of Hawthorn and Australia through its connection with the Hordern family, the home Stramshall in Hawthorn and with the Auburn Baptist Church. It is significant to the history of the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne as an example of early 20th century training protocol, in the persons who signed the certificate and the photographs of the hospital buildings of that time. Leather bound certificate of two pages hinged together as a book. Gold lettering embossed on the front. Gold ornamental border embossed on front and back. Inside a personalised presentation certificate on one page. Second page has photographs of the Melbourne Children's Hospital circa 1916.Certificate Reads: Childrens Hospital/ Training School For Nurses/ Melbourne October 5th 1916 This is to certify that Harriet Cecilia Hordern Williams has attended the prescribed course of Three Years Teaching at the Training School for Nurses in connection with the Childrens Hospital and has passed the examinations necessary for registration as a TRAINED NURSE. Signed by: Lalla Williams - Signature of Nurse M. J Turnbull, President Cora C. Oakden , Honorary Secretary Examiners: F. Hobill Cole M.D. A. Jeffreys Wood M.D. E. Alan Mackay M.B.B.S. Douglas Stephenson M.D.M.S. A. E. Rowden White M.D. Stuart W. Ferguson M.D. Captions on the photographs read: Convalescent Home Brighton Nurses Home Children's Hospital Princess May Pavilion Red Cross with banner beneath reading BY LABOR MUST THE PRIZE BE WON Printed on certificate: Sands & McDougall Limited Melb.childrens hospital, certificate, nurse, hordern, williams, hawthorn, harriet williams, lalla williams, rowden white, cora oakden, hobill cole, jeffreys wood, mary jane turnbull, alan mackay, douglas stephenson, stuart ferguson, brighton convalescent home, princess may pavilion

Architectural sketch of proposed new hospital drawn by R.J.O'Connor & Brophy, Architects Melbourne. This hospital was built in 1950-52 with modifications including rounded sun-rooms at the end of the wings, not squared as in the image. The building was demolished and a new hospital opened in 2009. Architectural rendering in monochrome, black, grey and white on art paper.Captioned St. John of God Hospital. Ballarat. R.J.O'Connor & Brophy, Architects Melbourne.st john of god, hospital, ballarat, architecture, rendering.

A letter dated 8th May 1973 details how the letter from Florence Nightingale was forwarded to Mrs E.G. (Janet) Wilson in 1955 by Gwendolen, Florence Nightingale's niece. The explanatory letter was forwarded by Elsa Halenstein and given to Royal District Nursing Service and remains in its Archives. From 1948 Mrs. Wilson served on the Committee of Management of Melbourne District Nursing Society (later Service), serving as President from October 1964-1967. In 1949 Mrs. Hallenstein served on the MDNS Committee of Management, becoming President of the now Royal District Nursing Service from 1967-1974. Florence Nightingale was the founder of modern nursing. Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) only employed Trained nurses from its inception in 1885. They followed Florence Nightingale's basic rules of good hygiene, cleanliness, good nutrition and fresh air, which they learned during their Nursing Training at a Hospital, and taught to their patients by instruction and demonstration. In those days Trained nurses were called 'Nurse'. In 1892 MDNS employed Lucy Smith who, through the Nightingale Fund, did her nursing training at the Nightingale Training School at St. Thomas's Hospital in London. She was the first nurse from this school to work at MDNS. Florence Nightingale, born on the 12th of May 1820, was named after the place of her birth in Italy. Born into a wealthy family she was schooled at home where she excelled in her studies; spoke several languages fluently, and was taught home management. She believed she was ‘called’ to reduce human suffering and tended to ill members of her family and tenants on the family estate. She worked as a nurse at Salisbury Infirmary where she learned about nursing sanitation and hospital practice. Florence then enrolled at the Institution of Protestant Deaconesses at Kaiserswerth, Germany where she learned basic nursing skills, the importance of patient observation, and hospital organization. In 1853 she became Superintendent of the Institution for Sick Gentlewomen in Distressed Circumstances in London, where she reformed health care, working conditions, and hospital efficiency. The Crimean War broke out in late 1853 and a newspaper reported the injured and sick soldiers were being cared for by an “incompetent and ineffective medical establishment and that most basic supplies were not available for care”. After an outcry from the public, Florence was asked to lead a group of 38 nurses, whom she had trained, to Scutari where the wounded soldiers were sent. After arriving at the Barrack Hospital in October 1854, she found the soldiers were being cared for in overcrowded and filthy conditions; contaminated water, faeces on the floors and rats running freely. There were few supplies and equipment. Florence bought supplies and equipment and found help to assist in the laundry. The wards were scrubbed from floor to ceiling. Florence set a high standard of care with fresh air, hygiene, clean clothing, sufficient food and regular dressing of wounds being carried out. She realized the importance of psychological needs, and soldiers were assisted to write letters to relatives, and took part in education and recreational activities. Of a night Florence walked through the wards, carrying a lamp to light her way, to check on ill and wounded soldiers and became known as “The Lady with the Lamp”. She gained the respect of the soldiers and the establishment, and later, the public through the soldier’s letters and reports in the newspaper. After visiting Crimea she contracted ‘Crimean Fever’ from which she never really recovered. When she returned to London she was regarded a heroine. The public had given freely to buy her a gift but Florence preferred this money be used to establish a fund, which became known as the Nightingale Fund. Florence had kept excellent records on the running of the Barrack Hospital, medical and nursing staff efficiency, and the causes of illness and death. Many nurses from the training school became Matrons in many countries throughout the world. Florence pushed the Government for legislation to improve drainage and sanitation in homes and in the building of hospitals with fresh air a priority. She wrote the book ‘Notes on Nursing’ and many writings on health reform. She died, aged 90 years, in her home at 10 South Street, Park Lane on the 13th of August 1910. A handwritten letter, written in lead pencil, by Florence Nightingale. It is written to her niece Gwendolen.. The letter is on buff coloured paper and has the date 'Oct 17 1900'/ written in the top right hand corner; below this is, in capital letters, the two line black printed address - '10, South Street,/ Park Lane, W'/ is stamped. The bulk of the letter reads over eight lines: "Dearest Gwendolen",/ "Thanks for your / dear note,/ I shall gladly look / forward to seeing you, / on Friday at 5 ,/ ever your loving, / Aunt Florence./ . rdns, royal district nursing service, miss florence nightingale, mrs e.g. (janet) wilson, mrs d. (elsa) hallenstein

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

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

The group are photographed outside the Melbourne District Nursing Society After Care Hospital at 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. This photograph was taken three years after Miss Dorothy Tupper was appointed, in 1941, Matron of the District Nursing Division of 'Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital'. She held this position until she retired at the end of 1962. In February 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, the first Society of its kind in Australia, with one Trained nurse, called 'Nurse' in those days, and a second employed six months later, working in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. From its inception the Society only employed qualified nurses (Nurses) trained under the Hospital training system and was at the forefront of health care. They provided high quality nursing care; educated their patients in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of cleanliness and good nutrition, both by verbal instruction and demonstration, even supplying soup and milk when needed. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bag 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. As the Society expanded bicycles and public transport were used to reach outer districts; before an appeal, during the influenza epidemic, provided four T Model Ford vehicles so the Nurses could visit more patients. Constant change of drivers and lack of time for maintenance caused cars to be disbanded. In addition to bicycles and public transport, a Motor Auxiliary was formed in 1929 and the public drove the District Trained nurses, 'Sisters', to visit patients in outer districts until District had its own fleet of vehicles. The After-Care and District division separated with the District Division moving premises and becoming Melbourne District Nursing Service, then in 1966 with royal patronage, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). Expansion followed with RDNS Centres built throughout the Melbourne suburbs and outer regions. 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. Sitting from left to right in the front row of this black and white Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), photograph is a District nurse (Sister), next is Matron Tupper, (District Nursing Division) next, the Matron of the After-Care Hospital Section of the Society, and two District nurses, one wearing her uniform brimmed hat. Seven Sisters stand behind them, the centre two in white uniform dresses, one with short blonde hair, the other dark. The two Matrons are wearing white veils. The rest of the District nurses are wearing grey long sleeved uniform dresses, and have short dark curled hair. They are in front of a concrete veranda with the brick building behind. To the left of the Sisters a hydrangea bush can be seenGreen Number 948Fmelbourne district nursing society, m.d.n.s., nurses, mdns matron, mdns uniforms, after- care hospital, rdns, royal district nursing service, dorothy tupper

Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) moved into 452 St. Kilda Road, in 1953. Seven Ford Prefect cars were purchased by the Society in the early 1950s which became the beginning of a full MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service, fleet of cars which would be used by their District nurses to visit patients in the community over the next years.In 1875 J.B.Scott purchased Crown Land on the corner of St Kilda Road and Arthur Street. During the 1890’s an “unpretentious grey building” was built on the site. Known as ‘Airlie’, major additions were carried out during the 1920s and 30s to this historic mansion. From its founding in 1885 until 1891 the Trained nurse (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) worked from their own homes which were located in the vicinity of their areas (districts). In November 1891 MDNS was able to rent a two story terraced house at 66 Cardigan Street, Carlton, at £65 a year, which contained accommodation for three Trained nurses (Nurses) and one pupil nurse as well as being used as their Headquarters. The Nurses left from there each morning and returned at the end of their shift to write up their book work before retiring for the day. Three years later they moved into a larger terraced house at 49 Drummond Street Carlton which was rented at ‘a very moderate rental’. There was a Board room, apartments for the Nurses and pupil nurses, a large dispensary which patients could attend each evening to have prescriptions signed and bottles refilled with ‘homely remedies’ and elixirs, which were administered for e.g. Consumptive cases. Doctor’s prescriptions were filled at the Pharmacy. Cupboards containing donated blankets and bedclothes for needy patients were kept in this room, and it was here where the Nurses kept their nursing bags which were refilled at the end of each shift ready for any emergency and for the next day. A list of Doctors the Nurses could call was kept by the telephone. The home also had a kitchen where nourishing soup was made and distributed twice a week to the needy. Milk was also distributed when needed. In 1902 they moved into rented premises at 188 Leicester Street, Carlton and two years later, in 1904, to premises at 5 Royal Terrace, Nicholson Street, Fitzroy. They remained there for ten years. In June 1914 at last the Society had sufficient funding to purchase their own terraced premises, ‘Floraston’ 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood which was their Headquarters and Nurses Home. In 1926 the After-Care Home for recovering patients, (later called After-Care Hospital) was built by the Society next door to No. 39, running from 41-47 Victoria Parade (became No. 45); the District Trained nurses (Sisters) continued to live at No. 39. In 1953 ‘Airlie’ at 452 St Kilda Road was offered by the Government as part of an agreement to split the management of the Society and the After Care Hospital. On 26th November 1953 the MDNS moved its Headquarters to 452 St Kilda Road. Renovations and alterations were however restricted by limited funds so it was not until 1/12/1954 that the Hon. W. P. Barry, Minister of Health, officially opened the building. MDNS was given Royal patronage in 1966 and became Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). In January 1983, Headquarters of the Royal District Nursing Service at 452 St Kilda Road was classified by the National Trust. The citation in support of the classification said “The house is of historical interest as the boyhood home of Stanley Melbourne Bruce, later Lord Bruce, Prime Minister of Australia from 1923-1929.” Black and white photograph of Melbourne District Nursing Society Headquarters, 452 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. The photo, taken on the corner of Arthur street, is of a two storey building and several cars and gives a unique view of St Kilda Road in the 1950s (pre high rise buildings) This large grey two storey Italian style building, has four roman column, arched Arcadia to the right of a polygon shaped bay window on the ground floor; an arched Arcade on the second floor, and three long windows above the bay window on Arthur Street. Turning the corner onto St. Kilda Road is a three arched Arcadia running towards the one window seen on the polygon shaped bay window. Arcadia is repeated on the upper storey. A balustrade is in front of the Arcadia on the upper storey and again around the flat roof. Two chimneys can be seen. A spiked metal fence runs in front of the building. To the left of this building are two white double storey buildings and some medium sized trees. On Arthur Street, two Ford Prefect cars, one with the passenger side door partly open, a Vanguard car and another make of car can be seen.royal district nursing service, headquarters, 452 st kilda road melbourne, melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns transport, rdns

The Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home was extended and the name changed from 'Home' to 'Hospital' in 1934. This is a sketch of the Administrative building and shows the style of Hospital Architecture of the 1930sThe Melbourne District Nursing Society, (MDNS), built the After-Care Home in 1926. The Home was extended and the name changed to Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Hospital in 1934. It was situated at 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. Patients of the Society who needed more care than could be given at home, but did not need hospitalization, were nursed there along with many patients from Melbourne hospitals who needed further care before going home. Many children were nursed in the hospital, some long term, during the Polio epidemic and schooling was given to them in the hospital. In September 1930 an Ante-Natal Clinic was established. In October 1934 a Women's Welfare Clinic was opened to educate women on birth control. This was the first of its kind in Melbourne. The After Care Hospital was under the Society's banner until 1956. In 1957 the MDNS and the After-Care separated with the Government taking over the running of the After-Care Hospital. Melbourne District Nursing Society then became the Melbourne District Nursing Service, later Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) after Royal patronage in 1966..A digital image of a sketch of the front view of the After-Care Hospital. It shows a three storey building, and on the left of the ground floor are two large windows, each with a grid of approximately twenty-one small panes of glass; divided with sash bars holding the glass. To the right of this is a double scroll door, then the building divided with five, nine pane long windows along it. There is a column portico in front of the door. The second and third storeys have eleven rows of long small pane windows with the central brick section between the floors having three roundels attached. A flat roof section runs along the the top of the third storey with the words 'After Care Hospital' written in black capital letters in the centre. Above this central section is some balustrade with finials either end. To the right of this building; part of a two storey building with the same style windows can be seen. mdns, melbourne district nursing society, after- care hospital, after-care home, melbourne district nursing service

The first After-Care Home in Melbourne was built by the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in 1926 for patients of the Society who needed more nursing care than could be given at home but did not need hospitalization. Many patients from Melbourne hospitals who needed further care following discharge from hospital were nursed at the After-Care before going home. The Melbourne District Nursing Society, (MDNS), built the After-Care Home in 1926. The Home was extended and the name changed to Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Hospital in 1934. It was situated at 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. Patients of the Society who needed more care than could be given at home, but did not need hospitalization were nursed there, along with many patients from Melbourne hospitals who needed further care before going home. Many children were nursed in the hospital, some long term, during the Polio epidemic and schooling was given to them in the hospital. In September 1930 an Ante-Natal Clinic was established. In October 1934 a Women's Welfare Clinic was opened to educate women on birth control. This was the first of its kind in Melbourne. The MDNS After Care Hospital was under District's banner until 1956. In 1957 the MDNS and the After-Care separated with the Government taking over the running of the After-Care. Melbourne District Nursing Society then became the Melbourne District Nursing Service and in 1966 was given Royal patronage and renamed Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). Digital image of a front, and part of the left side view, of the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home and shows the entrance. The white plaque, attached in the centre of the brickwork between the two storeys in the front of the building reads 'Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home' in black capital letters. It is a two story brick building with a tiled pitched roof, and shows two chimneys. There are four long windows running along both storeys of the front and side views. Near the rear left hand side of the building a portico can be seen and behind this part of a brick building with window runs to the left. Greenery is against part of the building and white flowers are seen in the foreground of the photograph. after- care hospital, after-care home, melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, mdns, rdns, royal district nursing service

The Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home was built in 1926 to give short term care to MDNS patients who were too ill to remain in their home, but not ill enough to go to hospital. Melbourne hospitals also sent patients there who required further care after discharge from hospital. After convalescence they returned to their homes. Many children were nursed there, particularly during the Polio epidemic.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, and the Society built, then opened, the After-Care Home in 1926, (from 1934 called After-Care Hospital), 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 trained Almoner was employed, but left after twelve months due to the amount of work required. Trained Almoners were in short supply so 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 the 1950s 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. In 1966 Royal patronage was given and the name changed to Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS).Digital image of the rear of the extended Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home 45 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. It shows a three story brick building with a tiled hip roof and open verandas running along each story with windows seen behind. A zigzag stair case runs down the left hand side of the building and on the right hand side of the image you can see a section set back with one window on each floor. Behind this section, part of another multi story building is seen. A wooden paling fence is seen in the foreground of the photograph. On the far right, part of another brick building with hip roof can be seen melbourne district nursing society, mdns, melbourne district nursing society and after-care home, rdns, royal district nursing service

This image shows two of the 'Melbourne District Nursing Society After Care Home' Sisters who worked in the After Care section of the Society during the 1930s. The image was taken on the balcony of the After Care Home at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood. It depicts the style of uniforms worn by trained nurses (Sisters) in that era. 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, and the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) built, then opened, the After-Care Home in 1926, (from 1934 called After-Care Hospital), for these patients, and patients from Melbourne Hospitals who required recuperation before returning to their home. 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 nursing staff 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 trained Almoner was employed in 1934 but only stayed twelve months due to the amount of work required. Due to shortage of trained Almoners, 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 the 1950s 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. With Royal patronage the name changed in 1966 to Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS).Digital image of two Sisters from the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) After-Care Home standing on the balcony of their building. The Sister on the left hand side is wearing a dark cape over her white uniform; she wears a white veil over her dark hair. The Sister on the right hand side is wearing a long white apron over her grey uniform which has white cuffs on the sleeves. She is wearing a white veil over her dark hair. They are leaning on the scrolled metal rail of the balcony which runs along the grey building; part of which can be seen behind them.mdns, melbourne district nursing society, after- care hospital, after-care home, rdns, royal district nursing service, nurses uniforms

This photograph shows the Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), Headquarter and Nursing Home at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. The cars in front of the building are part of the MDNS fleet of cars and are Australian built Holden vehicles of the 1960s. The MDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) seen are wearing their grey uniform coats and hats which had a red Maltese cross in the centre front. Under their coats the Sisters wore grey cotton frocks. The Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) building at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne was originally called 'Airlie Mansion', the childhood home of Stanley Melbourne Bruce, the Prime Minister of Australia 1923-1929. 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. 'Airlie' was used by Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital nurses as a Nurses Home prior to Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), moving into this building as their Headquarters and Nursing Home in 1953. MDNS was given Royal patronage in 1966 and continued to occupy the building as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) until 1996. 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 they were sold in 1927. A Motor Auxiliary was formed in 1929 to take Sisters to patients, and 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. Black and white photograph of two Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Holden vehicles parked outside MDNS Headquarters, which is seen in the background of the photograph. To the right is a MDNS Sister, who is wearing her grey peaked hat over her drawn back long hair. and is wearing her grey coat and carrying a square nursing case with the capital letters 'RDNS' written on it; she is standing side-on, looking to her left, and her right hand is on the door handle of the front door of the right hand car. To her left is another car, with a MDNS Sister standing on the grass behind the bonnet. She is wearing glasses and her uniform hat is worn over short dark hair. She is wearing a grey coat, scarf and both gloved hands are holding the handles of bags. On the drivers door of this car the words 'Melbourne District Nursing Service' are written in capital letters. On the far left hand side of the photograph, half of a third Holden vehicle is seen and a large tree is on the nature strip between this and the middle car. Behind the vehicles, bushes and a large tree can be seen on the left hand side behind the cast iron fence. Several other bushes and small trees are seen. In the background is MDNS Headquarters; a large white two storey Italian style building, which has three, roman column, arched Arcadia on either side of a polygon shaped bay window on the ground floor, and three long windows to the left and a three arched Arcade to the right on the second floor. Two Sisters in uniform are standing on the veranda of the 2nd floor between the far right hand arch. To the left and right of the building, parts of single storey hip roof buildings can be seen.melbourne district nursing service, mdns, rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns headquarters, rdns transport, mdns uniforms

The Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Altona Centre was situated at Blackshaws Road, Altona. This photograph is a pictorial record of the staff at Altona Centre in the 1990s.Gradually over the years, Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966 when they received Royal patronage, opened Centres throughout the Melbourne Metropolitan area and outer suburbs with Heidelberg Centre opening in 1971. Their Trained nurses (Sisters) left from these Centres each morning to carry out their nursing visits in a specific area (district), taking any sterilized equipment needed with them. They returned at the end of the day to write up their patients nursing histories, clean and reset any equipment used ready for sterilization, and contact other medical and community personal as necessary. The Trained nurses (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 their Trained nurses (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, Poliomyelitis, 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.The coloured photograph shows 29 female staff of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Altona Centre. The rear and centre rows of staff are standing and the front row of staff are kneeling. They are outside a grey brick building with a flat roof. A white sign is on the right hand upper corner of the building and has the words, written in blue capital letters, "Royal District Nursing Service Altona Centre". Part of a window can be seen beneath this. Part of two other windows can be seen in the centre and to the left of the building. Most Sisters are wearing RDNS uniforms, some with a short sleeve white with a blue pattern dress and a red belt. Others with a white with pattern blouse and dark blue skirt, and some have a red sleeveless jumper over their uniform, and some are wearing a dark blue cardigan or long sleeve dark blue jumper. Three staff are wearing day wear, one with a purple blouse and black skirt, another with a white blouse and pale blue skirt and the third wearing a white blouse, brown cardigan and bone slacks.. royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns centre, rdns uniform

George Seddon, Gardener and Foreman, Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Carole Townsend, daughter of George Seddon at opening of the "Faces in the Street: Portraits of Ballarat Lives" exhibition at the Gold Museum. Courier newspaper. Also Royal Visit of Queen Elizabeth to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, 1954. Also snow in the gardens, November 1949 at 7.30am, matron and nursing sisters from the Ballarat Base Hospital.Firsthand account of a Gardener and Foreman of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens for 25 years, c.1952-1977.All visibleAll visiblejohn garner collection, garner, dr, seddon, gardener, ballarat, ballarat botanical gardens, interview, townsend, courier, newspaper, gardens, foreman, tom beaumont, keel house, quarantine, begonias, statues, ballarat city council, changes in the ballarat botanical gardens over time., queen elizabeth, mayor, 1954, snow, nurses