From the album of J W GrieveThe photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph, adhered to album page

From the album of J W GrieveThe photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph, adhered to album page

From the Ida Bevan Collection. The Children's Hospital purchased Redmond Barry's house on Rathdowne Street and moved to Carlton in 1876.The photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph adhered to a card

The photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph mounted on cardboard in plastic sleeve"WARDS, CARLTON Medical Ward - Snowball Ward 1908" is written in pencil on reverse of photograph.

From 'Carlton album' 1922-1925The photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph with white border. Adhered to Page 5 of album."January 1923" handwritten in white pen at the top right of the page. "Night Duty" handwritten in white pen under the photograph. "Ruth Boehive, Jean Gilruth, Gwen Graham" handwritten in blue pen under the photograph and under the white writing.

The bell was salvaged from RMS Australia and it was tradition for nurses to ring it when celebrating success in their exams.The photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph loose in sleeve

The photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph adhered to the album page. "THE BIRTHDAY PARTY." typed on album page.

The photographic collection at the RCH has been identified as especially significant, and comparative research suggests that it is one of the biggest and most diverse visual records of children’s health held by any hospital in Australia. Spanning more than a century, the collection traces the changes in how children have been cared for. It also reveals the daily experiences of hospital staff and patients over its long history, and the deeply personal stories of medical care that can result in sorrow or relief.Black and white photograph with a white border loose in sleeve"Sister Elinor Davies ('Dave') at RCHOS Copyright, The Argus F440" is written in pencil on reverse of photograph.

Rev. Desmond Tarran (1916 - 1992). Born at Werribee. Converted at age 15. Entered the Home Missionary Training College in 1936. Spent 29 years in many appointments including 3 years 1950 - 1952 in Inland Mission in the Murchison area, Western Australia. Enlisted as an army medical orderly in 1940. Served in the medical service in Palestine and was transferred to a forward casualty station, then taken prisoner by the Japanese in 1942. On the Death Railway in Thailand worked closely with Dr E. (Weary) Dunlop and Dr Albert Coates in caring for starving and maltreated prisoners. Returned to home mission service in 1947. In 1966 was selected for special ordination as a Methodist minister. Served 11 years in country and city churches before retiring in 1978.Satin, black and white, head and shoulders, studio portrait of Rev. Desmond Tarran, as a post card.desmond tarran, home missionary, methodist minister, prisoner of war

Of Pleasant Creek Stawell Hospital. Sent back from France for safe keeping Two Doctors Matron and eight nurses on steps of Pleasant Creek Hospital Edinburgh Scotland 16.2.19 My Dearest Mother I am sending you these P.Cs to take care of them for me until come home. The Photo's you don't know I will tell you all about them when I get home. Iam having a good time here but go back to Eng. On the 22nd we may get away early in March to sail for home. With fondness love from your loving son Harry Group on steps of Pleasant Creek Nurses Mable Hyslop, Mamie Singleton, Jess Taylor, -Whitney Ann Gullan, Mag Williams, May Booth, Jennie Wren Dr Fox? Matron Simpson Dr Forshawhospital, ww1, medical, nursing

Sisters of Charity St Vincent de Paul. In 1638 St Vincents de Paul and Mademoiselle de Gras taught simple nursing procedure to young peasant women. They worked in the home hospital and battlefield. Their duties were arduous no pain relief was known and they were exposed to infection. In the 20 century the sisters of St Vincents De Paul are working worldwide nursing teaching caring for orphans the aged lepers. They shared in advances in medical science.30cm Miniature Doll dressed in bright blue shimmering dress with matching capeName tag Sisters of Charitynursing history, nursing uniforms, northern district school of nursing, miniature dolls

Used in Mobile Intensive Care Ambulances (MICA) 1, 2 and 3 during the 1970s and 1980s. These units were effective and reliable. Paramedics were happy, however, when they were replaced by the Lifepak 5 as the new unit was much lighter and smaller. Source Ian Donaldson AHSV assistant curator. This particular item was donated to Ambulance Service Melbourne by the Collier Charitable Fund. Cream and brown plastic medical equipment with carry handle.PHYSIO-CONTROL PRESENTED TO AMBULANCE SERVICE - MELBOURNE BY COLLIER CHARITABLE FUND collier charitable fund, paramedic, mica

Medical Emergency Adult Retrieval Service (Emergency and Critical Care Services) crew 1999. Included in photo are ; Dr Johannes Wenzel, Mr Phillip Hogan, Mr Barry Busby, Associate professor Joseph Epstein, Mr Kenneth Laycock. Absent from photo are ; Dr Mary Buchanan, Dr Edward O'SullivanColour photograph of Medical Emergency Adult Retrieval Service Crew in front of a Lloyd Helicopter.medical emergency adult retrieval service, emergency and critical care services, lloyd helicopter

8 photographs ANZAC Day parade Dandenong RSL 1987. Coloured photo of King George Gallipoli 75th anniversary tour 1990, photo of a veteran and his carer. Black and white of medical strore

Ms. J. Caeli is the RDNS Medical Records Librarian and is visiting Ms.Val Douglas, the RDNS Social Worker, in her Office at RDNS Headquarters, 452 St. Kilda Road,Melbourne. Ms. Caeli is giving instruction to Ms. Douglas regarding statistics for Social Work. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) were the first in Melbourne, in early 1928, to recognize some patients leaving the MDNS After-Care Home, and many at home, needed further social care. 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. In December 1934 the first full-time trained district Almoner, Miss Una Riall, was employed and carried out a great deal of work with the Society’s Midwifery patients. In 1935 she resigned as she felt the amount of work required needed more than one person. The Society were unable to obtain a replacement due to the shortage of trained Almoners so a Social Service Department was set up and a Social Service Officer, Sister Tupper, was employed at the After-Care Home; she successfully gained better housing from the Housing Commission for families living under unsuitable conditions. By 1941 conditions had improved with full employment of breadwinners and Sr. Tupper was appointed the Matron of the District Nursing Division of MDNS. In 1974, now as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), it was recognized the Service needed allied health workers and Ms. Val Douglas was employed as the RDNS first Social Worker.On the left of this black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Ms. J. Caeli, who has collar length dark curled hair and is wearing a light and dark patterned and striped shirt style frock. She is standing with her left hand resting on a desk, and looking down at a pen in her right hand which is poised over a sheet of white paper held by Ms Val Douglas who is sitting to her right behind her desk. Ms Douglas is wearing dark rimmed glasses; has short wavy dark hair and is wearing a white with small grey oblong patterned dress. She is looking up at Ms. Caeli and is holding the piece of paper with her left hand. There is a large blotter, sheets of folded papers, a stapler and a small bottle of glue on the desk. In the left background is a low white cupboard with a vase of flowers and books, standing upright, on it. Behind this is white framed window.and an open long dark curtain. In the rear far right is part of a dark grey filing cabinet.Barry Sutton LY 64rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns medical records, rdns librarian, rdns social worker, mdns, melbourne district nursing society, ms j. caeli, ms val douglas

A Medical Student is explaining the use of a bottle of testing tablets to a lady who is a patient of RDNS. The Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister is holding testing equipment; i.e. the eye dropper and test tube in the receptacle, in her hands, and is observing the Medical Student giving instructions to the lady. The photograph is taken in the lady's home.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from its inception in 1885, later called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). Only Trained nurses (Nurses) 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 Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in In-service Education and established the RDNS Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. At RDNS many programs were run, 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. RDNS Sisters attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some patients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the rehabilitation ward. RDNS moved its Education Department from 452 St. Kilda Road to 448 St. Kilda Road in 1974. 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 for detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate 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 Sisters.In the left foreground of this black and white photograph is the partial view of two metal 4 prong sticks.To their right, seated on a long dark vinyl type couch, is a Medical Student who has short curly black hair; is wearing a white hospital coat over grey trousers, a white shirt, and a tie with small black and white squares. A stethoscope is folded in the pocket of his coat. He is turned toward the right of the photograph and is holding, on its side, a small bottle in his left hand and is pointing his right index finger to writing on its label. An elderly lady who is wearing glasses and has wavy grey hair is sitting to his right and is looking at the label on the bottle. She is wearing a black skirt and black sleeveless jacket over a black and white patterned blouse. Her hands are clasped in her lap. Sitting to her right, and facing the lady, is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister who has her long dark hair drawn back. She is wearing a white short sleeve gown over her uniform, and is holding a white oblong receptacle which holds a test tube, which has dark fluid in the bottom, and an eye dropper. In front of her, is a white 'inner tray' which is clipped onto the front edge of an open oblong black RDNS nursing case which is in the right foreground of the photograph sitting on a long, narrow, low table. On the table and to the left of the case a small white hospital drape runs along the table.Barry Sutton MA 24royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns patient care, rdns education

This photograph is taken in the lady's home, and the Medical Student and Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister are supervising the lady walking with two 4 prong sticks.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 ensure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by their Trained Nurses (Sisters). As well as teaching and supervising the use of equipment, their Sisters 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 of this black and white photograph is the rear view of a Medical Student who is standing side-on looking towards the right, and smiling at an elderly lady. He has short dark curly hair and is wearing a white hospital style coat, which has a stethoscope folded in the pocket, over grey trousers. His right hand is resting on top of the lady's right hand which is on the top of a metal 4 prong stick. The lady, who is wearing glasses and has short wavy grey hair, is standing holding the tops of the metal 4 prong sticks which are standing either side of her on the grey carpet. She is smiling at the doctor. She is wearing a black skirt and a black sleeveless jacket over a black and white patterned blouse, and is wearing black shoes with her left shoe raised with a deep sole and heel. To her right, standing side-on facing her, is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister who has her long dark hair drawn back. She is wearing a white short sleeve gown and her right hand is behind the lady; her left hand is on the lady's right hand on top of the 4 prong stick. In the left background is a vinyl style grey couch and on the right is a window with open Venetian blinds and open long dark curtains on either side. An air-conditioner sits in the lower section of the window.Barry Sutton Quote 25royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns rehabilitation

Application by Mr Frederick R Killey in February 1943 for the position of Manager of the Legacy Club Hostel. It lists his experience as 16 years teaching and missionary work in India in charge of an orphanage. He was rejected from military service in WWI due to defective eyesight and points out he has a badge issued to him at the time stating he was rejected on medical grounds. The note in red ink shows the application was unsuitable. Legacy had a preference for providing positions to ex=servicemen when possible. Holmbush was the first children's residence operated by Melbourne Legacy it was renamed Blamey House when the first Blamey House was sold. Melbourne Legacy ran three residences: Blamey House (purchased 1947) , Stanhope (purchased 1945) and Harelands (purchased 1950), to take care of children whose fathers were servicemen, and who may have been left orphans, or whose mother may have been unable to care for them herself. Harelands accommodated boys and girls under the age of 14, Blamey House looked after boys over 14, and Stanhope looked after girls over 14. The children were cared for until they were old enough to become independent.A record of written correspondence regarding job applications in 1943.Letter written by Mr Killey in 1943 applying for a position at Holmbush on white notepaper, black ink handwriting, two hole punched.Handwritten "Considered by Doug and self. Does not seem suitable. Not a returned man" in red ink.residences, holmbush, holmbush administration

In his early years Stan Savige had a special friend, Perc Markham, with whom he grew up and attended South Yarra Baptist Church. Perc was rejected on medical grounds when he sought to enlist for service in World War 1. He worked with his father in the building business and established a reputation as a builder and renovator of houses. After the foundation of Legacy, Stan Savige utilised the services of Perc for Legacy tasks on a number of occasions. In token of this relationship, in about 1936, Stan Savige presented this desk to Perc Markham who used it until his death in 1978. The desk then passed into the care of Perc’s son, Lloyd, who perceived that it could be of both historical and sentimental value to Melbourne Legacy. He presented it to Legacy in November 1984 so that it may be used by those who have cause to respect the memory of one whose energies were devoted to the establishment and perpetuation of the Legacy movement. A desk with a direct link to Legacy's founder Legatee Stan Savige.A wooden roll top desk with internal shelves, two with slide out trays and 4 drawers down one side.Metal plaque engraved 'Presented to Melbourne Legacy, 31 October 1984 by Lloyd Markham, son of Perc Markham to whom it was given by Stan Savige in 1936.desk, savige, perc markham

A small notebook made of whalebone - (Notes by the surgeon, some indecipherable to be handled with extreme care). The notebook was the property of, and used by, Sidney Bernard, Surgeon, Royal Navy on board HMS "Eclair". Last used 9th October 1845Notes by Surgeon.scrimshaw, whalebone, medical, hmas eclair

Dr David Pitt was Australian paediatrician. In 1959, he joined the Kew Cottages workforce, where he practised for 17 years and improved the conditions for the children. He was a pioneer in the identification of rare syndromes using computers. The Cottages anabled him to contribute to the day to day care of disadvantaged people in the Australian community, while continuing his research. Pitt left Kew in 1976. (Source: Wikipedia). This book by David Pitt once formed part of the collection of Dr Cliff Judge, resident psychiatrist at the Cottages, and was donated by a daughter in 2018.xiv, 208 p. : ill., ports. ; 30 cm.mental health - victoria - history, chidren's cottages - kew, dr cliff judge, dr david pitt

St. Leonards, N.S.W. : Allen & Unwin, 1994 xiii, 313 p. : ill., ports. ; 24 cm. non-fictionTraces the story of the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital from its creation in 1947 as an institution to cater exclusively to the needs of ex-service personnel. Due to this limited ambit, despite its achievements and its status as a teaching hospital, both hospital and staff have had to battle for recognition from the general medical community.repatriation general hospital (heidelberg, veterans' hospitals -- victoria -- heidelberg -- history., teaching hospitals -- victoria -- heidelberg -- history.

St George's Health Service was established in 1912 by an order of Church of England nuns, the Sisters of the Holy Name. In 1949, the Hospital was sold to the Victorian government. For many years, St George's Health Service was known for expertise in maternity, acute medical and surgical services. From 1991, St George's Health Service began developing aged care services. From 1996 to 1998 the acute medical, surgical and maternity services were transferred to other facilities. From early 1999, St George's Health Service provided solely specialised aged care services. St George's Health Service became part of St Vincent's in March 2001, under an auspice arrangement with the Victorian government. Prior to this, the Service was part of the Inner & Eastern Health Care Network.Undated and unframed panel containing a collage of one large and four smaller photographs assembled to support St George’s Hospital. Individuals photographed are unnamed.st george's hospital - kew, promotional materials

Identified as Dr. Roberta Donaldson of "Luxmee", 4 Windsor Crescent, Surrey Hills. Dr. Donaldson was in practice in Surrey Hills for 50 years. After graduating in medicine at Melbourne University she was at the Royal Childrens Hospital when she decided to go to India as a member of the Zenana (?) Medical Women's Bible Group. She spent three years there but became ill and had to return home. It took a year or more to recover her health. Her uncle Thomas Emerson of Kent Road, Surrey Hills, talked her into commencing a practice at Surrey Hills which she did in Blackburn Street early in the 1920s. Within a short time she took over Dr. Navroji (Neville) Gandevia's practice in Windsor Crescent. Her sister Agnes joined her and their mother Amelia took over the care of the household enabling both sisters to concentrate on their practices. Her father had been a doctor at Linton, near Skipton and her brother was a doctor in Skipton. The practice ceased in 1970, Dr Roberta having given 50 years of service as a gynaecologist in Surrey Hills.A black and white photograph of a lady wearing round wire rimmed glasses. Her dark hair is pulled back from her face. She is wearing a satin-look top and a string of pearls.windsor crescent, house names, surrey hills, doctors, royal children's hospital, kent road, blackburn street, 'luxmee', dr roberta donaldson, thomas emerson, dr agnes donaldson, dr navroji (neville) gandevia

Copies of the Proclamation of understanding between the Association for the Blind and the Seimei Association for the Welfare of Aged Blind, Inc., in both English and Japanese. These agreements were a symbol of the exchanges of each organisation, and the growing trend of agencies to link more to compatriots overseas as telecommunications improved.2 digital images of memorandum of understanding between Association for the Blind, Melbourne, Australia & The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind IncProclamation Whereas the Association for the Blind, Melbourne, Australia & The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind Inc, Oume City, Japan, are organisations which: - promote the welfare of people who are blind or visually impaired especially the elderly; - provide welfare programs, accomodation, medical and nursing assistance, and support to people who are blind or visually impaired; - strive to overcome problems associated with blindness, whether physical, psychological, educational, social or economic; - provide appropriate rehabilitation services to enable people to use their capabilities and to develop their skills so that they can participate as fully as possible in the community; - promote the interests of people who are blind or visually impaired and provide information to the general community; and - provide at all times services to a high professional standard with a spirit of care and understanding. Therefore let is be known publicly that the Association for the Blind and The Seimei Association for the Welfare of Aged Blind, Inc. formally establish a sister organisation relationship for the attainment of these common aspirations for people who are blind or visually impaired, especially the elderly. In Witness Thereof the Association for the Blind & The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind, Inc. cause their representatives to set their hands hereto on the 8th June, 1985. (Diana Jones) For the Association for the Blind, Melbourne Australia (signature) For The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind, Inc., Oume City, Tokyo, Japanseimei association for the welfare of aged blind inc., association for the blind

This is the first photograph taken of Trained nurses, who worked with the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) and has been kept in their Archives (now RDNS) since that time. The photograph, taken about 1892, records the uniforms worn by MDNS Nurses in that era, and records images of Nurse Kennedy, who commenced with the Society at the end of 1891, and worked in the Western District of the CBD until the end of 1893; and Lucy Smith who worked in the Eastern District of the CBD between April 1892 - June 1893 when she left to get married. Nurse Smith trained at the Nightingale Training School for Nurses at St. Thomas's Hospital in London, the first professional nursing school in the world and as such she was given the position of the first 'Head Nurse' at MDNS. Though Florence Nightingale never worked at St. Thomas’s she did form the curriculum for the nurses training and received regular reports regarding the probationers, as well as receiving the nurses in her home during the latter part of their training. According to Lucy's family she met Florence Nightingale. The photograph shows two of the three Trained nurses employed by MDNS at that time. All Nurses employed by MDNS from its inception in 1885 were trained and received their qualification in a Hospital, but in those times were called 'Nurse'. In Melbourne in 1885 it was recognized that skilled nursing was needed in the inner city to care for the sick poor in their own homes. On the 17th of February a meeting was held with prominent Melbourne citizens, five gentlemen and fourteen ladies. ‘Dr. Caffyn and Rev. Charles Strong explained the objects and scope of District nursing Societies that had been formed in other towns’ in UK. On that day the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded, the first District Nursing Society in Australia. Subsequent meetings were held to form a Committee and to draw up a Code of Rules of the Society. It was decided only nurses who had attended a Nurses Training School and were fully qualified would be employed by the Society, and that the Nurses would keep a daily journal of their work. After interviewing several candidates, the first Trained Nurse, Mrs. Ferguson, was employed with a salary of £100 per annum and commenced work on the 1st of May 1885. She was employed for three months initially, but this was soon extended, “on the understanding she will make arrangements to live in the more immediate vicinity of her district”. A doctor was consulted before any person was seen. In rotation, a member of the Superintendence Sub-Committee supervised the Nurse’s visits and could assist to alleviate some of the poor social conditions they found. Though only Trained nurses were employed, the term ’Nurse’ was used in those days. Lady Janet Clarke, a philanthropist, was one of the first two Vice-presidents and President from 1888 until 1908 (except when overseas); she was a driving force in the Society. She held the first fund raiser for the Society at her home ‘Cliveden’ and went on to help organize many functions where she, along with Committee members, manned the stalls to raise funds. She also took her turn to accompany the Nurse, and was noted for her kindness and benevolence. Over the years the Committee, which was made up of 80% ladies, worked tirelessly for the Society; many Auxiliaries were formed. A second Trained nurse, Mrs. Joanna Cannon, was employed in late 1885, with a trial period of six months which was extended. She and Mrs Ferguson were the stalwarts of the Society in the early years, Nurse Cannon remaining with the Society for four years and Nurse Ferguson for five years, though both had a short break due to the heaviness of the work. Nurse’s salaries were reduced to account for the cost of uniforms, and again in later years when establishments were rented by the Society and the nurses could now live in the Nurses Home. 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. They educated their patients, and their Carers, in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of hygiene, cleanliness, ventilation and good nutrition. They taught them, by verbal instruction and demonstration, how to make poultices, to make and apply bandages, apply medical appliances such as splints; and the Nurses supplied milk, beef tea and cooked soup when needed. As the work increased a third Trained nurse was employed but this was arduous work, particularly in the heat of summer and many Nurses only remained with the Society for several months. In 1891 the first Nurses Home was rented for 1 year at £65 per annum at 66 Cardigan Street, Carlton; Nurses wages were now £60 per annum. A Doctor gave lectures from the Home to the public on the understanding and prevention of diseases. 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 them 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. Late in 1891 the Society moved to larger rented premises at 49 Drummond Street and in 1902 moved to 188 Leicester Street, Carlton Sepia Photograph of two Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), Trained nurses; on the left is Nurse Kennedy (sitting) and to the right Nurse Lucy Smith (standing). They are wearing the MDNS uniform of a long grey frock. Over this they are wearing a grey long sleeve jacket with self buttons down the centre. The jacket forms a V at the waist. Nurse Kennedy has a round visage with her central parted dark hair drawn back. She is wearing ear rings and holds the top of a closed umbrella in her left hand, the feral rests on the ground. She has a straw hat in her right hand. Nurse Smith has a long visage; is wearing ear rings and her central parted dark hair is drawn back. Her right arm is extended holding the back of the chair on which Nurse Kennedy sits. melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns uniforms, mdns first 'head nurse', rdns, royal district nursing service, trained nurse kennedy, trained nurse lucy smith

Matron Freeman and the MDNS Trained Nurses are wearing long grey coats and white pith helmets, which display a red Maltese cross.The Pith helmets are held on with a white veil. The two Bicycles with nursing bags attached to handlebars show the transport used by MDNS at that time.. Nurses - Back - L-R - O'Sullivan, Deans, Warren, Amess, Pat Lee and Jane with bicycle Front - L-R - Blanche Wilson, Matron Janie Freeman, Peake and Brown. 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 with one Trained nurse (Nurse), and a second employed six months later. This was the first such service in Australia. They worked in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. From its inception the Society 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. They loaned equipment, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing clean bed linen and nightdresses as necessary. Trained Midwives began home births in August 1893 taking midwifery bundles and providing clothes for the babe as needed. This was arduous work, particularly in the heat of summer. Permission to use bicycles was given to the Nurses in 1898 and the Society decided to purchase their own in 1903. A business man offered ‘new free wheel’ bicycles at £13 each which included maintenance for one year. Bells and wooden frames were added, at a cost of £5 per frame, so the Nurses could carry extra equipment. Nurses’ bags were strapped to the handlebars. Soup was made for those in need 2-3 times a week and if patients could not arrange to have it collected the soup was delivered by the Nurses on their bicycles. The use of bicycles caused a change in uniform, with white pith helmets, and veils covering them and tied under their chin, now being used. In 1913 a Nurse had her Board and residence, uniforms, bicycles and laundry expensive provided and was paid £50 a year for her first six months. At the end of a year her salary is increased by £5, and later she earned £60 a year. Over the years the Nurses complained their veils became wet in the rain and asked for a change of uniform but this did not occur until 1921. Bicycles continued to be used in inner areas until 1945. 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. They educated their patients, and their Carers, in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of hygiene, cleanliness, ventilation and good nutrition. They taught them, by verbal instruction and demonstration, how to make poultices, to make and apply bandages, apply medical appliances such as splints.Sepia photograph on brown card mount with 'Kirk Studio' on bottom right of the card. The photograph shows Matron Freeman and nine Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurses, (Nurses), with bicycles. The back row of six Nurses are standing and the Nurses either end are holding bicycles which have leather oblong nursing bags attached to the handlebars with two straps. The front row are seated. All are wearing the MDNS uniform of long dark coats and white helmets, with white scarves covering them and tied under their chins. A Maltese cross can be seen in the centre of the helmets. Both bicycles have two large wire spoked wheels at either end of the black V shape bicycle frame; a rubber tyre runs around the outside of each wheel. The metal handlebars are a horizontal configuration and are attached with a central column into a black vertical column at the front of the V shape bicycle frame which has 'fork shaped' thin metal pierces running down either side of the wheel attaching the frame to the central hub of the wheel. The rear wheel is attached the same way to a central column at the rear of the frame which runs up to V shape solid seat. At the bottom of the V of the frame a pedal is attached with a rotating arm on either side of the bicycle and on the right side the rotating arm is attached to a sprocket which has a chain running around it back to a smaller sprocket on the hub of the back wheel. The chain has a thin metal guard over it. There are narrow thin metal mud guards running a short distance above the top of each wheel.Photographer's embossed stampmdns, melbourne district nursing society, mdns uniforms, mdns transport, mdns matron, rdns, royal district nursing service, nurse blanche wilson, nurse pat lee, nurse deans, nurse o'sullivan, nurse warren, nurse amess, nurse peak, nurse brown, matron janie freeman