"This society was founded in 1891, when there was a considerable amount of distress on account of the collapse of the land boom. The first office-bearers were: President, Mrs. F. R. M. Wilson; Hon. Secretary, Mrs. S. Kellett; and Hon. Treasurer, Mrs. J. Lorimer. The society has had a useful career and been of great assistance to many families. One of its best workers was Mrs. G. Wharton. The present committee consists of Mrs. H. Collier (President), Mrs. Holdsworth (Vice-President), Mrs. Archer (Hon. Treasurer) Mrs. E. J. Dunn (Hon. Secretary), and Mesdames. Berry, Gillespie, Israel, Jellis, Kerr, Lilley, McCrea, Paton, Spring, Tappin, and Wishart." (Source: Barnard FGA, Jubilee History of Kew, 1910)The Kew Ladies' Benevolent Society was one of the most important women's groups in Victoria in the late 19th to mid-20th century. It was led by women with a national profile and was instrumental in the establishment of the State umbrella organisation. The Minute Book was presented to KHS by the Victorian Association of Benevolent Societies in 1991.Seller label on inside cover.kew ladies' benevolent society, social welfare - history - kew (vic), social services - history - kew (vic), volunteer organisations - kew (vic)

'Mornington' is a two storey residence with basement, built in bi-chromatic brickwork and erected in 1869. Following the purchase by the Society of Jolimont Square this building was tenanted until early 1935, when Mr. and Mrs. Abraham moved in from Blackburn. Following Abraham's death in early 1940 the building was rented out again. In 1947 the then Welfare Superintendent and Missioner (Mr. Ernest A. Reynolds) and Mrs. Reynolds, established a Young Mens Hostel using "Mornington" and the adjoining house "Highgate". This Hostel operated until "Horace Bedggood Hostel" was opened in 1959. Mornington, later known as the 'Red Brick Building' or 'H.E.A.R. Service Building' was used in later years for the Society's H.E.A.R. Service.Jolimont Square is significant as part of an early sub-division in Melbourne. The building is an early example of well resolved bi-chromatic brickwork, and has unusual curved bays for the ground floor windows. 19cmHx24.5cmWmornington, jolimont square, highgate, bedggood, h.e.a.r. service, reynolds, abraham

Purchased from the author when she spoke at a meeting of the Surrey Hills Historical Society.This list of Victoria's institutions for children and young people has been compiled by staff of the Criminal Justice Administration Unit, School of Community Services and Policy Studies, Phillip Institute of Technology. It is intended as a service to people who are seeking information about their own or their family's history and secondly, as a contribution to knowledge about a largely unexplored aspect of social history.social institutions, children, education, orphanages, child care, welfare establishments, (ms) donella jaggs, victorian institutions for children and young people

Articles in annual report include: a public educational program speaking to doctors, nurses, teachers, occupational therapists, service clubs and rotated displays through public libraries, RVIB stand won a prize in Community and welfare section at the Royal Melbourne show, difficulties with Mr and Mrs Tye's estates are resolved and plans to build an educational complex at Romsey, acknowledgement of volunteer involvement with Cubs, Guides, Ham Radio and Model Train clubs available to residential children, and the United Kingdom Hotel in Clifton Hill raised over $8000 to become the top hotel fundraiser again.1 volume of text and illustrationsroyal victorian institute for the blind, corporation records

Articles in annual report include: List of RVIB president, vice president, board of management, medical staff and officers of the institute, honorary officers and consultant medical staff, The president's report, Nursery and school, Employment - the means of independence, Training and rehabilitation centre the rebirth of confidence and skills, Multi handicapped children, Our senior blind citizens the aged are not forgotten, Finance, Our auxiliaries and other helpers, Welfare -an increasing need, Melbourne traditional carols by candlelight, Services and facilities, When you make or amend your will. Events that occurred in 1969 : Alexander Mair died, he was a member of the board of management since 1952, RVIB faced a deficit, to date they did not have to restrict the scope of any of the services available to blind people and it was hoped with increasing support from all sections of the community that they would not have to do so, after 31 continuous years radio station 3KZ decided to discontinue its association with the Melbourne traditional Christmas festival carols by candlelight but in doing so offered the RVIB the rights to continue. It was the first time RVIB hosted and they offered thanks to television channel 0 and radio station 3AW.1 volume of printed text with photographsroyal victorian institute for the blind, annual reports

Articles in annual report include: List of office bearers of the institute and officers of the institute, Confidence mobility, Annual report of the RVIB babies, Children and adults - 97 years of service and programmes - special appeal, Residence rehabilitation training centre, Conference mobility, Ten pin bowling, Deaf blind centre, Resident nursery and school, Worldwide literary competition, Higher education, Employment, Welfare, Recreation, Finance, Appreciation, Auxiliary, 3KZ Christmas appeal, Vice regal patronage, My friend the long cane - a new method of self-help for blind people, They're the workers, 36th annual report of the council of auxiliary. Events that occurred in 1962 : Hon. H.E. Bolte, Premier opened the appeal and announced a special grant of $20,000 pounds from the state government. Lieutenant General Sir Henry Wells accepted the board's invitation to become chairman of the appeal, at the Burwood school Cheng Ann Cheok a 15 year old Singaporean boy arrived to further his education and study music, he hopes to adopt music as his career. Through the kind offices of Dr Edward J. Waterhouse director of Perkins school for the blind of Boston and the generosity of its Board of Trustees a scholarship will be provided to the Institute for an Australian teacher to be trained as a specialist teacher within their school.1 volume of text and illustrationsroyal victorian institute for the blind, annual reports

Articles in annual report include: President's report, treasurer's report, Association for the blind balance sheet, life governors, Ballarat home report, Bendigo home report, Brighton home report, Blind citizens community centre, welfare report, auxiliaries, facts about blindness. Discussion includes the continuing deficit problem, establishment of a Volunteer Services Group, visit by Governor General Sir Rohan Delacombe to Bendigo (Mirridong) to launch the Lions Club appeal for funds, celebration of Granny Carson's 103rd birthday, the erection of a new wing at the Blind Citizens Community centre and hope that the second stage will be completed when additional funds are secured, the cessation of the North Fitzroy Good Companions Auxiliary and the success of the Children's Fair at Kooyong.1 volume of text and black and white photographsassociation for the blind, sir rohan delacombe, annual reports, katharine (kitty) rose

Articles in annual report include: branch committees, President's report, finance report, balance sheet, welfare, hospital homes, day centres, auxiliaries, volunteer service group, senior staff, life governors, formal establishment of the Low Vision Clinic which had been begun with discussions with Professor Gerard Crook in 1970 and supported for a year by the Hecht Trust, John Wilson accompanied Hugh Jeffrey, Australia's delegate on the Executive Committee for the Welfare of the Blind and IFB, businessman John Wicking joined the committee, plans for the future development of the George Vowell Centre are being formulated, Derek Nimmo entertained at multiple Auxiliary functions, the Toorak Auxiliary closed but two new ones at Kyneton and Narcoonah (Hampton), were formed, introduction of training course for volunteer workers and Mrs H.M. Lightfoot, who organised drivers for home visitor Elsie Henderson, has stepped down after fourteen years of service.1 volume of text and photographsassociation for the blind, h.m. lightfoot, john wilson, hugh jeffrey, derek nimmo, iris barnier, annual reports

Plaque commemorating the awarding of the Takeo Iwahashi Prize to Hugh Jeffrey in 1988. Takeo Iwahashi was the founder of the Nippon Lighhouse for the Blind in Japan. He made an enormous contribution to the lives and progress of blind people around the world, and was a great friend of Helen Keller. The annual Takeo Iwahashi Award was founded in his memory and is awarded to a "worker for the blind whose contribution to work for the blind in the fields of education, training, rehabilitation, placement, prevention and cure of blindness, administration of services for the welfare of the blind or any other program related to the welfare of the blind has been outstanding." The plaque features two roughly rectangular wooden veneer boards, one smaller layered on top of the larger, with the top edges aligning. On the smaller top layer is a round metal disc featuring a raised relief portrait of Takeo Iwahashi. Printed above in gold lettering is the following: The 13th Annual Takeo Iwahashi Prize Mr Harold Hugh Jeffrey" Below the disc is printed "March 16 1988. Nomination Committee Takeo Iwahashi Award. Nippon Lighthouse, Welfare Center for the Blind." On the back of the plaque is a metal plate with a Braille transcription of the text.1 wooden block with metal plaqueThe 13th Annual Takeo Iwahashi Prize Mr Harold Hugh Jeffrey March 16 1988. Nomination Committee Takeo Iwahashi Award. Nippon Lighthouse, Welfare Center for the Blind.hugh jeffrey, awards

This printed philosophy served to remind sighted people what the organisation was working towards and how it sought to achieve it.A3 printed page on cream coloured paper with black writing and black and blue logoThe Association for the Blind was founded in 1895 by 8 blind people of strong spirit as a self help group and in protest against discriminatory attitudes and practices of society at that time. This small group sought and obtained the assistance of sighted citizens. Together they achieved reforms which greatly enhanced the status and rights of blind people. Today, this tradition of self help and active involvement of both blind and sighted citizens continues, with an overriding concern for the welfare of the individual. Philosophy The work of the Association for the Blind is based on the philosophy that all people in our society should have equal opportunity, with the freedom to express themselves and participate in the community to the extent of their desire and interest. To achieve this the Association is a grouping of local community resources which have come together voluntarily to serve people who are blind or visually impaired, and in partnership with government ensure the necessary services are provided. The Association for the Blind functions as an extended family, with blind members, volunteers, contributors and staff working together with mutual respect towards common goals. Objectives These are - to promote the welfare of blind and visually impaired people; - to provide welfare, counselling, rehabilitation, accommodation, nursing care, recreation and other support services; - to minimise the harmful effects of blindness whether physical, psychological, social or economic; - to facilitate the prevention of blindness; - to utilise the experience and talent of blind people in the community in assessing needs, evaluating and improving the value of services to the blind. A wide range of services is necessary to achieve these objectives, the outcome of which is greater independence, security and opportunities for blind and visually impaired Victorians.association for the blind, corporation records

John Wicking and Arthur Wilkins smile for the camera outside Government House (Victoria), after receiving their awards. Mr Wicking was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to the welfare of handicapped persons, whilst Mr Wilkins was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the welfare of visually handicapped persons. B/W photograph of President John Wicking and Arthur Wilkins with their medals.john wicking, arthur wilkins, association for the blind

Copies of the Proclamation of understanding between the Association for the Blind and the Lighthouse Inc. 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.1 digital image of memorandum of understanding between Association for the Blind and Lighthouse IncProclamation Whereas the Association for the Blind, Melbourne, Australia and Lighthouse Inc, New York, New York are organizations that: - promote the welfare of people who are blind or visually impaired; - provide services to people who are blind or visually impaired; - strive to enable people to overcome problems associated with blindness and vision impairment, 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 and education to the general community and other professionals; and - provide at all times services to a high professional standard, with an appreciation of each individual's capabilities and goals. Therefore let is be known publicly that the Association for the Blind and Lighthouse Inc. formally establish an organizational affiliation to strive towards these common objectives for people who are blind or visually impaired. In Witness Thereof the Association for the Blind and Lighthouse Inc. cause their representatives to set their hands hereto on the 16th day of July 1992. (John Cook) For the Association for the Blind, Melbourne Australia (Barbara Sil??) For The Lighthouse Inc., New York, New York, USAassociation for the blind, lighthouse inc

To honour the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Association for the Blind (then Association for the Advancement of the Blind), sister organisation Seimei Association for the Aged Blind sent this plaque.1 digital image of metal letter to AFB from Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged BlindMr John Moule President Association for the Blind In celebration of the Centenary of The Association for the Blind. A Seed of Love planted one century ago has grown to the commendable and universal Association for which I pay my hearty respect. I feel honored of our Sisterhood Agreement which marks the 10th Anniversary this year and wish this agreement of our mutual reliance will enrich advanced care and services for the blind and also to develop mutual friendships between two countries. 8th December 1995 Akio Honma President Director The Seimei Association for The Welfare of the Aged Blind, Tokyo (Japanese characters)seimei association for the welfare of aged blind inc., association for the blind

37 pages of text with cardboard covernon-fictionBackground and overview of the establishment and work of the Association for the Blindassociation for the blind, association for the advancement of the blind

Takeo Iwahashi was the founder of the Nippon Lighhouse for the Blind in Japan. He made an enormous contribution to the lives and progress of blind people around the world, and was a great friend of Helen Keller. The annual Takeo Iwahashi Award was founded in his memory and is awarded to a "worker for the blind whose contribution to work for the blind in the fields of education, training, rehabilitation, placement, prevention and cure of blindness, administration of services for the welfare of the blind or any other program related to the welfare of the blind has been outstanding." Hugh Jeffrey won this award in 1988. This intricate and delicate presentation envelope is made from a heavy guage paper/fabric blend. It features a small addition of origami on the front, as well as Japanese calligraphy and a gold and silver knotted ribbon holding it closed. Originally the envelope unfolded to a large size with a red liner, and contained the Award certificate and cheque for the prize money.Handmade paper envelope with red edging and gold and silver ribbonshugh jeffrey, awards

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

Organisations such as 'Friendly Societies' were set up to protect and care for their members and communities at a time when there was no welfare state or National Health Service. The aim was and still is, to provide help to members and communities when they need it. The friendly societies are non-profit mutual organisations owned by their members. All income is passed back to the members in the form of services and benefits. The Oddfellows are also fundraisers for local and national charities; lodges raise money for local causes, and the society as a whole raise significant amounts for charities. Invitation for Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows Banquet. Half fold printed in purple ink on cream card. Scalloped edging. Menu listed in centrefold. Toast listed on back cover.Front cover: Bendigo District M.U.I.O.O.F. / A.M.C 1910 / Banquet / in honor of the / Officers and Deputies / town Hall, Bendigo / Wednesday, 15th March, / 8 o'clock p.m. / HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR OF THE CITY, / COUNCILLOR D. ANDREW, WILL PRESIDE making a nation exhibition, bendigo town hall, councillor david andrew, mayor andrew, city of greater bendigo events, city of greater bendigo community groups

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

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

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

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

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

This black and white photograph of Sister Pat McPherson was taken at the 1st International Congress on Domiciliary Nursing held in Melbourne. The congress was hosted by the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) and ran from the 1st - 8th of February 1970. Following this Congress, Sister Patricia McPherson was employed by RDNS from 1970 - 2003, mainly in the area of Administration.Sister Patricia McPherson, State Registered Nurse, Midwife, and Infant Welfare trained nurse, B.A. was awarded an M.B.E. for her community health work among the Aboriginal communities during the time she worked as a Sister for the Australian Inland Mission (AIM). This was just prior to her joining Royal District Nursing Service. Patricia McPherson is listed on page 210 in the 'Women Shaping the Nation - Victorian Honour Roll of Women Vol 1 - 2001' - Centenary of Federation 1901 - 2001.This black and white photograph is a portrait head and shoulders view of Sister Patricia McPherson, who is smiling and has short straight dark hair. She is wearing a black and white patterned frock; on its upper right is attached a plastic name badge with two lines in white capital letters on black background stating: "Miss P. MCPHERSON / WESTERN AUSTRALIA' . Seen in the background is black and white vertical striped wallpaper.The Herald & Weekly Times Ltd, Melbourne, Australiardns, royal district nursing service, 1st internation congress on domisiciary nursing, sister patricia mcpherson

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

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

This is a photograph taken from the painting by McCubbin of Lady Janet Clarke, a prominent Melbourne philanthropist who worked for social welfare issues and was a driving force in the early days of the Melbourne District Nursing Society. At the end of 1885 for her work with MDNS she was given a Testimonial Dinner where she was presented with a letter signed by 429 people expressing their thanks for her visits, kindness, sympathy and charity shown toward the sick poor. In 1887, at her home, she held the first function to raise money for the Society. Lady Janet Clarke was a generous and hospitable prominent socialite of Melbourne; a kind and sympathetic philanthropist who worked tirelessly for social welfare issues. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded on the 17th of February 1885 and on the 9th of April a Special General Meeting was held to elect the committee for the following twelve months. Lady Clarke was elected a Vice-president; a position she held until being appointed President, when Mrs. Simon resigned on the 7th of June 1887, a role Lady Clarke held until she became ill in 1908; except during her trips overseas, when the role was held by another until her return. Her management and organizational skills enabled MDNS to flourish in its earliest days. She was actively involved taking her turn on the Superintendent sub-committee where she accompanied a Trained nurse when she visited patients; checking that high quality nursing care was maintained, as well as observing the patient's social condition; even giving a personal donation to a special case in need. The patients of the Society were so grateful for her sympathy, kindness and love that when she and her husband, Sir William Clarke, were going overseas at the end of 1885, a Testimonial was given for her at Scots Church District-hall where 200 attended to show their appreciation of her work carried out with MDNS. She was presented with a Bible from them, and their letter signed by 429 working persons expressing their thanks. In a time of great financial need of the Society, Lady Clarke offered the ballroom at her home, 'Cliveden', for a monster Cake, Flower, and Dairy produce Fair which raised a substantial amount saving the Society from closure. She promoted the Society and led it in further fund-raising events, such as the annual Ball, and Fairs where she often manned cake stalls. Near Christmas each year she made a special appeal to the public for 'comfort and good cheer' which could be given to poor families visited by the Society. During the depression of 1890 she had thick soup prepared in the Cliveden kitchens and this was distributed, with bread, from her home, and from a school room, to hundreds of the poor. In 1892 Lady Clarke agreed to represent the Society during her visit to England. During her years of leadership MDNS expanded; Nurses uniforms were introduced; lectures - for example, on hygiene and on the prevention of sickness and the treatment of children, were given by doctors for the patients; further Trained nursing staff were employed; Midwifery was introduced to the poor, the Society extended beyond the city centre and bicycles were introduced for transport; a system for regular annual subscriptions was introduced and sufficient funds were raised for the Society to rent its own premises, with Lady Clarke paying for a subscription to Mullen's bookstore each year for the use of the Nurses in the Nurses Home. As well as her work for MDNS she held roles in many other organizations . She donated a substantial amount of money to build a Hostel for Women University Students attending Trinity College, later named the Janet Clarke Hall. Lady Janet Marion Clarke died at Cliveden, aged 57 years, on the 28th of April 1909; a lady held in high esteem and affection by all she knew.This is a black and white photograph of a painting of Lady Janet Clarke. She is looking forward and has a serious visage; she is wearing her long dark hair drawn up and back and in her left ear a small dropped ear ring can be seen. She is wearing a light coloured, long sleeved, floral frock with a material short cape section seen over the top of her left sleeve. Her left arm is crooked with her hand resting just under a flower brooch fastened in the centre of her frock. She has a choker around her neck with a brooch in the centre..Janet Lady Clarke, president 1889-1908.From the painting by McCubbin.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, rdns, royal district nursing service, lady janet clarke

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