Historical information

The Australian Red Cross Society (ARCS) was formed just after the outbreak of the First World War in August 1914, initially as a branch of the British Red Cross Society. Its first president was Lady Helen Munro Ferguson, wife of the then governor-general. Via a network of state branches and division, also presided over by women, the organisation extended its influence throughout the community of Australian women, urban and rural.
Mary Gilbert was the first curator of the Orbost Museum, and a local teacher.Mary Gilbert was the Orbost Red Cross Superintendent. She was a long time member of Red Cross.

Significance

Mary Gilbert was a member of Red Cross for over 40 years. She was a noted Orbost identity.

Physical description

1518.1 is a rectangular brass and blue, white and red enamelled badge. The badge shows a red cross in the centre and the words 'RED CROSS EMERGENCY SERVICE'. The reverse has a pin fastening.

1518.2 is a yearly Red Cross membership card.

Inscriptions & markings

1518.1 front- Red Cross
Emergency Service
1518.2 - Membership Number -8813 Mary Gilbert, East Gippsland 26/12/1988