Historical information

This gown was worn by Shirley Falkinder (nee Ogden). She was the principal nurse educator and lecturer at the Ballarat Base Hospital from 1973-1985 when nurse education was hospital based. She was seconded to prepare the Accreditation document for a three year "Diploma of Applied Nursing", which commenced at the Ballarat College of Advanced Education in 1986 and she retired in 1989. Shirley continued her interest in the education of nurses and became the Vice President of the Ballarat University College Council in 1990 and President in 1991.

Physical description

A black polyester and wood academic gown with a wide red (edged with white) silk lapel. Across the shoulders and below the back yoke there are padded pin tucks which form gathers. The long sleeves reach to within 8 cm of the hemline of the garment. They are slit below the armpit on the front side for the arm to go through and the rest of the sleeve falls open below.

Inscriptions & markings

Makers woven patch - R.W. Bredin & Son, Melbourne Australia, Academic, Legal & Civic Robe Makers