Historical information

The Northern District School of Nursing in Victoria, Australia Graduates Association:

The closure of the Northern District School of Nursing (NDSN) in Bendigo:Closure and TransitionNDSN, Australia's first independent nursing school, has closed after nearly 40 years of training nurses in central and northern Victoria. School 108 was the last after almost 40 years of nurse training.

All general nurse training in the region will now be conducted in colleges instead of at NDSN. The school began in 1950 at Lister House, a historic mansion in Bendigo. It was certified as a training school for registered nurses in 1951, working with several regional hospitals. Initially, NDSN collaborated with hospitals in Castlemaine, Kyneton, Bendigo, Mildura, Swan Hill, Echuca, St. Arnaud, Dunolly, and Ouyen.

Over time, some hospital affiliations changed, with trainees from smaller hospitals gaining clinical experience at larger base hospitals in Bendigo and Mildura. All students attended Lister House for study blocks during their three-year training. The school was known for its highly trained and experienced tutors.Staff numbers dwindled as the school closed, with tutors moving to other jobs, hospitals, or early retirement.The last tutor to leave was Mary Ryan, who had been at Lister House for over 10 years.

The school, once lively, is now described as silent and empty, likened to a 'morgue.'Former students and staff find the emptiness unsettling, highlighting the emotional impact of the closure. Despite the sadness, staff members emphasize the school's positive environment and achievements. The assistant dean notes high retention and pass rates, indicating strong academic performance. Over the years, significant renovations were made, including the construction of a new hall.Staff express pride in these improvements and the school's development.

The School of Nursing in Bendigo has a rich history, remembered fondly by many Victorians who trained there.Staff, such as Mary, found it rewarding when former students returned to share their career progress and experiences. Anecdotes include students reaching out for support, such as requesting references to secure jobs while traveling. Graduation balls ('grad balls') were a significant tradition, known for their fun, themed events and memorable costumes. Themes ranged from 'Your fantasy' to 'Wear something you've never dared to wear before.'The final grad ball for School 108 is scheduled with the theme 'The wake,' marking the end of an era.

The NDSN building currently stands empty, with its future undecided.A feasibility study is underway to consider repurposing the building, possibly for a government department such as the Health Department.Other groups have shown interest, but the final decision will be made by the Health Minister, Caroline Hogg.

Physical description

Northern District School of Nursing Graduates Association - Article "They will nurse fond memories of their school" from the Midland Express Tues 18 July 1988 by Linda Harrow Page 14

This item contains the following document:

3792.9a From the article black and white photo of Lister House

3792.9b Part of the Article "They will nurse fond memories of their school" from the Midland Express

3792.9c From the article black and white photo of the first group of general nurses ever to be trained at the Northern District School of Nursing

3792.9d Part of the Article "They will nurse fond memories of their school" from the Midland Express

3792.9e Part of the Article "They will nurse fond memories of their school" from the Midland Express