In August 1934 the forerunner of Port Philip City Council, St Kilda City Council, invited Matron Grace Wilson to a special function to honour the contribution of women who enlisted for active service in the First World War and who were resident in the City.
Matron Wilson was a guest of honour, along with Sister Norah Lehman.
Sister Lehman had served in Egypt and with the 2nd Australian General Hospital in France, being mentioned in dispatches for her gallantry in the field.
Clearly, the citizens of St Kilda had not forgotten the important contribution of Australia's nurses, as well as those from the local area.
And how fitting to invite Matron Wilson, the former Matron of the 3rd Australian General Hospital on Lemnos, arriving on the Island some 19 years before in August 1915. Matron Wilson returned to Australia and became the Matron of the Alfred Hospital.
Yet another good reason to locate our proposed memorial statue in the City of Port Philip.
Thanks to Sandra Khazam, Cultural Heritage Officer at Port Philip City Council, for bringing this important piece of local history to light. Well done.
Jim Claven
Secretary
Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee
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