Bunyips history Red Cross - People Helping People
Part One — From Wartime Service to First AidToday’s story pays tribute to the dedicated members and volunteers of the Bunyip & District Red Cross.🏥This history was originally compiled by Mrs Joyce McDermid in 1985, as part of Victoria’s 150th birthday celebrations. (I have collated the information,helping to preserve this valuable piece of our local history)
When the clouds of war gathered during the First and Second World Wars, Bunyip—like many small Australian towns—formed a Red Cross branch.Local members enthusiastically trained in First Aid and Home Nursing. They helped with driving and hospital work, while parcels containing sewing and knitted items were prepared and sent to servicemen.When the immediate threat of war had passed, the branch was disbanded. However, the important work of the Red Cross in Bunyip was far from over.In 1959, members of the Bunyip Branch of the Country Women’s Association believed that the Red Cross had an important role to play during times of peace as well as war.A public meeting was called under the chairmanship of Cr Fallon, and in October 1959, the Bunyip & District Red Cross Branch was formed.Members came from Bunyip, Garfield, Longwarry and Labertouche, and the branch grew steadily. Eventually, the Garfield members formed their own successful branch, while continuing to enjoy a close relationship with Bunyip.The first Bunyip & District branch leaders included Mrs L. Cash as President, Mrs M. Roy as Secretary and Mrs D. Nanson as Treasurer. Mrs A. Berryman and Mrs J. Blake served as Vice-Presidents.In 1960, the branch organised a First Aid course. Students travelled from as far away as Warragul to attend. Mr C. Styles was the instructor, while local doctors gave lectures. Members also studied Home Nursing, with instructors including Mrs Ferris, Mrs K. North and Mrs Frazer, who was also known as Sister McDonald.By 1963, Bunyip had an excellent group of trained members. With encouragement from Regional Commandant Mrs E. Hope, they formed a Red Cross Service Company.Mr C. Styles became Superintendent, Mrs McIlroy was Secretary and Mrs D. Gay was Treasurer.Over the following years, hundreds of adults and thousands of children—from Labertouche to Catani and from Longwarry to Narre Warren—learnt First Aid from Mr Styles and, later, Mrs McDermid and Mrs Berryman.The volunteers established First Aid posts at shows, pony clubs, gymkhanas, walkathons, camp drafts, bushfires and rescue operations. Whenever help was needed, the Red Cross members were ready to serve.Mr Styles and Mrs Hope were later honoured at a regional reception in Warragul and presented with badges recognising their service. Mr Styles was also one of three Bunyip members to receive the Red Cross Service Award for outstanding service.From wartime parcels to First Aid tents, the members of the Bunyip & District Red Cross gave their time, skills and compassion to help others.Their simple but powerful message was: People helping People
This history was originally compiled by Mrs Joyce Katherine Else McDermid (1920–2009) in 1985, as part of Victoria’s 150th birthday celebrations.Thank you dear Joyce
Part two in next post #lovealwayshenry#picbyai#storyretoldbydaffy