The Bendigo Base Hospital Trained Nurses League (BBHTNL) was founded in 1928 at the instigation of Matron Esler — herself a Bendigo Hospital graduate and Matron for 32 years. For nearly a century the League has been a proud and active organisation: designing the hospital nurses' badge, funding equipment and prizes for outstanding graduates, lobbying for and achieving a Hospital Honour Roll commemorating the 71 Bendigo nurses who served in World War One and World War Two, and organising annual reunions for its members.
As the League approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, membership is naturally aging and the decision has been made to wind up. Before doing so, the BBHTNL is determined to leave one final, lasting legacy for the thousands of nurses — named and nameless — who trained at Bendigo Hospital across 106 remarkable years.
The Sculpture — The Lineage
Designed by acclaimed local sculptor Yvonne George, The Lineage presents a series of layered nurse figures in durable corten steel. Each figure represents a distinct era of training. When viewed from the front they form one unified presence; seen from the side, their individuality and evolution across the decades is revealed — a powerful symbol of knowledge carried forward through generations. The evolving patina of the corten steel itself reflects the passage of time. The sculpture will be installed in the Bendigo Health gardens, accompanied by a dedication plaque bearing the BBHTNL badge.
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