The ‘herstory’ of nursing at BBH, now Grampians Health, reflects changing times in Victoria.

After looking at what is a nurse in 2026, we briefly glance at the way in which nursing changed, quite dramatically, during the settlement of Ballarat, the influx of miners, and through the 19th 20th and 21st centuries.

As we see the development of the hospital, we see how our ancestors recognized the importance of nursing, and midwifery, and ensured the BBH nurses were among the best, not only in Victoria, but also the world.

As we traverse this ‘herstory’ of nursing, we will hear how the BBH changed and adapted, and there will be some surprises perhaps. We will pause to glimpse at the development of midwifery, hear a firsthand experience of a country girl at the BBH during the early 70s and look at the role played by the BBH Trained Nurses League which, having run its course, will end at the Annual Reunion, November 2029 after 100 years.

As you will hear, no matter how the times change, so too does nursing, to ensure that nursing care is adapted to the times to provide the best care for the here and now.