Australian women played a crucial role in the first Australia Day on July 30, 1915, which aimed to support sick and wounded soldiers from World War I. Originally suggested by Ellen Wharton-Kirke, the day centered on fundraising for the Red Cross. Women's contributions towards Australia Day remain overlooked in historical narratives surrounding Australia Day and the Anzac story.
Tag: Wartime
Camden Red Cross 110 Years Display: Objects and Ephemera Exhibition 2024
The Camden Red Cross exhibition at Camden Library in August 2024 showcased the historical contributions of local women to the Red Cross during World Wars I and II. Women from the Camden district played a pivotal role in supporting soldiers and shaping the narrative of the Australian Red Cross, creating over 20,300 articles in 40,000 volunteer hours during WWI.
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‘Guardian Angels’, the Red Cross on the wartime homefront
During the First World War, Australian women independently joined the Red Cross to support the war effort. The Red Cross provided a space for women to express agency and contribute to the war through practical activities and fundraising. The organization's local branches established a sense of community and played a significant role in the homefront war effort.
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The patriotism of the wartime sock knitter
During World War I, hand-knitted socks became crucial for soldiers facing harsh conditions, preventing trench foot. Women across the British Empire, particularly in Australia, organized knitting efforts, leading to over 1.3 million pairs made. These efforts provided essential support and represented women's patriotism in wartime, often alleviating grief through their contributions.
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Angels of Mercy, Red Cross volunteers
For the many during the First World the Red Cross became the soldier's guardian angel. The metaphor was expressed in poster, literature, the popular press and a host of other locations.
