April 16, 2025Earlier today, the annual Northern Health ANZAC Day Service took place at Dianella Hostel, Kilmore District Hospital (KDH).
For many years, this service has been deeply rooted in Bundoora Centre. This year, however, marked a new chapter as we united with the residents and staff of KDH to commemorate ANZAC Day.
The MC’s were Jennifer Gilham, Divisional Director Community Hospitals and Bec Van de Paverd, Divisional Director Medicine and Cancer Services-both with close ties to KDH.
They paid tribute to the 60,000 Australians who were killed and 156,000 wounded or taken prisoner in that war. Along with 800 Aboriginal Australians who landed at Gallipoli, 13 of whom were killed in action.
Readers included Dr Andrea Kattula, Board Member, Bev Carman, Patron, Northern Health Foundation, and Peter Craker, Commemorations Officer, Kilmore Wallan RSL.
The ANZAC Address was delivered by Chief Executive Debra Bourne, who drew attention to ‘the remarkable Australian nurses who served with unparalleled courage during the World Wars’.
She recounted the story of Matron Irene Melville Drummond, whose legacy endures as a testament to the resilience and courage of military nurses.
“Their bravery left an indelible mark on the broader medical field, inspiring generations to follow. Many were honoured for their heroism, while others paid the ultimate price. Yet, their selflessness often remains overshadowed, lost amidst the louder echoes of history,” stated Debra.
Among the special guests on the day were Cindy McLeish MP, Member for Eildon, Dean Adams, Team Manager and Tim Clancy from Ambulance Victoria, David Cretney, Watsonia RSL Pipes and Drums, members of Whittlesea Township Choir and the Ukelele Kilmore Group.
The service concluded with morning tea, complemented by a delightful musical performance from the Northern Health Community Choir, members of the Whittlesea Township Choir, and Ukelele Kilmore.
Lest We Forget.
You can watch the livestream of the service here.
