In addition to the commissioning of the sculpture, the ACN Foundation is also raising funds to establish nursing scholarships in the names of Vivian’s 21 Australian nurse colleagues who did not survive the Bangka Island massacre in 1942 where Vivian was the only survivor. These scholarships will inspire younger generations of nurses to lead their own contemporary journey in providing exceptional skilled health care for all Australians...
“Chin up, girls. I’m proud of you all and I love you all.”
Matron Irene Drummond called out as she walked into the water to her death on Radji Island Beach, 16 February 1942
The Bullwinkel Project has been endorsed by General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(MIL) CVO MC (Ret’d); Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC (Ret’d); The Hon Peter Dutton MP, Minister for Defence; General Angus J Campbell AO DSC, Chief of the Defence Force; Major General (Ret’d) Elizabeth (Liz) Cosson AM CSC.View endorsement letters here