The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) wishes Dr Brendan Nelson AO the best for his future endeavours following his decision to stand down as Director of the Australian War Memorial at the end of this year.
“ACN wishes to acknowledge the support Dr Brendan Nelson AO has made in championing for nurses’ their contribution and sacrifice in the military during his tenure as Director of the Australian War Memorial,” said Australian College of Nursing CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN.
“Under Dr Nelson’s leadership, the Australian War Memorial has become a world-renowned cultural establishment and instigated numerous tributes, exhibitions and initiatives to those who have lost their lives or survived horrors while servicing their country.
“I would like to personally thank Dr Nelson for the respect he has shown to the role of Australian nurses who have served our country and by providing opportunities to pay tribute to nurses through wreath laying ceremonies and through events which honour Defence Force Nurses.”
During Dr Nelson’s time as Director of the Australian War Memorial, ACN also received in-principle support to commission a commemorative sculpture in the grounds of the Australian War Memorial to honour the courage, dedication and sacrifice of army nurse Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel AO, MBE, ARRC, ED, FNM.
“ACN asks those responsible for appointing the next AWM Director to be sure they have the same respect and appreciation for nurses in the military and women in leadership as Dr Nelson has shown,” said Adjunct Professor Ward.
