On Sunday 18 May 2025, Montrose came together in a moment of heartfelt recognition, unveiling a bronze statue of Sister Edith Yeaman, a tribute to the bravery, compassion, and service of nurses across history.
In a moving and long-overdue ceremony, Montrose proudly became home to one of Australia’s few memorials dedicated to nurses who served in war. The statue of Sister Edith Yeaman now stands in the tranquil Nurses Memorial Garden, nestled between the Montrose War Memorial and Historical Cottage.
This historic milestone was made possible by a collaborative effort between Montrose Men’s Shed, the Montrose Township Group, Yarra Ranges Council, and funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Saluting Their Service program.
At Community Bank Mt Evelyn, we were honoured to contribute to this special day by supporting essential elements of the unveiling, including venue hire, catering, first aid, and promotional expenses. It’s a shining example of how local banking can power meaningful community moments.
Sister Edith Yeaman, born in Montrose, enlisted in 1915 at the age of 30, just weeks after the Gallipoli landing. She served as a WWI nurse in Lemnos, Egypt, England, and France, caring for soldiers wounded in the horrors of war. Promoted to ‘Sister’ in 1917, she returned home in 1919 and continued serving in Australian hospitals. Her name is proudly displayed among other brave women from the region on the Nurses Memorial plaques.
Thanks to the connection with her family, who travelled interstate for the unveiling, treasured belongings from Sister Yeaman are currently on display at the Montrose Library until August 2025, before being permanently preserved at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum.
This unveiling wouldn’t have happened without the vision of Montrose Men’s Shed member Max Lamb, who first planted the seed for the memorial garden in 2023. Now, with the statue in place, Montrose has created a space of reflection for all who wish to honour the often-overlooked role of nurses in wartime.
At Community Bank Mt Evelyn, we believe community banking should do more than offer great service, it should also help fund stories that matter. Because when you bank with us, you’re not just opening an account, you’re opening the door to local impact.
Photo credit: Montrose, Victoria, Past & Present, 3765 | https://www.facebook.com/mvpp3765
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