An evening of celebration, reflection, and gratitude brought the Monto community together in honour of International Nurses Day.
The Albert Hotel came alive as 92 community members, nurses and non-nurses alike, gathered for a cocktail evening to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of nurses in our community and around the world.
The event was a resounding success. Guests enjoyed an evening of connection, storytelling, and heartfelt appreciation, highlighting the vital role nurses play in healthcare and the lives of so many.
International Nurses Day is celebrated each year on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, widely recognised as the founder of modern nursing. Born in 1820 to a wealthy English family while they were holidaying in Florence, Italy (hence her name), Florence defied societal expectations by pursuing nursing — a career considered unsuitable for women of her social class at the time.
Her courage and determination led her to serve during the Crimean War, where she dramatically improved sanitation and healthcare practices in British military hospitals. Her reforms reduced the death rate from 42% to just 2%, and she became known as “The Lady with the Lamp” for her nightly rounds through the dark, quiet wards, checking on soldiers and offering comfort with her presence and care.
But her influence didn’t stop there. Florence went on to design hospital systems, introduce data-driven healthcare practices, and in 1860 established the world’s first professional nursing school at St Thomas’ Hospital in London. Her vision transformed nursing from a domestic duty into a respected, evidence-based profession — and laid the foundation for the work nurses continue today.
At the event, Monto Hospital’s Director of Nursing Tracey Pattie shared it was because of Florence’s vision and determination, we are here today as proud nurses.
“Her legacy continues in the work we do every single day,” Tracey said.
A particularly special moment in the evening was the recognition of Neroli Adams and Joanne Hawken, who were each awarded plaques for 50 years of nursing service.
“It is an extraordinary milestone that inspired great admiration and received a standing ovation from the room,” Tracey said.
Guests were also treated to a six-person panel of local nurses representing a wide range of specialties and career journeys.
Attendees were invited to ask questions and learn more about the diverse and dynamic world of nursing, from rural practice and emergency care to aged care and advanced clinical roles.
“A warm thank you goes to the Monto Hospital Auxiliary for their generous financial support, which made the event possible, and to the incredible team at the Albert Hotel,” she said.
“A special shoutout to Murray, Stewart, and Joe, whose help, hospitality, and hard work ensured the evening was one to remember.
“Monto may be a small town, but this event proved once again that the heart of a community lies in its people — and in the nurses who serve it with such skill, heart, and dedication.”
Happy International Nurses Day and thank you to every nurse for your compassion, strength, and tireless care.