Australian Historical Medals

Lot 657    SESSION 3 (2.30PM TUESDAY 31ST MARCH)    Australian Historical Medals

Estimate $150
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $950

WOMEN'S WELCOME COMMITTEE, (1915), badge in gilt and enamel, by Stokes & Sons, Melb, pin-back. Extremely fine and scarce.

The following was published in the Port Melbourne Standard on Saturday 7 August 1915 under the heading - To Welcome Wounded.

The Acting Mayoress, Mrs. Napthine, convened a public meeting with the Australian Women's Association, on Tuesday evening, in the Mayor's room, to welcome home wounded soldiers. There was a splendid gathering, and several suburbs were represented as well as Melbourne City. This movement is to be continuous until the war is over, and every boat will be welcomed at the pier. The following officers were elected: President, the Mayoress (Mrs. Napthine); treasurer, the Mayor; vice-presidents Mesdames Sinclair, Heath, Miss Lorimer and Miss Ward; secretary, Mrs. Suffolk, 77 Heath-street, Port Melbourne. Many ladies were appointed to the committee. For the arrival of each transport it was decided to have erected, at the entrance of the Town pier, an arch, bearing the motto, "Australia is proud of you; welcome to our Brave Heroes." It was then decided to name the committee the Australian Women's Welcome Committee. Hampers of comfort will be sent to the arriving vessels, and to the Base Hospital.