Reciprocity between Nurses and a Remote Rural Community from 1912 to 2021

Abstract:This historical study explores the relationships between nurses and a remote rural community, namely Marree in South Australia. Since 1912, Marree's nurses, mostly working singlehandedly, have provided general, midwifery, emergency, and public health services in a community marked by ongoing inequalities between white, Afghan, and Aboriginal people. A 'cottage hospital' was built with local funds in 1916, and the comprehensive health service became the focus of inkind support and community fundraising. The article highlights the reciprocity between the nurses and residents of Marree and surrounding pastoral stations, and demonstrates that Marree's nurses and health clinic continue to be integral to the contemporary community's identity.