War time talk

A humanitarian nurse and a landmine clearer are sure to bring stimulation conversation to a chat scheduled with ABC Radio journalist Bruce Atkinson at Cooroy RSL in the lead up to Anzac Day.
Irene Rogers, a humanitarian nurse and academic will tell the story of the WWI Australian Bluebird Nurses – the subject of her PhD thesis Breaking Bread with the Dead.
Irene Rogers worked for many years as a humanitarian nurse in areas of conflict and post conflict. She was fascinated with the diaries and letters of the WWI Australian Bluebird Nurses and wanted to know more.
The Bluebird Nurses were the only group of trained and registered nurses sent to the Western Front by the Australian Red Cross during WWI.
In his book Stepping into a Minefield: A life dedicated to landmine clearance around the world, Ian Mansfield recounts the dangers and tragedies of landmine clearance and the dedication and humour displayed by the brave men and women involved in this risky work.
The former Deputy Director of the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining, an army engineer officer of 22 years and a humanitarian consultant, Ian Mansfield is no stranger to conflict and he’s spent much time personally involved in landmine clearance efforts.
In 2010 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of his humanitarian work.
The free event, Unsung Workers of War, was organised by Cooroy Library, Cooroy RSL and Cooroy Pomona Sub Branch to honour Anzac Day
Unsung Workers of War starts at 2pm on 23 April at Cooroy RSL, Maple Street, Cooroy.
To book phone 5329 6555 or visit www.libraries.noosa.qld.gov.au