The Australian College of Nursing Foundation is proud to announce the premiere screening of The Bullwinkel Project Documentary at the Australian War Memorial theatre in Canberra on Saturday, 9 May.
The documentary honours one of Australia’s most courageous nursing figures, Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel AO MBE ARRC ED FNM FRCNA, and the 21 nurses killed at Radji Beach, in Sumatra, Indonesia, during World War II.
It explores the history surrounding the sinking of the Vyner Brooke and the tragic massacre. It also documents the Australian College of Nursing Foundation’s mission to raise vital funds for the Bullwinkel Project, an effort to honour the women who lost their lives. The Project culminated in the unveiling of the Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel Statue at the Australian War Memorial, and the launch of the Bullwinkel Scholars Program.
The premiere will be opened by ACN President Kath Stein, and filmmaker Ashley Starkey. ACN is also delighted to be hosting Member for Bullwinkel, Trish Cook MP; Vivian Bullwinkel’s nephew, John Bullwinkel; as well as family members of the nurses who died on Radji Beach.
“This premiere is a moment of deep significance for Australian nursing and our national history. We are honoured to bring these stories to life and to celebrate the remarkable women whose bravery and sacrifice deserve to be remembered by all Australians,” said Australian College of Nursing Chief Executive Officer, Adjunct Professor Kathryn Zeitz FACN.
The event will also highlight the ongoing work of the ACN Foundation’s Vivian Bullwinkel Scholars Program, which supports the next generation of nursing leaders. Members of the public are encouraged to learn more and donate towards the Scholars Program via the ACN Foundation website.
ACN gratefully acknowledges the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, which funded the documentary; event sponsor, Serco; and venue sponsor, the Australian War Memorial.
Event details
Date: Saturday, 9 May 2026
Time: 2:30 pm
Venue: Australian War Memorial theatre, Canberra
Registration closes: Monday, 4 May 2026
Tickets are available here – places are limited
