The Bullwinkel Project
Help us remember and honour leadership, courage, bravery and personal sacrifice
The ACN Foundation continues to raise funds for The Bullwinkel Scholars Program, to provide scholarships in perpetuity for registered nurses to allow future generations of nurses to lead their contemporary journey in providing exceptional skilled health care for all Australians.
The Bullwinkel Scholars program was created to honour the memory of 21 Australian nurses who died at the Bangka Island massacre on the 16th of February 1942 and Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel, AO, MBE, ARRC, ED, FNM, FRCNA, the sole survivor of this tragic event.
Vivian advocated for better education and conditions for nurses, established and raised funds for the Australian Nurses’ Memorial, and later held the role of President of the Royal College of Nursing, Australia, which is now the Australian College of Nursing. The Australian College of Nursing Foundation wishes to continue Vivian’s legacy by providing Scholarships to inspire the younger generations of nurses in Australia who are as passionate and committed as Vivian and her nursing colleagues who served and died for their country.
Vivian Bullwinkel's story
Sister Vivian Bullwinkel was born on December 18, 1915, in Kapunda, South Australia. She trained as a nurse and midwife and joined the Australian Army Nursing Service in 1941. During World War II, she was stationed in Singapore. As the Japanese advanced, she and her fellow nurses were evacuated, but their ship was bombed, forcing them to swim to Bangka Island.
On February 16, 1942, Vivian and 21 other nurses were captured by Japanese soldiers. They were ordered to walk into the sea and were brutally machine-gunned. Vivian was the sole survivor, feigning death and later hiding in the jungle for 12 days. Despite her wounds, she continued to care for others and provided crucial testimony after the war, ensuring that the atrocities were not forgotten.
Vivian Bullwinkel’s legacy is not just one of survival but of resilience, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to the nursing profession. She dedicated her life to advocating for nurses and veterans, ensuring their stories and sacrifices were remembered. In recognition of her incredible contributions, a statue of Sister Bullwinkel, the first female statue at the Australian War Memorial, was unveiled, cementing her place in history and honouring her legacy for generations.
The Bullwinkel Project ensures that her story continues inspiring and empowering nurses today. By supporting nurse-led research, providing scholarships, and funding educational programs, the Bullwinkel Project embodies Vivian’s spirit and dedication, helping to cultivate the next generation of nursing leaders.
Join us in honouring Vivian's legacy
There are many ways to get involved with the Bullwinkel Project. Whether you are a nurse looking for opportunities, a supporter wanting to contribute, or a community member interested in our work, your involvement is valuable.Â
Apply for scholarships
Nurses and nursing students can apply for our range of scholarships to support education and professional development. Browse scholarships here
Volunteer
Join us as a volunteer and help organise events, participate in fundraising activities, or contribute your skills to our projects.
Spread the word
Help us raise awareness about the Bullwinkel Project by sharing our mission and stories within your network.
Our valued partners
We are proud to collaborate with a diverse group of partners who share our commitment to advancing the nursing profession and improving health care. Donations include:
Ro Hogan in memory of her parents and grandparents
The David and Jennie Sutherland Foundation
Our impact
The ACN Foundation has significantly impacted the nursing profession and the broader Australian community. Our efforts have led to better health outcomes, enhanced professional opportunities for nurses, and a stronger, more resilient healthcare system.
Here are some of the ways we’ve contributed:
Ready to make a difference? Donate now
Your support is crucial in helping us continue our mission. Donate today and be a part of the change.