Inspired by Sydney’s “Blue Angels” in 1953, Rev. Arthur Preston led a new outreach of the Methodist Mission at West End. With no vehicle and little equipment but a plan for quality health care, Sister Olive Crombie stepped out in faith to bring this vision into reality. By the end of the first year, there were six full-time and two part-time blue nurses and 12 Blue Nursing Centres around the state. Some nurses still walk to their patients’ homes! By 1973, 35 Blue Nursing Service Centres were opened. Fast forward to 2023, and today, our people visit more than three million Queenslanders each year, providing the same holistic care that has been our hallmark from the beginning.

To celebrate, we are hosting local celebrations throughout Qld. Let’s step out in faith, just like the first Blue Nurses. Don’t hide your light under a bushel; let it shine, nominate a local champion and help us to celebrate Blue Care. For more information about local champions, please get in touch with Sheri Holland at Sheri.Holland@ucareqld.com.au.