Tribute to World War II Nurse Unveiled in West Leederville

Published on 19 April 2023

Devoted World War II Nurse Minnie Hodgson has received a lasting tribute in West Leederville with the community park at the corner of Woolwich and McCourt streets, now bearing her name.

The move to re-name the park after Minnie was put forward by Deputy Mayor Kate Barlow at a Council meeting in August 2022 to pay tribute to a local heroine.

Born in 1908, Minnie Ivy Hodgson grew up in the area, living in Tate Street, Leederville (as it was then) and attended Presbyterian Ladies College.

Minnie became a registered nurse, and in 1941 enlisted in the Australian Army during World War II. By February 1942, Minnie was stationed in Singapore in the 13th Australian General Hospital to treat wounded soldiers.

With Singapore about to fall to Japanese troops, 65 nurses and more than 200 patients, military personnel and civilians were evacuated aboard the Vyner Broke. While marked Red Cross, the ship was bombed by the Japanese.

Many perished as a result of the bombing, but Minnie survived and made it to Bangka Island, where she treated fellow survivors. Tragically, Minnie was among nurses killed by Japanese soldiers in 1942 on the island and never returned home.

Minnie was just 33 years of age when she was killed.

Mayor Shannon said the Town was extremely honoured to be able to recognise Minnie Ivy Hodgson’s service to the nation and share her story with her community.

“Minnie’s was an incredible story of selfless dedication to others - she was someone from our local community who gave their all for their country, and I’m honoured to be able to dedicate this community park in her memory,” Mayor Shannon said.