AUSTRALIAN ARMY NURSE JACKET

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As the army moved into the tropics of Southeast Asia, the threat of mosquitoes became a major concern. They began issuing uniforms labelled as “anti-malaria” equipment. However, the only feature that made these pieces unique, and even that is a stretch, is that they had long sleeves to protect exposed skin from mosquito bites.

This cotton jacket is one such example. A grey work jacket for a nursing sister, it was designed for use in the tropics. This particular jacket does not appear to have ever been issued. Or perhaps it simply was never worn. This is believed due to the fact that the piece is in mint condition, with all its paper tags still present, yet has rank and unit insignia which should have been added after issue. This example had been patched up for the 105th Casualty Clearing Station, who saw service in New Guinea and New Britain.