Photos: Supplied.
CONTRIBUTED BY QUEENSLAND AMBULANCE SERVICE
Have you ever wondered what people in the bayside area used to do in an emergency a century ago?
Queensland Ambulance Service’s Wynnum Heritage Museum opened its doors on Sunday 7 April, to show off its historic collection of weird and wonderful items big and small, delighting all who took advantage of the free event.
QAS Heritage and History Manager Mick Davis said the QAS began as the City Ambulance Transport Brigade in September 1892 and was renamed the Queensland Ambulance Service Transport Brigade before its most recent rebrand to become the Queensland Ambulance Service in the 1990s.
“There is always plenty to see as our museum tells the story of 132 years of ambulance service in Queensland and one of our big drawcards is a stable of historic vehicles including the ambulance that featured in Boy Swallowed Universe which has become locally famous,” Mick said.
“Also on show were our odd and quirky pieces of ambulance equipment from the past, uniforms, rooms set up as they were in their eras – long before smart devices – and historical photographs, and many other things too.
“The little ones enjoyed pretending to drive our mini ambulance called Axel, our horse and cart used before cars were readily available, and the sausage sizzle was also a hit.”
Mick said this largely volunteer-staffed museum is one of three in the state responsible for recording the QAS’s rich history.
“Our Open Days are always a great opportunity to have our history all out on display, so if you haven’t been here before, bring your kids and grandparents along – we’ve got plenty to entertain everyone,”
Mick said.
The next Open Day will be held on June 23, 2024.
