Australians recognised with nursing's highest honour

They're our modern Florence Nightingales, the male and female nurses who distinguish themselves in times of peace or war. ,

Bà Barbara McMaster Source: Supplied by Barbara McMaster

This year a record five Australian Red Cross aid workers have been awarded the highest international distinction a nurse can receive, the Florence Nightingale Medal.

The award is named for the British nurse who, in the 1850s, became known as the "Lady of the Lamp" for reforming British nursing practices during the Crimean War.

One nurse's story exemplifies their efforts