BURCH, Betty

Longtime Port Augusta resident Betty Burch was dubbed “nurse extraordinaire” because, in addition to having an illustrious 51-year nursing career, she was nothing short of extraordinary.

Mother and grandmother to many, Betty had a caring nature that made her a superb nurse. She comprised many roles in her half-century in nursing, eventually working as the director of nursing at Port Augusta Hospital (PAH). Even her first childhood memory took place in a hospital, with her family visiting her while sick in her hometown of Southwark, England. That memory exemplifies her life’s priorities: family and nursing.

Born 1932, Betty entered adulthood after years surrounded by war and hardship for many, so she sought to heal.

She completed her nursing education in England and became a registered nurse in 1950. After first working as an RN, Betty became a district nurse “on two wheels,” completing her rounds––often in remote areas––via bicycle.

In addition to rounds, Betty and husband Ernie travelled with their motorbike. They explored England and Ireland, and narrowly survived traversing the Swiss Alps as Betty’s side car was on the wrong side of the road.

The motorbike was, in a way, what got the couple to South Australia. In 1961, Betty and Ernie moved their family, then of just two kids, after Ernie got in contact with someone from Woomera through his bike club.

Upon arrival, the countryside seemed alien to Betty. “After living in London all my life… all this space and sky was a bit daunting,” she wrote. Eventually, she grew to love the region. She got involved in the community by teaching Sunday school, playing tennis, perfecting handcrafted tapestries, and becoming the Brownie and Girl Guide leader.

Career-wise, she helped set up the Royal District Nursing Service, and was involved in the PAH board, the Royal Australian Nursing Federation, and the committee that set up the Domiciliary Care and Meals on Wheels services in Port Augusta. She later ran the children’s ward at PAH and taught at the School of Nursing.

In her final role as Director of Nursing at PAH, Betty prioritized computer technology and quality assurance; A cutting-edge staff assessment system she implemented is now utilized in multiple SA hospitals.

In retirement, Betty focused on her family and hobbies. She toured Australia with Ernie, continued tapestry-making and computing, and devoted time to her grandchildren.

Betty will be greatly missed, but her legacy will live on.