Dr Isabel Ormiston MBE OBE (1883–1958), originally from Albury, New South Wales, was a brave and highly skilled Australian doctor. She is remembered for her important medical work during the First World War and her lifelong service to others.

She was educated at Albury Superior Public School (later Riverine Grammar School) and went on to study medicine at the University of Sydney, graduating in 1907. After becoming a doctor, she worked in public health before travelling overseas to continue her career.

In 1914, Dr Ormiston travelled to London and joined the Wounded Allies Relief Committee. She was sent to Ostend in Belgium, where she became doctor-in-charge of a 60-bed hospital based in the Kursaal hydro-spa hotel. She led a team of 14 staff, originally caring for Belgian refugees.

As the war intensified, the hospital quickly changed into an emergency military hospital. Refugees crowded the beachfront, and wounded soldiers filled the hospital as fighting reached the city.

By October 1914, the situation became extremely dangerous. German forces advanced into Ostend, and the port came under attack. Despite this, Dr Ormiston stayed and continued her work, performing surgery and caring for patients during long 20-hour days.

She remained at her post even as German troops entered the city and crossed the harbour bridge. Because of her bravery and dedication, she was awarded the Order of Leopold of Belgium for “conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty.” She was also briefly held as a prisoner before British citizens were expelled from Belgium.

Her service was part of a wider effort by women doctors during the war, including groups such as the Scottish Women’s Hospitals, who worked across Europe in difficult conditions.

After the war, Dr Ormiston continued her medical career in Egypt, where she cared for thousands of schoolchildren. Her life is remembered as one of courage, compassion, and dedication, and it all began with her early education at Riverine Grammar School in Albury.