Six in 96 as Burdekin has busiest baby boom in years

There must be something in the Ayr after six babies were born in less than four days as part of the Burdekin’s busiest baby boom in more than half a decade.

Maternity staff have worked at full tilt as the health service recorded its highest number of births from May to July since 2020.

Director of nursing Tracey Gabiola said she couldn’t remember a time when the maternity service was as busy.

“We welcomed 30 newborns into the world at our hospital during the May to July period, eight more than the average for that time during the past six years,” Ms Gabiola said.

“We know how important local birthing services are to our community.

“While it has been an extremely busy time for our staff, particularly during a hectic few days at the end of May where six newborns arrived in less than 96 hours, staff enjoy working in a service where they can share in the joy of welcoming babies and supporting parents.

“These are incredibly special moments, and we feel very privileged to be involved.”

Ms Gabiola said one of the strengths of the Ayr Health Service was the adaptability of its workforce. 

“Whether responding to an emergency or assisting with the delivery of a baby, the team always steps up and I am incredibly grateful to them for always rising to the challenge.” 

Little Remi Malaponte was the first of the six babies to arrive during the hectic period and mum Stacey Butler said it was important to be able to give birth in her hometown.

“We are very fortunate to have the facility and the staff here so we can have our babies in our community,” Ms Butler said.

“I really didn’t want to have to leave home and be away from my family and friends to give birth to my little girl.

“She is perfect, and it means the world to me that she was able to be born in her hometown and surrounded by her loved ones.

“I can’t say enough great things about the staff. They were so helpful and kind and I really have to thank them for their care.”