The Biloela community has come together to celebrate the return of birthing services, recognising the vital role they play in supporting women, children and growing families across the Banana region.
Today’s Community and Family Day at Biloela Hospital was an opportunity for people to meet local healthcare professionals and learn about options for care closer to home.
The event follows the return of birthing services on 14 September, with four healthy babies born since the service resumed, supporting eligible local women to give birth closer to home.
Central Queensland Health Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said the return of birthing was a major milestone for families in the Banana region.
“Today recognises the strong history of healthcare in this community and the journey to restore local birthing services,” she said.
“This has only been made possible through community support, and the efforts of our staff.
“I’m incredibly proud of what our teams have achieved in bringing sustainable birthing services back to Biloela, giving local women the opportunity to give birth closer to home.
“This is about more than maternity care, it’s about supporting growing families, strengthening community connections and building a healthier future for the Banana region.”
Today’s event also highlighted Biloela’s other family and maternity care services, including paediatric clinics and the returning in-person antenatal classes later this year.
Biloela Hospital Maternity Unit Manager Diane Tamariki said the return of birthing was something the community had been eagerly awaiting.
“Being close to home and surrounded by family and support networks is incredibly important for women during pregnancy and birth,” she said.
“Women are supported by our small team of midwives throughout their maternity journey, building trusted relationships and providing personalised care every step of the way.
“Having birthing services close to home also means families can stay together with loved ones able to share in those precious first moments without the added stress of travelling away from their community.”